Snowman Trek
Trip length: 26 Days
Participants: Minimum 6 people
Level: Most Difficult
Season: Mid June – Early October
DAY 1: Arrival at Paro International Airport
The flight to Paro across the Himalayan ranges affords spectacular sights of the sacred Jhomolhari and Jichudrakey mountain ranges. And if you arrive via Kathmandu, you get to enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Everest and Mount Kanchenjanga as well. Upon arrival at the Airport, you will be received by our representatives and escorted to Hotel Pema Cholling.
In the afternoon take a leisurely stroll across a traditional wooden bridge and a flagstone path up to Paro Rinpung Dzong. This massive structure was built in 1646 and its central tower or the ‘Utse’, clad in exquisitely superb woodwork is considered the most beautiful tower in the kingdom. It houses the government offices and religious institutions as do all the Dzongs in the country. Later, visit the 7th century Kichu Lhakhang, one of the 108 temples built in the Himalayas by the Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo. This temple also happens to be one of the oldest temples in the country.
And in the evening drive back to Hotel Pema Cholling in Paro. At Hotel Pema Cholling you can choose to stay at the Hotel or experience the traditional way of life untainted by the ills of modernity by availing the traditional home-stay facility whereby you will be lodged in a traditional farmhouse and be served delicious traditional cuisines. You can also pamper yourself with a relaxing traditional ‘hot stone bath’ amid absolutely rural settings but with all the modern amenities. However, given the amount of time, energy and resources that go into organizing the ‘hot stone baths’, you will be levied extra charges for it. Besides all these, you can also enjoy traditional cultural programs which can be arranged upon request. The ‘hot stone baths’ and cultural programs are not included in the total cost of the trip.
DAY 2: Drive to Thimphu and Thimphu sightseeing
After an early breakfast drive to Thimphu. The scenic two hour drive to Thimphu is along a winding road alongside the Paro and Thimphu rivers. We will pass by the Tamchoe Lhakhang as well as Chhodzomsa or the ‘Confluence of the three rivers.’ Once in Thimphu, check into the hotel, freshen up and get ready for today’s sightseeing session.
Past experiences resulted in our coming to the conclusion that different guests have different opinions about what is interesting and what is not, about what they want to see and what they don’t. And therefore we decided that instead of us giving our guests stiff directions regarding which places they are to visit or what activities they are to do, we will leave the choice entirely up to them. Below is a list of some of the major attractions in Thimphu from which our guests can choose and decide for themselves. Our guides will always be at hand to provide you with their valuable suggestions.
- Tashichho Dzong – houses the throne room as well as the offices of the King of Bhutan, the Je-Khenpo (Chief Abbot) and other government offices. It is also the summer residence of the monastic body. The present Dzong was erected in 1968 around an older building, of which the central tower is a visible feature.
- National Memorial Chorten – was built in memory of the Third King of Bhutan. Glimpses of the Chorten in the early morning hours are indeed worthy of being deemed priceless. It is almost perpetually teeming with devotees circumambulating it because it is believed that it is a wish fulfilling monument.
- National Institute of Traditional Medicine – continues to nurture Bhutan’s reputation as ‘Lho Jong Men Jong’ or ‘Southern Land of Medicinal Herbs’ by continuing and promoting the age old healing and medicinal practices.
- The Buddha Dordenma statue – is a colossal and the largest Buddha statue in the world seated atop the Kuensel Phodrang Mountain, directly overlooking the city and affords a fabulous view of Thimphu valley.
- The National Post Office – is where the very famous Bhutanese stamps can be got hold of, to cater to all your philatelic needs.
- The Clock Tower Square – is a recently renovated square splat in the middle of the city. Fountains and miniature traditional Bhutanese prayer wheels add to making it a pleasant site to relax and chill out in the evenings.
- National Folk Heritage Museum – provides rare insights into the traditional Bhutanese ways of life within the setting of a traditional Bhutanese house. Bhutanese dances and exhibits are also held regularly inside the museum compound.
- Changangkha Lhakhang – built in the 12th century by Phajo Drugom Zhigpo, this temple hovers over a ridge above the Thimphu valley. It is the oldest temple in Thimphu and it houses Chenrizig: a 11-headed, thousand-armed manifestation of Avolokitesawara as the central statue.
- The Handicrafts Emporium – puts at your disposal a wide assortment of beautiful hand-woven and crafted products to choose from as souvenirs and gifts.
- BBS Radio tower – is well worth the ten minute extra drive beyond the Takin Reserve. It offers splendid views of the city from a hilltop festooned with prayer flags. This is where the tower for the Bhutan Broadcasting Service – the National Television channel is located. BOBBAL
- Takin Reserve – this is only place in Thimphu where the National Animal of Bhutan, Takin (budorcas taxicolor) is found. Bhutanese call it ‘Drong Gyemtse’. Legend has it that this animal was given life by the scandalously famous Drukpa Kinley, also known as the ‘Divine Madman’. It is said that since he was offered second-rate meat than the others during a meal he commanded the remaining bones of whatever animals that they were eating to rise saying ‘looks like you haven’t eaten well during your life time, so go and feed’. The bones miraculously merged into one and trotted off into the jungles. People believe that this is the reason for the Takin’s goat face and cow body. In addition to the Takin there are a few musk deer and barking deer as well.
- Zilukha Nunnery – the biggest nunnery in Bhutan is perched on a promontory overlooking the Tashichhodzong. The view of Tashichhodzong from the Nunnery is exquisite.
- National Library – provides a permanent home for the sacred religious books and manuscripts. The repository rooms of the archives houses an extensive collection of many rare and important documents including old records, letters, microfilms and around seven thousand important photographs. Thus the archive is the foundation of Bhutan’s National Memory Bank. Here one can also come across the largest published book in the world.
- The National Institute for Zorig Chusum (Traditional Arts and Crafts) – is a school of arts that trains students in Bhutan’s 13 traditional arts and crafts. Tertoen Pema Lingpa, the renowned Treasure Discoverer is credited to have introduced these art forms to the people of Bhutan. These traditional crafts are a representation of the centuries of knowledge and ability that has been handed down through generations of master craftsmen and artisans and has played a vital role in shaping the Bhutan’s unique culture and heritage. The wood working, black smithy and sculpting that are taught and practiced do make for an interesting visit.
- Semtokha Dzong – built in 1627 it is the oldest Dzong in the country. Today it houses the School for Buddhist Studies.
- Dochula Druk Wangyel Chorten – was built to commemorate the bravery of the Bhutanese forces who successfully managed to dispel the Indian insurgents who had illegally infiltrated the country in 2003. The 108 chortens were built in 2004, in memory of those that lost their lives during the military operations. Because of the unique dance movements, costumes and setting, the recently initiated Druk Wangyel Festival is an exclusive treat and a must see for locals and visitors alike.
***We can also check out the National Stadium at Changlimithang for archery matches or just take a leisurely stroll through the streets of Thimphu
Your night halt will be at Thimphu in any three star lodge or resort of your preference. Please note that guests wishing to lodge in four or five star hotels do have the option of doing so but will have to bear the extra charges themselves.
DAY 3: Thimphu to Tashithang via Punakha
Today we drive to Punakha the former capital of Bhutan and today the winter residence of the Central Monastic Body with a stop en route stop for tea at the 10, 500 meters Dochula Pass. The Pass is popular for tourists for its ideal location from where one can enjoy 360 degree panoramic view of the Himalayan mountain range, especially on clear winter days. The beauty of this place is further enhanced by the Druk Wangyal Chortens-108 Stupas built by the eldest Queen Mother Her Majesty Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuk. The pass is also popular spiritual place for both locals and tourists because of an important temple that is located on the crest of Dochula pass. We can spend some time for photography here. Her Majesty Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck has achieved a fine blend of history and mythology in the construction of the Druk Wangyal Lhakhang to honor His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo, Jigme Singye Wangchuck. The past and future appear to merge in the details of the Lhakhang that tells the story of a supreme warrior figure whose vision pierces the distant future.
After lunch we will visit Punakha Dzong, initially named as Pungthang Dewa Chenpoi Phodrang or the ‘Palace of Great Bliss’, which was built in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel. Located at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and the Mo Chhu, this architectural marvel is the second oldest and the second largest in Bhutan. It is of great historical importance not only because it houses the precious relic – the Rangjung Kharsapani (over which many battles were fought between the Bhutanese and the Tibetans) and the sacred remains of the Zhabdrung and Tertoen Pema Lingpa, but because the Royal Wedding for the Fifth Monarch of Bhutan His Majesty King Jigme Khesar Wangchuck took place there. Each year, besides the Annual Tshechu there is a festival at the Dzong called the Punakha Dromchoe and it recalls the 1639 invasion of the country by the Tibetans who were successfully repulsed. Surreal sights, excellent views and a very calming experience await you at Punakha. And later we will drive on to Tashithang following Mo Chhu River.
Night halt at the campsite at Tashithang.
DAY 4: Tashithang to Gasa via Damji
The 6 to 7 hours worth of trekking distance starts by the riverside, following a well-made path through semi tropical forest where wild orchids are in plentiful abundance. But this part of the area is quite wet and leeches are very much abundant as well. The day’s walk is fairly gentle as we climb up to the village of Damji at 2, 250 meters. The path continues through sub-tropical forests and villages up to the Gasa Tsachu (hot spring). The Gasa Tsachu is one of the most popular hot springs in Bhutan. There are four pools, with temperatures ranging from warm to hot. The hot spring is believed to be highly effective in curing various ailments and is a popular winter destination for many Bhutanese families. People from all walks of life make this sojourn to the healing waters of Gasa Tsachu almost on an annual basis.
Night halt at the campsite below the Dzong at an altitude of 2,900 meters.
DAY 5: Gasa to Chamsa
After breakfast, visit the Gasa Dzong, built in the 17th century, to protect the valley against Tibetan invaders. The path starts with stiff 6 to 7 hour climb up to the Bele La Pass at 3,700 meters, through bamboo, rhododendron, juniper and fir forests. Then another half an hour descent will take you to the camp at Chamsa.
Night halt at the campsite at Chamsa at an altitude of 3,650 meters.
DAY 6: Chamsa to Laya
The trail, almost 8 to 9 hours of walking distance, starts by descending to the bank of Mo Chhu River. It goes up and down again to detour back up the hillside to avoid the steep spur. Lunch will be served at the side of the bridge, across the river. After lunch it is a gradual climb up to Laya, passing by an army camp en route.
Night halt at the campsite at an altitude 3,800 meters.
DAY 7: Halt at Laya
Spend the day exploring village of Laya and its environs. This is a community that has remained untouched by modern civilization for all these years. Even to this day the only signs of modernity in the village are a community school and a basic health unit with telephone connection. Besides the cordyceps and goods acquired from china which they sell in Punakha, the yak is a very important source of income for the Layaps. Not only are the yaks used to plough fields, they are also the source of meat, dairy products, hair for mattresses, blankets, tents and their very unique garments. You can go and visit any of the houses in the village. Here one doesn’t need to seek an appointment; by tradition, one can go to any house without an invitation. A cup of tea or chang (local drink) is always offered to anyone and everyone who visits. In the evening, cultural programs around bonfires can be arranged upon request.
DAY 8: Laya to Rodhuphu
From Laya we descend to army camp and continue following the river till the turn off point to Rhoduphu. After lunch we continue the climb through rhododendron bushes till we reach the campsite at attitude of 4,350 meters.
DAY 9: Rodhuphu to Tarina
Today is the longest day of the trip with a walking distance of approximately 10 to 11 hours. Therefore we must start as early as 5 am by climbing up to the Tsimola Pass at 4,700 meters, after crossing which we can enjoy superb views of Lunana, Mount Jumolhari and Jichudrakey. We walk over fairly level ground for another 4 hours before we start our ascent up to Ganglapachung Pass at 5, 080 meters. The view from the path is indeed breathtaking and one can view a whole range of mountains including Masanggang, Tsendegang and Terigang. After the Pass, it is a very long descent to the valley of Tarina.
Night halt at the campsite at an altitude of 3, 980 meters.
DAY 10: Tarina to Woche
The walk leads down through conifer forests following the upper ridges of the Pho Chhu. The trail then climbs over a ridge and drops to Woche, the first village of Gasa, at an altitude of 3,800 meters.
Night halt at the campsite at an altitude of 3,800 meters.
DAY 11: Woche to Lhedi
Today the trek starts through forests of juniper and fir, and further ahead through rhododendron bushes. We then climb up the Keche La Pass at 4, 480 meters from where one can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. After crossing the Pass, we descend to the riverside walking through the village all the while enjoying stunning views of the Table Mountains and others. We then follow the river uphill till we make it to the village of Lhedi.
Night halt at the campsite at an altitude of 3,650 meters.
DAY 12: Lhedi to Thanza
The trek consisting of a walking distance of 7 to 8 hours, continues following the rivers and rising gradually to the village of Choejong. After lunch we visit the Choejong Dzong. Then after walking for some time through a sandy area we arrive a suspension bridge crossing which we arrive at the wide valley of Thanza.
Night halt at the campsite at altitude 4,000 meters.
DAY 13: Halt at Thanza
Spend the day leisurely walking around and absorbing the greenery, reading or catching up with the washing or opt for climbing up the ridge for fascinating view of lakes and mountains in the vicinity.
DAY 14: Thanza to Tshorim
Re-energized by yesterday’s rest we embark on 8 to 9 hour the trek, climbing the ridge at an elevation of 4, 650 meters, with great view of the Table Mountain and the valley of Thanza below. After lunch, walk upwards the left side of the bridge enjoying the view of the snow-capped mountains. After climbing a few more ridges, you eventually reach the campsite of Tshorim at an altitude of 5,125 meters.
Night halt at the campsite.
Day 15: Tshorim to Gangkar Puensum Base Camp
This is one of the highlights of the trip. The day starts with a short climb to the Tshorim Lake. We walk around the Lake all the while enjoying the panoramic view of Gophula ranges. The last climb to the Gophula Pass at 5, 230 meters is a very short one. After the pass we descend to the base camp, walking along the ridge and enjoy the great view of Gangkar Puensum. If interested, you can detour left and climb up the pyramid peak for a better view or descend to the base camp
Night halt at the campsite near the Sha Chhu at an elevation of 4, 970 meters.
DAY 16: Halt at Gangkar Puensum Base Camp
Today is a day of rest day at the base camp. Stroll around, savor the hard earned moments and enjoy the great view of the Gangkar Puensum – the tallest unclimbed mountain in Bhutan.
DAY 17: Gangkar Puensum Base Camp to Geshe Woma
Though it is time to leave the beautiful mountain side the trek is far from over. Today we follow the 6 to 7 hour trail further down the Sha Chhu and descend gradually to Geshe Woma at an altitude of 4,200 meters.
DAY 18: Geshe Woma to Warathang
The path today continues along the Sha Chhu for about 2 to 3 hours until we begin the stiff climb up to Sakala Pass. The visibility along the Sakala trail is poor and so one must exert some degree of caution during the ascent. Because of the prevailing conditions lunch will have to be served at a nearby yak herder’s camp. After lunch we continue with the climb up to the Sakala Pass at altitude of 4,800 meters. Later we descend to the lakes after which another short ascent leads to the Warthangla Pass at 4, 590 meters. From that point onwards the scenery is stunningly beautiful with small lakes and the mountain peaks decorating the landscape.
Night halt at the campsite at an altitude of 4, 000 meters.
DAY 19: Warathang to Dur Tsachu
Today a short half hour climb leads to Julila Pass at 4, 400 meters. Once we have crossed the Pass, we descend to the riverside through dense rhododendron, juniper and conifer forests. After a bridge that we come across along the way, a short climb leads to Dur Tsachu (hot spring). The Guru Padmasambhava is believed to have visited the Dhur Tshechu sometime during the 8th century.
DAY 20: Dur Tsachu to Tshochenchen
From the hot spring, once again it is a long and steady climb with great views of mountains in Lunana. Eventually the ground levels out, and en route we come across several beautiful deep blue lakes, yaks grazing on the surrounding pastures, and yak herders’ camps at an altitude of 3, 850 meters.
DAY 21: Tshochenchen to Dur in Bumthang
This is the last day of the trek where we change from yaks to pack ponies. Today’s trail follows the Chamkhar Chhu, descending gradually but with a few ascents at regular intervals. The trek ends when you arrive at Dur village where representatives of Pema Cholling Tours & Treks will be waiting to escort you to your hotel in Bumthang.
Night halt at the hotel in Bumthang.
DAY 22: Sightseeing in Bumthang
Bumthang is the religious heartland of the nation and home to some of the oldest Buddhist temples and monasteries. It was here that Guru Padmasambhava cured a local king Sindhu Raja of a spirit induced ailment in the 8th century which resulted in the whole country embracing Buddhism. And it was here that the legendary saint and Treasure Discoverer Pema Lingpa to whom the Bhutanese Royal Family traces their descent, was born.
Past experiences resulted in our coming to the conclusion that different guests have different opinions about what is interesting and what is not, about what they want to see and what they don’t. And therefore we decided that instead of us giving our guests stiff directions regarding which places they are to visit or what activities they are to do, we will leave the choice entirely up to them. Below is a list of some of the major attractions in Bumthang from which our guests can choose and decide for themselves. Our guides will always be at hand to provide you with their valuable suggestions.
- Jakar Dzong – founded by the Zhabdrung’s Great Grandfather Ngagi Wangchuck, Jakar Dzong literally translates into ‘Fortress of the White Bird’. According to legend, when the lamas assembled to select a site for a monastery, a big white bird suddenly rose into the air and settled on a spur of a hill. This was interpreted as an auspicious omen and the hill chosen as the site for the Monastery. Its official name is Yuelay Namgyal Dzong, in honor of the victory over the troops of the Tibetan ruler Phuntsho Namgyal. The Utse or central tower is unusually situated on the outside wall, so there is no way to circumambulate it.
- Jambey Lhakhang – was built in the 7th Century by the Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo. Legend has it that the temple was built to pin down the left knee of a demoness who lay across the Himalayas, and that it is one of 108 temples built by the Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo in a single day. Revered as one of the oldest landmarks of the arrival of Buddhism in Bhutan, this temple holds a unique Tshechu or festival. The highlight of this festival is a fire dance that is performed to purify sins and augur a good harvest.
- Kurjey Lhakhang – was built in the 17th century by Chogyal Minjur Tempa, around a rock which bears the sacred imprint of Guru Rimpoche’s body. The Guru is believed to have meditated here in the 8th Century. Upon entering, the first temple to the right, is the Guru Lhakhang which houses the cave in which Guru mediated. Beside the Monastery is a tall cypress tree which is believed to have sprouted from the walking stick of Guru Rinpoche.
- Tamshing Lhakhang – located in a village across the river from Kurjey Lhakhang, it is the seat of Tertoen Pema Lingpa. A skilled tantric master and an artist, he is believed to have personally sculpted the main statues and painted the frescoes. They can be seen even today, mostly in original state. There is also a chain mail made by Pema Lingpa that devotees carry and circumambulate the inner sanctum. The throne from which he performed the consecration ceremony is preserved in a small temple outside the main hall. The physical structure surrounding the main inner temple was restored at the end of the 19th century. Pema Lingpa’s expansive skills in building, painting, sculpture and metal work can still be seen, for the most part in its original state.
- Mebartsho – or the ‘Burning Lake’ in Tang valley is a wide spot on the Tang Chhu and is considered to be one of the greatest pilgrimage sites in Bhutan. Tertoen Pema Linga found several of Guru Rinpoche’s hidden treasures here. It is believed that he dived into the lake in the presence of several skeptical spectators with a burning lamp and later emerged from the lake with several treasures and the lamp still burning.
- Konchogsum Lhakhang – was built in the 6th century but was renovated in 1995, which accounts for its fresh look. It contained a large bell and it is said that when this bell was rung it could be heard all the way in Lhasa in Tibet. It is said that during the 17th century people from the Tibetan army tried to steal this bell but was too heavy and they dropped it and cracked it. It is now displayed at the National Museum in Paro.
- Chaskhar Lhakhang – is the site of the palace of the Indian King Sindhu Raja. Because of its simplicity it looks like an ordinary village house. The original palace was built out of iron and this is why it was named Chaskhar, meaning iron castle. It was rebuilt in the 14th century by a Saint called- Dorji Lingpa.
- Thangbi Goempa –this monastery is situated in the middle of a wide fertile plateau overlooking the river. Founded in 1470 by Zhamar Rinpoche of the Karma Kagyupa Religious School, the building comprises two sanctuaries and a temple of tutelary deities. The ground floor houses statues of the past, present and future Buddhas, and three clay statues probably date back to the 15th century. On the upper floor, the foyer contains two remarkable paintings of Guru Rinpoche’s and the Buddha Amitabha’s Heavens.
*** You can spend the evening strolling through the shops at Chamkhar in the evening. Night halt Bumthang.
DAY 23: Bumthang to Trongsa
Today we drive from Bumthang to Trongsa. The Yutongla pass and a series of hair raising bends at 11,500 feet separates the valley of Trongsa and Bumthang. Views of Trongsa valley on descent are superb. Trongsa is the ancestral home of the Royal Family. Both His Majesty King Ugyen Wangchuk, and His successor King Jigme Wangchuk, ruled the country from Trongsa. Even today, in continuation to that tradition, the Crown Prince of Bhutan is appointed the Trongsa Penlop prior to the ascending to the Golden Throne.
Yongzin Ngagi Wangchuk was guided in a vision by the guardian deity Palden Lhamo, to go to a place in central Bhutan which resembled a bowl. Accordingly he arrived in present day Trongsa sometime in 1541 and took up residence in the village of Yueli. One night while he was meditating, his attention was drawn by a flicker of light, resembling that of butter lamp burning in the open air, at the very spot where the present day Goenkhang of the Trongsa Dzong is located. In 1543, he established a small Tshamkhang (meditation quarter) in the sacred spot and meditated there. He soon attracted a number of disciples who built their own meditation unit around the main Tshamkhang. The cluster of newly built meditation quarters gradually developed into a new community settlement and hence the name Trongsa which means ‘new village.’ We will also visit the Ta Dzong. This watchtower, which once guarded Trongsa Dzong from internal rebellion, stands on a steep slope above the town. It now houses a shrine dedicated to the epic hero, King Gesar of Ling. A visit to this former watchtower will provide you with a deep insight into the significance of Trongsa in Bhutan’s history.
Night halt at Trongsa.
DAY 24: Trongsa to Paro
After an early breakfast we begin our long drive to Paro. Once we make it to Paro we check into Hotel Pema Cholling in Paro. At Hotel Pema Cholling you can choose to stay at the Hotel or experience the traditional way of life untainted by the ills of modernity by availing the traditional home-stay facility whereby you will be lodged in a traditional farmhouse and be served delicious traditional cuisines. You can also pamper yourself with a relaxing traditional ‘hot stone bath’ amid absolutely rural settings but with all the modern amenities. However, given the amount of time, energy and resources that go into organizing the ‘hot stone baths’, you will be levied extra charges for it. Besides all these, you can also enjoy traditional cultural programs which can be arranged upon request. The ‘hot stone baths’ and cultural programs are not included in the total cost of the trip.
Night halt at Hotel Pema Cholling in Paro.
DAY 25: Paro sightseeing
After breakfast, you will be visiting Drugyel Dzong, a ruined fortress 16 kilometers away from Paro town. Although it is in ruins today, the Dzong is of great historical significance as it was here that the Bhutanese resisted the Tibetan invading forces and drove them back. The Dzong was destroyed by a fire in 1951. From here the majestic peaks of Mount Jhomolhari can be seen on clear days. Then we take a leisurely stroll across a traditional wooden bridge and a flagstone path up to Paro Rinpung Dzong. This massive structure was built in 1646 and its central tower or the ‘Utse’, clad in exquisitely superb woodwork is considered the most beautiful tower in the kingdom. It houses the government offices and religious institutions as do all the Dzongs in the country. Next, we visit the Ta Dzong or the National Museum, high on a promontory overlooking the Paro valley. Built in 1645, it used to serve as the watchtower for the dzong in the past, hence the name ‘Ta’ which literally translates into ‘look’. Today it is the National Museum; it houses a huge collection of antiques of invaluable historical significance. On the way back we can also visit Kyichu Lhakhang, the oldest temple in the country
In the evening we can explore Paro town and witness the activities at the archery ground where there is always an archery match going on.
Night halt at Hotel Pema Cholling in Paro.
DAY 26: Departure from Paro.