Snowman Trek

The Snowman Trek is considered one of the most challenging and rewarding treks in Bhutan. It is a high-altitude trek that takes around 25-30 days to complete, covering a distance of approximately 216 miles (346 km). The trek traverses across the remote and stunningly beautiful Lunana region in Bhutan, crossing 11 high-altitude passes above 16,400 feet (5,000 meters) and offering breathtaking views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks, glacial lakes, and pristine valleys.

The trek begins in Paro and follows the traditional route through the isolated villages of Shana, Soi Thangthangkha, Jangothang, and Lingshi. From Lingshi, the route veers off into the remote and untouched Lunana region, where trekkers can experience the traditional Bhutanese lifestyle, culture, and hospitality of the local people.

Some of the highlights of the Snowman Trek include crossing the highest pass on the trek, the Gangla Karchung Pass at an altitude of 16,600 feet (5,060 meters), camping beside the pristine glacial lakes of Tso Chena and Thanza, and the opportunity to spot rare Himalayan wildlife such as blue sheep, snow leopards, and musk deer.

Overall, the Snowman Trek is a challenging but incredibly rewarding experience that takes trekkers through some of the most remote and untouched landscapes of Bhutan, offering an unforgettable journey of culture, nature, and self-discovery.

Arrive in Paro, the gateway to Bhutan, and meet your guide and driver at the airport. You will be taken to your hotel where you can rest and freshen up. After lunch, visit the National Museum, which is housed in a historic watchtower and offers a glimpse into Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage. You’ll also visit Paro Rinpung Dzong, a beautiful fortress that now serves as a monastery and administrative center.

After breakfast, hike to Taktsang Monastery, also known as Tiger’s Nest. The monastery is perched on a cliff 900 meters above the Paro valley and is one of Bhutan’s most iconic sights. The hike takes about 4-5 hours round trip and offers stunning views of the valley below.

Your trek begins! You’ll drive to Shana and start your hike to the first campsite at Thongo Zampa. The trail follows the Paro River and passes through dense forests.

Today’s hike is about 13 miles and takes you through beautiful rhododendron forests and across several bridges. You’ll camp at Soi Thangthangkha, which offers stunning views of Mount Jhomolhari.

The trail today takes you through a narrow valley, past waterfalls and villages. You’ll camp at Jangothang, with a clear view of Jhomolhari.

Today is a rest day, which will allow you to acclimate to the altitude and explore the area around Jangothang. You can also do a day hike to a nearby glacier.

You’ll cross the first high mountain pass on the trek, the Nyile La (15,400 feet), and descend to the Lingshi valley. You’ll camp at Lingshi, which has a spectacular view of the Lingshi Dzong fortress.

The trail takes you through beautiful valleys and forests, with a climb up to the Yelila Pass (16,200 feet). You’ll camp at Chebisa, a small village with a hot spring.

Today’s hike takes you through rhododendron forests and across the Gombu La Pass (17,300 feet). You’ll camp at Shomuthang, with a view of Kang Bum (19,000 feet).

You’ll cross the Jhari La Pass (17,000 feet) and hike through the beautiful valley of Tsharijathang. You’ll camp at Robluthang, which is surrounded by snowy peaks.

Today you’ll cross the highest pass on the trek, the Sinche La Pass (16,600 feet), and descend to Limithang. You’ll camp at the base of Gangchhenta (22,000 feet).

Today you’ll hike through the beautiful valley of Laya and camp at the village of Laya. You’ll have time to explore the village and meet the friendly locals.

Today is a rest day in Laya, which will allow you to explore the village and experience the local culture. You can visit the Laya Dzong fortress and try the local cuisine.

You’ll cross the highest pass and view the Tsenda Gang (16,400 feet), and descend to Rhodophu. You’ll camp at Rhodophu, which offers stunning views of the peaks of Masagang and Tsenda Gang.

On this leg of our trek, we will embark on a challenging ascent to Tsemo La Pass, which will take around three hours. The climb will gradually intensify as we approach the pass, but the breathtaking views of GanglaKarchung, Jitchu Drake, and Jhomolhari will make it all worth it. Once we reach the top, we’ll descend and continue our journey to Narethang. This will be our first high camp on the trek, where we’ll spend the night at an elevation of 16,200 feet.

We will begin with a gradual ascent to Karakachu La Pass, which will take around 2 to 3 hours. Once we reach the top, we’ll be rewarded with awe-inspiring views of Karakachu, Tsenda Gang, Jejekangphu, and Teri Kang. We’ll then make a steep and lengthy descent to the Tarina Valley, which could take up to 3.5 hours. On the valley floor, we’ll encounter takin herds before taking an easier 2 to 3 hour stroll to our campsite. This day promises to be a delightful journey with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lakes, as we settle in for the night at Tarina, situated at an altitude of 3,800 meters.

You’ll hike through beautiful forests and cross several rivers before reaching Woche, a small village where you’ll camp for the night.

Today’s hike takes you through the beautiful valley of Kechela and across the Kechela Pass (14,600 feet). You’ll camp at Lhedi, which is a small town with a health center and school.

You’ll cross the Kele La Pass (16,900 feet) and hike through the beautiful valley of Thanza. You’ll camp at Thanza, which is a village located near the base of Mount Jichu Drake (22,000 feet).

Today is a rest day in Thanza, which will allow you to explore the village and acclimate to the altitude. You can also do a day hike to a nearby glacier.

Today’s hike takes you across the beautiful Danji La Pass (17,200 feet) and down to Tshochena. You’ll camp at Tshochena, which is located in a beautiful valley.

You’ll cross the final high pass on the trek, the Loju La Pass (16,900 feet), and hike through the beautiful valley of Jichu Dramo. You’ll camp at Jichu Dramo, which offers stunning views of Mount Jichu Drake.

You’ll hike through the beautiful valley of Chukarpo and cross the Rinchen Zoe La Pass (16,600 feet). You’ll camp at Chukarpo, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

You’ll hike through beautiful forests and across several rivers before reaching Thampe Tsho, a beautiful glacial lake where you’ll camp for the night.

You’ll hike through beautiful forests and across several rivers before reaching Maurothang, where you’ll camp for the night.

Today’s hike is the end of the trek and it will take you down to Nikachu towards Sephu District . Drive to Gangtey. Overnight in hotel. 

After breakfast, drive back to Paro. Witness an archery match in Paro, visit Kyichu Lhakhang , one of the oldest Buddhist monasteries in Bhutan. Evening at your own leisure

In morning your guide will bid you farewell journey at Paro Airport. Tashi Delek!

In morning your guide will bid you farewell journey at Paro Airport. Tashi Delek!