The Trek is the most difficult trek in Bhutan and crosses about 11 high passes and takes about 29 days to complete the trek. Trek Highlight:
- Cross highest 11 passes during the Snowman trek in Bhutan.
- Challenge yourself on one of the longest 220 miles trekking in Bhutan.
Overview
The Snowman Trek Over View: TREK THE WILDEST, BREATHTAKING ABSOLUTE OFF THE BEATEN SNOWMAN TREK IN BHUTAN. The Snowman Trek is our most challenging trek in Bhutan and ranks amongst the very finest anywhere in the Himalayas. The ultimate high-level traverse through the Bhutan Himalaya, from Shana, through Laya, to Lunana. The trek lies within the protected areas of Jigme Dorji National Park.
The Snowman 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 5000m above the sea level. It takes you through remote villages, lakes, and eleven mountain passes and provides you the picturesque views of some of the highest mountains of the Kingdom like Jomolhari, Jichu Drake, Gangkar Puensum, and 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
Trip Facts about Snowman Trek in Bhutan
- Trip Name: Snowman Trek.
- Trip Duration: 27 Days
- Max.Altitude: 5230m/17,259ft at Gophula Pass.
- Best Season: April to May and October to November
- Meal: Full board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
- Accommodation: Government approved 3 stars and Above
- Camping Equipment: All imported tents and camping equipment
- Transportation: Private car, van, or bus (Depends on group size)
- Porter/Pony: All Inclusive
- Trip Type: Private Tour & minimum 2 in the Group.
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 in Paro and ends in Bumthang, crossing through some of the most remote and pristine landscapes in the country.
Snowman Trek Difficulty
The Snowman Trek is known 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 the trek. 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.
Permits and Guide for Snowman Trek
The Snowman Trek requires a special trekking permit from the Bhutanese government, and you must travel with a licensed tour operator. The operator will arrange for experienced guides, cooks, and a support team to accompany you throughout the trek. They will also take care of logistics, including food, camping equipment, and yaks for carrying supplies.
Highlight
- Challenge yourself to one of the hardest Trek in the World.
- Visit the tribal village of Laya.
- Camp at the highest Mountains of Bhutan.
- Enjoy watching the wildlife of Bhutan as the trek falls on protected areas.
- Watch wildflowers and blue poppy(national flower of Bhutan).
- Discover the highest mountains and crystal clear lakes of Bhutan.
- Hoist the prayer flag on the highest mountain pass of Bhutan.
- Cross highest 11 passes during the Snowman trek in Bhutan.
- Challenge yourself on one of the longest 220 miles trekking in Bhutan Experience the ancient tradition and culture of Bhutan.
- Explore the largest Lake of Bhutan in Lunana.
Itinerary
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 immigration desk. This is the beauty of Bhutan. Your guide will be waiting for you to receive you.
You need time for acclimatization before you start the Bhutan Snowman Trek. Today our 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. My guide shall brief you about the start of the trek the next day.
Distance: 17Km
Walking time: 5 to 6 Hours
Max Altitude: 2820m
Ascent: 360m
Descent: 80m
Camping Altitude: 2820m
Today we start one of the longest and most challenging treks in Bhutan. Before we start our journey we pray that our journey ends well. The trek starts from drugyel Dzong following the Paro river. We camp at Shana at an altitude of 2820m. We have covered 14km and the trekking hour is 5 to 6 hours.
Distance: 21Km
Walking time: 8 Hours
Max Altitude:
Ascent: 770m
Descent: 10m
Camping Altitude: 3610m
Our 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 3610m and 8 hours walk covering 21KM.
Distance: 15Km
Walking time: 6 Hours
Max Altitude: 4115m
Ascent: 480m
Descent: 1090m
Camping Altitude: 4115m
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. Camp at the base of Jumolhari Mountain at an altitude of 4115m. You have covered 15km and takes about 5 to 6 hours leisure trek.
Today you shall take 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 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 the optional itinerary.
Today you shall take 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 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 the optional itinerary.
Distance: 10Km
Walking time: 6 Hours
Max Altitude:
Ascent: 280m
Descent: 400m
Camping Altitude: 3850M
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. We camp here by the side of the stream at an altitude of 3850m. Walking time is 5-6 hours.
Distance: 17Km
Walking time: 8 Hours
Max Altitude: 4500m
Ascent: 890m
Descent: 540m
Camping Altitude: 4160m
You day starts with steep climb up towards Gubula Pass at an altitude of 4500m 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. Camping at 4160m.
Distance: 18Km
Walking time: 9 Hours
Max Altitude: 4600m
Ascent: 700m
Descent: 760m
Camping Altitude: 4400m
Day 10 of the Snowman Trek to Bhutan starts with a steep climb to Jarila Pass at an altitude of 4600m. 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 4400m. Walking time to 8 to 9 hours.
Distance: 19Km
Walking time: 6 to 7 Hours
Max Altitude: 4160m
Ascent: 850m
Descent: 870m
Camping Altitude: 4100m
Everyday you will be climbing the pass and today you shall cross Shinje La pass(4900m). 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(6794m) on the last part of the trek. Arrival campsite is 4100m.
Distance: 10Km
Walking time: 6 Hours
Max Altitude: 3800m
Ascent: 60m
Descent:340m
Camping Altitude: 3800m
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. Camp site is near by the local village house. Campsite at 3800m. Walking time is 5 to 6 hours.
Walking time: Relax Day
Max Altitude: 3800m at Laya
Camping Altitude: 3800m
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.
Distance: 14.5Km
Walking time: 8 to 9 Hours
Max Altitude: 4350m
Ascent: 975m
Descent: 70m
Camping Altitude: 4350m
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 4,350m. Walking time 8-9 hours.
Distance: 36Km
Walking time: 10 to 11 Hours
Max Altitude: 5080m
Ascent: 725m
Descent: 1200m
Camping Altitude: 3980m
Today is the longest day trek crossing two pass of Tsimola(4700m) and Gangla Karchula Pass(5080m). We 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 3,980m. Walking time 10-11 hours.
Distance: 17Km
Walking time: 6 to 7Km
Max Altitude: 3910
Ascent: 270m
Descent: 330m
Camping Altitude: 3800m
The trek is easy today as the path follows the river downhill. The lunch point is at 3500m and after lunch climb 300m towards the small village of woche. Camp at 3800m and walking time is 6 to 7 hours.
Distance: 17Km
Walking time: 6 to 7 Hours
Max Altitude: 3700m
Ascent: 980m
Descent: 1190m
Camping Altitude: 3650m
The day begins through juniper and fir forest and rhododendron bushes. Another climb to Kechila Pass(4480m) 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 3,650m.
Distance: 17Km
Walking time: 7 to 8 Hours
Max Altitude:
Ascent: 450m
Descent: 0
Camping Altitude: 4000m
The trek continues following the river, rising gradually to Choejong village. After lunch visits the Choejong dzong and continues towards the wide valley. Cross the bridge to reach Thanza camp 4,000m. Walking time 7/8 hours.
Distance: 8Km
Walking time: 3/4 Hours
Max Altitude:
Ascent: 80m
Descent: 240m
Camping Altitude: 4230m
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). Both routes are described in this website.
Distance: 12 Km
Walking time: 6 Hours
Max Altitude: 4970m
Ascent: 980m
Descent: 240m
Camping Altitude: 4925m
Having chosen the route to Sephu, the trek crosses the creek and after a long climb, you will reach Jaze La (5,150m) 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.
Distance: 12 Km
Walking time: 6 Hours
Max Altitude: 4970m
Ascent: 980m
Descent: 240m
You follow the bank of the blue green lake before arriving at a ridge at 5,100m, 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 (5,140m). Finally after crossing a small saddle (5,100m) you will enter a wide glacial valley from where the trail descends gradually to the campsite at Jichu Dramo.
Distance: 12 Km
Walking time: 6 Hours
Max Altitude: 4970m
Ascent: 980m
Descent: 240m
Camping Altitude:
Right after leaving the camp you will climb through a moraine to Rinchen Zoe La (5,320m). 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.
Distance: 12 Km
Walking time: 6 Hours
Max Altitude: 4970m
Ascent: 980m
Descent: 240m
Camping Altitude:
The descent continues along the river till you reach the yak herder huts at Gala Pang Chhu (4010m). From here the trail climbs steeply towards Thampe Tsho, a beautiful clear turquoise lake, with the campsite next to it.
Distance: 12 Km
Walking time: 6 Hours
Max Altitude: 4970m
Ascent: 980m
Descent: 240m
Camping Altitude: 4900m
From the lake you climb steeply to the last pass on your trek, the Thampe La (4,600m) 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 100m 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.
Distance: 12 Km
Walking time: 6 Hours
Max Altitude: 4970m
Ascent: 980m
Descent: 240m
Camping Altitude:
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
Our team will receive you from roadpoint and drive you to Thimphu. Relax at Hotel.
After early morning drop to airport and see off.
Inclusion / Exclusion
Inclusion
- Mess Tent, Kitchen Tent & Toilet Tent
- Ponies to carry supplies
- Guide, Sleeping Tent
- Service of cook & Helper
- All Meals [Breakfast /Lunch/Dinner]
- Accommodation in 3 Star Hotel [Twin Sharing Single Room Supplement Extra US $: 40 per room per night.
- All transportation within the country including airport transfers
- Royalty & Govt. Taxes
- Entrance fees for Museums and Monuments only
Exclusion
- Insurance Premiums
- Payments for service provided on a personal basis
- Cost for any services not mentioned in the "Cost Include head"
- 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
Why BOOK Bhutan Snowman Trek with us?We are local and we know the place.We provide you with highly trained guide to explore remote trekking and mountaineering.We make sure that the guest enjoys the hospitality of our well-trained support team, quality sleeping and dining tent with varieties of freshly cooked meals on all your trekking journey.Our guest should feel safe with our highly trained guide equipped with group medical kits, portable altitude chamber and emergency satellite phone.
Snowman trek can be done only 4 months in a year and that is late April to early June(Spring time) and late September to October(Autumn). This is due to the closure of high altitude passes because of heavy snowfall.
- Duffel Bag
- Day Pack (30-45 L)
- Sleeping Bag (-10 to 20F/-23C to 30C)
- Air Mattress
- Down Jacket
- Trekking Boots
- Running Shoes or Lighter Shoes (optional)
- Crocs (evenings + washing)
- Hiking Sandals (or Crocs – river crossings)
- Trekking Pants (2-3)
- T-Shirts (2-3)
- Long-sleeve Trekking Shirts (2-3)
- Trekking Jacket
- Wind + Waterproof Jacket + Pants
- Fleece or Thermal Top + Bottom (evenings)
- Lightweight Long Underwear (sleeping + layering)
- Socks (4-6)
- Gloves (lighter + heavier for passes)
- Wool Hat
- Baseball Cap or Wide-brimmed Hat
- Camp Towel
- Trekking Poles (optional, recommended)
- Down Booties (optional, recommended)
- Sunglasses (+ extra pair)
- Water Bottles | Nalgenes (2-3)
- Bladder (optional, recommended)
- Toiletries, Sunscreen with SPF, Lip Balm with SPF
- Watch (or alarm)
- Extra Batteries
- Battery Chargers
- Head Lamp
- Yak Trax or Micro Spikes (for treks with icy passes)
- Small Water Filter or Steripen (optional, to carry in daypack)
- Camp Washing Bowl (optional, collapsible for clothes)
- Laundry Detergent or Bio-degradable Clothes Soap
- Hand Sanitizer
- Small Solar Panel (optional, recommended for iPods, iPhones, camera batteries, Kindles)
- Book(s)
- Zip-Lock Plastic Bags (extra protection for electronics, and toiletries)
- Soft Toilet Paper | Tissues (we supply toilet paper but you will want something softer for blowing your nose)
- Baby-Wipes | Wet-Wipes (for personal cleaning)
- Handi-Wipes, J-Cloth, or Chux (optional – quick clean, fast drying)
- Rehydration | Electrolytes
- Snacks!
- Personal Medical Supplies
Mountain Sickness
Acute mountain sickness is caused by reduced air pressure and lower oxygen levels at high altitudes. The faster you climb to a high altitude, the more likely you will get acute mountain sickness. The best way to prevent altitude illness is to ascend gradually.
Acclimatization: It’s remarkable how well we can adapt to altitude if we give our bodies time to do so. Your heart rate and breathing will speed up, and your blood will develop higher-than-normal amounts of red blood cells. The rest of your cells slowly change too, so that they use oxygen more efficiently.
If you give yourself at least two days to reach an 8,000- to 10,000-foot elevation and then limit daily ascents to 1,000 feet, your body will have a better chance to adapt. Note, too, that it’s your sleeping altitude that’s key: You can climb higher in a given day as long as you come back down to a snoozing elevation that’s within this limit.
Everyone adapts at a different rate: You might be able to acclimatize more quickly than the above rule of thumb, or less quickly. Age, gender, race—even your level of fitness—don’t correlate conclusively with faster or slower adaptation rates. Take your time and listen to your body.
Medication for Mountain Sickness
Over-the-counter remedies—ibuprofen, acetaminophen and aspirin—all help relieve the headache associated with AMS and HACE. It’s not uncommon for the headache to persist, though, after these medications are taken. In addition, the headache will usually resolve itself after you’ve descended and/or given your body time to adapt to the higher altitude.
Snowman Trek is the hardest and longest trekking in Bhutan and its important to have insurance. The insurance provides coverage for people who’ll be mountain climbing or trekking. Mountaineers and hikers of all skill levels are at risk of the dangers of climbing, especially those traveling overseas to famous mountaineering destinations like Nepal and Bhutan.
Trekking travel insurance benefits cover injuries incurred from mountain trekking. Many travel insurance policies exclude mountaineering and other adventurous activities from the plan benefits. Because of this, it’s important to select a policy with mountain climbing coverage or one that has a hazardous sports rider.
The insurance should include emergency medical evacuation coverage, surgery, emergency hospital visits, and repatriation benefits, among other policy benefits.
Guide: We select the guide who have lots of experience and have done snowman trek several times. Guides are also trained in basic First aid kids in case of an emergency. They are well equipped with maps and routes of the Snowman trek.
Every member of a trekking group has specific needs that should be met when planning a group trek, and our guide will brief before the trek begins.
Sleeping Tents: We tested the best camping tents from Marmot, The North Face, REI, MSR, and more to help you fully enjoy your time in the great outdoors.
Dining Tents: Dining tents help the guest enjoy the best meals during the long hours of trekking.
Kitchen Tent: High-quality Kitchen tent to help our cook to provide timely meals to our trekkers. The tent is of high quality, and waterproof and the PVC floor skirt keeps out wind and dust.
Rubber Mats: We use cell foam works best for camping mats. It is lightweight and insulating. Closed cell polyethylene foam is a brilliantly lightweight material that offers several benefits for use in the camping and travel market. Its closed cell structure provides a high level of insulation from the ground, as well as a flat and even surface.
Durable: It’s also incredibly robust when it comes to wear and tear for those long treks and rigorous environments. The virtually indestructible material is durable, especially against snagging from thorns, barbed wire, and even crampons.
Hot water Rubber Bags: Sometimes high altitude sleeping bag may not be enough to warm up the body. Keeping these minute details in mind we make sure that individual trekkers are provided with hot water bags for a good night’s sleep.
Toilet Tents with Seats: There is no toilet on the way and our team will be carrying the toilet tent with seats for the trekkers.
Table and Chairs: Table and Chairs for comfortable dining during the trek and for relaxation.
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.
- Strengthens your heart muscle and increases your lung capacity (you’re going to need that in such extremely high altitudes!).
- Running, climbing stairs or high-impact aerobics, three or four times a week will help with this.
- Start this at least 3 months before you begin the trek. all your muscles need to be as strong as you can possibly make them.
- Strong thighs and calves will make those climbs so much easier, and overall muscle strength will ensure that your body is fully in sync when walking with a backpack of about 10kgs.
- Skip the elevator whenever you can.
- Using the stairs will increase your leg strength as well as your lung capacity for high altitude climbing.
- Take long walks, incorporating hills and stairs whenever possible. You’re going to be trekking for extended periods of time every day, and your body needs to get used to long hours of walking or Hiking.
- Once you’re reasonably fit, start walking and exercising with extra weight so that you get used to carrying a pack. Although your heavier luggage will be carried by Yaks or Horses, you will be carrying a daypack.
- Approach the challenge from a more spiritual point-of-view.
- Focus and dig deep within; you’ll have plenty of silent hours to fill as you concentrate on putting one foot in front of the other, although the stunning views will also help pass the time.
- The Himalayas of Bhutan have lots of silent places where you can renew your daily strength through YOGA.
- Trek in hiking boots that are well broken in. Don’t wait until the last minute to purchase your hiking boots.
- Make sure they fit well and are comfortable on your long walks. Building up a few callouses before this trek is a good idea.
The Snowman Trek is approximately 200 miles (320 kilometers) long. It usually takes around 25 to 30 days to complete, depending on the trekker’s pace and the specific route taken. The trek covers a vast and challenging terrain, passing through high mountain passes, remote villages, and beautiful valleys.
The best time to undertake the Snowman Trek in Bhutan is during the months of September and October or April and May. These months are considered the ideal trekking seasons in Bhutan when the weather is relatively stable, and the trails are more accessible. However, it’s important to note that weather conditions in high altitudes can be unpredictable, and it’s always recommended to check with local trekking agencies for the most up-to-date information.
Yes, a permit is required to do the Snowman Trek in Bhutan. The trek falls within the restricted areas of Bhutan, and you need to obtain a special trekking permit from the Tourism Council of Bhutan. Trekking in Bhutan can only be done through registered tour operators, and they will assist you in obtaining the necessary permits and making all the arrangements for your 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.
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. Your trekking agency will typically arrange for a support team, including guides, cooks, and porters, who will set up camp and assist you during the trek.
The Snowman Trek involves significant elevation gain and loss due to the numerous high mountain passes and valleys along the route. The total cumulative elevation gain and loss can vary depending on the specific route taken, but it is generally estimated to be over 25,000 feet (7,600 meters) throughout the trek. It’s important to acclimatize properly and be prepared for the physical demands of hiking at high altitudes.
No, trekking the Snowman route independently without a guide is not allowed in Bhutan. The Bhutanese government requires all trekkers to be accompanied by a licensed tour guide or trekking agency. This regulation aims to ensure the safety of trekkers and protect the fragile environment of the trek.
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.
Snowman trek can only be done within 4 months. April to May and October to November is best time to trek Snowman. Snowman trek involves crossing so many high mountains and knowing the best season to trek will help you to plan well. From our past experience Snowman trek have only 4 months of trekking season and that starts from April to May and September to October. Though there are few who have done the trek in summer (June to August) but the trek is not so beautiful as in Spring and Autumn. Monsoon clouds obscure the views of Mountains and routes are muddy. Bridges between the trekking routes are sometime washed away by heavy rain.
Among all the treks in Bhutan Snowman trek is the hardest. It takes 25 days to complete. This is one of the toughest treks in the world and clients taking this Trek package should have the best body fitness because this trek is strenuous and involves an 8-hour walk through snows and mountains as high as 5400m. If you have any health conditions please make sure your health insurance covers all.
