The Chomolhari Trek

Degree of difficulty

• Trekking in Bhutan presents a substantial physical challenge. A good degree of physical fitness is required. 
• The Chomolhari Trek involves some high altitude hiking, acclimatisation is factored into the trip to assist with the demands of altitude hiking.
• Mental toughness and resilience are important, as treks in the Himalaya take both a physical and mental toll.
• Be prepared for trekking in the high mountains for five to seven hours, on consecutive days throughout the trek.
• Experience of multi-day hiking in mountainous terrain is of huge advantage to those taking on this challenge. 

Accommodation in Bhutan

• Hotels in Bhutan all have to be approved by the Tourism Council. The hotels used on this trip are all clean and comfortable, in quieter locations to help facilitate a good night's sleep.
• Whilst trekking, good quality spacious tents are provided. A three man tent is to be shared by two participants.
• Meals are taken in a separate mess tent, which offers a space to be used as a communal area in the evenings.

Eating and drinking

• The trip is presented on a full board basis. 
• Meals are provided at the pre and post trek hotels, and are usually offered in a buffet style, with Indian, Chinese and Bhutanese dishes.
• Bhutanese cuisine generally consists of steamed rice, with a choice of meat and vegetarian curries.
• Meals prepared whilst trekking will be healthy and nutritious, with fresh vegetables and meat offered at every meal. 
• Hot picnics are offered each day whilst trekking. 
• Drinking water is provided both on the trek, but also on cultural tours. It's recommended to bring a reusable bottle in addition to any hydration bladder.

Season

• Jan
• Feb
• Mar
• Apr
• May
• Jun
• Jul
• Aug
• Sep
• Oct
• Nov
• Dec

Meeting point

Paro International Airport - Bhutan
Paro
12001
Bhutan

Getting to Bhutan

• Fly to Paro International Airport in Bhutan.
• Two flights operators fly to Bhutan, Drukair and Bhutan Airlines. 
• Flights arrive from Bangkok, Dhaka, Delhi, Kolkata, Kathmandu, Doha, Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. 
• All these airports are well serviced from the UK and Europe.
• Visas can only be arranged by travel companies, and are issues on arrival. 
• Flights into Bhutan are likely to be on a separate ticket to the flight leaving the UK. Transit visas may need to be organised depending upon which country the connection is through. 

The Chomolhari Trek Itinerary

• Day 1 | Arrival in Bhutan

  Fly to Paro. Optional tour of the city in the afternoon. Pre-trek briefing with lead guide in the evening. 

• Day 2 | Taktshang Lhakhang

  Morning excursion to Tatshand Lhakhang, the Tiger's Nest Monastery, one of Bhutan's most famous monasteries, perched on a clifftop around 3100m high. After lunch, visit the 7th century Kyichu Lhakhang, a temple which marks the introduction of Buddhism to Bhutan.

• Day 3 | Paro to Thangthangka

  Start the day with a wonderful driver through rice terraces and apple orchards, before reaching Shana Zampa to start the trek. Follow a trail along the valley, with views of Chomolhari on a clear day. Upon reaching the army post of Gunyitsawa, the last stop before Tibet, the path follows the Pa Chhu river, entering the Jigme Dorje National Park, the largest protected area in Bhutan.

• Day 4 | Thangthangka to Jangothang

  Leaving the forest behind, enter into the realm of the high mountains. Follow a river above the treeline, with superb panoramic views of Chomolhari and Jichu Drake. Take lunch at a yak herding camp, before a short walk to the campsite at Jangothang.

• Day 5 | Acclimatisation at Jangothang

  At 4040m, the campsite at Jangothang sits by an old ruined fortress, take the opportunity to acclimatise with a hike to around 4500m, to uncover some fantastic views of Mount Chomolhari and Jichu Drake..

• Day 6 | Jangothang to Lingshi

  Following the trail along a stream before crossing a mountain ridge, following the valley floor the other side until the ascent to the Nyele La Pass. A long descent through the rhododendron forests to the campsite at Lingshi.

• Day 7 | Lingshi to Shodu

  The toughest day of the trek, navigating the highest pass of the route, Yale La, at a staggering 4950m above sea level. A long descent to the overnight campside at Shodu.

• Day 8 | Shodu to Barshong

  Returning to the treeline, follow the Thimphu Chhu river, passing through rhododendron, juniper and mixed alpine forests. Descend via a steep stone staircase to arrive at the lunch spot alongside a river. After lunch, a gentle climb to the ruins of Barshong Dzong at 3710m to camp. 

• Day 9 | Barshong to Thimphu

  Descend through dense forest to reach the Thimphu Chhu river, following cliff paths before arriving at the pasturelands of Dolankencho at 3220m. From here, take a transfer to the city of Thimphu.

• Day 10 | Thimphu to Paro 

  Visit the National Library, home to a collection of ancient Buddhist texts and manuscripts, and Zorig Chusum, a traditional arts and crafts school. After lunch take a drive to Dochu-La Pass, to enjoy incredible views of the 7000m peaks that dominate the skyline. Crossing the pass, the road descends into the Punakha valley to reach the overnight hotel.

• Day 11 | Departure

  Take a transfer from the hotel to the airport to start the journey home.

Included

• Your hotel stay for the 2 nights before and 2 nights after the trek on a full board basis
• All airport transfers
• Entry visa to Bhutan
• Government royalty fee
• A fully supported trek with a qualified mountain guide
• All food and drinking water on the trek
• Monument and monastery entrance fees

Not Included

• Flights
• Visas
• Tips for your guides and porters
• Personal items
• Travel insurance (you must be insured, and specifically for treks up to 5000m)
• Your personal trekking gear
• Your personal medicines or prescriptions
• Beverages (alcoholic and non-alcoholic)

This trip takes responsibility seriously and ‘goes the extra mile’ to ensure that your presence in this country is entirely positive.

Central to this is

• Caring for the crew
• Caring for the local environment
• Caring for the local communities

All guides and partners are hand picked to ensure that every aspect of your trip operates to the highest standard and reflect the strong values, ethics and joy of travel.

This commitment to Responsible Travel is mutually beneficial without compromising the countries and communities touched or the depth and uniqueness of your adventure.

Key values of this trip

• Leave nothing behind
• We’re the visitors, let’s be respectful at all times
• Deliver a breathtaking experience
• Let’s benefit local communities and environments

Let’s help keep these wonderful places precious.

Porters and crew

All crew are paid proper wages and are treated with respect and dignity. This trip with IMEC, IPPG and KPAP, all not-for-profit organisations that focus on improving the working conditions of porters.

Friends of Conservation

Travellers are given the opportunity to mitigate some of the environmental impacts of flying by supporting community and conservation initiatives.

Travellers Against Plastic

This trip is a proud supporter of the Leave No Trace and Travellers Against Plastic campaigns, which help educate travellers on the impact of travel and provide practical guidance for enjoying the outdoors responsibly.

Costs

This was our first high altitude trek and despite diligent training I wondered if I could do it. Our guides, Tandin, Sonam, and Jigme, provided positive and kind guidance and support. Our crew kept us well nourished and sheltered. Our group was full of good energy and humor. Overall, a great adventure | Sue