Guided Snowman Trek

The journey to Bhutan begins with one of the most spectacular flights in the world, soaring alongside the mighty Himalayas. During the flight, travelers are treated to breathtaking aerial views of snow-covered peaks including Mt. Everest, Mt. Kanchenjunga, Mt. Jomolhari, and Mt. Jichu Drakey. As the aircraft gently descends into the enchanting Paro valley, the landscape unfolds into a picture-perfect scene of lush green hills, traditional Bhutanese houses, the sparkling Pa Chhu River, and the magnificent Paro Dzong standing proudly above the valley.

To experience the spiritual essence of Bhutan, guests may visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest and most sacred Buddhist temples in the country, believed to have been built in the 7th century. The day concludes with a warm welcome dinner and an introductory trip briefing, offering the perfect beginning to an unforgettable Himalayan adventure.

Today’s journey features one of Bhutan’s most iconic and spiritually significant landmarks, the breathtaking Tiger’s Nest Monastery, also known as Taktshang Monastery. Perched dramatically on a cliffside overlooking the Paro Valley, this sacred monastery offers not only spectacular views but also an excellent opportunity for acclimatization before the trekking adventure begins. Built in 1692, the monastery is deeply connected to Bhutanese history and spirituality, and your guide will share fascinating stories and legends associated with this revered site.

After the excursion, continue the scenic drive to Thimphu, the charming capital city of Bhutan, where the night surrounded by a blend of traditional culture and modern Bhutanese life.

After breakfast, begin a scenic drive toward Dochula Pass at an altitude of 3,140 meters, one of the most picturesque mountain passes in Bhutan. Surrounded by fluttering prayer flags and panoramic Himalayan vistas, the pass offers breathtaking views of the snow-covered peaks that form Bhutan’s northern frontier. A major highlight here is the magnificent Druk Wangyal Chortens, a collection of 108 beautifully built stupas constructed in honor of Bhutan’s Fourth King.

Continuing the journey toward Bumthang, enjoy several scenic stops along the way, including visits to monasteries, traditional settlements, and beautiful mountain landscapes that showcase the cultural and natural beauty of Bhutan. Arrive in Bumthang by evening and relax with an overnight stay surrounded by the peaceful Himalayan valley atmosphere.

Early in the morning, drive for approximately two and a half hours to Duer Village, the starting point of the Snowman Trek. This marks the beginning of an incredible Himalayan adventure and one of the longest trekking days of the journey. The trail gradually ascends through beautiful alpine landscapes toward Chokchomey before descending briefly and continuing alongside the flowing river toward the campsite. Covering approximately 17–18 kilometers, the route offers stunning mountain scenery, peaceful valleys, and the first true experience of Bhutan’s remote wilderness trekking.

Follow the river flowing from Tolela and Tshochemchem through increasingly remote terrain. After several hours, cross a bridge marking the junction between routes to Gangkar Puensum and the Snowman Trek. Continue through yak pasture lands with magnificent mountain vistas, reaching your riverside camp after 9-10 hours of trekking at 3,850 meters elevation.

Today’s trek begins with a long and gradual ascent from Tshochenchen toward the scenic Julela Pass, offering magnificent views of the surrounding Himalayan mountains and rugged alpine landscapes throughout the journey. The trail passes through remote high-altitude terrain dotted with beautiful glacial lakes, creating some of the most picturesque scenery along the trek.

After crossing the pass, the route descends steadily toward the relaxing Duer Hot Spring campsite. Some sections of the trail may be muddy and slippery, especially near water crossings, adding a sense of adventure to the day’s hike. Along the way, trekkers also get glimpses of the trail leading toward the next stages of the Snowman Trek.

Optional: Guests may choose to rest and soak in the natural hot springs to relax and rejuvenate after the day’s trek.

After breakfast, begin the trek by following the Dust River through remote alpine landscapes until crossing a bridge further along the trail. Continue trekking along the left bank of the river for nearly one to two hours before starting a challenging uphill ascent toward Nephla Pass at an altitude of approximately 4,600 meters. The climb takes around four to five hours and rewards trekkers with stunning high-altitude mountain scenery and panoramic Himalayan views.

After crossing the pass, descend gradually for a short distance to reach the campsite at Warathang situated at an altitude of about 4,350 meters, surrounded by dramatic mountain landscapes and peaceful wilderness.

After breakfast, begin the day’s trek through rugged Himalayan terrain featuring several ascents and descents along remote mountain trails. The route crosses Warthang La at approximately 4,500 meters and continues toward the higher Sakela Pass at around 4,800 meters, offering spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and alpine valleys.

After crossing Sakela, descend toward vast yak grazing pastures before continuing over Phodrang La. Certain sections near the pass and downhill trail can be rough and unclear, making it important to closely follow the trekking guide and support staff throughout the route. Arrive at the campsite in Menchugang for an overnight stay amidst the peaceful high-altitude wilderness.

Continue following the Sha Chhu river with gentle gradual ascents to Zanam. Though the climbing is moderate, you'll experience significant elevation gain throughout the relatively easy 6-7 hour day. The trail becomes increasingly remote as you push deeper into the high Himalayas, camping at 4,800 meters surrounded by stark mountain beauty.

Today marks one of the most spectacular highlights of the Snowman Trek as the journey begins with a steady ascent toward Gophu La Pass, the highest pass on the trek at an elevation of approximately 5,500 meters. The challenging climb is rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks, vast alpine landscapes, and dramatic mountain scenery.

After crossing the pass, descend gradually toward Tshorim while walking alongside pristine high-altitude lakes that beautifully reflect the surrounding mountains. The trail offers some of the most stunning views of the entire expedition, creating an unforgettable trekking experience. Overnight camping takes place at Tshorim or Tshorim Woma at an altitude of around 5,000–5,200 meters.

Today’s trek is comparatively easier as the route involves minimal ascent, though the trail passes through loose stones and gravel paths that require careful footing throughout the journey. The landscape gradually opens into the remote Lunana region, offering stunning views of vast valleys, rugged mountains, and scattered high-altitude settlements along the route.

This day also marks the first arrival into the main Lunana settlements, where trekkers can experience a glimpse of local Himalayan life after several days in remote wilderness. Limited mobile network connectivity and small local facilities may also be available here. Overnight camping takes place at Thanza surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery.

Today is reserved as a well-deserved rest and acclimatization day in Thanza. Guests can spend the day exploring the nearby glacial lakes, surrounding mountains, and the breathtaking alpine landscapes of the remote Lunana region. The peaceful environment and spectacular Himalayan scenery provide the perfect opportunity to relax, recover, and prepare for the remaining stages of the Snowman Trek.

The trek continues along the riverbank, descending gradually through the beautiful landscapes of the remote Lunana region toward Chozo Village. Following the flowing river downstream, the trail passes through peaceful alpine scenery and traditional Himalayan settlements before reaching the campsite at Ledhi.

Ledhi is home to one of the largest schools in the Lunana region, where a small number of local children from nearby villages come to study. The settlement offers a unique glimpse into the simple and remote mountain lifestyle of Bhutan’s highland communities.

Journey through beautiful juniper and fir forests that gradually transition into rhododendron woodlands. Climb steadily to Keche La Pass at 4,480 meters, where panoramic mountain vistas reward your efforts. After savoring the views, descend through pristine forest to riverside camp at Woche, situated at 3,780 meters after 6-7 hours of varied terrain.

Descend through magnificent coniferous forests following the upper ridges of the Phochhu river. Once reaching the riverbank, continue gradually alongside the Tarina river through changing landscapes. The moderate 5-6 hour trek brings you to camp at 4,200 meters, moving through some of the trek's most beautiful forested sections.

After breakfast, the trail follows the beautiful Tarina River through remote alpine landscapes before reaching the base of the mountain where a demanding uphill climb begins. The route steadily ascends for several hours toward Karchung La at an altitude of approximately 5,200 meters, offering breathtaking high-altitude scenery throughout the journey.

Upon reaching the summit of the pass, trekkers are rewarded with spectacular panoramic views of Tari Gang rising majestically at around 7,300 meters. Karchung La is also geographically significant as it marks the division of Bhutan’s two major river systems. The front side of the pass forms the origin of the Mo Chhu River flowing toward Punakha, while the opposite side marks the beginning of the Pho Chhu River. After crossing the pass, descend carefully along rugged mountain trails toward the campsite at Narithang at an altitude of approximately 4,900 meters.

A comparatively easier but stunningly beautiful day crosses several hills with magnificent valley and mountain views. Ascend to Tshomola pass at 4,780 meters, absorbing the dramatic Himalayan landscape from multiple perspectives. After crossing the pass, descend to Rodhophu camp at 4,130 meters, completing another memorable 6-7 hour day in the high mountains.

After descending along the beautiful Rodhophu River for several hours, the trail gradually reconnects with the road section leading toward the remote highland settlements. A short walk along the road brings trekkers to an army checkpoint, after which the route crosses the scenic Masang Gang River before continuing through gentle mountain terrain and a final uphill climb toward Laya. This marks a return to civilization after days spent trekking through the isolated wilderness of the Lunana region.

Laya is one of the largest and most culturally unique villages in the Gasa District region, home to several thousand inhabitants. The village is renowned for its traditional lifestyle, distinct Layap culture, and breathtaking Himalayan surroundings.

Spend the day exploring the beautiful highland village of Laya, surrounded by dramatic Himalayan landscapes and traditional Bhutanese mountain life. Stroll through the picturesque village, interact with the warm and welcoming Layap community, and experience their unique culture, traditional homes, and distinctive attire adorned with beautifully decorated bamboo hats and silver ornaments.

Early in the morning, descend from Laya and walk for approximately two and a half hours until reaching the highway where the vehicle transfer awaits. Continue with a scenic drive through the mountainous landscapes of Gasa and onward toward Punakha, passing through beautiful valleys, rivers, and traditional Bhutanese countryside along the journey.

After lunch, continue the drive toward Paro. In the evening, unwind and rejuvenate with a traditional Bhutanese hot stone bath, a perfect way to relax and reward yourself after completing the demanding Snowman Trek adventure. Due to the long travel duration, an early start is recommended for the day.

Transfer to Paro airport for your onward journey. If your flight departs in the afternoon, enjoy additional sightseeing around Paro valley, savoring final moments in this magical kingdom before departing with unforgettable memories of your Snowman Trek adventure.