DAY 01: ARRIVAL IN PARO

Arrive at Paro International Airport, where your Bhutanese guide will warmly welcome you to the Kingdom of Bhutan. The drive from the airport takes you through the beautiful Paro Valley, surrounded by forested mountains and traditional Bhutanese villages. Take time to settle into your hotel and begin your first encounter with Bhutan’s distinctive architecture, spirituality and way of life.

Depending on your arrival time, enjoy a gentle walk through Paro town or simply relax and recover from your journey. Your guide will also provide a briefing about the days ahead, including the Jomolhari trek, equipment, altitude and safety considerations.

Overnight: Hotel in Paro
Meals: Lunch/Dinner, depending on arrival time

DAY 02: PARO ACCLIMATISATION-TIGER’S NEST MONASTERY

Your Bhutan journey begins with one of the country’s most remarkable walks. After breakfast, drive to the trailhead and begin the hike towards Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), dramatically perched on a cliffside above the Paro Valley. The trail climbs gradually through pine forest decorated with prayer flags and small shrines. As you gain altitude, the valley opens behind you, eventually revealing the spectacular view of Taktsang clinging to the rock face.

Explore the monastery and learn about its deep spiritual significance and its connection with Guru Padmasambhava, who is believed to have meditated here in the 8th century. After descending, return to Paro and enjoy a relaxed afternoon. This day also serves as an important acclimatisation day before entering the higher Himalayan environment.

Overnight: Hotel in Paro
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Hike: Approximately 4–5 hours

DAY 03: SHANA ZAMPA TO THANGTHANGKHA

Today the adventure truly begins. After an early breakfast, drive towards Shana Zampa, the trailhead of the Jomolhari Trek. Leaving roads and vehicles behind, you begin walking into the wilderness. The trail follows the river through dense forests, crossing streams and wooden bridges as the landscape gradually becomes more remote.

The route passes through beautiful forest of pine, fir and rhododendron, with the sound of rushing mountain rivers accompanying you throughout the day. Eventually, you arrive at Thangthangkha Meadow (3,610m), where your trekking team will establish the first campsite. As evening settles over the valley, enjoy your first night beneath the Himalayan sky.

Overnight: Campsite at Thangthangkha
Distance: Approximately 22 km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

DAY 04: THANGTHANGKHA TO JANGOTHANG

The landscape begins to change dramatically today. The trail gradually climbs through rhododendron forests and increasingly open high-altitude valleys. As the trees become smaller and the mountains grow larger, you begin to feel the transition from forest to alpine wilderness. Along the way, you may encounter yak herders and their camps, offering a glimpse into the traditional pastoral lifestyle that has existed in these high valleys for generations.

Eventually, the magnificent Jomolhari begins to dominate the horizon. Continue towards Jangothang (4,100m), one of the most spectacular campsites in Bhutan and commonly known as the Jomolhari Base Camp. Standing before the mountain, you will understand why Jomolhari is regarded as one of Bhutan’s most sacred peaks.

Overnight: Campsite at Jangothang
Distance: Approximately 19 km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

DAY 05: JANGOTHANG ACCLIMATISATION DAY

Today is dedicated to acclimatisation, exploration and connection with the landscape. Rather than pushing onwards, take time to explore the spectacular surroundings of Jangothang. Short hikes around the valley provide opportunities to observe the changing mountain scenery and experience the vastness of the Himalayan landscape. The imposing peaks of Jomolhari and Jichu Drake rise above the valley, while yak herders move between their camps depending on the season.

You may visit nearby herder settlements and learn about life at these elevations, where traditional pastoral practices remain an important part of the local way of life. This is also an opportunity to slow down, breathe deeply and prepare for the demanding high passes ahead.

Overnight: Campsite at Jangothang
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Activity: Acclimatisation hike

DAY 06: JANGOTHANG TO LINGZHI

Today is one of the great mountain days of the expedition. Leaving Jangothang behind, the trail climbs steadily through pristine valleys and open high-altitude terrain towards Nyile La Pass (4,850m). The ascent is demanding, but the reward is an extraordinary panorama of the surrounding Himalayan peaks. After crossing the pass, descend towards the remote valley of Lingzhi, one of the most culturally significant settlements along the route. The trail eventually reaches Chhashi Thang (4,010m), located opposite the impressive Lingzhi Dzong. With Jomolhari, Jichu Drake and other Himalayan peaks visible from the surrounding landscape, this is a remarkable place to spend the night.

Overnight: Campsite at Chhashi Thang
Distance: Approximately 18 km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Highest point: Nyile La – 4,850m

DAY 07: LINGZHI TO SHODU

Another spectacular Himalayan day awaits. The trail crosses the Mochhu (Female River) before climbing once again towards the high mountains. The route eventually reaches Yeli La (4,930m), the highest point of this trekking journey. From the pass, enjoy expansive views across the surrounding peaks, including Jomolhari and other snow-covered Himalayan giants. After the demanding ascent, descend through the dramatic high-altitude landscape, passing Khedo Tsho and Jarading Thang before continuing towards Shodu. The campsite lies at approximately 4,080m, still above the tree line, giving you another opportunity to experience the raw beauty of Bhutan’s high Himalayan environment.

Overnight: Campsite near Shodu
Distance: Approximately 22 km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Highest point: Yeli La – 4,930m

DAY 08: SHODU TO BARSHONG

The landscape begins to transform once again. Leaving the high alpine environment, the trail gradually descends towards forests and river valleys. The sound of rushing water accompanies you as you cross streams and navigate through increasingly dense vegetation. Along the route, you encounter dramatic limestone cliffs and meditation caves, associated with the spiritual history of Bhutan. It is believed that Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the unifier of Bhutan, meditated in this region. The combination of wilderness and spirituality makes this section particularly atmospheric. Continue towards Barshong, where you will establish your final mountain campsite.

Overnight: Campsite at Barshong
Distance: Approximately 16 km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

DAY 09: BARSHONG TO DODINA TO THIMPHU

Leaving the Mountains | 16 km + Drive

Your final trekking day begins through beautiful mixed forests of fir, spruce, hemlock and rhododendron. The trail follows the river valley, crossing ridges and streams before eventually reaching the peaceful Dolam Kencho Meadow. Here, the character of the journey changes once again. After days in the remote Himalayan wilderness, you gradually reconnect with Bhutan’s road network. Continue towards Dodena, where your vehicle and driver will meet you. From Dodena, drive along the Wang Chhu River towards Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital city.

Arrive in Thimphu and check into your hotel. After several days in the mountains, enjoy a warm shower, comfortable bed and a relaxed evening in the city.

Overnight: Hotel in Thimphu
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Trek: Approximately 16 km

DAY 10: THIMPHU & DOCHULA PASS

After breakfast, explore the cultural heart of Bhutan. Begin with a visit to Buddha Dordenma, one of the world’s largest seated Buddha statues, overlooking the Thimphu Valley. Continue to Memorial Chorten, a prominent religious landmark where locals gather for circumambulation and prayer. Explore Tashichho Dzong, an important centre of Bhutanese government and religion, and admire its traditional architecture. Depending on opening days and time, you may also visit places such as National Textile Museum & Traditional Bhutanese arts and crafts institute.

In the afternoon, travel towards Dochula Pass (3,100m). The pass is famous for its 108 Druk Wangyel Chortens and panoramic views of the Himalayan range on clear days. Take time to walk around the chortens, visit the Druk Wangyel Lhakhang and enjoy the changing landscape between the mountains and valleys. Return to Thimphu for your final evening in Bhutan.

Overnight: Hotel in Thimphu
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

DAY 11: DEPARTURE FROM THIMPHU

After breakfast, your Bhutan journey comes to an end. Depending on your flight schedule, transfer from Thimphu to Paro International Airport. As the mountains gradually disappear behind you, take with you the memories of Jomolhari’s snow-covered peaks, remote valleys, yak herders, ancient spiritual sites, high mountain passes and the people you encountered along the trail.

Package Inclusions

• Airport transfers and standard transportation throughout the tour.
• Accommodation in comfortable 3-star hotels.
• All meals as specified in the itinerary.
• Bottled drinking water during sightseeing and transfers.
• An experienced English-speaking (trekking specialist) guide throughout the journey.
• Bhutan visa and visa processing fees.
• Bhutan’s Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) and applicable government taxes.
• Park/trek permits
• Sightseeing and entrance fees for monuments and attractions mentioned in the itinerary.

Trekking Inclusions

• Trekking Tents: Sleeping, dining, kitchen, toilet and shower tents.
• Camping Equipment: Sleeping bags (if required and clean), sleeping mats, rugs and pillows.
• Comfort Essentials: Inner blankets and hot water bags.
• Lighting: Solar lamps in the dining and kitchen tents.
• Drinking Water: Mineral or boiled drinking water throughout the trek.
• Refreshments: Bottled/packaged fruit juice during the trek and breakfast, along with tea and snacks during the day and at campsites.
• All Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner throughout the trek.
• Trekking Staff: Experienced trekking cooks and assistants.
• Pack Animals: Porters and ponies for carrying equipment and luggage.
• Duffle Bags: Duffle bags provided where required.
• Camp Furniture: Chairs and tables provided at the campsites.

Package Exclusions

• International and domestic airfares.
• Accommodation upgrades to 4-star or 5-star hotels.
• Vehicle upgrades.
• Travel insurance (highly recommended)
• Sleeping Bag
• Beverages and bottled water consumed at hotels or outside the included meals.
• Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers and other service providers. These are entirely at the guest’s discretion and may be given based on the quality of service received.
• Personal expenses and any services not specifically mentioned under Package Inclusions.
• Bank/wire transfer fees and credit card transaction or processing fees.
• Anything that not mentioned in the inclusions.

Cancellation Policy

To confirm your Bhutan tour booking with Rustic Frontiers, a minimum of 50% of the total tour cost must be paid upon confirmation and prior to your arrival in Bhutan.

In the event of cancellation, refunds will be processed after deducting the applicable cancellation charges outlined below. Bhutan Airlines, Drukair and luxury hotels may have separate reservation, cancellation and refund policies, which will apply in addition to the tour cancellation policy. Any bank or wire transfer charges associated with a refund will be deducted from the refundable amount.

Cancellation Charges

Cancellation Notice	Cancellation Charges
More than 60 days before arrival	No cancellation fee on the land cost. Airline and hotel cancellation charges, where applicable, will be deducted according to their respective policies.
45–60 days before arrival	25% of the total tour cost will be deducted.
30–44 days before arrival	50% of the total tour cost will be deducted.
14–29 days before arrival	75% of the total tour cost will be deducted.
Within 7 days of arrival or No-Show	100% of the total tour cost will be deducted.

Important: All cancellation requests must be submitted to Rustic Frontiers in writing by email and are subject to confirmation and approval by Rustic Frontiers. The applicable cancellation period will be determined by the date the cancellation request is received and approved.

Airline tickets, luxury hotel reservations and other services with separate cancellation policies will be subject to the respective supplier’s terms and conditions.

Packing list for the trek

Technical Clothing:

• Down parka.
• Warm fleece jacket.
• Comfortable trekking boot.
• Lightweight shoes, flip flop (or similar shoes).
• Rain gears.
• 4 pair trekking socks.
• 2 long sleeve capilene shirts, capilene bottoms (mid and heavy weight).
• 2 trekking shirts (non-cotton is best).
• Trekking pants (zip off shorts are better).
• 1 pair shorts.
• Warm gloves.
• Warm hat.
• Sun hat.
• 2 pair sunglasses.

Equipment:

• Small daypack.
• Waterproof duffel for gear.
• Warm sleeping bag (-30°C).
• Mud guard.
• Headlamp and a normal torch.
• Camera and extra batteries.
• Earplugs.
• 2-liter water bottles (if camelback, bring nalgene as well).
• Small towel.
• Various size plastic bags to keep gear dry and separate.