Bhutan Chomolhari Base Camp Trek

Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our Bhutanese guide. After a short transfer to your hotel, take time to rest or explore Paro town. 

Ta Dzong visit immediately followed by a short walk down the trail to visit Rinpung Dzong (Paro Dzong), meaning (“fortress of the heap of jewels”), which has a long and fascinating history. Along the wooden galleries lining the inner courtyard are fine wall paintings illustrating Buddhist lore such as four friends, the old man of long life, the wheel of life, scenes from the life of Milarepa, Mount. Sumeru and other cosmic Mandala.

Evening, enjoy the herbal traditional hot stone bath at farm house (additional cost). The traditional Bhutanese hot stone bath, known as Dotsho in local language has been practiced in Bhutan for centuries as a medicinal soak. Many Bhutanese believe that the bath helps in curing joint pains, helps in relaxing and other medical problems. River stones are heated and then put in water to heat the water; sometime medicinal herbs are added to the water before it is ready for the soak. Overnight at the hotel in Paro.

After breakfast excursion to Taktshang Monastery or Tiger’s Nest (approx. 5 hours walk): It is one of the most famous of Bhutan’s monasteries, perched on the side of a cliff 900m above the Paro valley floor. It is said that Guru Rinpoche arrived here on the back of a tigress and meditated at this monastery and hence it is called ‘Tiger’s Nest’. This site has been recognised as a most sacred place and visited by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1646 and now visited by all Bhutanese at least once in their lifetime. On 19 April, 1998, a fire severely damaged the main structure of building but now this Bhutanese jewel has been restored to its original splendour.

After lunch, proceed to visit Ta Dzong, originally built as Watchtower, which now houses National Museum. The extensive collection includes antique Thangkha paintings, textiles, weapons &armour, household objects and a rich assortment of natural and historic artifacts. Overnight at hotel in Paro.

After breakfast, we drive to the ruined fortress of Drukgyel Dzong and to Shana, the starting point of our trek. From here, we follow the Paro River upstream through traditional Bhutanese villages and farmland. We pass the military checkpoint at Shana and continue trekking through beautiful pine forests to reach Thongo Zampa. Overnight in tents.

The trail continues through thick forests of oak, rhododendron, and fir. As we gain altitude, the forest thins out, and we start to see glimpses of the snow-capped peaks. If the weather is clear, you'll get your first distant view of Mt. Chomolhari (7320 m). Camp is set up in a meadow near the river.

Today’s trail follows the river valley and passes the army post at Takethang. You’ll see herds of yaks and yak-herders’ camps along the way. Soon, the majestic Mt. Chomolhari appears dramatically in front of you. We set up camp at Jangothang, an open alpine meadow right below the mountain. This is one of the most spectacular campsites in Bhutan.

This is a well-deserved rest and acclimatization day. Several options are available for day hikes:

• A hike to Tsophu Lake,

• A climb up to the ridge offering panoramic views of Chomolhari and Jichu Drakye,

• Or just a relaxed exploration of the valley and yak herder settlements.
  Overnight at the same campsite.

We begin our ascent to Nyile La Pass early in the morning. The climb is gradual but steady. From the top, enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding peaks and remote valleys. The descent to Lingshi is long and scenic, with views of Lingshi Dzong overlooking the entire valley.

Today is the highest point of the trek. We cross Yale La, a demanding but rewarding high pass with panoramic mountain views. After the pass, we descend through alpine meadows and rhododendron forests to reach the yak pastures near Shodu, a picturesque campsite along a stream.

The trail follows the Thimphu River, descending gradually through lush forests of fir, birch, and rhododendron. We pass beautiful waterfalls, small stone huts, and perhaps spot blue sheep along the cliffs. We camp near the ruins of Barshong Dzong.

Our last trekking day continues through dense forests and descends to Dolam Kencho, where our vehicle will be waiting. After bidding farewell to our trekking crew, we drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s charming capital. Enjoy a hot shower, warm bed, and a celebratory dinner in town. Overnight at hotel. 

Today after breakfast we visit the places in Thimpu: 

Buddha Point (Kuensel Phodrang). You can pay your obeisance and offer prayers to the Buddha, the largest statue in the country and then walk around. The area also provides excellent view of the Thimphu valley from the west.

Memorial Chorten continuously circumambulated by people, murmuring mantras and spinning their prayer wheels. Construction of this landmark was the idea of Bhutan’s third king, His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuk (“the father of modern Bhutan”) who has wished to erect monument to world peace and prosperity. Completed in 1974 after his untimely death, it serves both as a memorial to the Late King and as a monument to peace.

Trashichhoedzong, “fortress of the glorious religion”. This is the center of government and religion, site of monarch’s throne room and seat of Je Khenpo or Chief Abbot. Built in 1641 by the political and religious unifier of Bhutan, Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, it was reconstructed in 1960s in traditional Bhutanese manner, without nails or architectural plans.

After sightseeing, drive to Paro whcih takes about 2 hours. Stay overnight at hotel in Paro. 

After early breakfast at the hotel, drive to the airport for flight to your onward destination. Our representative will help you with exit formalities and then bid you farewell.