“Snowmen trek” refers to one of the most challenging and remote treks in Bhutan, known officially as the “Snowman Trek.” It’s a legendary route that traverses high-altitude mountain passes, pristine valleys, and remote villages in the Himalayas, taking trekkers through some of the most breathtaking landscapes on Earth.
The Snowman Trek usually spans about 200 miles (330 kilometers) and takes around 25 days to complete. Trekkers navigate through Bhutan’s northern region, passing through 11 high passes, some exceeding 16,000 feet (4,900 meters) in altitude. The trek is known for its rugged terrain, unpredictable weather, and the need for acclimatization due to the high altitude.
This trek is not for the faint of heart; it requires physical fitness, endurance, and proper preparation. However, for those up to the challenge, the Snowman Trek offers a once-in-a-lifetime adventure and the opportunity to experience Bhutan’s pristine wilderness and unique culture in a way that few others do.
Itinerary
Day 1-2: Arrival in Paro
- Arrive in Paro, Bhutan’s only international airport.
- Explore Paro town and visit attractions like the Paro Dzong and the National Museum.
Day 3: Paro to Shana
- Start the trek from the trailhead in Shana.
- Trekking distance: Approximately 15 kilometers.
- Camp overnight in Shana.
Day 4: Shana to Thangthangka
- Continue trekking through the Paro Valley.
- Pass through dense forests and several small villages.
- Trekking distance: Around 22 kilometers.
- Camp overnight in Thangthangka.
Day 5: Thangthangka to Jangothang
- Trek through alpine meadows and enjoy stunning views of Mount Jomolhari.
- Reach Jangothang, a scenic campsite beneath the towering peak.
- Trekking distance: Approximately 17 kilometers.
- Camp overnight in Jangothang.
Day 6: Acclimatization Day in Jangothang
- Spend a day at Jangothang for acclimatization and exploration.
- Optional day hikes to nearby viewpoints or lakes.
- Camp overnight in Jangothang.
Day 7: Jangothang to Lingshi
- Cross the Nyele La pass (4,890 meters).
- Trek through rugged terrain and yak pastures.
- Trekking distance: Around 19 kilometers.
- Camp overnight in Lingshi.
Day 8: Lingshi to Chebisa
- Trek through the beautiful Lingshi Valley.
- Pass through the remote village of Chebisa.
- Trekking distance: Approximately 16 kilometers.
- Camp overnight in Chebisa.
Day 9: Chebisa to Shomuthang
- Trek through rhododendron forests and across several streams.
- Cross the Gombu La pass (4,440 meters).
- Trekking distance: Around 17 kilometers.
- Camp overnight in Shomuthang.
Day 10: Shomuthang to Robluthang
- Trek through yak pastures and across the Jare La pass (4,770 meters).
- Descend into the Robluthang Valley.
- Trekking distance: Approximately 18 kilometers.
- Camp overnight in Robluthang.
Day 11: Robluthang to Limithang
- Cross the Shinge La pass (5,005 meters), the highest point on the trek.
- Descend into the Limithang Valley.
- Trekking distance: Around 19 kilometers.
- Camp overnight in Limithang.
Day 12: Limithang to Laya
- Trek through beautiful forests and pastures.
- Reach the picturesque village of Laya, inhabited by the Layap people.
- Trekking distance: Approximately 10 kilometers.
- Camp overnight in Laya.
Day 13: Rest Day in Laya
- Spend a rest day in Laya to explore the village and interact with the locals.
- Experience the unique culture and traditions of the Layap people.
- Camp overnight in Laya.
Day 14: Laya to Rodophu
- Continue trekking through remote valleys and pastures.
- Cross the Tsemo La pass (4,865 meters).
- Trekking distance: Around 19 kilometers.
- Camp overnight in Rodophu.
Day 15: Rodophu to Narethang
- Trek through the Soi Yaksa Valley.
- Cross the Saka La pass (4,800 meters).
- Trekking distance: Approximately 17 kilometers.
- Camp overnight in Narethang.
Day 16: Narethang to Tarina
- Trek through alpine meadows and across the Gangla Karchung La pass (5,080 meters).
- Descend into the Tarina Valley.
- Trekking distance: Around 18 kilometers.
- Camp overnight in Tarina.
Day 17: Tarina to Woche
- Trek through dense forests and pastures.
- Pass through the village of Woche.
- Trekking distance: Approximately 17 kilometers.
- Camp overnight in Woche.
Day 18: Woche to Lhedi
- Continue trekking through forests and along rivers.
- Reach the village of Lhedi.
- Trekking distance: Around 19 kilometers.
- Camp overnight in Lhedi.
Day 19: Lhedi to Thanza
- Trek through the beautiful Thanza Valley.
- Pass through several small settlements.
- Trekking distance: Approximately 17 kilometers.
- Camp overnight in Thanza.
Day 20: Rest Day in Thanza
- Spend a rest day in Thanza to rest and explore the surroundings.
- Optional day hikes to nearby viewpoints or lakes.
- Camp overnight in Thanza.
Day 21: Thanza to Tshorim
- Trek through alpine terrain and pastures.
- Cross the Karakachu La pass (5,050 meters).
- Trekking distance: Around 17 kilometers.
- Camp overnight in Tshorim.
Day 22: Tshorim to Gangkar Puensum Base Camp
- Trek to the base camp of Gangkar Puensum, Bhutan’s highest peak.
- Enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
- Trekking distance: Approximately 12 kilometers.
- Camp overnight at Gangkar Puensum Base Camp.
Day 23: Gangkar Puensum Base Camp to Geshe Woma
- Descend into the Pho Chu Valley.
- Pass through yak pastures and rhododendron forests.
- Trekking distance: Around 15 kilometers.
- Camp overnight in Geshe Woma.
Day 24: Geshe Woma to Dur Tsachu
- Trek to the hot springs at Dur Tsachu.
- Relax and rejuvenate in the natural hot springs.
- Trekking distance: Approximately 16 kilometers.
- Camp overnight at Dur Tsachu.
Day 25: Dur Tsachu to Tshochenchen
- Trek through forests and along rivers.
- Pass through several small settlements.
- Trekking distance: Around 16 kilometers.
- Camp overnight in Tshochenchen.
Day 26: Tshochenchen to Thampe Tsho
- Trek through forests and pastures.
- Pass by the sacred Thampe Tsho (Burning Lake).
- Trekking distance: Approximately 15 kilometers.
- Camp overnight in Thampe Tsho.
Day 27: Thampe Tsho to Bumthang
- Trek to the roadhead at Bumthang.
- Bid farewell to your trekking team and transfer to your accommodation.
- Trekking distance: Around 12 kilometers.
- Overnight stay in Bumthang.
Day 28: Departure from Bumthang
- Transfer to the airport in Bumthang for your departure flight.
- End of the Snowman Trek adventure.
Remember that the Snowman Trek is not just a physical journey but also a transformative experience that can leave a lasting impact on your life. Cherish the memories, lessons learned, and connections made along the way, and carry them with you as you continue your journey through lif
