Snowman Trek – 25 Days / 24 Nights

The Ultimate High-Altitude Challenge Across the Last Unexplored Himalayan Frontier

The Snowman Trek is Bhutan’s most legendary and challenging trekking expedition—revered as one of the toughest treks in the world. This epic 25-day journey takes you through the remote and rugged Lunana region, crossing 11 high mountain passes, many over 5,000 meters, and weaving through some of the most inaccessible valleys of the Himalayas.

It is a test of endurance and spirit, designed for seasoned adventurers ready to embrace the extreme. Yet it is also a pilgrimage—through sacred mountain landscapes, nomadic settlements, and spiritual isolation that reveals the raw essence of Bhutan.

If you have the stamina, this is the trek that will redefine your relationship with nature, culture, and yourself.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Note: Actual trekking pace and overnight camps may vary slightly depending on weather and group fitness. The following itinerary represents the ideal and most common route.

Day 1: Arrival in Paro – Land of the Thunder Dragon
Arrive in Bhutan’s breathtaking Paro Valley, where snow-draped peaks greet your descent and your guide welcomes you with warmth and ceremony. Settle in and explore:

  • Visit Paro Dzong, a 17th-century fortress rising above the river
  • Explore the National Museum, housed in a former watchtower
  • Prepare for your journey—your last night in a soft bed for a while

Overnight: Hotel in Paro | Altitude: 2,280 m

Day 2: Paro – Acclimatization Hike to Tiger’s Nest
A pilgrimage to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest) is the perfect way to begin your trek. This sacred site clings to a cliff 900m above the valley and is only accessible on foot.

  • Breathe in the pine-scented air and gain your first elevation
  • Enjoy lunch at a hillside teahouse overlooking the monastery

Overnight: Hotel in Paro | Hike Duration: 4–5 hrs | Altitude: 3,120 m

Day 3: Paro to Shana – Trek Begins
Drive to Drukgyel Dzong and begin your journey along the Pa Chhu river. Pass scattered villages and forests, easing into the rhythm of the trail.

Overnight: Tented Camp in Shana | Trek Duration: 5–6 hrs | Altitude: 2,850 m

Day 4–5: Shana to Jangothang (Jomolhari Base Camp)
Trek deeper into wilderness, ascending past yak herders and rhododendron groves.

  • Camp at Jangothang (4,080 m) with stunning views of Mt. Jomolhari
  • Enjoy an acclimatization day with optional hikes to lakes or ridgelines
  • This is one of the most scenic campsites in Bhutan

Overnight: Tented Camp | Trek Duration: 7–8 hrs/day

Day 6–10: Jangothang to Laya via Lingshi and Chebisa
Cross high passes like Bhonte La (4,890 m) and Gobu La, each revealing new valleys and dramatic changes in landscape.

  • Visit Lingshi Dzong, a remote outpost watching over the valley
  • Stay in Chebisa, a quaint village known for its waterfall and warm-hearted people
  • Reach Laya (3,850 m)—Bhutan’s highest settlement, home to the Layaps, known for their yak-hair hats and unique traditions

Overnight: Tented Camps | Trek Duration: 5–7 hrs/day

Day 11–17: Laya to Lunana Region via Rhodophu and Sinche La
Enter the wildest section of the trek as you cross the Sinche La (5,005 m) and enter Lunana—a land cut off by winter for much of the year.

  • Trek across Karchung La and other snow-bound passes
  • Camp near Tsome La, Rinchen Zoe La, and high-altitude lakes
  • Experience complete remoteness, surrounded by only peaks, silence, and stars

Overnight: High-altitude Camps | Altitude: 4,200–5,000+ m | Trek Duration: 6–8 hrs/day

Day 18–22: Cross Gangla Karchung La and Descend to Bumthang Frontier
Leave Lunana by crossing Gangla Karchung La (5,120 m)—your final major pass. Begin your descent through forests, past yak herder camps, and eventually down to rivers and villages.

  • The landscape changes dramatically as pine forests return
  • Reconnect with motorable roads near Memenang or Nikka Chu Valley

Overnight: Camps gradually transitioning to basic farm stays | Trek Duration: 6–7 hrs/day

Day 23: Drive to Bumthang
Your support vehicle meets you for the journey into the heart of Bumthang. You’ll now enjoy paved roads, a hot shower, and real beds again.

Overnight: Hotel in Jakar

Day 24: Flight to Paro – The Journey Comes Full Circle
Take a domestic flight from Bumthang back to Paro. Reflect on your achievement over a traditional Bhutanese dinner.

Overnight: Hotel in Paro

Day 25: Departure – A Legend Completed
Depart Bhutan with stories, strength, and serenity earned in the high Himalayas.

  • One of the most challenging treks in the world: Not for the faint of heart—only a few complete it each year.
  • Total immersion: Travel for nearly a month through untouched Himalayan wilderness.
  • Rare encounters: Meet nomadic communities of Laya and Lunana, nearly cut off from modern life.
  • Unmatched scenery: Towering peaks, turquoise lakes, glacial valleys, and stark passes.
  • Lifetime bragging rights: Completing the Snowman Trek is an accomplishment few can claim.
  • Bhutan visa and trekking permits
  • Government-authorized, licensed guide
  • Full camping and expedition gear (sleeping tents, dining tent, toilet tent, kitchen tent)
  • Support crew: experienced cook, assistants, and pack animals
  • Satellite phone for emergencies
  • Medical kit and altitude sickness management protocols
  • All meals and snacks during trek
  • 4-star hotels in Paro and Bumthang (before and after trek)
  • Internal flight: Bumthang to Paro
  • Ground transport and airport transfers
  • International flights to/from Bhutan
  • Personal trekking gear (sleeping bags, trekking boots, warm layers)
  • Travel insurance with emergency evacuation (mandatory)
  • Extra personal porter (available at additional cost)
  • Alcoholic beverages or specialty drinks
  • Tips for guide and trekking crew
  • Expenses of a personal nature (laundry, souvenirs, etc.)