The Snowman Trek Overview:
TREK THE WILDEST, MOST 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 Trek is the longest hiking trail in Bhutan, and it extends from Laya to the high Bhutanese Himalayas, covering the northern part of the Kingdom. The yak herders of the country created it. 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 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
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: September 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 total distance of the Snowman Trek is 348KM
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 kilometres). 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
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. We have prepared the best way to prepare for the snowman trek.
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 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.
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.
The Best Time to Trek Snowman
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 (5100M). 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. For other Trekking tours, you can check the best time to trek in Bhutan in detail.
Similar Trekking in Bhutan
Snowman Trek 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.
Max Altitude: 2820m
Ascent: 360m
Descent: 80m
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.
Ascent: 770m
Descent: 10m
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.
Max Altitude: 4115m
Ascent: 480m
Descent: 1090m
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.
Ascent: 280m
Descent: 400m
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.
Ascent: 890m
Descent: 540m
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.
Ascent: 700m
Descent: 760m
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.
Ascent: 850m
Descent: 870m
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.
Ascent: 60m
Descent:340m
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.
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.
Ascent: 975m
Descent: 70m
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.
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.
Ascent: 270m
Descent: 330m
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.
Ascent: 980m
Descent: 1190m
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.
Ascent: 450m
Descent: 0
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.
Ascent: 80m
Descent: 240m
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.
Ascent: 980m
Descent: 240m
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.
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.
Ascent: 980m
Descent: 240m
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.
Ascent: 980m
Descent: 240m
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.
Ascent: 980m
Descent: 240m
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.
Ascent: 980m
Descent: 240m
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.
