The Sacred Peaks Odyssey is a spiritually enriching trek that takes you to some of Bhutan’s most revered mountains and valleys. Starting in Paro, this trek leads you through stunning landscapes, including forests, lakes, and high mountain passes, with the awe-inspiring Mt. Jomolhari as your backdrop. You’ll explore sacred monasteries and ancient pilgrimage routes while acclimatizing at Jomolhari Basecamp.
This trek is not just about physical endurance but also about connecting with Bhutan’s spiritual heritage. Each day offers unique insights into the local culture, from interacting with yak herders to visiting remote villages. The combination of breathtaking scenery and Bhutan’s deep spiritual history makes this trek an unforgettable experience.
Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, you will be greeted by our representative and transferred to your hotel for check-in. After settling in, embark on your first cultural exploration in Bhutan with a visit to Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest and most sacred temples in the kingdom, dating back to the 7th century. This serene temple, surrounded by prayer wheels and beautiful gardens, is a spiritual haven and an important pilgrimage site for Bhutanese Buddhists. It is believed that Kyichu Lhakhang was built to pin down a demoness who was obstructing the spread of Buddhism, and visiting this site offers a unique glimpse into Bhutan’s spiritual heritage.
In the evening, take a leisurely stroll through Paro town, a picturesque valley town known for its blend of ancient architecture and modern cafes. You can explore the local market, where handicrafts, traditional garments, and souvenirs are sold, or visit a café to enjoy some Bhutanese tea and local snacks. As the sun sets over the valley, return to your hotel for a restful night. Overnight stay in a comfortable hotel in Paro.
After an early breakfast, embark on a scenic drive towards Shana, the starting point of your trek. The drive will take you through the stunning Bhutanese countryside, with lush green valleys, terraced fields, and quaint villages along the way. Upon arrival in Shana, you will meet your trekking crew and begin your journey on foot, heading through forests of towering pine, oak, and rhododendron trees. The trail runs parallel to the Paro River, offering peaceful river views and the chance to spot local wildlife such as blue sheep or golden langurs.
As you trek deeper into the valley, the forest gradually opens up, revealing more expansive vistas of the surrounding mountains. By late afternoon, you’ll reach your campsite at Thangthangka, a beautiful location nestled amidst the mountains. If the weather is clear, you may catch your first glimpse of the majestic Mount Jomolhari (7,314 meters), Bhutan’s most sacred peak. After setting up camp, enjoy a hearty dinner and relax under the starry sky. Overnight in a tented camp.
Following breakfast at camp, continue your trek as the trail leads deeper into the highlands, moving through scenic meadows and passing yak herder settlements. The herders, dressed in traditional attire, tend to their yaks in the summer months, offering a fascinating insight into the nomadic way of life in Bhutan’s mountains. You may have opportunities to interact with these local communities, learning about their traditions and daily routines.
As you ascend higher, the landscape becomes more alpine, with rocky outcrops, wildflowers, and crystal-clear streams meandering through the valley. The surrounding mountains grow more imposing as you approach Jangothang, the basecamp of Mount Jomolhari, located at an altitude of 4,080 meters. Upon arrival, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of Mount Jomolhari and Jichu Drake, towering snow-capped peaks that dominate the horizon. Take some time to absorb the breathtaking scenery before settling into your camp for the night. Overnight in camp 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, located in a peaceful valley known for its natural beauty. The trail takes you through rolling hills, alpine meadows, and forests filled with birdsong. As you approach the village, you will be greeted by the sight of the Chebisa Waterfall, a stunning natural feature that cascades down the mountainside, creating a tranquil atmosphere.
Chebisa is a small village with traditional Bhutanese homes, where you can observe the simple and serene lifestyle of the villagers. After setting up camp, take some time to explore the village, interact with the locals, or simply relax by the waterfall. This is one of the most peaceful and scenic campsites on the trek. Overnight in camp at Chebisa.
On your final full day of trekking, you will retrace your steps towards Shana, enjoying the ever-changing landscapes as you descend from the high mountains. The trail takes you back through alpine meadows, dense forests, and alongside rivers that glisten in the sunlight. As you descend, the temperatures grow warmer, and the greenery becomes more abundant. Along the way, take in the sweeping views of the valleys and distant mountain ranges that have been your constant companions throughout the journey.
The day ends at your campsite in Shana, where you can relax and reminisce about the incredible experiences you’ve had on this 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.
