Chomolhari Trek
Bhutan Trekking

Chomolhari Trek

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Trip Facts

  • Max Altitude N/A
  • Grade N/A
  • Duration 11 Days
  • Group Size N/A

Overview

Chomolhari, also known as Jomolhari is the highest mountain in the Himalayas. It borders Yadong of Tibet and the Thimphu district of Bhutan. Mt. Chomolhari is also popularly known as “the bride of Kanchenjunga”. Bhutan has a lot to offer to tourism such as its culture and monasteries along with the Panoramic views of the High Himalayas. Mt Chomolhari(7314m) is one of the third highest peaks in Bhutan. And when it is about exploring nature and natural resources one can barely miss out on the trek to Chomolhari. Chomolhari Trek trek offers you a great scenario of the Bhutanese landscape along with a stunning view of the fresh Himalayas. Additionally, it is the most unspoiled high altitude trek which is suitable for average trekkers. 

Mount Jomolhari

Chomolhari Trek combines physical challenge, mental refreshment, and a stunning view of Mt.Jomolhari(7314m), Jichu Drake(6794m), and Tshering Gang along with the exploration of flora and fauna. During this trek, we will reach the base camp of Mt Jomolhari. It is the second-highest unclimbed peak in the world. Jomolhari was the holy mountain and the home of the goddess because of which people believed that it was impossible to climb and those who climb high will be thrown down. The trek goes through various villages in Bhutan where you can explore the rural life of Bhutanese people.

The Chomolhari Trek starts from Paro driving to Drugyel Dzong passing through a wonderful small village, terrace field, disperse crossroads, alpine meadow, and farmland. Besides, trout fishing in Tshophu is another popular activity on this trek. The trek lets you explore the capital city of Bhutan- Thimphu along with the other small city Punakha and Paro. During your tour to this city, you can visit some of the ancient monasteries like Punakha Dzong, Chimi Lhakhang, etc. On the other hand, the Taktsang monastery- the tiger’s nest monastery is another prime attraction of this trek. The best season for this trek is from March to May and Sept to November. Therefore, you will not only explore the snow-capped mountains but experience the typical village life of Bhutanese people along with their culture and tradition.

Trip Facts:

Trek Name: Chomolhari Trek

Duration: 11 days

Country: Bhutan

Max Altitude: Base camp/Jangothang (4180m)

Transportation: Flight and Comfortable rides

Best Season: March to May and Sept to Nov

Trip Type: Hiking and Sightseeing 

Starting Point: Paro

Itinerary

Day 01

Arrival

Today will be your very 1st day in the Kingdom of Bhutan. Your journey to the Chomolhari trek starts with the flight from Kathmandu to Paro International Airport. The flight offers you the stunning scenario of the Himalayas and the landscapes. Our airport representative will pick you up from the Airport and transfer you to the 3-star hotel in Paro. After arriving at the hotel, to make things easy and clear for you we will hold a pre-trek meeting where we will be giving you a short briefing about the preparation for the trek. We will then introduce you to your guides and porters. After some procedure, you can either spend your remaining time exploring the places in Paro or rest in the hotel. Overnight at Hotel in Paro.

Day 02

Trek Begins

The second day of the trek is going to be real fun. Early in the morning after breakfast, we will drive from Paro to Drukgyel Dzong. It was built in 1649 to celebrate Bhutan’s victory over the Tibetian armies. After 1951 the Dzong caught fire and the roofing was fabricated in 1985. And now the place is just an empty shell. From there, we will ascend following the Pachhu( Paro River) passing through the forested ridges, meadows, paddy fields, and magnificent farmlands. After nearly 4 hours of trekking, we will arrive at the army post at Gubutsawa village where the trek permit will be checked and countersigned. Overnight at the camp by the small outpost near the forest.

Day 03

Shana to Thangthangkha

Today,  we will be starting our trek as early as we can as we will be covering a bit long-distance Apparently, the distance covered by this trek is 22km which takes about 8-9 hours. Thus, this is a long, hard day trek with lots of short uphills and some downfalls. The trail begins from Shana followingPachhu (the Paro river) and the road gradually narrows as we reach higher winding up through the lush forest of pine, oak, spruce, and Juniper.  Following the muddy and rocky trail, we will arrive at the Jigme Dorji Wildlife Sanctuary. It is the largest protected area in Bhutan where several endangered species such as the Takin, snow leopard, blue sheep, tiger, Himalayan bear, and red panda are protected. Besides, it is also home to 300 species of birds.

We will enjoy our lunch on the left side of the river. After lunch, we will ascend through the forest of Rhododendron, cross another bridge, and reach our campsite at an altitude of 3800m.  Finally, the campsite rewards us with the stunning view of Mt. Chomolhari. Overnight at the Hotel.

Day 04

Thangthangkha to Jangothang

The trek today is towards the base camp trek. Early morning after breakfast we will climb along with Pa chu and ascend gradually towards the army post. After reaching the camp follow the Paroo river with the stunning views of the Bhutanese landscapes along with the snow-capped peaks. Likewise, you will be able to visit Yak-Herding families and try some of their dried yak cheese. You will have your lunch inside the Yak herders camp. After lunch, we will have a short and easy trek and reach today’s destination at Jangothang (4050m).  In addition, You will be able to see the spectacular panorama of Chomolhari (7320m) and Jichu Drake (6900m) from Jangothang. They are believed to be the sacred peaks and the peaks that are still unclimbed. Overnight at Jangothang.

Day 05

Acclimatization

One of the most popular camping places in Bhutan is Jangothang. So today, we will spend our day at Jangothang as there are several places to explore in Jangothang. You can either explore the surrounding area in Jangothang or watch the gazing blue sheep- bharal. You can even get to see the Himalayan blue poppy during summertime. Jangothang offers you the spectacular scenario of chains of snow peaks from the eastern side of the Paroo River. Besides, you can visit yak herders and trout-filled lakes, this is completely optional. However, if you want to hike you can walk to the glaciers of Chomolhari, or towards Tshophu Lake. From there,  the view of the surrounding area is fresh and refreshing. Moreover, if you are interested in knowing the people, you can even go and visit the nomad’s village in Bhutan. Overnight at Jangothang.

Day 06

Trek continue

Bidding a farewell to Jangothang we will set our journey to Yaksa. The trek starts with a short walk from the camp ascending gradually to the camp in the Yak pasture. From here, you can observe herds of blue sheep grazing on the mountain slopes. However, if the weather is clear you might also be able to spot the stunning view of Mt. Chomolhari, Jichu Drake, Tsherimkang. Furthermore, continue to hike towards beautiful lake TshoPhu as the road becomes much broader. It is one of the many lakes where the Bhutanese Government has stocked brown Trout Since the 1980s. We will ascend towards Bongtoe La at an elevation of 4849m. It takes about an hour to reach the meadow and another 50 minutes to reach the top.

From the top, we will descend downhill to the basement of Yaksha Village. In the evening you can either explore the Yaksa village or rest in the camp. Overnight at Yaksa Village.

Day 07

Trek continue

Our journey today will be from Yaksha to another village, Thongbu. Early morning after breakfast we will start our trek with the gradual climb above the treeline, passing through the hillside that is covered with Rhododendron and azalea. After a certain climb, we will come across Yak Herder’s camp where we can see the yak grazing in the field. Besides, from the camp, we will cross through a small stream and the trail continues to ascend up to Takalung la( wind-Horse pass) at 4540m. One can enjoy the spectacular landscapes of Bhutan from this arena. However, our journey descends to a large grassy meadow where we can see the yaks grazing in the summer. Overnight at Thongbu.

Day 08

Return Thimphu

The trek today is easier than that of any other day. As the trek is just a half-day walk through terrace farming, meadow grassland, and rhododendron forest. The trial today offers you the stunning scenery of grassy land and the village life of Bhutanese people. Finally, the trail ends at Drukgyel Dzong from where our transport will be waiting to take you to Thimphu-the capital of Bhutan. In Fact, the ride will be comfortable and pleasurable with several stops to enjoy nature. Situated in the western central part of Bhutan, Thimphu is the political and economic center of Bhutan.  Therefore, Thimphu is the rush town which is even popular for its monasteries and Gompas. In the evening you can visit an authentic craft bazaar in Thimphu. Overnight at a hotel in Thimphu.

Day 09

Punakha Sightseeing

Today is another most beautiful journey from Thimphu to Punakha. Early morning after breakfast, enjoy the scenic drive to Punakha. After a half, an hour drive to Punakha ascends up to the Mt road at Dochula La at an altitude of 3140m.  There are 108 memorial shortens known as Druk Wangyal Chortens which was built by Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuk. In particular, there is Druk Wangyal Lhakhang built in honor of the fourth Druk Gyalpo, Jigme Singye Wangchuk. From Dochula you can get a clear view of the eastern Himalayas in case of clear weather. From the pass, the road descends through the rhododendron forest reaching the highly cultivated valley of Punakha.

Punakha is another beautiful place to visit as a short hike ahead will take you to Chimmi Lakhang. The temple is dedicated to Drukpa Kuenley also known as Divine Madman. This temple is a pilgrimage site for a childless couple. Similarly,  the next destination that awaits us in Punakha is  Punakha Dzong, situated in between the meeting point of Pho-chu (male river) and Mo-Chu (female river). In the evening drive towards Thimphu. Overnight at Thimphu again.

Day 10

Hike to Taktsang Monastery

Today is the day to visit one of the famous monasteries in Bhutan that is -Taktsang Monastery. Early morning, drive towards Paro and further to the base camp of Taktsang. From the base camp start the hike to Taktsang monastery. It is a temple located at the cliffside of the upper Paro valley. Taktsang Monastery was first built in 1692. In addition, it is believed that Guru Padmasambhava came to Taktsang on the back of the tiger to meditate in the cave in the 18th century. Previously, this place has become a cultural icon for Buddhism. From Taktsang, hike back to the road and drive to Kyichu Lhakhang in Paro and  Ringpong Dzong. however, you can explore the market in Paro in the evening. Overnight at a hotel in Paro

Day 11

End of Trip

Today is your last day in Bhutan. Early morning after breakfast our airport representative will drop you off to the Paro International Airport. Soon you will be bidding farewell to the legendary dragon Kingdom Bhutan. We wish you a happy and safe journey.

Note: BD Plan, BL Plan, Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch content will appear here. Above itinerary can be designed along your preferences. Please let us know whether you would like to make a shorter.

Pricing

Price for Chomolhari Trek in different currency as follows:

Currency Pricing USD Euro AUD CAD Indian Rupees
Price per person N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

WANT TO KNOW LATEST DEALS ?
For latest offers & pricing for group & individual, please contact us.

Service Includes and Excludes

Service Included in this Trip

  • Private transportation
  • Necessary Bhutan travel permits
  • English speaking Bhutanese guide and Driver
  • Accommodation on Twin sharing/ Single room basis.
  • Sightseeing and monastery entrance fees as per the itinerary
  • Meal plan: Full Board Basis
  • Bhutan Government Royalty fee ($ 65 per person / per day)
  • Bhutan Visa fee
  • Flight fare for Kathmandu- Paro- Kathmandu or from other destination.

Service Excluded in this Trip

  • Insurance of any kind.
  • Additional cost due to natural calamity and unforeseen circumstance
  • Personal expenses such as drink, guide tips & etc.

Trip Info

Short Description Mode Of The Packages: What Are Included In The Packages

Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast at 2 to 3 stars level, Twin sharing comfortable and clean private room in trekking, both ways domestic flight tickets from KTM/Lukla/KTM, necessary permits, all the ground transportation by tourist vehicles, an experienced guide and porter and all the necessary permits.

Grade A: Easy *

Trekking is essentially day hiking and doesn’t require any special training. However, good physical condition, a love of walking, and a desire to enjoying the spectacular views of the mountains and encounter village life are essential. We offer a diverse range of easy treks. Categorizing a trek as easy means that no difficult climbing or ascents to high altitudes is involved. They take usually no more than a week and are suitable for anyone. Be assured that a loss of altitude in no way means a loss of interesting things to see and experience. While our more challenging treks get you closer to a small number of mountain ranges, lower altitude treks often provide better viewpoints from which to enjoy the colorful horizons of a whole series of ranges. The duration of a trek can be from 4 to 9 days with an average of 4 to 5 hours walking per day. The elevation of the trail will be between 800m/2624ft and 2800m/ 9240ft above sea level.

Grade B: Moderate **

These treks are suitable for any walker looking for something a little more challenging and energetic. They are a combination of some longer and shorter walks and hill-walking experience is desirable. The duration is usually from 10 to 15 days. Following the up and down terrain of Nepal and walking to higher elevations contrasts these treks to those in the easy classification. However, you will be rewarded for your efforts with spectacular close-up views of glaciers and of the high Himalayas. Although the terrain is not difficult, some vigorous hiking experience is useful. There may be up to 6 hours a day on the trail and the elevation rises and falls from 800m/ 2624ft to 4000m/13210ft above sea level.

Grade C: Fairly Strenuous ***

Since the terrain can be hard and the days long, hikers on these treks should be in good physical condition and have some previous mountain walking experience. Steep climbing may be involved, although it is never necessary to use ropes. Treks at this level can he arranged for periods of 16 to 21 days. Typically, a gradual ascent through a green river valley will lead you up to a number of high passes, where you will reach the altitude of 5416m. Often times, you will get a close insight into the Tibetan culture. Participants should except to trek above 5416m/17872ft.

Grade D: Strenuous ****

These real adventure treks are both technical and highly strenuous. Excellent physical condition is essential and mountaineering experience is preferable. Following rough terrain, they involve steep ascents to high altitudes with the possibility of some rope climbing. Stamina is needed to complete one of these treks, as it can take from 20 to 28 days to reach the heart of the wildernesses that they transverse. Participants should except to trek above 5600m/18480ft

EQUIPMENTS & GEARS

EQUIPMENTS, GEARS AND GUIDES

Nepal is one of the best places in the world for river rafting. Numerous fine rivers offer excellent opportunities for rafting, canoeing and simply immersing oneself in the magnificent landscape. Nepal’s thundering waters, coming from the glaciers of the mighty Himalayan, provide unmatched thrills.

Clothing

Down Or Fiber Filled Waterproof Jacket And Trousers 1
Fleece Jacket Or Pullover 1
Warm Cotton Trousers 2 Pairs
Shirts And T-Shirts 4 Pieces
Lightweight Cotton Long Pants 3 Pairs
Long Under Wear 2 Pieces
Short Under Wear 4 Pieces
Sun Hat Or Scarf 1
Woolen Hat 1
Sunglasses 1
Lightweight Gloves 1
Rain Coat 1
Heavyweight Gloves Or Mittens With A Waterproof 1

Footwear

Trekking Boot 1 Pair
Thick Socks 4 Pairs
Light Socks 3 Pairs
Camp Shoes 1 Pair
Sandals 1 Pair

Other Equipments

Sleeping Bag(4seasons) 1
Down Jacket 1
Daypack 1
Water Bottle 1
Sun Cream, Sunglasses
Flashlight With Spare Bulbs, Batteries, Lip Salve, Gaiters.

Optional

Insect Repellent Toilet Articles Note Book & Pen Toilet Roll
Laundry Soap Pocket Knife Towel Sewing Kit
Plasters Binoculars Camera Film
Cards And Personal Medical Kit

Travel insurance is compulsory for all Clients undertaking any tour. It should provide adequate protection for the full duration of the tour to cover personal injury, medical expenses, repatriation expenses, helicopter evacuation, loss of luggage, etc.

For your kind information, we would like to give a list of the insurance companies, please go through the links below:

For Canadians And Americans

  1. http://www.travelguard.com
  2. http://www.worldnomads.com
  3. http://www.mondial-assistance.ca
  4. http://www.travelassistnetwork.com
  5. http://www.travelex-insurance.com
  6. http://www.travelite.com
  7. http://www.travelunderwriters.com
  8. http://www.hccmis.com/atlas-travel-insurance

For Australians And New Zealanders

  1. http://www.covermore.com.au
  2. http://www.allianz.com.au
  3. http://www.worldnomads.com.au
  4. http://www.bupa.com.au
  5. http://www.itrektravelinsurance.com.au
  6. http://www.1cover.com.au

For British

  1. http://www.travel-guard.co.uk
  2. http://www.worldnomads.co.uk
  3. http://www.thebmc.co.uk
  4. http://www.direct-travel.co.uk
  5. http://www.essentialtravel.co.uk

For Europe And Slovenia

  1. http://www.coris.si
  2. http://www.europaeische.at

For South-Africa

  1. http://www.travel-guard.co.za
  2. http://www.tic.co.za

For Indians

  1. http://www.internationalsos.com/en/asia-pacific_india.htm

Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is common at high altitudes sickness. In general may occur when people ascend too quickly normally in altitudes of over 3000 m. The symptoms of altitude sickness are due to lower air pressure at high altitudes, which results in lower oxygen levels as you breathe the air in. The air is under less pressure and this makes it harder for your body to get the oxygen out of the air and into the circulation. It’s this extra strain on the body that causes altitude sickness.

Symptoms tend to be worse at night and include headache, dizziness, and lethargy, loss of appetite, nausea, breathlessness and irritability. Difficulty sleeping is another common symptom.

MAJOR SYMPTOMS OF ALTITUDE SICKNESS

INITIAL SYMPTOMS

  1. Periods of sleeplessness
  2. Runny nose.
  3. Extra tiredness
  4. Occasional loss of appetite
  5. Feeling laziness
  6. Wish to vomiting
  7. Periodic breathing

Above are normal symptoms which may occur into your body that you should not be worried. Every trekker will experience some or all of these, no matter how slowly they ascend.

ADVANCE SYMPTOMS

  1. Headache and vomiting
  2. Dizziness
  3. Racing heartbeat
  4. Exhaustion
  5. Nausea
  6. Diarrhoea
  7. Loss of apatite
  8. Weakness
  9. Hard to breath
  10. Extra tired
  11. Dry Raspy cough
  12. Sleeplessness

When above symptoms will occur into your body, these symptoms usually resolve by spending one or two extra nights at the same altitude or using medicine. Even you are resting at the same altitude or using medicine, if symptoms are becoming worse, then it is necessary to descend.

SERIOUS SYMPTOMS

  1. Worsening headache and vomiting
  2. Swelling of hands and face
  3. Reduced urine output
  4. Walking with a staggering gait
  5. Confusion
  6. Increased tiredness
  7. Breathing irregularity
  8. Visual hallucinations (seeing things that are not real)
  9. Changes in the ability to think
  10. Changes in normal behavior

If above serious symptoms will occur into your body, these extremely dangerous symptoms are called High Altitude Cerebral Edema (or HACE). They can lead to unconsciousness and death within 12 hours. Increasing shortness of breath, cough and tiredness may also be signs of High Altitude Pulmonary Edema or HAPE. HAPE can also be rapidly fatal if ignored.

TO PREVENT ACUTE MOUNTAIN SICKNESS

  1. If possible, don’t fly or drive to high altitude. Start below 3,000 metres (10,000 feet) and walk up.
  2. If you do fly or drive, do not overexert yourself or move higher for the first 24 hours.
  3. If you go above 3,000 metres (10,000 feet), only increase your altitude by 350 to 500 metres (1,000 feet) per day
  4. Climb high and sleep low! You can climb more than 300 to 500 metres in a day as long as you come back down and sleep at a lower altitude.
  5. If you begin to show symptoms of moderate altitude sickness, don’t go higher until symptoms decrease.
  6. Drink plenty of water, tea or juice etc (at least three to 4 liters per day). Urine output should be copious and clear to pale yellow.
  7. Eat high-carbohydrate foods (rice, pasta, cereal) for more energy.
  8. Take it easy and don’t overexert yourself when you first get up to altitude. But, light activity during the day is better than sleeping because respiration decreases during sleep, exacerbating the symptoms.
  9. Avoid alcohol as it may increase the risk of dehydration, and don’t smoke.
  10. Don’t push yourself when climbing up to passes, rather take plenty of breaks.
  11. Avoid taking sleeping pills.
  12. Avoid active movements and try to relax in the first one or two days upon arrival at the high altitude areas.
  13. Bring adequate medicine.
  14. If nothing else works, return to the areas with the lower elevation.
  15. Allow sufficient time for acclimatization (After 3000 meters).
  16. Don’t make rapid Ascent. Don’t go too far too fast.
  17. Do not trek/travel alone, take guide/porter.
  18. Follow the advice from your guide, hotel, local, guide book.
  19. Descent if mild symptoms rapidly getting worse.
  20. Never leave or descent sick person along.
  21. Avoid getting cold.
  22. Take an easy and comfortable trekking route even if its longer

MEDICINE

Following is a list of items you should consider including in your medical kit – consult your pharmacist for brands available in your country.

  1. Aspirin or paracetamol – for pain or fever
  2. Antihistamine – for allergies, eg hay fever; to ease the itch from insect bites or stings; and to prevent motion sickness.
  3. Antibiotics consider including these if you’re traveling well off the beaten track’ see your doctor, as they must be prescribed, and carry the prescription with you.
  4. Loperamides or Diphenoxylate ‘blockers’ for diarrhea’ Prochlorperazine or metaclopramide for nausea and vomiting.
  5. Rehydration mixture to prevent dehydration, eg due to severe diarrhea; particularly important when traveling with children.
  6. Insect repellent, sunscreen, lip balm and eye drops.
  7. Calamine lotion, sting relief spray or aloe vera-to ease irritation from sunburn and insect bites or stings.
  8. Antifungal cream or powder – for fungal skin infections and thrush.
  9. Antiseptic, such as povidone-iodine for cuts and grazes.
  10. Bandages, band-aids or plasters and other would dressings.
  11. Scissors, tweezers and a thermometer (note that mercury thermometers are prohibited by airlines)
  12. Cold and Flu tablets, throat lozenges and nasal decongestant.
  13. Multivitamines – consider for long trips, when dietary vitamin intake may be inadequate.