Bhutan Jomolhari Mountain Festival & Trekking Adventure

Bhutan Jomolhari Mountain Festival & Trekking Adventure

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12 Days From

$4550

Bhutan Jomolhari Mountain Festival & Trekking Adventure

12 Days Starting and ending in Paro International Airport, BHUTAN

Visiting: Paro, Thimphu, Taktsang, Shana, Thang Thangka Camp, Jomolhari Base Camp, Jangothang, Tshophu Lake, Yaksa, Thongbu Shong, Khangkhu Resort

Tour code:

71355P16

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

2 - 10

Physical rating:

High

Age range:

18-65

Special diets catered:

We respect dietary needs

Tour operated in:

English

Interests:

Cultural

Activities:

Sightseeing, Trekking, Walking

Private Available:

Request A Private Tour

From: $4550

NB: Prices correct on 05-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Jomolhari Mountain Festival is an exquisitely themed two-day event celebrated at the base of Mt. Jomolhari by communities located along one of the most scenic trekking routes in Bhutan. The festival celebrates the culture of the communities living together with the natural wonders that surround them: one in particular is the elusive, yet elegant, snow leopard! This endangered cat thrives in the region; several camera trap photos and definite signs have established the region as one of the best snow leopard habitats in Bhutan.

Jomolhari Mountain Festival & Trekking Adventure takes the same trekking routes as Jomolhari Basecamp Loop Trek. The only difference is you get to halt 2 extra days in Jangothang to mingle among the people who live a nomadic life herding yaks at an altitude ranging from 2,500 meters to nearly 5,000 meters and celebrate their 2-day annual Mountain Festival which offers great opportunity to explore and experience local culture and cuisine. The highlight of this trek is not only the fascinating mountain festival but also the spectacular view of majestic Mount Jomolhari from the Jomolhari basecamp accentuated by splendid landscapes, flora and fauna.

Highlights

  • Trek to the base of the Majestic Mt. Jomolhari (7,326 meters) through picturesque high mountain passes, stunning landscapes and pristine forests

  • Witness the grand annual festival celebrating the culture of the local mountain people living in harmony with pristine natural environment. You get to enjoy mountain foods!

  • You'll have opportunities to mingle with the local communities, understand how they contribute to the conservation of elusive and endangered snow leopard

  • Visit the capital city Thimphu and understand how Bhutan is holding onto its age-old traditions and vibrant cultures while embracing modern development

  • Climb to the iconic landmark in Bhutan, Paro Takstang (Tiger's Nest) perched on the face of an 800m rock cliff above the valley floor in Paro

Places You'll See

One Of The Twin Lakes At Jomolhari

Jomolhari Basecamp (4080M)

The Iconic Paro Taksang (Tiger's Nest)

Devotees Gather To Get Blessing At The Largest Sitting Statue Of Buddha In Thimphu

Local Women At Jomolhari Mountian Festival

Full-Service Camping In The Wilderness

Horses Transporting Trekking Equipment & Supplies

Authentic Home-Cooked Local Cuisine

Tshophu, The Twin Lakes At The Base Of The Mt. Jomolhari

Exploring Pristine Environement At The Base Of The Mt. Jomolhari

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Arrive Paro Interntional Airport & Sightseeing In Paro (2200M)

Location: Paro

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Khangkhu Resort or Bhutan Mandala Resort

Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner

Our guide and the drive will receive you at Paro, the only International Airport in Bhutan. The coverage of sightseeing will depend on your arrival time. If you arrive before lunch, we should be able to see all of the below sites:

National Museum of Bhutan: The Museum is housed in the 17th-century watchtower called Ta Dzong and displays hundreds of ancient Bhutanese artifacts and artworks including traditional costumes, armour, weaponry and handcrafted implements for daily life.

Paro Rinpung Dzong: Rinpung Dzong (meaning "Fortress of the Heap of Jewels") was built in 1646 and established as the administrative and monastic center of the western regions. Today, the Dzong serves as the office of the governor and head of the monk body of Paro district. From there, take a short walk to the traditional wooden cantilever bridge where your driver will be waiting for you. The roofed wooden cantilever bridge is built in a traditional style and this type bridges are called Bazam.

Kyinchu Lhakhang:7th-century Kyichu Lhakhang located just a few minutes drive from the Paro main town, is one of the oldest temples in Bhutan. It is believed to have been built in 659AD by the Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo.

Leisure time to explore streets of Paro town.

Day 2 : Hike To The Tiger's Nest / Transfer To The Capila City Thimphu (2334M)

Location: Thimphu, Taktsang

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Kuenphen Rabten Resort or Hotel Amodhara

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After early breakfast, drive to the base of the Taktsang Monastery from where the hike begins. The hike normally about 4-5 hours round trip from the nearest road head. The hike is a steep climb but takes you through the cool shades of pine trees giving you a lot of opportunities to take beautiful pictures of the valley below or the ridge above. There is a nice cafeteria on the way where you can rest and can see the breathtaking view of the Taktsang Monastery. Lunch will be served at this viewpoint cafeteria.

After lunch at Taktsang Cafeteria, descend back to the base where your driver will be waiting for you. From there drive to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. Thimphu is the capital city of Bhutan and it is 55km away from the main Paro town. The drive should not take more than 2 hours including stop overs on the way. Thimphu is home to approximately 115,000 residents. This bustling little city is the main centre of commerce, religion and government in the country.

On arrival in Thimphu, drive past the Changlimithang Archery Range and witness archery game if it is in progress. You will see archers showing off their Robin Hood skills dancing and singing each time the target is hit. Archery is the national sport of Bhutan.

Driving distance 55km, Driving time 1.5-hours, Thimphu altitude 2334m

Day 3 : Sightseeing In Thimphu / Transfer Back To Paro (2200M)

Location: Paro

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Khangkhu Resort or Bhutan Mandala Resort

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today you will visit some of the popular attractions and heritage sites and immerse yourself into the contemporary Bhutanese lifestyle in the capital city of Bhutan. We will then drive back to Paro towards the late afternoon.

National Memorial Chorten: After breakfast at the hotel, we begin the day by visiting the National Memorial Chorten the most frequented religious site and national monument in Thimphu. It was built in 1974 in memory of the Late Third King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck who passed away in 1972. People from all walks of life come here to pray and circumambulate and it is a good opportunity for you to observe how Bhutanese people devote themselves to daily prayers and take refuge in the teachings of the Lord Buddha.

Buddha Dordhenma Statue: The magnificent 169 feet tall bronze statue of Lord Buddha is located at Kuensel Phodrang, a hilltop overlooking the Thimphu valley. It was built to celebrate the 60th birth anniversary of Great Fourth King Jigme Singye Wangchuck and also for ushering peace in the world.

Bhutan Postal Museum: The Postal Museum was opened in 2015 to exhibit the story of Bhutan’s progress and development of communications and postal system in the country. If you are interested in philatelic products and stamp collection, they have a good collection of stamps, First Day Covers and stamp albums. You can also have stamps printed with your own photo.

National Institute of Traditional Arts & Crafts (Zorig Chusum: The Institute was established to promote and preserve the 13 traditional airts & crafts of Bhutan are an essential part of Bhutan’s cultural heritage that have been practised from time immemorial.

After a traditional lunch at the Folk Heritage Museum Restaurant, visit the National Library & Archives of Bhutan considered as national treasure and a fundamental source for Bhutanese history, religion, medicine, arts and culture. The library also has an extensive collection of manuscripts, xylographs and wooden printing blocks that were used for printing religious text books and scriptures.

If interested, you can visit Norzin Lam Handicraft Stalls along the main Thimphu streets where you'll find all sorts of Bhutanese handicrafts or visit one of the weaving centers to get insights into the weaving culture and tradition of Bhutan. You'll see both men and women weaving one of the most intricate designs and patterns of traditional Bhutanese attires.

We then drive back to Paro for overnight. Driving distance 55km, Driving time 1.5-hours, Paro altitude 2200m

Day 4 : [Trek Begins] Paro / Shana Zampa (2850M)

Location: Shana

Accommodation: Camp

Accommodation Name: Full-service outdoor camping in the pristine wildernes

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, we drive towards the Drukgyal Dzong from where the trek begins. If you are interested, we could spend about 30mins visiting the Drukgyal Dzong, a 17th century ruined fortress which is undergoing complete renovation since 2016 and is expected to take few years to bring to its former glory.

The trek begins from Drukgyal Dzong with a short walk downhill and then ascends gently through the beautiful terraced rice fields leading to apple orchards and pine forests. We reach the village of Gunitsawa and pass the army post. At the army check post, your trekking permit will be checked and endorsed. We cross the Shana Zampa and soon reach our campsite on the meadows surrounded by trees.

Note: Alternatively, we can drive for about 1.5 hour all the way until near the campsite.

Distance: 17km, Time 5-6 Hours, Descent: 80m, Camp Altitude: 2,850m/9,350ft

Day 5 : Shana Zampa / Thang Thangka (3610M)

Location: Thang Thangka Camp

Accommodation: Camp

Accommodation Name: Full-service outdoor camping in the pristine wildernes

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

On this long day, the trail continues with lots of small ups and downs. After going uphill through the river valley, the valley finally narrows gradually to a mere path that descends to a meadow where a camp will be set up. From here, if weather permits, you will have the first great view of Mt. Jomolhari.

Distance: 22km, Time 7-8 Hours, Ascent: 770m, Descent: 10m, Camp Altitude: 3,610m/11,845ft

Day 6 : Thang Thangka / Jangothang, Jomolhari Basecamp (4080M)

Location: Jomolhari Base Camp

Accommodation: Camp

Accommodation Name: Full-service outdoor camping at the base of the Mt. Jomolhari

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

If you did not see Mt. Jomolhari the previous evening, you will still have a chance to get a great view early this morning. This morning the trek continues up the Paro Chhu valley which widens into patches of alpine meadow and scanty growths of forest. You will cross an army checkpoint along the way and enjoy a spectacular view of high mountain ridges and snow-capped peaks. In this area yaks and their herder’s homes become a regular feature of the landscape. Passing the villages of Soe, Takethang and Dangochang is another asset on this day. After reaching Jangothang, one of the most beautiful campsites of the Himalayas, you will again have a spectacular view of Mount Jomolhari.

Distance: 19km, Time 5-6 Hours, Ascent: 480m, Camp Altitude: 4,080m/13,385ft

Day 7 : Full Day In Jangothang - Witness Mountain Festival At Dangochang

Location: Jangothang

Accommodation: Camp

Accommodation Name: Full-service outdoor camping at the base of the Mt. Jomolhari

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today and tomorrow will be the highlight of the trekking – witnessing unique Jomolhari Mountain Festival. The festival brings together members of communities in the area to celebrate their local culture and heritage, promote happiness and strengthen social bonds while also creating awareness on the importance of conservation of elusive Snow Leopard with which the local people live in harmony.

Hike 30 – 45mins back to Dangochang where the Jomolhari Mountain Festival takes place.

On the first day of the festival there will be several unique cultural programs such as songs and dances by the local communities. A school of less than 15 students will perform a play that focuses on the Snow Leopard Conservation, and a Snow Leopard dance by the Snow Leopard Conservation group.

You can participate and watch local games like horse race, yak riding, Khuru (dart), shot put and tug of war. There will be stalls selling handicrafts and local delicacies.

In the evening hike back to the Jangothang campsite for night halt.

Day 8 : Full Day In Jangothang - Nature Hike & Festival

Location: Tshophu Lake

Accommodation: Camp

Accommodation Name: Full-service outdoor camping at the base of the Mt. Jomolhari

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today on the 2nd day of the festival, the program includes scenic hikes led by the locals to various sites around Mount Jomolhari such as twin lakes called Tsophu, the glaciers, and even through the habitat of the endangered Snow Leopard. You might see the primary prey of Snow Leopard, blue sheep, and other wildlife along these day hikes.

In the afternoon, you can witness the cultural programs including traditional folk dances and participate in local games like Khuru (dart), shot put etc.

Back to the campsite for night halt.

Day 9 : Jangothang / Soe Yaksa (3800M)

Location: Yaksa

Accommodation: Camp

Accommodation Name: Full-service outdoor camping in the pristine wildernes

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The trail leads to a last settlement in the valley and drops to the Paro Chhu. Passing the lake of Tshophu (4,380m) you will climb up steeply to Bhonte La pass at 4,890 m, the highest point of this trek route. Reaching the Dhumzo Chhu river, you trek downstream passing the few houses of Soi Yaktsa (Dhumzo) to arrive at your camp soon after.

Distance: 16km, Time 6-7 Hours, Ascent: 810m, Descent: 1,090m, Camp Altitude: 3,800m/12,467ft

Day 10 : Soe Yaksa / Thongbu Shong (4180M)

Location: Thongbu Shong

Accommodation: Camp

Accommodation Name: Full-service outdoor camping in the pristine wildernes

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The trail climbs 100m over a ridge to drop to another stream then after crossing the Takhung La pass (4,520m) you descend to Thombu Shong, three yak herder huts with your campsite next to them.

Distance: 11km, Time 4-5 Hours, Ascent: 720m, Descent: 340m, Camp Altitude: 4,180m/13,715ft

Day 11 : [Trek Ends] Thongbu Shong / Gunitsawa Village In Paro (2195M)

Location: Khangkhu Resort

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Khangkhu Resort or Bhutan Mandala Resort

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Crossing Thongbu La pass (4,380m) you will finally reach Gunitsawa village where your driver will be waiting for you. This is the point where your trekking staff will bid you farewell. We will then drive to Paro.

Distance: 13km, Time 4-5 Hours, Ascent: 200m, Descent: 650m, Paro Altitude: 2,195m/7,200ft

Day 12 : Transfer To Paro International Airport For Your Onward Departure

Location: Paro International Airport

Accommodation: No accommodation on the last day of the trip

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, you will be transferred to the Paro International Airport for your onward journey. Your guide will assist you to complete all exit formalities before you check-in.

What's Included

  • Extra experiences like traditional archery and dart throwing

  • Fully Guided

    Experienced English-speaking licensed tour guide included. Guide speaking other major languages can be arranged at an additional charge.

  • Free Wi-Fi at Accommodation

    All hotel accommodations have wi-fi Internet connections. You will not have wi-fi internet connection during camping.

  • Accommodation

    The price includes standard twin sharing accommodation at 3-star hotels certified by the Tourism Council of Bhutan. Our partner hotels are handpicked based on the recommendations and good experiences from our past guests. You will be informed of where you will stay at each destination before your arrival. During the course of trekking, we provide full-service outdoor camping in the pristine wilderness at designated campsites. Our trekking crew will transport the tents and camping equipment, pitch the tents, prepare and serve meals, washings will also be done by our trekking staff. You just have to bring a sleeping bag and a travel pillow. We will send you a suggested packing list after we receive your booking. You will also have an option (prior arrangement required) to stay at village homestay/farmhouse at a few destinations to get insight into the local culture and feast on delicious local cuisine and take part in preparing some of the popular dishes of Bhutan.

  • Meals – Full Board

    Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included

  • Airport Transfers at Destination

    Round trip airport transfers included in the price

  • All Domestic Transportation (including internal flights)

    Transport included as per itinerary for the entire duration of your stay in Bhutan. Also included is the domestic flight from Paro to Bumthang on Day 2.

  • Country Entry Visas

    Visa Fee is included in the price. We will also process your visa and send you the approved e-visa letter within 3-4 business days.

  • Local Taxes

    All internal taxes included

  • Trekking Permit

    Trekking permit is included

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What's Not Included

  • Tipping and Gratuities

  • International Travel

    International flights are not included.

    There are only two airlines (Drukair & Bhutan Airlines) operating in and out of Bhutan and so securing air tickets can be difficult especially during the months of high season.

    Currently, Bhutan is connected with these cities - Bagdogra, Bangkok, Delhi, Dhaka, Guwahati, Kathmandu, Kolkata, Singapore.

    We recommend you to book a few months in advance especially if you plan to visit during the high season months of March - May and September - November.

    If you need help in arranging flights to/from Bhutan, please let us know much in advance.

  • Drinks with Meals

    All drinks not included except bottled mineral water in the car

  • Entry Fees

    All entrances fees to the museum, monuments and sacred sites are not included

Check out our Q&As

  • Will there be an escort accompanying this tour?

    Yes, your guide will accompany you at all times during the tour as required by the government.

  • What is the fitness level required to do this tour?

    We recommend you to get fit as it involves trekking through the wilderness often with rough terrain.

  • Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

    All our guides are English-speaking and licensed by the Tourism Council of Bhutan. We can arrange guides speaking other major languages (French, Chinese, Japanese, Thai, Korean) at an additional fee.

  • Is the tour coach air conditioned?

    All our transports are air-conditioned.

  • What is the tipping policy?

    Tipping is optional but our guide and driver work hard to offer the best experience. You may tip them if you feel satisfied with their services.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    We have been in the business since the beginning of 2016.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Visitors are required to provide a COVID vaccine certificate and negative PCR test taken not more than 72 hours before the date of entry. Facemasks are mandatory at all places. Our guides and drivers will maintain a high degree of COVID-19 safety protocols. Vehicles are regularly sanitized.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    No, you may not join the tour that has already departed. In case you have booked that particular tour, you may join but you will not receive any refund for the portion you have missed. You also have to pay the airport pickup charges because separate transport has to be arranged.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    All of our hotels are certified by the Tourism Council of Bhutan and are regularly inspected by the authority for health and COVID-19 safety regulations.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    You can always change the date of the confirmed booking. We highly recommend you let us know a few months before the original date of arrival to ensure the flights and hotels are available on the new dates especially during the high season. A trip once booked can be postponed to any future date.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    You'll receive a copy of your BHUTAN e-Visa and an outline of the itinerary with the list of hotels where you will stay before you travel. We always let our guests know in advance the hotels they will stay in. No surprises and disappointments! If you are coming for a trekking adventure, we will send you a suggested packing list.

Reviews of this operator

Paul Peterson (Google Reviewer)  

Like many, Bhutan was on...

06-Jul-2024

Like many, Bhutan was on our bucket list to visit, and touring this amazing country with Bhutan Acorn was everything we wanted in our visit! Our guide Tashi and driver Sunam were incredibly kind, welcoming, engaging, and entertaining to spend time with during our time in Bhutan, and Bhutan Acorn set up a very well-designed tour to mix cultural, site seeing, and nature and hiking focused experiences. My wife and I never felt rushed or forced to stick to a script, as Tashi and Sunam were very flexible and attentive to making sure we got to do exactly what we wanted to spend our time doing during our tour! The hotels, home stay experience, and food options were all very nice as well (even our tent in Bumdruk!). For anyone looking for an excellent, guided tour experience through this really special country, definitely take a look at Bhutan Acorn!

Daniel Almeida (Google Reviewer)  

I recommend Bhutan Acorn Tours...

16-Oct-2023

I recommend Bhutan Acorn Tours Travel to visit Bhutan. Everything was perfect and very well planned by them. Our guide Tashi was always polite and super friendly, nothing went side ways. Many thanks for your services !!!

Maria Ruiz Lopez  

Very helpful and efficient operator

14-Nov-2019

We had a wonderful experience in August. We spent 4 days in Bhutan, the company, the guide and the driver were really professional. They organised us everything at a very good price and they took care of us during our stay. Definitely the best travel agency in Bhutan

Fabrizio (Google Reviewer)  

I went on a 5-day...

11-Jul-2024

I went on a 5-day tour in Bhutan, and it was amazing, everything was organized perfectly. Food, transport, guide, driver, places, communication, safety. I enjoyed everything. I would travel again with them.

María Ruiz (Google Reviewer)  

We had a wonderful experience...

17-Nov-2019

We had a wonderful experience in August. We spent 4 days in Bhutan, the company, the guide and the driver were really proffesional. They organised us everything at a very good price and they took care of us during our stay. Definitely the best travel agency in Bhutan

Vivian Wei Tao (Google Reviewer)  

Life changing experience that was...

27-Sep-2023

Life changing experience that was underpinned by our two wonderful guides - Tashi and driver Sonam. They are exceptional at their jobs and we could feel their hospitality and pride in their country at every step of the trip. Karma the managing director was also extremely communicative, detail oriented, and thoughtful throughout our entire stay. His ability to curate a wonderful stay was only topped by his flexibility in accomodating for our needs. Overall highly recommend!

Judi Guzzo Farzaroli  

Fabulous Tour Company

08-Oct-2019

We had a fabulous vacation here. The tour company arranged everything and were more than happy to accommodate changes to the schedule. Our guide Wang Chu and driver Pem were the best! They took care of us every step of the way.

Y Jiang (Google Reviewer)  

A Great Tour I can't express...

05-Jul-2024

A Great Tour I can't express enough gratitude to Acorn Tours Manager Director Mr. Phuntsho for helping me out arranging this unforgettable Bhutan tour. During the planning phase, I chose a start date based on limited knowledge about Bhutan. Later I asked if I could see a festival while I'm in Bhutan. Mr. Phuntsho altered my previous itinerary and recommend a new start date so that I could go to Tshechu festival in Domkhar on day 5. Seeing the festival turned out to be one of the most impressive experience of the tour. Our tour guide and driver are excellent too. They were professional yet considerate and caring. It was a pleasure to spend 10 days with these two wonderful Bhutanese people. I've visited many countries, Bhutan stood out as one of the most impressive ones. Its serenity, spirituality, pristine land, and its unique somewhat otherworldly culture all worth a visit. Definitely Recommend it!

Caroline Lupini (Google Reviewer)  

We were planning our trip...

11-Nov-2023

We were planning our trip for a long time as initially we had booked to go in 2020 -- Karma was amazingly helpful and always answered our questions quickly and thoroughly. He also helped us get our initial airline ticket refund from Bhutan Airlines.

Rui Diogo  

Efficient and honest tour company in Bhutan

21-Nov-2019

Very efficient, very friendly, very good guide, 5 starts.. from Rui Diogo, Portugal

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Wednesday - Sunday

Oct 08, 2025 - Oct 19, 2025
$4550

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Bhutan Acorn Tours & Travel allows you to make 3 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 30 days before the start of the tour.

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Bhutan Acorn Tours & Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform bhutan acorn tours & travel, 30 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Bhutan Acorn Tours & Travel requires a minimum deposit of 50% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of bhutan acorn tours & travel charges.

    Up to 15 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 0% of booking price.

    At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 20% of booking price.

    At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.