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Snowy scenery trekking through Nye La - Jomolhari Base Camp Trek, Bhutan
Snowy scenery trekking through Nye La  | Gavin Turner
Horses passing through Nyile La - Jomolhari Base Camp Trek, Bhutan
Horses passing through Nyile La  | Gavin Turner
Drukyel Dzong, Paro Valley, Bhutan - Jomolhari Base Camp Trek, Bhutan
Drukyel Dzong, Paro Valley, Bhutan  | Lachlan Gardiner
Trekking through Jangothang to the iconic Jichu Drake in Bhutan - Jomolhari Base Camp Trek, Bhutan
Trekking through Jangothang to the iconic Jichu Drake in Bhutan  | Gavin Turner
The sacred Taktsang Monastery in Bhutan is also referred to as the Tiger's Nest monastery. - Jomolhari Base Camp Trek, Bhutan
The sacred Taktsang Monastery in Bhutan is also referred to as the Tiger's Nest monastery.  | Richard I'Anson
Paro Valley Monastery, Bhutan - Jomolhari Base Camp Trek, Bhutan
Paro Valley Monastery, Bhutan  | Lachlan Gardiner
Trekkers taking a breather before continuing through to Jangothang - Jomolhari Base Camp Trek, Bhutan
Trekkers taking a breather before continuing through to Jangothang  | Gavin Turner

Jomolhari Base Camp Trek

A compact trek with big-mountain payoff

Bhutan
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 20 reviews

12 Days from

$6420 USD

Trip Code: COT
View dates to Book
Essential Information

Extra trip options & supplements

*Prices listed are per person

Hotel Only Single Supplement
$110 USD
Tent Only Single Supplement
$260 USD
Single Supplement
$380 USD
Duration
  • 12 Days
Activities
  • 8 day trek
Accommodation
  • 4 nights hotel
  • 7 nights camping
Meals
  • 11 Dinners
  • 11 Lunches
  • 11 Breakfasts
Difficulty Grading  
5 / 10

Moderate

Carbon Footprint  

39kg of CO2-e PP per day

(424kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)

Trek to the sacred mountain of Jomolhari Trip highlights

  • High trails, remote camps, and unmatched mountain scenery, all in under two weeks
  • Two high passes - cross the Nyile La (4850m/15,912ft) and Yale Pass (4950m/16,240ft), challenging ascents with dramatic rewards and unforgettable views
  • Sleep in wild solitude beneath the sacred Jomolhari (7314m/23,996ft) with panoramic views of Jichu Drake and the Tibetan frontier
  • Take in the country’s spiritual and cultural highlights: Paro, Thimphu, Tiger’s Nest and Lingshi Dzong

Overview

If you’re after a short, high-altitude trek that delivers serious scenery, remote trails and a real sense of expedition, this route to Jomolhari Base Camp is one of the best in the Himalaya.

Setting out from the upper Paro Valley, the trail climbs steadily through forest and glacial rivers before opening to alpine meadows and yak herder country. You’ll camp beneath the sacred summit of Jomolhari (7314m/23,996ft), with time to explore the glacier or hike toward a remote alpine lake.

Two high passes Nyile La (4850m/15,912ft) and Yale La (4950m/16,240ft) - reward you with sweeping views of Jichu Drake and distant snow-capped ridges. From here, descend into quiet valleys and conifer forest before finishing in Bhutan’s capital, Thimphu.

With a full crew, expert guide, wilderness camps and support team, this is the kind of trek that rewards strong walkers with real solitude, high passes and some of the best mountain outlooks in Bhutan, all in under two weeks.

Itinerary

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After clearing customs and immigration at Paro International Airport, you will be met by your Bhutanese guide and transferred a short distance through the main street of Paro to our accommodation. The beautiful Paro Valley is one of Bhutan’s most picturesque regions, with traditional farmhouses scattered across cultivated fields and forested hills rising toward the surrounding mountains. Depending on our arrival time and trek preparations, we will begin exploring Paro and its important cultural landmarks. Highlights include a visit to the impressive Paro Rinpung Dzong, the fortress monastery that dominates the valley and is considered the architectural model for many of Bhutan’s other dzongs. Above the dzong stands Ta Dzong, the historic watchtower that now houses the National Museum of Bhutan. The museum contains a fascinating collection of ancient weapons, traditional costumes, priceless jewellery and exhibits showcasing Bhutan’s unique flora, fauna and cultural heritage. There may also be time to wander through the small town centre where local shops sell everyday goods alongside traditional handicrafts made from wood, textiles and metal. As we travel through the valley, you may notice Bhutan’s national sport of archery being practised on fields lined with willow trees, as well as traditional wooden bridges spanning the Paro River. Accommodation: Hotel in Paro

Meals: L,D

Today provides a memorable introduction to Bhutan’s landscapes and spiritual heritage. The Paro Valley is one of the most picturesque regions in the country, known for its colourful patchwork of cultivated fields producing crops such as asparagus, strawberries, grains and vegetables. Traditional Bhutanese farmhouses, ornately decorated and beautifully maintained, are scattered across the valley floor while forested hills rise toward distant Himalayan peaks. This morning we make a short drive to the trailhead for Taktsang Monastery, famously known as the Tiger’s Nest. Perched dramatically on a granite cliff high above the Paro Valley, this sacred site is one of Bhutan’s most important pilgrimage destinations. The trail climbs steadily through fragrant chir pine forest, taking around 1.5 hours to reach a teahouse that offers spectacular views of the monastery across the gorge. From here, a further short climb of around 30 minutes brings us to the monastery complex. According to legend, Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) flew to this location on the back of a tigress in the 8th century to subdue local spirits and establish Buddhism in the region. The monastery was later built around the cave where he meditated. After exploring the monastery and enjoying the breathtaking setting, we return to the valley. This evening you will repack your duffel bag, leaving behind any items not required on the trek for safe storage with our local partners. Accommodation: Hotel in Paro

Meals: B,L,D

It is a short drive of around 20 minutes up the Paro Valley to Drukyel Dzong, originally built in 1647 as a fortress to guard against Tibetan invasions into the Paro Valley. From here we continue driving to Shana (1–1.5 hrs), the starting point of our trek. Along the way we pass through fertile farming country, with fields of rice, wheat, barley, mustard, potatoes and radish, as well as grazing herds of cattle. Traditional Bhutanese two-storey houses built from timber and stone are scattered throughout the valley. On clear days we may also catch our first views of the summit of Jomolhari (7,314 m / 23,996 ft) rising at the head of the valley. At Shana we begin our trek, stopping for a packed lunch along the trail. The route is initially wide and relatively flat, following the valley floor and meandering through lightly forested countryside. In recent years this area has been the focus of a Bhutan Government project bringing electricity to remote villages further up the valley. By mid afternoon we reach our riverside campsite at Thongo Zampa, surrounded by forest and mountain scenery. Accommodation: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today we continue trekking into Jigme Dorji National Park, the largest protected area in Bhutan, covering more than 4,350 square kilometres. The park extends from the high Himalayan regions of Lunana in the north to the lower valleys in the south and supports a remarkable diversity of plant and animal life. While it remains an important wilderness area, park authorities must also balance the needs of local communities, including lowland farmers and semi-nomadic yak herders who depend on the land. The trail passes through dense forests of oak, maple, birch, larch, pine and alder. As we gradually gain altitude, these forests begin to give way to increasing numbers of rhododendrons and conifers. In spring and early summer, many species of rhododendron bloom across the hillsides, including rhododendron arboreum, as well as griffithianum and cinnabarinum at higher elevations. Many of the camps along this route are not permanent settlements, despite their place names. Instead, they are open clearings near water sources used as seasonal camps by yak herders and by workers involved in Bhutan’s ongoing rural electrification project, which aims to bring power to remote communities in the valley. By the afternoon we arrive at our campsite at Soi Thangthangkha, set in a wide alpine clearing surrounded by forested slopes. Accommodation: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today we continue our gradual ascent through the upper Paro Valley, following the river upstream toward the dramatic alpine landscapes beneath Mount Jomolhari. As the valley widens and we gain elevation, the forest begins to thin before giving way to open high-altitude terrain. Our destination is Jangothang (4,100 m / 13,451 ft), the base camp of Jomolhari, set within one of the most spectacular alpine environments in Bhutan. Towering above the valley is the magnificent Jomolhari (7,314 m / 23,996 ft), while the striking peak of Jichu Drake (6,794 m / 22,290 ft) rises prominently to the east, its elegant ridgeline stretching toward the high passes we will cross in the coming days. During the summer months this area is used by yak herders from the Paro Valley, who live in traditional woven yak-wool tents while grazing their herds across the surrounding alpine meadows. By this stage we are well above the treeline, and the landscape is characterised by hardy alpine vegetation including juniper and rhododendron setosum. Wildlife is also occasionally spotted in the area, including bharal (blue sheep) grazing on the rocky slopes above the valley. We establish our camp at Jangothang, where the expansive views of snow-covered peaks and sweeping alpine pastures create one of the most memorable campsites of the trek. Accommodation: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today is an important acclimatisation day at Jangothang, allowing time for rest while also exploring the surrounding alpine landscapes beneath Mount Jomolhari. There are several rewarding options for short walks in the area. One possibility is a scenic hike up a side valley toward the glacier beneath Jomolhari (7,314 m / 23,996 ft), where we gain impressive views of the mountain’s towering face and surrounding icefields. Another option is an excursion toward Sopu Lake, located near the Nye La Pass, offering beautiful views across the high alpine terrain and excellent photographic opportunities. This remote region has seen very little mountaineering activity compared with other parts of the Himalaya. One notable ascent was made by the British mountaineer Doug Scott, who successfully climbed Jichu Drake (6,794 m / 22,290 ft) in 1988 on his third attempt. The challenges he encountered highlighted how demanding climbing can be in this far eastern section of the Himalaya, where peaks are among the first to receive the influence of the summer monsoon. The remainder of the day can be spent relaxing around camp and enjoying the dramatic mountain scenery. Accommodation: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today we cross our first high Himalayan pass, Nyile La (4,850 m / 15,912 ft). Leaving Jangothang, the trail climbs gradually across rolling alpine slopes dotted with grassland and low shrubs. The ascent is steady and sustained, so it is important to maintain a comfortable pace, particularly during the final section where the grassy terrain gives way to scree and sandy slopes near the pass. Along the way we enjoy magnificent views back toward the striking peaks of Jomolhari (7,314 m / 23,996 ft) and Jichu Drake (6,794 m / 22,290 ft). From the top of the pass, we leave these impressive mountains behind as we begin our descent into the remote Lingshi Valley. The trail drops steeply through slopes of dwarf rhododendron before opening into a broad valley where the impressive Lingshi Dzong becomes visible in the distance. This historic fortress was built to protect the surrounding settlements from occasional raids from Tibet in centuries past. Before reaching the village itself, we leave the main trail, crossing a small stream before a short climb and final descent into a peaceful side valley where we establish camp beside the river. Accommodation: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

Today is the most demanding day of the trek, so we begin early. The trail follows the valley before gradually climbing toward the high Yale La Pass (4,950 m / 16,240 ft), the highest point of the journey. The ascent becomes steeper in the final section and requires steady effort, but the rewards at the top are exceptional. From the pass we enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of some of Bhutan’s most impressive peaks, including Jomolhari (7,314 m / 23,996 ft), Jichu Drake (6,794 m / 22,290 ft) and Tshrim Gang rising across the surrounding Himalayan skyline. After taking time to appreciate the views, we begin a long descent into the remote Shodu Valley. The trail gradually drops through alpine terrain toward the river, eventually reaching our campsite at Shodu (3,950 m / 12,959 ft), set in a peaceful valley surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery. Accommodation: Wilderness camping

Meals: B,L,D

We follow the Thimchu River, descending through forests of rhododendron, juniper and pine. The landscape is defined by steep cliff faces rising above the valley and waterfalls cascading down rocky slopes. After several hours alongside the river, the trail gradually climbs towards the historic ruins of Barshong Dzong, once an important defensive outpost in this remote region. We complete the trek at Barshong and transfer by road to Thimphu (2334m / 7656ft). Accommodation: Hotel in Thimphu

Meals: B,L,D

We begin the day exploring Thimphu, visiting the Textile Museum and Memorial Chorten to gain insight into Bhutan’s cultural and spiritual life. After lunch, we drive towards Punakha, ascending to Dochula Pass (3000m / 10000ft), where 108 stupas mark the high point of the road. From the pass, the route descends into the warmer Punakha Valley, where we visit Chimi Lhakhang, a temple associated with Bhutanese folklore. We continue to Punakha and transfer to our hotel. Accommodation: Hotel in Punakha

Meals: B,L,D

This morning you explore Punakha before driving west towards Thimphu, crossing the Dochula Pass (3000m / 10,000ft) where, on clear days, Himalayan peaks stretch across the horizon. Continuing to Bhutan’s capital, you visit the Buddha Dordenma and the National Institute for Zorig Chusum, offering insight into the country’s living artistic traditions. After lunch, the journey continues to Paro (2200m / 7,218ft), following the scenic Paro Chhu valley. The day concludes with time to relax before a farewell dinner marking your final evening in Bhutan. Accommodation: Hotel in Paro

Meals: B,L,D

After breakfast, we transfer to Paro International Airport for our onward flight. The journey concludes with a transfer through the Paro Valley. Bhutan’s landscapes and cultural experiences reflect the depth of the journey undertaken. Our guide and driver bid farewell as the trip comes to an end.

Meals: B

Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.

Ready to start your adventure?

4 scheduled departures between 9 Oct 2026 and 9 Oct 2027.

  • Departs 9 Oct 2026 – ends 20 Oct 2026 (12 days)
  • Departs 5 Nov 2026 – ends 16 Nov 2026 (12 days)
  • Departs 8 Apr 2027 – ends 19 Apr 2027 (12 days)
  • Departs 9 Oct 2027 – ends 20 Oct 2027 (12 days)
View dates to Book

What's included?

Included

  • All meals during the trek: 11 breakfasts, 11 lunches and 11 dinners
  • The use of a World Expeditions trek pack including a quality sleeping bag, down or fibre fill jacket and insulated mat (valued at over US$500)
  • Bhutan Government visa and sustainability fees
  • All park entrance fees and trekking permits
  • Good quality accommodation in Paro on a twin share basis
  • Accommodation in fully serviced wilderness campsite
  • Private transportation
  • Airport transfers if arriving on Day 1 and Day 12
  • Expert English speaking local guide
  • Safety equipment including portable altitude chamber, group medical kit and satellite phone
  • Animals to carry up to 20kg of personal equipment
  • All group camping equipment
  • Sightseeing and entrance fees as listed
  • Souvenir World Expeditions kit bag

Not included

  • International flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Meals not listed as included
  • Personal expenses such as laundry, etc.
  • Bottled water, aerated and alcoholic drinks
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Any items not listed as included
Bhutan's Jomolhari Base Camp | World Expeditions Webinar
Bhutan's Jomolhari Base Camp | World Expeditions Webinar
Bhutan Jomolhari (Chomholari) Trek | World Expeditions
Chomolhari Base Camp and Tigers Nest Trek with World Expeditions

Reviews (20)

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This trek was gorgeous - and one of the best organised treks I have been on - wonderful guide, team and food.

Angela|QLD, Australia
6 May 2026
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Well planned, supported and executed trip. Bhutan was a great travel experience I haven’t felt for quite a while.

Anthony|NSW, Australia
28 Apr 2026
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The scenery was fantastic, the guide was great.

Paul|VIC, Australia
29 Oct 2025
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We’ve just returned from a remarkable 12 days in Bhutan and couldn’t recommend it more highly. This is some feedback from Sophie and me.

The whole thing went brilliantly from start to finish. We have some appreciation for the challenges of operating in developing countries, and so very much respect what went into delivering the outstanding service. We were continually delighted. Our expectations were well and truly exceeded.

The core trekking support team of Sam, Norbu, and Sigay was genuinely outstanding. They worked tirelessly and delivered incredible meals and services for us, always with a bright smile. They were 10/10.

The guide, Sonam, was good - capable, organised, calm and helpful. He dealt with the two mini crises extremely well - when one guest had to be evacuated and the 2nd set of ponies was very late. His one area for improvement is his communication. This would be three things: (i) English pronunciation, (ii) in talking to our group, he nearly always directed his gaze and speech to me, the only male in the group, to the exclusion of the women, and (iii) he could be more proactive and forthcoming with information. He will go from 8/10 to 10/10 if he can improve his communication.

There was a small misunderstanding about the tipping. From the WEx materials and common sense, we had assumed the tips would be given at the end of the trip. Sonam asked us for a tip for the first set of horsemen when they finished their work mid-trip, and he indicated that the team tip fund would usually be provided at the start. That didn’t seem consistent with the WEx materials, and we had no way to know how much horsemen should be tipped. Also, the WEx materials say “if” you have a guide or drivers, which is odd given that this trip had both. Our sense from the WEx materials was that there would be two tips: one for the team and one for the guide. We assumed the drivers and horsemen were part of the team. In reality, more than two tips were required, as drivers and horsemen were not considered part of the team. The practice of tipping is foreign to us and sensitive, and WEx would do well to achieve better clarity for all.

The hotels in Paro and Thimpu were both great, and the staff were wonderful.

Thank you again for a truly wonderful adventure. We are already talking about our next one!

Paul Christensen|London, Other United Kingdom
29 Oct 2024
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Can't fault the trip or the service. Everything was taken care of and there were plenty of "extra surprises" which I don't want to mention and ruin for future travellers. But it was the little extra things and the attention to detail and the excellent service that really made this trip stand out. The Bhutanese went above and beyond. Great trip!

Anthony Mendoza|Southport, QLD Australia
12 May 2024
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The trip ticked my boxes in numerous ways.

1. Not too touristy

2. An active holiday i.e. trekking

3. A friendly, kind people

4. Loved seeing the animals

5. Our guide was very patient, helpful, and informative

6. The staff on the trek were very helpful

7. Enjoyed experiencing a different culture

8. Loved the scenery

9. We did struggle with juggling different currencies on our travels and giving tips, especially as we did not have adequate small currency to do so. Giving tips is not something we do in our own country.

MARIAN Rae BELLAMY|New Zealand
11 Nov 2023
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Good information

Lois Laitinen|Maplewood, Minnesota United States
31 Oct 2023
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WOW!! Bhutan is such a unique country and well worth the visit. The trek was fantastic, incredible route, stunning scenery. It’s certainly tough with a pretty quick accent. So take note of the grading, but very achievable with the right fitness.

Natasha-Leanne Ghafur|Crawley
5 Nov 2022
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The Chomolhari Base Camp Trek is highly recommended. Outstanding scenery, supported by nurturing gorgeous Bhutanese staff, high quality tents and equipment, and 3 delicious hot meals a day to keep your energy levels up for the trek. An amazing adventure!

C. Maxfield|St. Kilda, VIC
10 Nov 2019

Responsible Travel

Extra trip info

Food - Bhutan Treks | Lachlan Gardiner

Meals are an important part of the trekking experience in Bhutan and often become one of the highlights of the journey. Even while camping in remote mountain areas, our trekking crew prepares fresh, varied meals that many travellers say rival restaurant quality.

Breakfasts typically include fruit, muesli, toast and eggs to fuel the day ahead. Lunch and dinner feature a range of satisfying dishes such as chicken or lamb curries alongside fresh vegetarian meals served with rice and bread, providing the energy needed for long days on the trail.

Mealtimes are also a chance to relax and connect with your fellow trekkers and crew, sharing stories from the day while enjoying a hearty meal. Many travellers remark afterwards that the quality and variety of food in Bhutan’s remote mountains is one of the most pleasant surprises of the trek.

Dietary requirements can usually be catered for on request – please speak with our team for more information.

Use of essential equipment is included in your trip cost | Tim Charody

If you don’t trek regularly, investing in specialised gear for a single adventure can be expensive. Quality equipment designed for high altitude and cold conditions is essential, yet we see many trekkers in Nepal with gear that might look suitable, but will not be effective in many Himalayan conditions.

To save you hassle, and money, we provide the use of a World Expeditions Trek Pack including a quality sleeping bag, down or fibre-fill jacket and a cosy fleece sleeping bag liner. At our Eco-Comfort Camps we even supply an extra blanket. You receive your Trek Pack at the start of your trip, use it throughout your trek, and can pack it into your World Expeditions souvenir kit bag when travelling on the trail.

Just as importantly, it supports your safety and comfort. Staying warm at night and getting proper rest (along with good food) are critical to maintaining energy and enjoying your trek in the Himalaya.

  • Delivering active and immersive travel experiences since 1975 – with deep expertise in Bhutan and the greater Himalaya.
  • Experienced wilderness first aid trained guides equipped with group medical kit and portable altitude chamber.
  • Freshly prepared meals each day, unlimited boiled water and warm hospitality even in the most remote camps, all carried and set up by our trusted team.
  • An all-inclusive experience with expert local guides, private transport, all meals, sightseeing fees and your Bhutan visa covered.
  • Complimentary use of World Expeditions trek pack complete with quality down jacket, sleeping bag, insulated mat and more, plus receive a souvenir World Expeditions kit bag to take home.

Guaranteeing A Great Bhutan Trip

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