Known as the ‘Bride of Kanchenjunga’, the Jomolhari mountain is idyllically hedged between the Paro district of Bhutan and the Yadong County of Tibet. Jomolhari trek in Bhutan is considered one of the most popular trekking routes with the arduous route promising to spellbind even the most adventurous trekkers with spectacular mountain vistas and captivating scenic surroundings. An epic trekking experience awaits trekkers well-versed in the nuances of navigating a challenging trek and being awarded the opportunity to revel in beautiful views of the Himalayan peaks, stunning lakes, and dense woodlands and spot animals in their natural habitat.
Things To Do In Jomolhari Trek
The trek to the Jomolhari Mountains is about experiencing life from a new perspective as you go through some of the most scenic natural splendours in this beautiful Himalayan kingdom. During your Jomolhari trek to Bhutan, you will discover exciting places and indulge in various activities. Following is a short snapshot of three main activities to enjoy during your vacation to the Jomolhari Mountains.
1. Sightseeing
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When you land at the only international airport in Paro Bhutan on your way to the Jomolhari mountains, you will come across some of the most prominent sights in Bhutan. One is the Rinpung Dzong, a Buddhist monastery and fortress; a hike to the top of Rinpung Dzong provides panoramic views of the surroundings. The second one is the Paro Taktsang, perched on the cliffside of the upper Paro Valley, and you would need to undertake a 6.4-kilometer trek to reach this famous monastery from where you can enjoy the mesmerizing views of the Paro Valley.
Popular Tourist attractions: Drukgyel Dzong, Kyichu Lakhang, Rinpung Dzong, Paro Taktsang.
Altitude: 2200 meters
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2. Trekking
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The Jomolhari trek route is Bhutan’s most famous trekking itinerary. There is also a short version of the Jomolhari trek known as the Jomolhari loop version. This is a more accessible version for those hikers preferring to avoid higher altitudes and high passes. While the loop version of the trek takes you up to the Bhonte La Pass, the more extended version of the Jomolhari trek in Bhutan takes you to Yelila Pass at 4930 meters. On your trail, you will witness the scenic vistas of the surrounding mountains, considered a paradise for trekking enthusiasts and mountain lovers. Besides the striking landscapes, you will also notice the Buddhist monasteries and the fluttering colourful flags, making the trek more enchanting.
Duration of the Trek: 7-12 days
Altitude: 7326 meters
3. Camping
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Jomolhari Trek Base Camp is an ideal place for camping. You can set up your tent amid the lush greenery lands of the mountains, enchanted by the scenic views and gaze at the stars at night, making it a dream come true moment. Camping at Jomolhari allows you to make new friends during your trek and share amazing stories at an evening campfire. Camping at the Jomolhari Trek Base Camp offers a serene environment that makes your Jomolhari Trek an unparalleled experience.
Altitude: 4115
Duration: 1 Night.
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Jomolhari Trek Itinerary
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Before you plan a trek to Jomolhari, here is a detailed Jomolhari Trek itinerary for a thrilling 8-day and 7-night adventurous trek in the Jomolhari mountains.
Day 1: Trek from Gunitsawa village to Sharna Zampa
The journey begins with the beautiful village of Gunitsawa. You will pass an army check post, where you will get a trek permit. After that, you can continue your trek towards Sharna Zampa campsite.
Day 2: Trek from Sharna Zampa to Thangthangka
The trek from Sharna Zampa to Thanthangka would be the most adventurous as the trail continues with many ups and downs. The trek route will be alongside the quaint Paro Chuu River, which you will cross via wooden bridges. During your trek, you will encounter the local flora, such as ferns, oaks, blue pines, firs, cedars, and many more, which you will find on your way through. After you reach the Thangthangka campsite, you will discover breathtaking views of the Jomolhari Mountain.
Day 3: Trek from Thangthangka to Jangothang
The third day of the trek will lead you to the Tibet border in the Paro Chuu valley. The Paro Chuu Valley, known for its scenic vistas, will surely charm you with the view of the Yaks grazing through the alpine meadows. The trek route takes you through two beautiful villages: Soe Takethang and the other is Dangochang. The Jangothang campsite is famous and one of the busiest sites in the Himalayas, but it offers breathtaking views of Mount Jomolhari.
Day 4: Adaptation and exploration of the nearby places
Adaptation to high altitude is necessary to continue the remaining trek. So this day is a rest day, but you can still explore and discover the pristine view of the lake and the snow-capped Jomolhari and Jichu Drake mountains, and if you feel comfortable, you can even hike up to the surrounding areas.
Day 5: Trek from Jangothang to Lingshi
The Trek from Jangothang to Lingshi involves a sudden jump in altitude and is one of the most extended treks to cover. As you exit the Paru Chuu Valley, you will have to climb up through the Nylila Pass, which is at an altitude of 4,870 meters. You will see a bunch of local flora, such as juniper bushes and tundras, and you can also witness a herd of Blue sheep grazing. As you reach the valley floor of Lingshi, you can experience a majestic view of the Lingshi Dzong mountain.
Day 6: Trek from Lingshi to Shodu
First, you have to trek through the Mo Chhu Valley and climb up to Yeli La Pass, which is situated at 4,390 meters. The Yeli La pass offers a picturesque view of the Tserim Gang, Jomolhari mountains, and the majestic Gangchennta mountain.
Day 7: Trek from Shodu to Barshong
The trek from Shodu to Barshong weaves through rhododendron forests and striking waterfalls. On your way to Barshong, you will crisscross the river and climb uphill for an hour to reach the campsite.
Day 8: Barshong to Dom Shisa
This is the last day of your journey as you descend to Dom Shisa. It will only take a few kilometers to reach Dom Shisa. When you reach Dom Shisa, you can hire a car to drive you to Thimphu.
Best Time To Visit Jomolhari
Image Credit: Christopher Fynn for Wikimedia Commons
Jomolhari can be visited any time of the year, but to experience a tranquil atmosphere, the best time to visit Jomolhari is between April-June and September to November. It is advisable to avoid visiting Jomolhari during the rainy season.
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If you are planning a trip to Bhutan, take advantage of the opportunity to trek through the majestic Jomolhari mountains. The Jomolhari Trek offers a scenic view of picturesque valleys and many cultural landmarks throughout the trek. Experience nature in its splendid glory from close quarters is truly an adventure worth taking. Book your trip to Bhutan to cherish the beauty of the Jomolhari mountains.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Jomolhari Trek
Where is Jomolhari located?
Jomolhari is a mountain in the Himalayas that is nestled between the border of Yadong County in Tibet, China, and the Paro district in Bhutan.
How to reach Jomolhari?
The trek to Jomolhari starts from Gunitsawa Village in Paro and continues your trek across the Sharna Zampa River and then to Thangthangka. After you reach Thangthangka, you need to cross Jangothang, Lingshi, and SDhodu to reach Jomolhari.
Is Jomolhari Trek difficult?
Jomolhari Mountain is 4080 meters above sea level. The Jomolhari trek is difficult as the oxygen level will drop significantly, so it is advisable to indulge in physical activities before planning the Jomolhari Trek.
What is the best time to visit Bhutan?
To cherish Bhutan's beauty, the best time to visit is between March and May or between September and November.
How many days are enough for the Jomolhari Trek?
8 Days and seven nights are enough to complete the Jomolhari Trek and you can also explore the popular tourist spot in Paro within two days.
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As a Travel Content Writer, I live to conquer the world of globetrotting with words. With my unquenchable thirst for storytelling, I believe that my words will inspire you to travel around the world’s breathtaking landscapes. As for me, I am an unapologetic selenophile, who loves to wander around in a starry night!
