The Sacred Peaks Odyssey is a spiritually enriching trek that takes you to some of Bhutan’s most revered mountains and valleys. Beginning in Paro, this journey leads you through stunning landscapes, including lush forests, serene lakes, and high mountain passes, with the awe-inspiring Mt. Jomolhari serving as your backdrop. Along the way, you’ll explore sacred monasteries and ancient pilgrimage routes, while also acclimatizing at Jomolhari Basecamp.
Moreover, this trek is not just about physical endurance; it is about deeply connecting with Bhutan’s spiritual heritage. Each day brings unique insights into the local culture, from interacting with yak herders to visiting remote villages. Ultimately, the combination of breathtaking scenery and Bhutan’s rich spiritual history makes this trek an unforgettable experience.
Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, our representative will transfer you to your hotel. After settling in, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, a 7th-century temple and sacred pilgrimage site. Surrounded by prayer wheels and gardens, it is believed to have been built to subdue a demoness obstructing Buddhism.
In the evening, stroll through Paro town, exploring markets, traditional shops, and cozy cafés. Enjoy Bhutanese tea and local snacks before returning to your hotel for a restful night. Overnight in Paro.
After an early breakfast, drive through the beautiful Bhutanese countryside to Shana, the start of your trek. The route offers views of lush valleys, terraced fields, and charming villages.
Upon arrival, meet your trekking crew and begin the journey through forests of pine, oak, and rhododendron, following the Paro River. You may spot wildlife like blue sheep or golden langurs.
As the trail opens up, enjoy stunning mountain vistas. By late afternoon, reach your campsite at Thangthangka. If clear, catch a glimpse of Mount Jomolhari (7,314m). After setting up camp, enjoy a hearty dinner and relax under the stars. Overnight in a tented camp.
After breakfast, continue your trek deeper into the highlands, passing scenic meadows and yak herder settlements. The herders, in traditional attire, tend their yaks during summer, offering a glimpse into their nomadic lifestyle. You may have the chance to interact with them and learn about their daily routines.
As you ascend, the landscape becomes more alpine, with rocky outcrops, wildflowers, and clear streams. The towering peaks of Mount Jomolhari and Jichu Drake come into view as you reach Jangothang, the basecamp at 4,080 meters. Take in the spectacular scenery before settling into camp for the night. Overnight at Jangothang.
Today is dedicated to acclimatization and exploration around Jomolhari Basecamp. After breakfast, set out on a trek to the sacred lakes of Tserim Kang, a beautiful and serene area that lies at the foot of the glaciers. The shimmering turquoise lakes are surrounded by high ridges and offer stunning reflections of the surrounding peaks. As you explore, keep an eye out for wildlife, such as Himalayan blue sheep, marmots, and possibly even the elusive snow leopard that roams these mountains.
In the afternoon, you can choose to hike up one of the nearby ridges for a more panoramic view of the mountains, or simply enjoy the tranquility of the basecamp. This day of rest and exploration will help your body adjust to the high altitude, preparing you for the challenging treks ahead. Return to camp in the evening for a warm meal and a peaceful night under the stars. Overnight in camp.
Today’s trek is one of the most exhilarating sections of the journey as you cross several high-altitude passes. After an early breakfast, begin your ascent towards the Nyile La Pass (4,890 meters), which offers panoramic views of Jomolhari, Tsherim Gang, and other towering Himalayan peaks. The climb is steep, but the reward is the breathtaking scenery from the pass. From here, descend into the Lingshi Valley, a remote and picturesque region surrounded by rolling hills and dotted with small villages.
Upon arrival in Lingshi, you will visit its ancient monastery, which has stood for centuries as a symbol of the region’s spiritual significance. The monastery is also a part of Bhutan’s early defense system, having played a role in safeguarding the kingdom from Tibetan invasions. You’ll have time to explore the village and learn about the traditional way of life in this remote region. Overnight in camp near Lingshi.
After breakfast, continue your trek to the charming Chebisa Village, nestled in a peaceful valley. The trail takes you through rolling hills, alpine meadows, and bird-filled forests. As you approach the village, you’ll be greeted by the sight of Chebisa Waterfall, cascading down the mountainside and creating a tranquil atmosphere.
Chebisa is a small village with traditional Bhutanese homes, where you can observe the simple lifestyle of the locals. After setting up camp, take time to explore the village, interact with residents, or relax by the waterfall. This is one of the most serene and scenic campsites on the trek. Overnight in camp at Chebisa.
On your final full day of trekking, retrace your steps towards Shana, enjoying the changing landscapes as you descend from the high mountains. The trail takes you through alpine meadows, dense forests, and rivers sparkling in the sunlight. As you descend, the temperatures rise, and the greenery becomes more abundant. Along the way, enjoy sweeping views of the valleys and distant mountain ranges that have been with you throughout the journey.
The day ends at your campsite in Shana, where you can relax and reflect on the incredible experiences of the trek. Overnight in camp at Shana.
After breakfast, bid farewell to your trekking team and drive back to Paro, where you’ll have the option to either spend the day exploring more of the town or relaxing at your hotel. If time permits, you might want to visit Rinpung Dzong, another iconic fortress in Paro, or take a short hike to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang Lhakhang), one of Bhutan’s most famous landmarks. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner with your group, celebrating the successful completion of your trek.
The next morning, you will be transferred to Paro International Airport for your departure flight, carrying with you unforgettable memories of your Bhutan adventure.
