Our Chomolhari Trek is a circuit of high passes around the 7,315m high Chomolhari Peak, which takes in sweeping views of the western peaks along the spine of the Bhutanese Himalaya.
In this remote region you’ll walk along pristine trails and alongside ancient fortresses, weaving through the complex histories of this ancient 7th century Buddhist Kingdom and the Tibetan high trade routes crossing in and out. Yaks, Blue Sheep, the mysterious Takin and even Snow Leopards roam the landscape.
This trek is scheduled around the fascinating Chomolhari Mountain Festival. The initial part of the trip is designed to provide careful acclimatisation (following the maxim of ‘climb high, sleep low’, before embarking on the main trek.
Experience the magic of Bhutan on this carefully designed trek and cultural trip.
Ensure you have time to acclimatise so that you can enjoy the highlight of attending the Chomolhari Mountain Festival.
Take in many of Bhutan’s sights including the Tiger’s Nest Monastery and Thimpu’s 65m high Golden Buddha.
Teams are led by qualified and professional Bhutanese guides and porters.
Optional Agra Fort and Taj Mahal extension.
Introduction
This trip offers lots of interest and variety in a country well beyond the normal tourist destinations. Our Chomolhari Trek is a circuit of high passes around the 7,315m high Chomolhari Peak, which takes in sweeping views of the western peaks along the spine of the Bhutanese Himalaya. In this remote region you’ll walk along pristine trails and alongside ancient fortresses, weaving through the complex histories of this ancient 7th century Buddhist Kingdom and the Tibetan high trade routes crossing in and out. Yaks, Blue Sheep, the mysterious Takin and even Snow Leopards roam the landscape.
This trek is scheduled around the fascinating Chomolhari Mountain Festival.
Our Chomolhari trek itinerary was written by Jagged Globe Head of Operations, Ed Chard’s following his first-hand experience of the trip. Slow acclimatisation in the early stages of the trip is built in, with day trips from Paro to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery and Chele La, before embarking on the main trek.
At a Glance
Group Size: 5 – 12 people
Duration:18 days
Difficulty Level:4
Maximum altitude:4,509m
Accommodation & Meals
15 Breakfasts
13 Lunches
14 Dinners
2 Hotel Nights
5 Local Hotel Nights
8 Tented Nights
Is this trip for you?
Whilst none of the walking is on particularly difficult trails, due to the remoteness of this trek and the problems associated with evacuation, we require that you have previous trekking experience at altitudes in excess of 4,500m. You can expect to walk for 7 – 8 hours in a day, with a longer day to cross the Yale La Pass.
Still unsure if this trip is for you? Contact our team.
Jagged Globe supports the British Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) “Know Before You Go” campaign. We recommend that you read the FDCO Travel Advice for Bhutan on the FCDO Website.
With Flight Pricing
Our “With Flight” price includes an Economy class return airfare from the UK, which we book on your behalf when you book your trek. The earlier you book, the less expensive the airfare and the “With Flight” price tends to be.
What is included in the Trip
Economy class return airfares from the UK (unless Land Only).
UK airline taxes.
Bhutan Visa fees.
One return flight between Delhi and Paro by scheduled aircraft.
Two return transfers between the airport and the hotel (one on arrival and departure of your international flight and one for departure and arrival of your Paro flight).
2 nights’ bed and breakfast accommodation in Delhi on a twin-sharing basis.
5 nights’ full-board hotel accommodation in Paro and Thimphu handpicked by us, on a twin-sharing basis.
8 nights’ full-board accommodation in tents whilst on trek, on a twin-sharing basis.
All road transport by private vehicles.
All costs for an English-speaking local guide, cook staff and team horses.
Jagged Globe kitbag or lightweight fleece.
What is not included in the Trip
Indian Visa fees.
Overseas airports taxes not paid in advance through the international airline ticket.
Bar bills and laundry.
Travel insurance.
Lunch and evening meals in Delhi.
Any costs associated with leaving the trek early (for example, evacuation costs or the costs of horses).
Every effort will be made to keep the above itinerary, but as this is adventure travel in a remote mountain region, we cannot guarantee it! Weather conditions, availability of porters and the health of team members can all contribute to changes. Sherpa assistants will try to ensure that the trip runs according to plan, but please be prepared to be flexible if necessary.
Day 1
Fly to Delhi
Depart home country.
Day 2
Arrive Delhi
Those joining on a ‘land only’ basis should arrange their international flight to arrive in Delhi today.
Overnight hotel.
Day 3
Fly to Paro, Bhutan
On arrival in Paro, you’ll be introduced to your Bhutanese host and be transferred to our hotel. Paro is at an altitude of 2,200m.
Overnight hotel in Paro.
Day 4
Drive and climb to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (3,180m)
Today we trek to one of the most famous views in the world. A 2-hour trek takes you to the Buddhist Gompa perched on ledges where the ‘Spiritual Father’ of Bhutan (Guru Rinpoche) landed on a flying tiger on his way from Tibet.
In the afternoon we’ll have time to explore Paro Zong, an ancient fortress near the hotel.
Overnight hotel in Paro (2,200m).
Day 5
Acclimatisation hike to Chelela (3,988m)
The Chele La is the highest road in Bhutan. We will drive to a high point (3,900m) for a short (and slow) walk to a viewpoint to aid our acclimatisation.
The area is awash with prayer flags and gives stunning views across the Haa and Paro valleys.
Overnight hotel in Paro (2,200m).
Ascent: drive 1,700m / walk 100m Descent: 1,800m Distance walking: 3Km Highest point: 3,988m Sleeping altitude: 2,200m Time: 2 hrs.
Day 6
Shana to Thongsampa (3,300m)
Beginning at Shana (2,800m) we’ll meet our horses and camp team to start the high passes circuit, you will trek along the Pachu River crossing and re-crossing over small bridges throughout the day.
Hiking through dense pine and spruce forest, tonight you will stay at an excellent camp site near stone shelters and yak grazing pastures at Thangthangka.
Today you will enjoy a delightful trek, which takes you above the tree line and into a gradually broadening valley. Views of the great Himalayan chain, which separates Bhutan and Tibet, open all around us. You will pass an army check post, beautiful mountain rivers and arrive at the legendary ruins of the Jangothang Zong. The views of the legendary Chomolhari, the crown jewel of Bhutan sit directly above the campsite.
Acclimatisation Day / Trek to the twin Lakes of Tshophu Tsho (4,450m)
Today we gain some height to get our bodies ready for the 2 big passes. A 4-hour round trip takes us up to a stunning valley with great views and mountain flora.
Acclimatisation Day / Chomolhari Mountain Festival
A day to rest, bask in the sun and enjoy the spectacle of the Chomolhari Mountain Festival. Expect Bhutanese Mask dances, traditional music and clowns.
Overnight camp 4,060m.
Day 11
Cross Nyele La Pass to Lingzi (4,100m)
The path continues up valley into a panorama of the three giant peaks of western Bhutan: Chomlhari (7,315m), Jitchu Drake (6,989m) and Tsering Kang (6,789m). The trail begins climbing steadily just out the village and after 4 hours reaches Nyele La at 4,870m. You will have lunch just after the pass and then take the long descent down into Lingzi. The views even on descent are new and stunning as Tsering Kang now dominates.
Today will be the most challenging day of the trek, so the team will start early. You cross the valley now opposite the Lingzi Dzong climbing up the valley to Yale La at 4,930m. This will be the highest point of the trek. The panorama from the summit is a bucket list view – simply breathtaking. This is also the most remote stage of the trek, where you may see Blue Sheep (Tar). It’s a long descent to camp down a steepening valley.
The path now follows the Thimpu Cho river back through Rhododendron, Juniper and Blue Pine forests with plenty of sheer cliff faces and waterfalls above us. You will have to regain 300m to Barshong before descending back to the river to camp. A long day.
It’s another early start to follow the path which descends gradually through thick bamboo and pine forests before regaining 200m to a forest road where you’ll be met by 4X4 transport and driven to Thimphu (1 hour), the capital city. You’ll have the afternoon to relax and enjoy the home comforts of the city.
Overnight hotel.
Day 15
Guided Tour of Thimphu
In the morning we’ll visit the national monuments and drive up to see the 65m high golden Buddha that watches over the city. There is also a chance to help with regeneration of local forests by planting a tree sampling for future visitors.
Overnight hotel.
Day 16
Thimphu to Paro
Sightseeing in Paro.
Overnight hotel.
Day 17
Fly to Delhi
It’s normally an early flight out of Paro, so once you have checked into the hotel there will be time to explore Delhi before a farewell meal.
Overnight hotel.
Day 18
Fly home
The flight back to London will leave Delhi in the morning. You’ll arrive at Heathrow in the afternoon.
For those joining “land-only”, you should book your flight home today as services end.
Economy class return airfares from the UK (unless Land Only).
UK airline taxes.
Bhutan Visa fees.
One return flight between Delhi and Paro by scheduled aircraft.
Two return transfers between the airport and the hotel (one on arrival and departure of your international flight and one for departure and arrival of your Paro flight).
2 nights’ bed and breakfast accommodation in Delhi on a twin-sharing basis.
5 nights’ full-board hotel accommodation in Paro and Thimphu handpicked by us, on a twin-sharing basis.
8 nights’ full-board accommodation in tents whilst on trek, on a twin-sharing basis.
All road transport by private vehicles.
All costs for an English-speaking local guide, cook staff and team horses.
Jagged Globe kitbag or lightweight fleece.
What is not included in the Trip
Indian Visa fees.
Overseas airports taxes not paid in advance through the international airline ticket.
Bar bills and laundry.
Travel insurance.
Lunch and evening meals in Delhi.
Any costs associated with leaving the trek early (for example, evacuation costs or the costs of horses).
Our equipment stocks are limited so please reserve your equipment via your on-line account as soon as you know what you need. Payment for hired equipment needs to reach us at the same time as the final balance of your trip.
Please note that we also require a deposit of between £60 – £180, depending on which items you hire.
Jagged Globe Kit Bag
Participants in our expeditions and treks will receive a free kit bag. If you would prefer it, we can supply a lightweight Jagged Globe fleece instead.
Pre-Trip Weekend
Jagged Globe offers pre-trip weekends for all expeditions and treks. The pre-trip weekend is a key element of the trek or expedition. It provides team members with important information and skills that will enhance their experience of the trip. It is also a chance to meet other team members, should they be attending, as well as giving the opportunity to meet our office team, visit our specialist equipment shop and try on any hire equipment you may need. You can normally attend a pre-trip weekend even if you are not booked onto a trip. It’s a great way of getting more information about an expedition or trek that you’re interested in, or just to ‘check out’ Jagged Globe. Contact us about more information on our pre-trip weekends
Have you been on this trip? If you’d like to contribute a trip report then we’ll post it up on the site.
Reviews
Swipe
3 weeks ago
Kilimanjaro - Lemosho Glades (Private)
Guides, porters and staff at the hotel are excellent. All very attentive, knowledgeable and accommodating. Food on the trek was excellent. Wouldn’t have any hesitation in recommending Jagged Globe Kilimanjaro trek.
Craig Day
2 years ago
Annapurna Circuit and Everest Base Camp
We have traveled twice with Jagged Globe to Nepal to complete the Annapurna Circuit and the Everest Base Camp Trek. Both trips were excellent. Jagged Globe have experienced and knowledgeable guides on the ground and their UK based team are friendly and very helpful. Sadly we had to cancel a trip at short notice this year because of medial reasons and Jagged Globe were supportive and professional. A true test of a business is when things don't go according to plan and Jagged Globe were brilliant when we had to cancel. Professionally planned itineraries, brilliant local guides and great care taken over the welfare of the local teams. I cannot speak highly enough of them and would not hesitate to use them again. These trips are 'once in a lifetime' experiences and I believe travelling with Jagged Globe makes sure you get the maximum possible chance of success and enjoyment. Worth every penny!
John Green
2 years ago
Professional and Fun!
Professional and fun at the same time. I have been with Jagged Globe on a number of trips now ranging from Scottish winter mountaineering, to rock climbing in Wales and mountaineering in the Alps. All of them were great. Dealt with the people in the office a number of times, always very efficient and friendly.The mountain instructors are very experienced, take the mountains super serious but are great fun at the same time. Group numbers are kept small enough to make sure you have the full attention of the instructors, yet still big enough to have a good atmosphere as well. Logistics are well looked after, and the Haute Route which has quite some logistics to it, ran like clockwork. Looking forward to head out into the very big mountains (Himalayas) with them next year.
Samuel Bleyen
Leader Reports
Bhutan – Chomolhari Trek – October 2019
I’ve been Leading expeditions and treks for some time, so I’ve come to expect the unexpected; nothing, however, prepared me for the experiences that I encountered on my recent trip to Bhutan. Just incredible.
It was a small international group that met in Delhi in early October full of enthusiasm and excitement about travelling to the Buddhist Kingdom of Bhutan. I had been there twice before; but all to briefly. This time we had our eyes on one of the finest short treks in the Himalayas, the Chomolhari high passes trek.
Flying into Paro airport is an experience in itself, the expert pilot managed to take an excellent weaving route through the Bhutanese foothills to slot us into the valley and almost do a ‘handbrake turn’ to finish. Of the airport buildings I’ve previously seen, Paro Airport must be one of the most ornate. Festooned with Buddhist iconography and beautifully painted with all airline officials wearing National Dress.
The trek was planned around the festival season in Bhutan so the first day was spent at the Thimpu Tshechu (Thimpu National Festival) where around 2000 locals come to see a mix of traditional mask dances, music and religious processions. It was an incredible mix of colour and noise with the people being very welcoming to western tourists.
Our first day of trekking was to gain 400m of altitude and trek to the world-famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Tak Sang Gompa). The story goes that a famous Guru rode a flying tiger to the hillside and when the tiger got tired, he rested on a series of ledges where the Gompa now sits.
We started the trek proper the following day after meeting our trek team and horses. The route initially follows and river through lush Blue Pine, Rhododendron and Juniper forest before bursting out into Himalayan Tundra some hours later. Campsites are well laid out in Bhutan often with toilet blocks and electricity, so we settled in for our first comfortable night under nylon.
The trip was designed to coincide with the Chomolhari Mountain Festival, held in Dangojang every year. As we trekked through the village the following day, we saw small groups of dancers and musicians making final preparations for the festival. Various buildings were being given a lick of paint and prayer flags were being strung from most trees around the valley. We camped just out of the village in readiness for a front row view the following day.
As we arrived for the festival there were welcome speeches going on from village elders and local government ministers. Soon massive symbols and drums were beating out the time for mask dancers and village clowns to perform. All the local villages had their own particular dance or performance interspersed with the village clowns doing a turn. Cultural pieces seemed as important as horse racing, tug of war (tourists included) best turned out Yak and musical chairs. The day was a real blast of colour, noise, spirituality and belly laughs!
At some point in a trekking expedition you need to do some trekking so after a short day of acclimatising we started our journey over the high passes toward Tibet. The morning started cold and shady as we ascended some steep tracks to a plateau. Apart from our horses, some way behind us, we were the only people around; we stopped after an hour or so to change layers etc. Looking up the hill side my eye was caught by a fast-moving Marmot, a usually slow-moving lump of fur. Following it at some speed was, I thought, another Marmot – I was wrong. As the chasing beast emerged from behind a rock, I could see the unmistakable markings and body length of a Snow Leopard. An amazing sighting and very rare. It’s fair to say I was quite excited, we all looked up the hill some 150m away as the Leopard continued its short chase, but the Marmot got away. Whether our noisy excitement or the Leopards annoyance at losing its breakfast made it disappear, we’ll never know but ‘Ghost of the Mountains’ is a fitting description for an animal that vanished before our eyes!
We continued our journey over the first high pass and down a spectacular valley surrounded by snow-capped and glaciated mountains. Sitting in the mess tent later that evening, I attempted to capture the Leopard sighting in pencil, it’s clear I should stick to Guiding was the general theme of the feedback!
The last and highest pass took us back around into a very remote valley. Toward the top we were greeted by a large heard of Tar (Blue Sheep) gently making their way across the hillside. As the main prey of the Snow Leopard, we stood for a while just in case our friend from the previous day was doing the same trek as us!
The pass summit was cold and windy, a rocky but stable path leads to the top. At 4950m it’s not the highest pass on the planet but it must be one of the most spectacular. 7000m tops dominate with sweeping valley’s to blue pine forest below. Wonderful.
After another 2 long days of trekking we were back in civilization. Hotel beds, pizza and beer sealed the trip up in Thimpu.
Bhutan has a ‘Gross National Happiness’ scale; it’s fair to say – we were all in the top range!
Flying out of Paro the following day back to Delhi, I could help looking at my Leopard sketch and smiling. What an amazing trip.
Trips Extensions
Why not enhance your trek by adding an extension, creating even more unforgettable experiences and opportunities to explore?
A day trip to Agra and the Taj Mahal is available. It includes an additional hotel night, a tour guide for the day, all transfers, first class rail travel from Deli to Agra (with breakfast) and return via air-con minibus, lunch in a local hotel and the entrance price for the Taj Mahal. If you would like to do this excursion, please tell us when you book. There may also be an additional cost for changing your return flight.
Travel to Agra and the Taj Mahal. Enjoy the trip with a tour guide for the day, first class rail travel (with breakfast), lunch in a local hotel and a visit to the Taj Mahal. Overnight hotel.
Day 14
Return
Return journey home
Bhutan – Chomolhari Trek
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This trip offers lots of interest and variety in a country well beyond the normal tourist destinations. Our Chomolhari Trek is a circuit of high passes around the 7,315m high Chomolhari Peak, which takes in sweeping views of the western peaks along the spine of the Bhutanese Himalaya.
