Snowman Trek – The Ultimate Himalayan Challenge
Laya-Lingshi Trek & Himalayan Cultural Odyssey — 18 Nights / 19 Days
This 19-day Bhutan adventure is crafted for true explorers seeking to experience the untouched majesty of the Himalayas while immersing in Bhutan’s authentic culture. The journey combines high-altitude trekking across some of the kingdom’s most remote regions with serene cultural explorations of Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha. From the sacred peak of Mount Jomolhari to the legendary hot springs of Gasa, this itinerary delivers a once-in-a-lifetime blend of nature, spirituality, and tradition — a signature Bhutan trekking tour designed for discerning travelers and adventure seekers alike.
Tour Highlights
- Mount Jomolhari (7,326 m): Spend two full days beneath Bhutan’s most sacred mountain — the “Bride of Kanchenjunga.”
- Lingshi Dzong: Explore the haunting hilltop fortress overlooking an immense valley steeped in ancient legend.
- Gasa Hotsprings (Tsachu): Unwind after your trek in the mineral-rich thermal waters renowned for healing properties.
- Laya-Lingshi Trek: Traverse one of the Himalaya’s most spectacular trails with views of Jomolhari, Jichu Drake, and Gangchen Ta.
- Laya Village: Encounter the unique Layap people — famous for their bamboo hats, hospitality, and remote mountain lifestyle.
- Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang): Hike to Bhutan’s iconic spiritual landmark, clinging dramatically to a cliffside.
- Cultural Exploration: Visit Thimphu, Punakha, and Paro for a glimpse into Bhutan’s living heritage and architectural wonders.
- Authentic Recovery: Experience a soothing Bhutanese Hot Stone Bath to rejuvenate after the expedition
Places You’ll Visit
Arrive at Paro International Airport with majestic mountain views.
Visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples, and Rinpung Dzong.
Evening: Stroll through Paro town and meet your guide for a trek orientation.
Overnight: Paro
Drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s dynamic capital, stopping at Tamchog Lhakhang, the Iron Bridge Temple.
Visit Buddha Dordenma, National Memorial Chorten, and explore Thimphu’s craft markets.
Overnight: Thimphu
Full Day: Drive across the Dochula Pass (3,100 m) for panoramic Himalayan views. Visit Punakha Dzong, Bhutan’s most beautiful fortress, and Chimi Lhakhang, the fertility temple.
Evening: Return to Thimphu.
Overnight: Thimphu
Day 4: Thimphu (Trek Preparation)
Morning: Leisurely city exploration — Takin Preserve and Tashichhodzong.
Afternoon: Pre-trek briefing and equipment check with your expert mountain guide.
Overnight: Thimphu
Drive: Thimphu → Gunitsawa (Trek Start)
Trek: ~18 km | 6–7 hrs | Camp 2,850 m
Follow the Paro Chhu river through rhododendron and oak forests, spotting Himalayan wildlife along the way.
Overnight: Camp at Thangthanka
19 km | 5–6 hrs | Camp 4,080 m
Ascend steadily with breathtaking views of Mt. Jomolhari and Jichu Drake. Camp beneath the towering peak — one of the Himalayas’ most majestic settings.
Overnight: Jangothang Camp
Optional hikes to Jomolhari Base Camp or Tshophu Lake. Ideal for photography, rest, and high-altitude adjustment.
Overnight: Jangothang
Distance: ~18 km | 6–7 hrs | Camp 4,010 m
Cross Nyele La Pass (4,700 m) for panoramic vistas of snow peaks before descending to the remote Lingshi Valley and its ancient dzong.
Overnight: Lingshi
- Distance: ~16 km | Time: 5–6 hrs | Altitude: 3,700m
Follow the Thimphu Chhu River through rhododendron forests and scenic waterfalls.
Overnight: Camp at Barshong
~17 km | 6–7 hrs | Camp 4,220 m
Cross Gobu La Pass (4,410 m), entering pristine wilderness and alpine meadows rich with edelweiss.
Overnight: Shomuthang
~18 km | 6–7 hrs | Camp 4,160 m
Cross Jhari La Pass (4,700 m) and descend into the Tsarijathang Valley, known for Himalayan blue sheep and yak herders.
Overnight: Robluthang
~19 km | 6–7 hrs | Camp 4,140 m
Ascend Shinje La Pass (4,900 m) — the trek’s highest and most rewarding point — offering awe-inspiring Himalayan panoramas before descending to Limithang.
Overnight: Limithang
~10 km | 4–5 hrs | Camp 3,800 m
Descend to the vibrant Laya Village, home to the Layap people and their distinctive bamboo-hat culture.
Overnight: Laya
Full Day: Immerse yourself in local customs, visit homes, and experience the highland hospitality of Bhutan’s northernmost community.
Overnight: Laya
~19 km | 6–7 hrs | Camp 3,050 m
A long descent through lush forests following the Mo Chhu River, rich in biodiversity.
Overnight: Koina
~14 km | 6–7 hrs
Cross Bari La Pass (3,900 m) before descending to Gasa.
Afternoon: Enjoy a therapeutic soak at Gasa Tsachu Hot Springs before driving to Punakha.
Overnight: Punakha
Morning: Relaxed exploration of Punakha.
Afternoon: Drive via the Dochula Pass back to Paro.
Evening: Unwind with a Traditional Hot Stone Bath.
Overnight: Paro
Full Day: Ascend to the legendary Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest) — Bhutan’s most revered pilgrimage site. Reflect on your Himalayan odyssey.
Overnight: Paro
Morning: After breakfast, transfer to Paro International Airport for your departure, carrying unforgettable memories of your Bhutan adventure travel.