The Snowman Trek is widely regarded as one of the most challenging and rewarding long-distance treks in the world. This extraordinary 29-day adventure takes you deep into the heart of the Bhutanese Himalayas, traversing remote mountain passes, pristine glacial valleys, isolated highland villages, and untouched wilderness rarely visited by travelers. Along the journey, you will experience the unique culture of the Layap and Lunap communities, cross several passes above 5,000 meters, and witness breathtaking views of some of Bhutan’s highest and most sacred peaks. Combined with cultural experiences in Paro, Punakha, and Thimphu, the Snowman Trek offers the ultimate Bhutanese adventure for experienced trekkers seeking a true Himalayan expedition.
Highlights
- 1. Complete One of the World's Greatest Treks
- 2. Explore the Hidden Kingdom of Lunana
- 3. Witness Spectacular Himalayan Peaks and Glacial Landscapes
Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, meet your guide and begin your Bhutan adventure. Visit the magnificent Paro Rinpung Dzong, one of Bhutan's finest examples of traditional fortress architecture overlooking the Paro Valley. Continue to Taa Dzong, Bhutan's National Museum, which houses an impressive collection of historical artifacts, religious relics, and cultural treasures.
In the evening, enjoy an authentic Bhutanese farmhouse experience featuring a traditional hot stone bath, local cuisine, and interaction with a Bhutanese family.
Overnight: Hotel in Paro
Prepare for the trek with an acclimatization hike to the iconic Taktsang Monastery (Tiger's Nest), Bhutan's most sacred pilgrimage site. Perched dramatically on a cliff 900 meters above Paro Valley, the monastery offers spectacular views and fascinating spiritual history associated with Guru Padmasambhava.
Enjoy lunch at the hillside cafeteria before descending back to Paro.
Overnight: Hotel in Paro
The Snowman Trek officially begins today. Follow the Paro Chhu River through forests of pine, fir, and rhododendron. The trail includes several ascents and descents as it winds through pristine Himalayan wilderness.
Cross wooden bridges and navigate rocky sections before reaching Thangthangkha, a beautiful campsite surrounded by cedar forests and mountain scenery.
Overnight: Camp at Thangthangkha (3,610m)
Today's trail follows the widening Paro Chhu Valley through alpine meadows and yak-grazing areas. Pass traditional settlements including Soe, Takethang, and Dangochang while enjoying increasingly dramatic views of Mount Jomolhari.
Arrive at Jangothang, one of the most beautiful campsites in the Himalayas, with magnificent views of the sacred peak towering above the valley.
Overnight: Camp at Jangothang (4,040m)
Spend the day acclimatizing to the altitude while exploring the surrounding valleys and ridges. Optional hikes offer spectacular views of Jomolhari, Jichu Drake, glaciers, alpine lakes, and high mountain pastures.
Blue sheep are frequently spotted grazing on nearby slopes, while the surrounding peaks provide exceptional photographic opportunities.
Overnight: Camp at Jangothang
Ascend gradually to Nyile La Pass (4,870m), enjoying magnificent views of Mount Jomolhari, Jichu Drake, and Tsherim Gang. The route passes yak-herder camps and remote alpine landscapes before descending towards Lingzhi.
The impressive Lingzhi Dzong can be seen perched dramatically above the valley below.
Overnight: Camp at Lingzhi
A relatively easy trekking day allows time to explore Lingzhi Dzong and nearby villages. Pass through the traditional settlements of Lingzhi and Goyul before continuing towards Chebisa.
Arrive at a scenic campsite near a beautiful waterfall, surrounded by traditional Bhutanese homes and terraced landscapes.
Overnight: Camp at Chebisa
Trek through wide yak-grazing pastures towards Gobu La Pass (4,410m). Along the route, there are excellent opportunities to spot blue sheep and observe local yak herders tending their animals.
Descend through broad valleys before reaching the peaceful campsite at Shomuthang beside a mountain stream.
Overnight: Camp at Shomuthang
Climb steadily towards Jhari La Pass (4,750m), enjoying magnificent views of Kang Bum, Gangchhenta, Tserim Kang, and Jomolhari. This area forms part of the Takin Sanctuary, where Bhutan's national animal is frequently observed during summer months.
Continue through alpine terrain to the campsite at Robluthang.
Overnight: Camp at Robluthang
Cross Sinche La Pass (5,005m), one of the highest points reached so far on the trek. Enjoy breathtaking views of glaciers, snow-capped peaks, and vast alpine landscapes.
The descent passes glacial moraines and pristine streams before arriving at Limithang, where the magnificent Gangchhenta Peak dominates the skyline.
Overnight: Camp at Limithang
Follow the valley downstream through forests and alpine meadows towards Laya, one of Bhutan's most famous highland villages.
Upon arrival, enjoy views of Gangchhenta and Masagang while experiencing the unique culture and traditions of the Layap people.
Overnight: Camp at Laya
Enjoy a rest day in Laya Village. Interact with local residents, observe traditional lifestyles, and learn about the distinctive customs of Bhutan's highland communities.
If your visit coincides with October, you may experience the vibrant Royal Highland Festival.
Overnight: Camp at Laya
Descend through scenic river valleys before turning towards Rhoduphu. After lunch, begin a gradual climb through rhododendron forests and mountain pastures.
Camp beside the Rhodu Chhu River in a beautiful alpine setting.
Overnight: Camp at Rhoduphu
Climb steadily to Tsomo La Pass (4,900m), where spectacular views stretch across Lunana, Jomolhari, Jichu Drake, and the Tibetan frontier.
Cross a vast high-altitude plateau before reaching Narethang beneath the towering Gangla Karchung Peak.
Overnight: Camp at Narethang
Cross Gangla Karchung La Pass (5,120m), one of the highest and most spectacular passes of the trek. Marvel at glaciers, turquoise lakes, and dramatic mountain scenery.
Descend through rhododendron forests to the broad meadows of Tarina Valley along the Tang Chhu River.
Overnight: Camp at Tarina
Follow scenic forest trails alongside the upper Pho Chhu River. Pass waterfalls, forested ridges, and pristine wilderness before reaching Woche, the first village in the Lunana region.
Overnight: Camp at Woche
Cross Keche La Pass (4,650m) and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks. Descend through forests and riverside trails to Lhedi Village.
Overnight: Camp at Lhedi
Follow the river valley past Chozo Village while enjoying spectacular views of Table Mountain (7,100m).
Arrive at Thanza, one of the largest settlements in the Lunana region, surrounded by towering snow-covered peaks.
Overnight: Camp at Thanza
Enjoy a rest day to acclimatize and experience life in one of Bhutan's most remote communities. Optional walks provide excellent views of surrounding lakes, glaciers, and mountain ranges.
Overnight: Camp at Thanza
Trek through broad alpine meadows and yak-grazing grounds while enjoying magnificent views of Lunana's mountain landscapes.
Reach Danji, a beautiful campsite with excellent opportunities to spot blue sheep and other Himalayan wildlife.
Overnight: Camp at Danji
Cross Jaze La Pass (5,150m) and enjoy spectacular views of surrounding peaks and glacial valleys.
Descend to the shores of Tshochena Lake, one of the most beautiful campsites along the route.
Overnight: Camp at Tshochena
Follow the shores of turquoise alpine lakes before crossing Loju La Pass (5,140m). Continue through dramatic glacial landscapes and high mountain valleys.
Overnight: Camp at Jichu Dramo
Cross Rinchen Zoe La Pass (5,320m), the highest point of the entire Snowman Trek. Enjoy unforgettable views of Gangkhar Puensum and surrounding Himalayan giants.
Descend through moraine fields and alpine valleys before reaching Chukarpo.
Overnight: Camp at Chukarpo
Follow the river through alpine landscapes before climbing towards the beautiful turquoise waters of Thampe Tsho.
The tranquil setting provides one of the most picturesque campsites of the trek.
Overnight: Camp at Thampe Tsho
Cross Thampe La Pass (4,600m) before visiting the sacred Om Tsho Lake. Continue through forests and river valleys to Maurothang.
Overnight: Camp at Maurothang
Complete the final trekking day by descending through bamboo forests and pastoral landscapes to Sephu.
Meet your vehicle and transfer to your hotel after successfully completing the legendary Snowman Trek.
Overnight: Hotel in Gangtey
Drive through changing vegetation zones to Punakha. Visit the magnificent Punakha Dzong, one of Bhutan's most important historical and religious landmarks.
Enjoy panoramic views of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers.
Overnight: Hotel in Punakha
Travel via Dochu La Pass and enjoy panoramic Himalayan views. Explore Bhutan's capital city including Buddha Dordenma, Memorial Chorten, Centenary Farmers Market, and Simply Bhutan Museum.
Overnight: Hotel in Thimphu
After breakfast, transfer to Paro International Airport for your departure flight. Depart Bhutan with unforgettable memories of one of the world's greatest trekking adventures.
- Fully serviced camping accommodation
- Quality tents, sleeping bags, and insulated mats
- Dining, kitchen, toilet, and shower tents
- All meals during the trek
- Trekking expedition leader and support crew
- Experienced trekking chef and helpers
- Group medical and first-aid kit
- All trekking permits and park entrance fees
- Horses, yaks, and porters carrying up to 20 kg of personal equipment
- Complete trekking logistics support
- International airfare
- Travel insurance
- Soft drinks, bottled beverages, and alcoholic drinks
- Personal snacks and refreshments
- Tips and gratuities
- Personal trekking equipment
- Laundry, telephone, and internet charges
- Expenses arising from flight delays or cancellations
- Personal expenses of any nature
- Any services not specifically mentioned under "Tour Includes"
