The Snowman Trek is Bhutan’s ultimate high-altitude trekking adventure and one of the most challenging treks in the Himalayas. Taking you deep into the remote northern mountains, the trail crosses numerous high passes, secluded valleys and rugged alpine landscapes, with spectacular views of some of Bhutan’s highest peaks.
Usually taking around 20–25 days, the trek passes through remote villages and yak-herding settlements while crossing several passes above 4,000 metres. With dramatic mountain scenery, pristine lakes, glaciers and untouched wilderness at every turn, the Snowman Trek is best suited to experienced trekkers looking for a demanding and unforgettable Himalayan expedition.
Day 1: Paro – Shana
Drive from Paro to Drukgyel Dzong, where the trek begins. Follow the Pa Chhu River through beautiful forests and traditional villages towards Shana.
Trekking: 5–6 hours
Overnight: Shana
Day 2: Shana – Thangthangkha
Continue along the river through dense pine, oak and rhododendron forests. Gradually gain altitude as the valley becomes narrower and more remote.
Trekking: 7–8 hours
Overnight: Thangthangkha
Day 3: Thangthangkha – Jangothang
The trail climbs above the tree line, passing yak pastures and highland settlements. Arrive at Jangothang, with spectacular views of Mount Jomolhari and surrounding peaks.
Trekking: 6–7 hours
Overnight: Jangothang
Day 4: Jangothang – Halt & Acclimatisation
Spend the day acclimatising at Jangothang. Explore the surrounding valley and enjoy panoramic views of Jomolhari, Jichu Drake and nearby mountains.
Overnight: Jangothang
Day 5: Jangothang – Lingshi
Cross Nyile La Pass (approx. 4,870 m) before descending into the beautiful Lingshi Valley.
Trekking: 7–8 hours
Overnight: Lingshi
Day 6: Lingshi – Chebisa
Continue through remote Himalayan landscapes, passing traditional villages and yak herder settlements before reaching Chebisa.
Trekking: 5–6 hours
Overnight: Chebisa
Day 7: Chebisa – Shomuthang
Cross Gobula Pass (approx. 4,440 m) and continue through alpine meadows and remote mountain terrain towards Shomuthang.
Trekking: 6–7 hours
Overnight: Shomuthang
Day 8: Shomuthang – Robluthang
Cross Jhari La Pass (approx. 4,750 m), with spectacular views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks. Descend towards Robluthang.
Trekking: 7–8 hours
Overnight: Robluthang
Day 9: Robluthang – Limithang
Cross Sinche La (approx. 5,005 m), one of the highest passes on the trek. Descend through remote wilderness towards Limithang.
Trekking: 7–8 hours
Overnight: Limithang
Day 10: Limithang – Laya
Descend through forests and mountain valleys towards Laya, one of Bhutan’s most remote villages. Experience the distinctive culture and traditional lifestyle of the Layap people.
Trekking: 5–6 hours
Overnight: Laya
Day 11: Laya – Halt & Explore
Enjoy a rest day in Laya. Explore the village, meet local residents and experience the unique culture, traditional clothing and architecture of the Layap community.
Overnight: Laya
Day 12: Laya – Rodung
Leave Laya and follow the trail through remote mountain landscapes, gradually descending and ascending through valleys towards Rodung.
Trekking: 6–7 hours
Overnight: Rodung
Day 13: Rodung – Tarina
Continue through beautiful alpine terrain, following mountain streams and passing remote yak-herding areas.
Trekking: 6–7 hours
Overnight: Tarina
Day 14: Tarina – Woche
The trail climbs gradually through forests and open mountain landscapes before reaching Woche, a remote settlement in the Lunana region.
Trekking: 6–7 hours
Overnight: Woche
Day 15: Woche – Lhedi
Continue deeper into the Lunana wilderness. Cross high mountain terrain and enjoy spectacular views of glaciers, peaks and remote valleys.
Trekking: 6–7 hours
Overnight: Lhedi
Day 16: Lhedi – Thanza
Follow the Pho Chhu River towards Thanza, one of the largest settlements in Lunana. Enjoy magnificent views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers.
Trekking: 7–8 hours
Overnight: Thanza
Day 17: Thanza – Halt & Explore
Take a rest day in Thanza and explore the surrounding village and mountains. This is an excellent opportunity to experience traditional high-altitude life in Bhutan.
Overnight: Thanza
Day 18: Thanza – Danji
Continue across remote high-altitude terrain towards Danji. The trail offers dramatic views of snow-covered peaks and vast alpine valleys.
Trekking: 6–7 hours
Overnight: Danji
Day 19: Danji – Tshochena
Cross another high mountain pass and continue towards Tshochena, surrounded by beautiful high-altitude lakes and rugged mountain scenery.
Trekking: 7–8 hours
Overnight: Tshochena
Day 20: Tshochena – Jichu Dramo
The trail crosses several ridges and high passes before descending gradually towards Jichu Dramo. The landscape is dominated by alpine meadows, lakes and snow-capped mountains.
Trekking: 6–7 hours
Overnight: Jichu Dramo
Day 21: Jichu Dramo – Chukarpo
Continue through remote mountain terrain and cross another high pass before reaching Chukarpo.
Trekking: 6–7 hours
Overnight: Chukarpo
Day 22: Chukarpo – Thimphu
Complete the final major trekking section through rugged mountain landscapes before reaching the roadhead. Drive towards Thimphu.
Trekking: 5–6 hours
Overnight: Thimphu
Day 23: Thimphu – Punakha
After breakfast, drive from Thimphu to Punakha via the scenic Dochula Pass. Visit Punakha Dzong and enjoy the warmer valley landscape.
Overnight: Punakha
Day 24: Punakha – Paro
Drive back towards Paro, with opportunities to visit traditional villages and important cultural sites along the way.
Overnight: Paro
Day 25: Departure
Your incredible Snowman Trek adventure comes to an end. Transfer to Paro International Airport for your onward journey.
