Jomolhari Dodena Trek

Duration: 10 nights 11 days
Difficulty: moderate
Min/Max elevation: 2,500m-5,000m
Best Season: April to June and Mid-Oct to Mid-Nov.
Start: Paro, Gunitsawa
Finish: Thimphu, Dodena.
Highlights: Jangothang , the base camp of mt Jomolhari.

One of the most popular trekking routes in the country, the Jomolhari-Dodena trek offers a plethora of attractions for those fortunate few who choose to tread this least beaten path.

With altitudes ranging from 2,500 to 5,000 mtrs, the route abounds in untamed beauty and sceneries that are unmatched anywhere across the globe.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and sightseeing in Paro (2,250m)

As we fly to Bhutan and treat ourselves to spectacular views of the Himalayas, our representative  A Bucket List Adventure will receive you at the airport and escort you to your hotel room. We will visit the National museum (a best start to know about the culture, history, People and biodiversity of Bhutan) and then visit Paro Rinpung Dzong (fortress) built in 17th century which now houses the district administration and the local monastic body.

We go for a leisurely stroll across the town in the evening and mix with the locals before we call it a day.

Day 2: Tiger nest; acclimatization and drive to Sharna Zampa (2,700m)

The first day of the journey is also one of the most memorable as we hike towards the iconic Taktshang monastery, a visual treat on its own.

Built in the 18^th century, it is Bhutan’s most famous landmarks and is situated at 3,180 meters. Lunch will be served in the Cafeteria Restaurant, located about midway up the mountain. After having explored the monastery, we hike down to the valley and will drive to North of Paro to have a glimpse of the majestic fortress of Drugyel Dzong.

Camp at the picturesque riverside valley of Sharna Zampa.

Day 3: Sharna Zampa – Thangthangkha (Distance 22 km, 7-8 hours)

The trails gently winds through the riverside and across an ancient dirt trail which was used as a trading route to Tibet in the past. The sights and visuals across the trail are unmistakably wonders of the Bhutan-Himalaya which etches a lasting visual impact on the trekkers. 

We camp at a serene site located at around 3,610m.

Day 4: Thangthangkha – Jangothang (Distance 19 km, 5-6 hours)

The early morning adventure across this trail is our best bet to have a closer view of the mighty Jomolhari Peak, just in case we missed it earlier due to unfair weather conditions. We then ascend to the highland village of Soe, Takethang and Dangothang and finally camp at Jangothang (4,080m) considered the base camp of the Jhomolhari.

Day 5: Jangothang Halt

The excursions at Jangothang are considered some of the most memorable in the entire loop. While we take a day’s rest to rejuvenate our tired bones, we explore the valley which has its own magical allure to it. From the unkempt yak herders to majestic views of blue sheep and Himalayan pheasants, the views at Jagothang will never cease to amaze you.

Day 6: Jangothang – Lingshi (Distance 18 km, 6-7 hours)

The trail leads you to Nyilila Pass (4,870m) from where the panorama of the majestic Himalayan landscape is unmistakable. The intimidating sight of the peaks of Tsherimgang and Jichu Drakey is an added attraction to the entire feast of incredible sights and vistas.

We then gently descend to a meadow called Chasithang (4,010m), often used by yak-herding nomads, where we will camp for the night.

Day 7: Lingshi – Shodu (Distance 22km, eight to nine hours)

The trail winds across a glassy stream and climbs towards the Yalila Pass which rests at an altitude of 4,930m. The mountain pass is an idyllic location to have an unmatched view of the Jomolhari, Tserimgang and Masangang peaks which towers above the Himalayan horizon.

We finally camp at a scenic mountain valley of Shodu located at an altitude of 4,080m.

Day 8: Shodu – Barshong (Distance 16km, five to six hours)

This loop follows the crystalline Thimchhu River that cascades through forests of rhododendrons and beautiful alpine meads that is home to the elusive snow-lion, blue sheep and the Takin.

The valley then narrows and gradually ascends to the ruins of Barshong Dzong where we will camp near the Dzong at about 3,710m.

Day 9: Barshong – Dolam Kencho (Distance 15km, four to six hours)

The trail again follows through the banks of the Thimchhu through dense forests of rhododhendron, birch, conifers and maples which are a haven for a multitude of mammal, bird and reptilian species. We camp at a meadow located at 3,320m.

Day 10: Dolam Kencho – Dodena (Distance 8km, three to four hours)

The path continues to snake through verdant forests where langurs and other rare birds roam freely. We finally exit the JD National Park at Dodeyna monastery where we will be greeted at by a magnificent wooden cantilever bridge from where it is an hour easy drive to the heart of the capital city.

 If time permits we will visit Tashichoeddzong (fortress of glorious religion) which houses His majesty the King’s office and central monk body. In the evening we will stroll around the main street of Thimphu.

Day 11: Drive towards Paro (Drive 1hr,55km)

The final lapse of the journey trails across the vast Wangchhu valley following the Thimchhu river and then leads to a gorge at the confluence at Chudzomsa. The drive from Chudzomsa till the airport is breathtaking a scene simply out from a fairytale.