Page introduction
The Jomolhari Loop Trek is a seven-day circuit from the Paro Valley to Jangothang and back through the Soi Yaksa and Thombu valleys. It delivers the scale and beauty of Jomolhari Base Camp within a shorter programme than the full traverse to Thimphu or Laya. High passes, yak pastures and remote camps make it challenging despite its medium grade.
Quick facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Duration | 7 days |
| Difficulty | Medium |
| Maximum elevation | 5,000 m |
| Best season | May–June; September–November |
| Route | Gunitsawa → Sharna Zampa → Thangthangkha → Jangothang → Bonte La → Soi Yaksa → Thombu La → Gunitsawa |
| Best suited to | Fit trekkers wanting a compact Jomolhari experience |
Highlights
- Reach Jangothang beneath Mount Jomolhari.
- Complete a true circuit rather than returning along the same valley.
- Cross Bonte La and Thombu La through wild highland scenery.
- Experience yak-herding country and remote tented camps.
Indicative itinerary
- Gunitsawa to Sharna Zampa: Enter the protected upper Paro landscape and settle into trail rhythm.
- Sharna Zampa to Thangthangkha: Follow the river through forest with sustained ascent.
- Thangthangkha to Jangothang: Emerge into open highland with mountain views in clear weather.
- Jangothang acclimatisation/exploration: Take a measured local hike rather than gaining excessive height too quickly.
- Jangothang across Bonte La to Soi Yaksa: Tackle the circuit’s major pass and descend to camp.
- Soi Yaksa across Thombu La: Cross another high pass into the Thombu valley.
- Thombu area to Gunitsawa: Make the final descent to the Paro-side road connection.
Difficulty and preparation
The maximum elevation is close to 5,000 metres, so the trek should not be treated as an easy short break. Arrive with good fitness, acclimatise beforehand and keep an intentionally slow pace. Cold, wind and snow are possible on the passes in any advertised season.
Frequently asked questions
What is the advantage of the loop? It adds two high passes and new scenery on the return, avoiding a complete retrace of the approach valley.
Is seven days enough to acclimatise? The programme includes limited acclimatisation. Travellers should spend several days at moderate elevation in Bhutan before the trek and follow medical and guide advice.