Accommodation

Check-in Time:

10:20

Check-out Time:

11:36

Accommodation will be in government-approved 3-stars and above and campsites. They will also provide all imported tents and camping equipment for camping in the Snowman Trek.

Unlike some popular treks in other parts of the world, the Snowman Trek does not have teahouses or lodges along the route. The trek is remote and passes through isolated regions with limited infrastructure. Trekkers are required to camp and carry their own camping equipment and supplies.

At the hotel, the single room supplement would cost an additional 40 USD per room per night.

Thimphu

Hotel Migmar
Forest Boutique
Nordenma

Paro

Resort Thim Dorji
Golden Paddy Field

Punakha

Zhinghkham Resort
Hotel Lobesa

Program

The trek is the longest hiking trail in Bhutan that extends from Laya to the high Bhutanese Himalayas, covering the northern part of the Kingdom. It was created by the yak herders of the country. It is one of the hardest trekking trails due to hard weather, duration, and altitude in the world and most trekkers do not complete the route.

The route begins from Lunana to higher up in Gangkar Puensum and ends in Trongsa and from there to Bumthang District, taking through the rough paths of the Himalayas and taking you as high as 5000 meters above sea level.

It takes you through remote villages, lakes, and eleven mountain passes and provides you with picturesque views of some of the highest mountains of the Kingdom like Jomolhari, Jichu Drake, Gangkar Puensum, Masangang, Tiger Mountain, etc. It was also reported that the snow leopards can be found on the way, although there has been no report of danger.

The Snowman Trek is an extended and demanding trek that traverses the high altitudes of the Bhutanese Himalayas, reaching elevations of over 5,000 meters (16,400 feet). It typically takes around 25-30 days to complete, covering a distance of approximately 200 miles (330 kilometers).

The trek starts and ends in Paro, crossing through some of the most remote and pristine landscapes in the country.

Difficulty

People know the Snowman Trek for its difficulty due to its high altitude, challenging terrain, and unpredictable weather conditions. Trekkers need to be physically fit, experienced in high-altitude trekking, and prepared for long and strenuous days of walking.

The trail involves steep ascents and descents, crossing several mountain passes, and camping in remote areas without access to modern facilities.

Altitude and acclimatization

Due to the high altitude, acclimatization is crucial during the Snowman Trek. Trekkers usually spend a few days in Paro and Thimphu to acclimatize before starting of any trekking tour in Bhutan.

Additionally, the trek is designed to gradually gain altitude, allowing trekkers to adapt to the thinning air. It’s essential to follow a slow and steady pace, drink plenty of water, and listen to your body to prevent altitude sickness.

Best time to trek the Snowman Trek

The best time to trek Snowman is not spring season as many Bhutan tour operator recommends. Since spring follows the peak winter season in Bhutan, many passes during the Snowman Trek remain closed and inaccessible. Heavy snow still covers the highest passes like Gangla Karchung (5100 meters). Little rain on the plain with heavy snowfall in the mountains.

The pass will only be accessible by early June when the monsoon rain begins. Again this will have a bad experience for trekkers. Therefore the best season for Trek Snowman is Fall or Autumn Season starting from September to December. The weather is safe and hardly any snow on the mountains.

Who can trek the Snowman?

In order to successfully complete the Snowman trek, you must be incredibly physically fit; most people spend at least one-year training to climb the mountain. You should also be comfortable on AD-rated climbs with previous experience at high altitudes.

There is no age limit for trekking the Snowman, as long as you are healthy and fit, and give consent. People as young as seven and as old as 70 have successfully completed the trek. The Snowman Trek is known for its high level of difficulty and is suitable for experienced trekkers with excellent physical fitness.

The trek involves long daily hikes, steep ascents and descents, crossing high mountain passes, and enduring varying weather conditions. Trekkers should be prepared for high altitudes, with several passes reaching over 16,000 feet (4,877 meters).

It is highly recommended to engage in prior physical training and be well-prepared for the challenges of the trek.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival at Paro

The start of Snowman Trek in Bhutan arrival at Paro International Airport. Your landing at Paro international airport is one of the most amazing experiences.

Flights swinging between two mountains following the Paro river towards the small strip of Paro International airport are mesmerizing. Upon landing, many prefer to take picture outside instead of rushing for the immigration desk. This is the beauty of Bhutan. Your guide will be waiting for you to receive you.

Day 2: Paro City Tour

You need time for acclimatization before you start the Bhutan Snowman Trek. Today, your guide will take you to Drugyel Dzong (victory Dzong), one of the most iconic structures at Paro. On a clear day, you can view the beautiful snowcapped Jumolhari Mountain.

Then visit 8th-century Kyichu Lhakhang followed by Paro Dzong built in 1646 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyel. In the evening leisure time at small Paro town, the guide shall brief you about the start of the trek the next day.

Day 3: Trek begins from Paro to Shana (17 kilometers / 11 miles)

Distance: 17 kilometers / 11 miles
Walking time: 5 to 6 hours
Max altitude: 2820 meters
Ascent: 360 meters
Descent: 80 meters
Camping altitude: 2820 meters

Today, you start one of the longest and most challenging treks in Bhutan. Before you start your journey, they pray that your journey ends well. The trek starts from drugyel Dzong following the Paro river. You camp at Shana at an altitude of 2820 meters. You have covered 14 kilometers and the trekking hour is 5 to 6 hours.

Day 4: Shana to Thangthangka (21 kilometers / 13 miles)

Distance: 21 kilometers / 13 miles
Walking time: 8 hours
Ascent: 770 meters
Descent: 10 meters
Camping Altitude: 3610 meters

Your 4th day trekking from Shana Thangthangka is amazing. The trekking route follows the Paro river through beautiful forest with few isolated nomadic huts. The route reaches a junction where another path leads to tremo La to Tibet. Camp here at junction in a meadow with stone shelter. Camp at 3610 meters and 8 hours walk covering 21 kilometers.

Day 5: Thangthangka to Jangothang (15 kilometers / 9 miles)

Distance: 15 kilometers / 9 miles
Walking time: 6 hours
Max altitude: 4115 meters
Ascent: 480 meters
Descent: 1090 meters
Camping altitude: 4115 meters

The route that you take today is little different. After crossing the army post and showing the army permit, you shall gradually climb into beautiful valley passing Tegethang the winter home of Yak herders.

You can see many yaks today before arriving at the base of beautiful Jumolhari Mountain. You can also see the ruins of old fortress used to guard Bhutan against the Tibetan invasion.

You will camp at the base of Jumolhari Mountain at an altitude of 4115 meters. You have covered 15 kilometers and takes about 5 to 6 hours leisure trek.

Day 6: Jangothang acclimatization

Today, you shall take a good rest at the campsite and enjoy the 360-degree view of the Jumolhari Mountain. You can hike around the campsite. There are beautiful day hikes around this camp if you are still energetic.

One of the highlights of the day hike at Jangothang is Tshophu Lake which is 1 and a half hour walk. Here, you get a good supply of brown trout and if you are a fisherman, then don’t forget to bring your fishing equipment. This is optional.

Day 7: Jangothang to Lingshi

Today is a trek from Jangothang to Lingshi.

Day 8: Lingshi to Chebisa (10 kilometers / 6 miles)

Distance: 10 kilometers / 6 miles
Walking time: 6 hours
Ascent: 280 meters
Descent: 400 meters
Camping altitude: 3850 meters

Today is a very easy and pleasant walk through villages and Yak Herder’s camp. Your lunch will be served at Goyuna village which is very scenic. After lunch, you reach Chebisa village and people here are very friendly. You camp here by the side of the stream at an altitude of 3850 meters. Walking time is 5-6 hours.

Day 9: Chebisa to Shomuthang (17 kilometers / 11 miles)

Distance: 17 kilometers / 11 miles
Walking time: 8 hours
Max altitude: 4500 meters
Ascent: 890 meters
Descent: 540 meters
Camping altitude: 4160 meters

You day starts with steep climb up towards Gubula Pass at an altitude of 4500 meters, taking 4 hours hard walk. After reaching the top, descend the trail through beautiful rhododendrons forest. Continue to follow the stream until you reach at the campsite. You may come across Yak Herders and wild blue sheep of the Himalayas. Walking time is 7 to 8 hours, with camping at 4160 meters.

Day 10: Shomuthang to Robluthang (18 kilometers / 11 miles)

Distance: 18 kilometers / 11 miles
Walking time: 9 hours
Max altitude: 4600 meters
Ascent: 700 meters
Descent: 760 meters
Camping altitude: 4400 meters

Day 10 of the Snowman Trek to Bhutan starts with a steep climb to Jarila Pass at an altitude of 4600 meters. Descend to Tsharijathang, one of the most beautiful and broad valleys. This valley is also the summer residence of Wild Himalayan Takin.

Lunch shall be served here and further walk towards the campsite. Cross stream and towards the left the trail ascends till you reach the Robluthang Campsite at an altitude of 4400 meters. Walking time is 8 to 9 hours.

Day 11: Robluthang to Lemithang (19 kilometers / 12 miles)

Distance: 19 kilometers / 12 miles
Walking time: 6 to 7 hours
Max altitude: 4160 meters
Ascent: 850 meters
Descent: 870 meters
Camping altitude: 4100 meters

Everyday, you will be climbing the pass and today you shall cross Shinje La pass (4900 meters). The view from the pass is amazing. The descend towards Limithang is quite narrow but you will be rewarded with beautiful view of Mt. Gangchey Ta Peak (6794 meters) on the last part of the trek. Arrival campsite is 4100 meters.

Day 12: Lemithang to Laya (10 kilometers / 6 miles)

Distance: 10 kilometers / 6 miles
Walking time: 6 hours
Max altitude: 3800 meters
Ascent: 60 meters
Descent:340 meters
Camping altitude: 3800 meters

Your morning will be welcomed by the majestic view of Mt. Gangchey Ta peak in front of you. Today, you shall be greeted by the nomadic herders of Laya. Laya is the second highest settlement in the country. The campsite is near the local village house. Campsite at 3800 meters. Walking time is 5 to 6 hours.

Day 13: Leisure time at Laya Village

Walking time: Relax day
Max altitude: 3800 meters at Laya
Camping altitude: 3800 meters

Explore the village. The Laya village consists of around 800 people. They have different dresses and the language they speak is different. The government is doing everything to protect the tradition and culture of this small Northern village. They are the tribal people of Bhutan.

Day 14: Laya to Rodophu (14.5 kilometers / 9 miles)

Distance: 14.5 kilometers / 9 miles
Walking time: 8 to 9 hours
Max altitude: 4350 meters
Ascent: 975 meters
Descent: 70 meters
Camping altitude: 4350 meters

Start your journey from Laya. You will come across beautiful girls working in their field and they may wave their hand to say goodbye. Descend to army camp and follow the river towards the left. Continue the climb through rhododendron bushes until the camp. Altitude is 4,350 meters, walking time is 8-9 hours.

Day 15: Rhodophu to Tarina (36 kilometers / 22 miles)

Distance: 36 kilometers / 22 miles
Walking time: 10 to 11 hours
Max altitude: 5080 meters
Ascent: 725 meters
Descent: 1200 meters
Camping altitude: 3980 meters

Today is the longest day trek crossing two pass of Tsimola (4700 meters) and Gangla Karchula Pass (5080 meters). You start as early as 5 in the morning because it’s 10 to 11 hours of trek. The route offers a view of Lunana Village and a close view of Mt. Jumolhari and Mt. Jichu Drake.

The whole range of mountains, including Masagang, Tsendegang, and Teri Gang can be seen. After the pass, there is a very long descent to Tarina valley. Altitude is 3,980 meters, with a walking time of 10-11 hours.

Day 16: Tarina to Woche (17 kilometers / 11 miles)

Distance: 17 kilometers / 11 miles
Walking time: 6 to 7 hours
Max altitude: 3910 meters
Ascent: 270 meters
Descent: 330 meters
Camping altitude: 3800 meters

The trek is easy today as the path follows the river downhill. The lunch point is at 3500 meters and after lunch, climb 300 meters towards the small village of Woche. Camp is at 3800 meters and walking time is 6 to 7 hours.

Day 17: Woche to Lhedi (17 kilometers / 11 miles)

Distance: 17 kilometers / 11 miles
Walking time: 6 to 7 hours
Max altitude: 3700 meters
Ascent: 980 meters
Descent: 1190 meters
Camping altitude: 3650 meters

The day begins through juniper and fir forest and rhododendron bushes. Another climb to Kechila Pass (4480 meters) offers a great view of snowcapped mountains.

After the pass, descend to the river walking through the village with stunning views of Table Mountain and others. Follow the river, one of the main sources of Phochu, till Lhedi village. Altitude of 3,650 meters.

Day 18: Lhedi to Thanza (17 kilometers / 11 miles)

Distance: 17 kilometers / 11 miles
Walking time: 7 to 8 hours
Ascent: 450 meters
Camping altitude: 4000 meters

The trek continues following the river, rising gradually to Choejong village. After lunch, visit the Choejong dzong and continues towards the wide valley. Cross the bridge to reach Thanza camp at 4,000 meters. Walking time is 7 - 8 hours.

Day 19: Thanza to Danji (8 kilometers / 5 miles)

Distance: 8 kilometers / 5 miles
Walking time: 3/4 hours
Ascent: 80 meters
Descent: 240 meters
Camping altitude: 4230 meters

From Thoencha, the trail climbs up to a large boulder from where you will have excellent views of Thanza, Toencha, and Choso village and the surrounding mountains.

After a few hours of relatively flat and easy walking, you will reach a yak meadow with some yak herders’ huts. An excellent campsite with a great chance to spot some blue sheep on the hills above.

A trail junction near the campsite will give you the choice between the route up to Gangkhar Puensum base camp, and further on to Bumthang or to Sephu (Trongsa).

Day 20: Danji to Tshochena (12 kilometers / 7 miles)

Distance: 12 kilometers / 7 miles
Walking time: 6 hours
Max altitude: 4970 meters
Ascent: 980 meters
Descent: 240 meters
Camping altitude: 4925 meters

Having chosen the route to Sephu, the trek crosses the creek and after a long climb, you will reach Jaze La (5,150 meters) with spectacular panoramic mountain views. The path then descends between snow covered peaks and a couple of small lakes to the campsite near the shore of Tshochena lake.

Day 21: Tshochena to Jichudramo (12 kilometers / 7 miles)

Distance: 12 kilometers / 7 miles
Walking time: 6 hours
Max altitude: 4970 meters
Ascent: 980 meters
Descent: 240 meters

You follow the bank of the blue green lake before arriving at a ridge at 5,100 meters, where there is another spectacular view in all directions. After going up and down over small hills to reach a glacial lake, the route descends first before climbing again up the next pass, the Loju La (5,140 meters).

Finally after crossing a small saddle (5,100 meters), you will enter a wide glacial valley from where the trail descends gradually to the campsite at Jichu Dramo.

Day 22: Jichudramo to Chukarpo (12 kilometers / 7 miles)

Distance: 12 kilometers / 7 miles
Walking time: 6 hours
Max altitude: 4970 meters
Ascent: 980 meters
Descent: 240 meters

Right after leaving the camp, you will climb through a moraine to Rinchen Zoe La (5,320 meters). Spectacular mountain scenery with Gangkhar Puensum amongst the impressive mountains is the reward for climbing the highest pass on this trek route.

Rinchen Zoe Peak (5,650) towers above the pass the west. Descending from the pass, the route leads into a wide valley with several lakes and goes steeply down along a moraine to the Thamphe Chhu. Here, the vegetation begins to thicken again and you will see the first real trees since Lhedi. After a couple of hours, you reach the campsite at Chukarpo.

Day 23: Chukarpo to Thampe Chho (12 kilometers / 7 miles)

Distance: 12 kilometers / 7 miles
Walking time: 6 hours
Max altitude: 4970 meters
Ascent: 980 meters
Descent: 240 meters

The descent continues along the river till you reach the yak herder huts at Gala Pang Chhu (4010 meters). From here, the trail climbs steeply towards Thampe Tsho, a beautiful clear turquoise lake, with the campsite next to it.

Day 24: Thampe Cho to Maurothang (12 kilometers / 7 miles)

Distance: 12 kilometers / 7 miles
Walking time: 6 hours
Max altitude: 4970 meters
Ascent: 980 meters
Descent: 240 meters
Camping altitude: 4900 meters

From the lake, you climb steeply to the last pass on your trek, the Thampe La (4,600 meters) with a good chance to spot some blue sheep on the way. Then the path descends to the sacred lake Om Thso.

Passing a waterfall, you will reach another, smaller lake 100 meters below to descend steeply to the Nikka Chhu. The path finally leads through mixed forest to large clearing on the banks of the river with a few yak herder huts, Maurothang.

Day 25: Maurothang to Sephu (12 kilometers / 7 miles)

Distance: 12 kilometers / 7 miles
Walking time: 6 hours
Max altitude: 4970 meters
Ascent: 980 meters
Descent: 240 meters

On the last day of this extraordinary trek, your porters will have to change from yaks to horses as the yaks will not be willing to go further down. The path follows the Nikka Chhu to reach a large grassy area overlooking the road and the village of Sephu.

You finally reach the road at the Nikka Chhu bridge at Sephu where you will find several stores (mainly selling bamboo products) and small restaurants

Day 26: Sephu to roadpoint and to Thimphu

Their team will receive you from road point and drive you to Thimphu. Relax at a hotel.

Day 27: Thimphu to Paro and see off

After early morning, they will drop you to the airport and see off.

Location

The Snowman Trek in Bhutan is located in Bhutan in Southeast Asia. It is one of the hardest treks that takes 25 days to complete. The tour starts and ends in Paro.

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Food

The package includes all breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

The following meals are included:

Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner

The following dietary requirement(s) are served and/or catered for:

Regular (typically includes meat and fish)

If you have special dietary requirements it's a good idea to communicate it to the organiser when making a reservation

What's included

Approximately 7 to 8 hours hiking / walking daily
Mess tent, kitchen tent, and toilet tent
Ponies to carry supplies
Guide, sleeping tent
Service of cook and helper
All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
26 nights accommodation in 3-star hotel and campsites
All transportation within the country
Roundtrip airport transfers
Royalty and government taxes
Entrance fees for museums and monuments only

What's not included

Insurance premiums
Payments for service provided on a personal basis
Cost for any services not mentioned in the "What's Included"
Personal expense in items such as laundry, soft drinks, camera charges, bottle water, incidentals, portage, bellboy charges tips, or any other services
Cost incurred due to mishaps, strikes, political unrest etc.

How to get there

Recommended Airports

PBH

Paro International Airport

22 km

Transfer included

Airport: Paro International Airport Airport transfer included: Paro International Airport No additional charges. You can request this in the next step.

Cancellation Policy

A reservation requires a deposit of 14% of the total price.
The deposit is non-refundable, if the booking is cancelled.
The rest of the payment should be paid 30 days before arrival.

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