Bhutan Snowman Trekking 30 Days

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Key Highlights of Bhutan Snowman Trek

  • Highest Pass: Rinchenzoe La (5,320 m / 17,454 ft)
  • Duration: 25–30 days continuous trekking
  • Difficulty: Extremely challenging (Grade 5 – Expert level)
  • Best Season: Late September to mid-October (clear skies and stable weather)
  • Start Point: Drukgyel Dzong, Paro
  • End Point: Sephu (Trongsa) or Bumthang Valley
  • Remote Terrain: No road access for most of the trek
  • Cultural Immersion: Visit villages in Lunana and Laya, meet semi-nomadic communities

Other Highlights:

  • Trek through alpine meadows, yak pastures, and conifer forests.
  • Cross major high passes such as Nyele La, Gangla Karchung La, and Karchung La.
  • Spectacular views of peaks like Gangkar Puensum (the world’s highest unclimbed mountain), Jichu Drake, and Gangchhenta.
  • Camping under stars in untouched Himalayan wilderness.

Bhutan Snowman Trek – Overview

The Bhutan Snowman Trek is globally recognized as one of the toughest and most spectacular long-distance treks in the Eastern Himalayas. Spanning 25–30 days and over 300 km, this legendary trek explores the remote Lunana region, crossing eleven high mountain passes, many exceeding 5,000 meters in altitude.

This trek is suitable only for experienced trekkers with previous high-altitude experience, as it demands excellent physical endurance, mental toughness, and proper acclimatization. Along the route, trekkers are rewarded with majestic views of snow-covered peaks, glaciers, glacial lakes, and untouched Bhutanese villages, as well as encounters with the semi-nomadic Lunaps.

Unlike typical trekking routes, the Snowman Trek traverses roads-free wilderness, pristine alpine meadows, and ancient cultural sites, offering a truly spiritual and immersive Himalayan adventure.

Recommended Gear for Snowman Trek

  • Down jacket and 4-season sleeping bag

  • Waterproof trekking boots and outerwear

  • Multiple thermal layers

  • UV sunglasses and sunblock

  • High-energy snacks and water purification tools

  • Trekking poles and personal medical kit

  • Satellite phone or GPS (highly recommended)

Support provided: Experienced Bhutanese guides, cooks, and pack animals for luggage transport.

Best Time to Trek

  • Late September to Mid-October: Optimal weather, clear skies, best views, and minimal risk of snowstorms.

  • Alternative Seasons: Spring (March–May) possible but less ideal due to snowmelt and unstable weather.

Safety Tips & Advice

  1. Drink sufficient water to prevent dehydration and altitude sickness.

  2. Maintain a balanced diet rich in carbohydrates and energy.

  3. Dress in layers to adapt to sudden weather changes.

  4. Acclimatize properly before crossing high passes.

  5. Always follow the trek guide’s instructions and stay with the group.

  6. Be mentally prepared for long, continuous days of trekking in remote areas.

Bhutan Snowman Trek – Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Paro

Arrive at Paro Airport and transfer to hotel. Briefing by your trek leader on the Snowman Trek journey.

Day 2: Paro Sightseeing

Visit Drukgyel Dzong, Ta-Dzong (National Museum), Paro Dzong, and walk across traditional Bhutanese bridges. Optional visit to local farms.

Day 3–6: Paro – Sharna – Thangthangka – Jangothang – Acclimatization

  • Trek begins at Drukgyel Dzong and follows Paro River.
  • Pass through agricultural valleys, rhododendron forests, and yak pastures.
  • Camp at Sharna Zampa, Thangthangka, and Jangothang.
  • Day 6 is a rest/acclimatization day with optional hikes to Mt. Jomolhari or Tsophu Lake.

Day 7–16: Lingshi – Chebisa – Shomuthang – Robluthang – Limithang – Laya – Rodophu

  • Cross first major pass Nyile-la (4,890 m).
  • Trek through wild high pastures, yak herding villages, and rugged terrain.
  • Cross passes like Sinche La (5,005 m), Tsomola (4,780 m), and Karchung La (5,120 m).
  • Experience local culture, interact with Layap nomads, and camp in remote villages.

Day 17–25: Lhedi – Thanza – Tshochena – Jichu Dramo – Chukarpo – Thampe Tsho – Maurothang

  • Trek through Lunana region, encountering alpine lakes, glacial valleys, and remote monasteries.
  • Cross multiple passes, including Taze-la, Jaze-la (5,050 m), and Gang Rinchenzoe La (5,140 m).
  • Camp in secluded high-altitude meadows and experience unparalleled Himalayan solitude.

Day 26: Maurothang – Nikachu

  • Trek follows Nikachu river, ending the Snowman route at 2,500 m.
  • Transfer options: drive to Trongsa/Bumthang for extended sightseeing or return towards Thimphu via Wangdue Phodrang.

Day 27–30: Thimphu – Paro Sightseeing and Departure

  • Explore National Memorial Chorten, Handicraft Emporium, National Painting School, Simtokha Dzong, and Thimphu weekend market.
  • Drive to Paro for final departure.

Cost Includes:

  • Daily Bhutan Government royalties & taxes ($100 per person per night)
  • Accommodation (hotels and camping as per itinerary)
  • Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • All transfers and sightseeing
  • English-speaking trekking guide + support team
  • Trekking permits and Bhutan visa ($40)
  • Bottled water, welcome scarf, first aid, tents, dining and kitchen tents, hot water bag, shower/toilet tents

Cost Excludes:

  • Insurance and personal medical expenses
  • Personal beverages or non-included meals
  • Personal expenses (tipping, laundry, calls, camera fees)
  • International airfare & airport taxes

1. How difficult is the Bhutan Snowman Trek?

It is extremely challenging (Grade 5), requiring high physical endurance, prior high-altitude experience, and mental resilience. Daily trekking ranges from 4–8 hours, often above 4,000 meters with multiple passes over 5,000 meters.

2. How long is the Snowman Trek and what is the highest pass?

The trek spans 25–30 days, covering over 300 km. The highest pass is Rinchenzoe La at 5,320 m, with several other passes above 5,000 m.

3. When is the best time to do the Snowman Trek?

Late September to mid-October offers the clearest skies, mild weather, and the safest trekking conditions. Spring is possible but carries higher risk of snow and unstable trails.

4. What permits are required for the Snowman Trek?

The trek must be organized by a licensed Bhutanese tour operator. Packages include trekking permits, government royalties, and Bhutan visas. Independent trekking is not allowed.

5. Who can attempt the Snowman Trek?

Only experienced trekkers with high-altitude trekking experience and excellent stamina should attempt this trek. Mental preparation for remote wilderness camping and long trekking days is critical.

6. What gear is essential for the Snowman Trek?

Key gear includes 4-season sleeping bag, down jackets, waterproof boots, trekking poles, UV protection, water purification, and satellite GPS/phone.

7. Are guides and support staff provided?

Yes. Experienced Bhutanese guides, cooks, and porters assist trekkers. Luggage is transported via ponies or yaks.

8. Is medical support available during the trek?

Basic first aid kits are provided, but trekkers should carry personal medication. Medical facilities are not available on the route, so prior health checks are recommended.

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