Bhutan Snowman Trek
Bhutan Snowman Trekking
Snowman trek Bhutan

Bhutan Snowman Trek | Best Adventure Trekking in Bhutan

Duration29 Days
Activities5050m
StartsParo
EndsParo
Best TimeMarch to May | September-November

Highlights of Bhutan Snowman Trek

  • Hike to the famous Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest Monastery). Stop at the viewpoint and get a stunning view of the monastery. Explore the monastery by visiting Guru Rinpoche’s Cave, the main shrine room, and the butter lamp offering room.
  • Cross multiple high-altitude Mountain passes such as Sinche La (5,005m), Jaze La (5,050m), and Gang Rinchen - Zoe La (5,140m). From these passes, you’re treated to amazing panoramic Himalayan views.
  • Experience camping like nowhere else. Camp beneath the majestic Mount. Jumolhari, beside a glacial lake and Yak pastures.
  • Explore remote-isolated villages and settlements like Laya, Lunana, and Woche where you observe the rural lifestyle of yak herders and interact with locals.
  • Enjoy side hikes to scenic sites such as Tsophu Lake and Jichu Drake.
  • See serene glacial lakes and sacred sites like Raphstreng Tsho and Um Tsho.
  • Spot Bhutan’s exotic wildlife such as Blue Sheep, Takin, Marmots, and Himalayan Griffons.
  • Witness a rare view of Gangkhar Puensum(7,570m), the world’s highest unclimbed peak from Gang Rinchen Zoe La Pass.
  • Visit cultural sites like the National Memorial Chorten, Simtokha Dzong, and the National Museum in Thimphu and Paro.

Overview of Snowman Trekking

Bhutan Snowman Trek is unlike any other trek you’ve ever experienced before. It’s a 24-day trek through Bhutan’s remote, high-altitude regions, several highest mountain passes, and camping at serene locations.

We’ve curated this Snowman Trek package including several days of sightseeing in Paro, Punakha, and Thimphu which makes a 30-day trip. Your journey begins in Paro. Here you explore the Paro Town and visit various sites such as Drukgyel Dzong and Ta-Dzong. You also hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery(Taktsang Monastery).

Then, the adventure begins! Day 4 of your trip marks the beginning of your Snowman trek. The trek starts from Drukgyel and continues with a series of challenging yet rewarding days.

As you trek through rough terrain and valleys you’ll pass by villages like Lingshi, Chebisa, and Jangothang where you’ll camp surrounded by mountain views and amazing landscapes. You’ll cross 7 major high-altitude passes. Some of the key passes on this trek are above 5,000 meters and are very challenging. These are:

  • Sinche La Pass (5,005m)
  • Jaze La Pass (5,050m)
  • Gang Rinchen Zoe La Pass (5,140m)
  • Karchung La Pass (5,120m)
  • Loju La Pass (4,940m)
  • Tsomola Pass (4,780m)
  • Tampela Pass (4,580m)

There are a total of seven major high-altitude passes to cross on this trek and all of them have breathtaking views of the Himalayas and the valleys.

The trek ends with a descent into the lower valleys, you’ll pass by Wangdue Phodrang and visit cultural sites like Chimi Lhakhang and Punakha Dzong. After the final day of the trek, you’ll drive to Thimphu and visit the National Memorial Chorten and Simtokha Dzong. The trip ends with your transfer to Paro for your departure.

Not to mention, the Snowman Trek is one of the toughest treks in the world because of its high-altitude mountain passes and long days of trekking through the remote areas of Bhutan. This trek is for those who are seasoned trekkers with good fitness. To ensure your safety and comfort throughout the journey, we Dream Tibet have included the following services in this package:

  • We provide comfortable camping with 2-man sleeping tents which include air mattresses, pillows, and carpeted floors. In addition, we also offer, dining and kitchen tents, toilet tents with pots, and shower tents. Most importantly, we provide experienced guides and trekking staff.

Snowman Trek is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for those looking for a truly extraordinary adventure.

Itinerary
Trip PlanExpand all
Max Altitude: 2235 Meals: DinnerAccommodation: Hotel

On landing at Paro you will be met by our representative. After Customs and Immigrations formalities, you will be escorted to the hotel.

Max Altitude: 2235 Meals: BLDAccommodation: Hotel

Drive the winding road northwest up the Pa-Chu to Drukgyel Dzong, the ruined Fortress which once defended this valley from Tibetan invasion. This Dzong was built in the 17th century by Shabdrung Nawang Namgyel, the spiritual leader of Bhutan. On a clear day one can view Mt. Jumolhari the sacred Mountain. On the way back we visit one of the Typical Bhutanese farm house. After lunch at the hotel, we drive to Ta-Dzong which was once the watch tower for Paro valley, now it houses the National Museum and then walk down hill pass the Paro Dzong and crossing the typical traditional roofed bridge to Paro town

Max Altitude: 2870 Meals: BLDAccommodation: Tented Camp

Start of Trek Day 1: Distance 17 kms and walking time 5-6 hours.
Starting at Drukgyel (2580m) and camp near Sharna Zampa (2870m). There is a gradual climb following the Paro river through the agriculture valley and villages. We camp opposite to the Gunyitsawa Army check post in a meadow.

Max Altitude: 3630 Meals: BLDAccommodation: Tented Camp

Trek Day 2 : Distance 22 kms and walking distance 6-7 hours.
Starting at Sharna Zampa (2870m) and camp at Thangthangka (3630m). The trial is a gradual ascent with plenty of ups and downs through the conifer forest, ferns and Rhododendrons. On a clear day, you see a magnificent view of Mt. Jumolhari

Max Altitude: 4090 Meals: BLDAccommodation: Tented Camp

Trek Day 3 : Distance 19 kms and walking distance 5-6 hours
Starting at Thangthangka (3630m) and camp at Jangothang (4090m).Todays trial passes an army post and the village of Soe and a small settlement at Takethang. Yak herders live here. We camp beneath a ruined fortress at the base of Mt. Jumolhari.

Max Altitude: 4090 Meals: BLDAccommodation: Tented Camp

Trek Day 4: Acclimatisation Day.
You can spend the day relaxing or there are several day hikes to choose from. Two interesting hikes would be to get views of Mt.Jumolhari or Jichu Drake. If you are interested in a lake then you can take the hike to Tsophu. Overnight stay at the camp.

Max Altitude: 4010 Meals: BLDAccommodation: Tented Camp

Trek Day 5 : Distance 18 kms and walking time 5-6 hours.
Starting at Jangothang (4090m) and camp at Lingshi (4010m) Today you encounter your first major pass at 4890m ( Nyile-la ).You also get snow peak views of Tserim Kang (6789m) Camp near a stream in a meadow.

Max Altitude: 4010 Meals: BLDAccommodation: Tented Camp

Trek Day 6 : Distance 10 km and walking time 5-6 hours. Starting at Lingshi ( 4010m)
Trek day 6 is a pleasant walk and you encounter parts of Lingshi village and the settlement of Goyak. On reaching camp at Chebisa village you can visit the village houses.

Max Altitude: 4220 Meals: BLDAccommodation: Tented Camp

Trek Day 7 : Distance 17 km and walking time 6-7 hours. Starting at Chebisa (3880m)
On this day we walk mostly through wild high pastures and yak pastures with few people and their herds of Yak. We also walk through the 'Gobula' pass at 4440m. Camp is above a tributary to the Mo Chu river.

Max Altitude: 4160 Meals: BLDAccommodation: Tented Camp

Trek Day 8 : Distance 18 km and walking time 6-7 hours. Starting at Shomuthang (4220m) and camp at Robluthang ( 4160m)
On the early part of the trek you will see views of Mt. Kang Bum (6526m) and Mt. Gangchenta (6840m). We pass by Tsheri Jathang, a valley by the river side where herds of Takin are normally seen during the summer months.

Max Altitude: 4140 Meals: BLDAccommodation: Tented Camp

Trek Day 9 : Distance 19 km and walking time 6-7 hours. Starting at Robluthang (4160m)
Trek day 9 is a bit tough as we have to cross Sinche la (5005m) the highest altitude point on the trek. The second half of day's walk is through rocky trails and moraines. Limithang is in the Laya district and here you begin to see the wonderful children in funny hats. Camp at Limithang is beneath Gangchhenta; - the Great Tiger Mountain. If you have time it would be worthwhile to spend a rest and exploration day here.

Max Altitude: 4160 Meals: BLDAccommodation: Tented Camp

Trek Day 10 : Distance 10 km and walking time 4-5 hours.Starting at Limithang (4140m)
Today is all the way down hill along a winding river valley with quite a closed-in feeling. The trail splits, one going down with the river to the camp site used by the army while the other stays high and takes you into the west side of Laya village. We can camp on a flat table land above the east end of Laya village.

Max Altitude: 4160 Meals: BLDAccommodation: Tented Camp

Trek Day 11 : Visit Laya village houses or hike above the camp. A day halt is interesting here or just spending the day with the Layaps (nomads)

Meals: BLDAccommodation: Tented Camp

Laya - Rodophu
Trek Day 12 : Distance 19km and walking time 6-7 hours.
Starting at Laya (4160m), the trek starts with a gradual downhill walk and after an hour or so you start to climb again till we reach the camp site through conifer, maple and Rhododendron forest.

Meals: BLDAccommodation: Tented Camp

Trek Day 13 : Distance 17km and walking time 5-6 hours
Starting at Rodophu we start the trek with the trail leading uphill through dwarf Rhododendron bushes and cross a pass called Tsomola at 4780m. We camp at Narethang which is on a small plateau beneath the 6395 m peak of Gangla Karchung.

Meals: BLDAccommodation: Tented Camp

Trek Day 14 : Distance 18km and walking time 18km and walking time 5-6 hours.
Starting at Narethang we climb up to the Karchung la pass at 5120m and then down to glacial lakes which will also be our camping site.

Meals: BLDAccommodation: Tented Camp

Trek Day 15 : Distance 17km and walking time 5-6 hours
Starting at Tarina the day's walk leads through coniferous forest following the stream flowing from Tarina. It takes a two hour climb to reach the village of Woche. From here the Lunana area begins.

Meals: BLDAccommodation: Tented Camp

Trek Day 16 : Distance 17 kms and walking time 5-6 hours
Starting at Woche, todays trail leads via the Kechela pass at 4580m to the village of Thega where you stop for lunch and continue the journey till you reach the village of Lhedi.

Meals: BLDAccommodation: Tented Camp

Trek Day 17 : Distance 17 km and walking time 5-6 hours
Starting at Lhedi we climb uphill following the main source of Pho-Chu river till you reach the Chozo village. Here we make a brief stop to explore the village and continue the journey to Thanza village placed below the snow capped peak of the Table Mountain locally known as Zonggophu Gang (7100m).

Meals: BLDAccommodation: Tented Camp

Trek Day 18 : Visit village houses and interact with the locals Raphstreng Tsho with a packed lunch (round trip of 4-5 hours).

Meals: BLDAccommodation: Tented Camp

Trek Day 19 : Distance 20 km and walking time 7-8 hours
We start early from Thanza to the base of Taze-la pass. Then trek to Jaze-la pass at 5050m and downhill until we reach the camp site.

Meals: BLDAccommodation: Tented Camp

Trek Day 20 : Distance 14 km and walking time 4-5 hours.
Today the trail raises and falls at regular intervals as we trek between the snow capped peaks and cross Loju-la pass at 4940m. We camp at Jichu Dramo

Meals: BLDAccommodation: Tented Camp

Trek Day 21 : Distance 18 km and about 5-6 hours.
Starting from Jichu Dramo, we trek to Gang Rinchen-zoe la pass at 5140m and then its all the way down hill till you reach Chukarpo.

Meals: BLDAccommodation: Tented Camp

Trek Day 22 : Distance 18 km and walking time 5-6 hours
Starting from Chukarpo its mostly downhill till Um Tsho (lake) 4230m. This is where a lot of religious treasures were discovered. The camp is is bit further at Thampe Tsho.

Meals: BLDAccommodation: Tented Camp

Trek Day 23 : Distance 14 km and walking time 5 hours.
Starting at Thampe Tsho, the day's trek starts with a couple of hours walk to the base of Tampela and then on to the Tampela pass at 4580m. From here the trek goes all the way down hill through Rhododendron bushes till you reach a yak pastures. Day 26 Maurothang - Nikachu
Trek Day 24 End of Trek : Distance 18 km and walking time 5-6 hours
Today is your last day of trek. The trail passes through bamboo thickets and fields following the Nikachu river and ends at the village of Sephu at 2500m by the Nikachu bridge. From here you can either drive to Trongsa (2hours) and then continue sightseeing of Trongsa and Bumthang , this will extend your itinerary by 3 more days or drive from Nikachu towards Thimphu. Night halt at Wangdue Phodrang.

Meals: BLDAccommodation: Hotel

Morning rest or visit Chhimi Lhakhang in Punakha and sightseeing of Punakha town. Afternoon drive to Thimphu.

Meals: BLDAccommodation: Hotel

After breakfast we visit the National Memorial Chorten, built in memory of the late King. We also visit the Handicraft Emporium/Chokey handicraft and the National Painting School. After lunch we shall visit Simtokha Dzong and explore Thimphu town. If the day falls on a Saturday or Sunday then visit the weekend market.

Meals: BLDAccommodation: Hotel

Continue sightseeing of Thimphu and afternoon to Paro (2 hours).

Meals: Breakfast

Farewells and departure.

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Cost Details
Includes
  • The Daily Government Royalties Taxes ( SDF) ($100 per person per night)
  • Accommodation as per below mentioned hotel below-mentioned sharing basis
  • Breakfast & dinner at the hotel and lunch at the local restaurant.
  • All transfers and sightseeing as per the itinerary
  • English-speaking accompanying guide + Trekking Guide
  • Entrance Fees as per the itinerary
  • Bhutan visa fee ($40 for one time)
  • 2 Bottled Water in Vehicle (500 ml per day)
  • Welcome scarf (Khadar)
  • Pick & Drop at Airport
  • Facilities for normal group.
  1. First Aid Box (Medicine)
  2. Sleeping tent (2man tent) with carpeted floor, Air Mattress, Pillow and room light.
  3. Dining tent with dining set, Table, Chair and dining light.
  4. Kitchen tent with kitchen set and light.
  5. Hot water bag with cover.
  6. Toilet tent with toilet pot.
  7. Shower tent with shower bag and mat.
  8. Aprons for cook and staff.

 

Excludes
  •  Insurance of any kind / medical expenses
  •  Beverages (alcoholic / non – alcoholic)
  • Expenses of personal Gears and Personal nature (like tipping, laundry, Telephone/fax calls, camera/video fees etc)
  • Airfare & airport taxes  
Essential Information

How difficult is the Snowman Trek?

The Snowman Trek is rated as extremely difficult mainly because of its high altitude and remote terrain. The snowman trek spans 347 km and takes 25+ days to complete. You cross several high-altitude passes with many exceeding 5000 meters and you’ll be trekking above 4000 meters for nearly the whole trip.

Many trekkers struggle with altitude sickness as most of the route is above 4,000 meters. To combat this proper acclimatization, hydration and slow trekking are very important. As you’ll be trekking for 25 days, every day of 15-20 km of steep ascent and descent, this trek definitely tests your physical strength. So, pre-trek training is a must. You must go for treks and hikes 3 to 5 months prior and train your body.

Another challenge is the unpredictable weather which can bring snowstorms, heavy rainfall, and temperature fluctuation even during the trekking season. So you must plan your trek carefully.

Additionally, the remoteness of the trail makes the trek more tough. There are no roads, hospitals, or easy evacuation points. Also, the rugged and isolated terrain makes the trek technically challenging because you trek through glaciers, rocky ridges, and muddy trails. Using trekking poles, GPS devices, and proper guidance will help navigate the trek easily.

Despite these hardships, the Snowman Trek is doable if you prepare well for it. Only a well-prepared and experienced trekker with physical and mental endurance should go on this adventure.

How long does the Snowman Trek take?

The Snowman Trek takes about 25 to 30 days to complete. Our Snowman Trek package is designed to complete the trek in 24 days starting from Paro and ending in Nikachu. However, the full itinerary including arrival, sightseeing, and departure makes the trip 30 days in total.

Snowman Trek Distance: The total Snowman trekking distance is 347 km (216 miles) 

Snowman Trek Route, Daily trekking distance, and Trekking hours

Day

Route

Distance

Duration

Altitude

1

Paro to Sharna

17km

5-6 hrs

2,870m

2

Sharna to Thangthangka

22km

6-7 hrs

3,610m

3

Thangthangka to Jangothang

19km

5-6 hrs

4,080m

4

Acclimatization in Jangothang

-

-

4,080m

5

Jangothang to Lingshi

18km

5-6 hrs

4,010m

6

Lingshi to Chebisa

10km

5-6 hrs

3,880m

7

Chebisa to Shomuthang

17km

6-7 hrs

4,220m

8

Shomuthang to Robluthang

18km

6-7 hrs

4,160m

9

Robluthang to Limithang

19km

6-7 hrs

4,140m

10

Limithang to Laya

10km

4-5 hrs

3,840m

11

Acclimatization in Laya

-

-

3,840m

12

Laya to Rodophu

19km

6-7 hrs

4,160m

13

Rodophu to Narethang

17km

5-6 hrs

4,900m

14

Narethang to Tarina

18km

5-6 hrs

3,900m

15

Tarina to Woche

17km

5-6 hrs

3,910m

16

Woche to Lhedi

17km

5-6 hrs

3,700m

17

Lhedi to Thanza

17km

5-6 hrs

4,150m

18

Acclimatization in Thanza

-

-

4,150m

19

Thanza to Tshochena

20km

7-8 hrs

4,970m

20

Tshochena to Jichu Dramo

14km

4-5 hrs

5,050m

21

Jichu Dramo to Chukarpo

18km

5-6 hrs

4,600m

22

Chukarpo to Thampe Tsho

18km

5-6 hrs

4,300m

23

Thampe Tsho to Maurothang

14km

5hrs

3,600m

24

Maurothang to Nikachu (End Point)

-

-

2,600m

What is the Best Time for Snowman Trek?

The best time to embark on the Snowman trek is during the spring and autumn seasons. During these seasons, the weather and temperatures are at their finest making the trekking more comfortable.

During Spring(March to May), the temperatures are mild. The daytime temperatures range from 5℃ to 10℃ and the nighttime temperatures are -2℃ to 3℃. The weather is mild and warm. Also, the trails are more manageable. The best thing about spring is it offers excellent visibility.

During Autumn (September to November), the weather is clear and stable. The trails are less muddy and offer great visibility. The daytime temperatures range from 5℃ to 10℃ and the nighttime temperatures range from -2℃ to 3℃.

Even in Spring and Autumn, there may be sudden weather changes in the high-altitude regions of the Snowman Trek. So you must be prepared at all times.

Preparation for Snowman Trek Bhutan

Here’s a detailed guide on how to prepare for the Snowman Trek:

  • Physical preparation is a must. You must train your body as you’ll be trekking at high altitude, crossing multiple passes, and trekking for 6-8 hours each day for 24 days. We suggest you start physical training 3 to 6 months prior.
  • Hike regularly with a backpack. Also, go for short treks. Trekking at altitude will help your body get used to trekking at high altitudes.
  • Exercise regularly focusing on your legs, back, and core.
  • Be mentally prepared. Because the trek is strenuous, prepare yourself for difficult days. Have a positive mindset.
  • Before embarking on the trek, give your body and mind a few days to rest and adjust. 

What to pack for Snowman Trek? 

Equipment and Clothing for Snowman Trek are: 

Clothing:

  • Base Layers: Lightweight, long-sleeve shirts and pants (synthetic or merino wool).
  • Insulating Layers: Fleece or down jackets to stay warm during cold nights and early mornings.
  • Outer Layers: Waterproof and windproof jackets and pants to protect against rain and wind.
  • Trekking Pants and Shorts: Lightweight and durable.
  • Hat and Gloves: Warm gloves, a sun hat, and a balaclava or neck gaiter for cold winds.
  • Trekking Boots: Good quality, comfortable, and waterproof boots with good ankle support.
  • Socks: Wool or synthetic socks (several pairs) to prevent blisters.

Sleeping Gear:

  • Sleeping Bag: A high-quality, 4-season sleeping bag (comfortable at temperatures as low as -10°C to -15°C).

Backpack:

  • Day Pack: A small, comfortable backpack for daily essentials like water, snacks, and a camera.
  • Duffel Bag: For larger items, your duffel will be carried by porters or yaks.

Trekking Poles:

  • Trekking poles can help you with balance and reduce the strain on your knees, especially while crossing high-altitude passes.
  • Water Bottle & Hydration System: At least 3 liters of water per day. You may also want a water filter or iodine tablets for purification.

First Aid Kit:

Basic medical supplies such as painkillers, band-aids, antiseptic, blister treatment, altitude sickness medication (Diamox), and a prescription for any personal medications.

Headlamp/Flashlight: With extra batteries.

Sun Protection: Sunglasses (with UV protection), sunscreen (high SPF), and lip balm.

Bhutan Snowman Trek Cost/Price

Bhutan Snowman Trek cost varies. We Dream Tibet offer the best price for Bhutan Snowman Trek. Here are the cost details valid for 2025.

 The basis of a twin-sharing occupancy

No of Pax

Trip Cost

1 Pax

USD 19300.00 per person

2 Pax

USD 13595.00 per person

03-04 Pax

USD 9600.00 Per person

Extra

 

Visa fee

US$ 50.00 Per person

Flight Fare: ktm-pbh-ktm

US$ 475.00 Per person

Star Hotel Envisaged for Bhutan Trekking:

Destinations

Hotels

No. of Night

Thimphu

Hotel Thimphu Tower or Similar

2 Nights

Paro

Mandala Resort or a similar

2 Nights

Wangdue

Hotel Lobesa or similar

1 Night

 

Overnight at Camp

22 Nights

 

FAQs

The best time to visit Bhutan is from March to June and from September to November. These are the peak tourist seasons, offering clear skies and mild temperatures for outdoor activities.

The official currency of Bhutan is the Bhutanese ngultrum (BTN), but the Indian rupee is also widely accepted.

All visitors to Bhutan require a visa, which can be obtained through a Bhutanese tour operator or travel agency. The visa fee is included in the cost of the tour.

The official language of Bhutan is Dzongkha, but many Bhutanese also speak English, especially in tourist areas.

Some of the must-visit places in Bhutan include the capital city of Thimphu, the Tiger's Nest Monastery, the Punakha Dzong, and the Paro Valley.

Bhutanese cuisine is heavily influenced by Tibetan and Nepalese cooking styles, with staple dishes including red rice, ema datshi (spicy cheese and chili stew), and momos (steamed dumplings).

Bhutan is considered to be a safe country for travelers, with low crime rates and friendly, welcoming locals. However, as with any destination, it's always best to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.

Credit cards are accepted at some high-end hotels and restaurants in Bhutan, but it's still best to carry cash for most purchases.

While no specific vaccinations are required for travel to Bhutan, it's always a good idea to check with your doctor before traveling to ensure you're up to date on all necessary vaccines.

Yes, Bhutan is known for its commitment to preserving its environment and promoting sustainable tourism. Visitors are encouraged to be mindful of their impact on the environment while exploring the country.

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