The Snowman Trek in Bhutan is considered the toughest trekking in India and Bhutan and one of the most challenging high-altitude treks in the world. With an average elevation of over 4,500m, a duration of 24-28 days, and zero access to modern facilities, it is a test of physical endurance, mental strength, and survival skills.
✔ Extremely High Altitude: The trek crosses 11 mountain passes over 4,500m, with the highest point at 5,470m (Gophu La Pass).
✔ Length & Duration: Covering over 300km in nearly a month, with no shortcut exits in case of emergencies.
✔ Isolation & No Rescue Services: Once you start the trek, there are no roads, villages, or emergency evacuation points until you finish.
✔ Harsh Weather Conditions: Frequent snowstorms, sub-zero temperatures, and high-altitude winds make it unpredictable.
✔ Physical & Mental Challenge: Unlike Everest Base Camp, which has teahouses, the Snowman Trek requires trekkers to be self-sufficient, carrying food, camping gear, and medical supplies.
✔ Uncharted Territory: The trek ventures deep into Bhutan’s most remote areas, passing through places that are rarely seen or photographed.
The Snowman Trek begins in Paro and ends in Bumthang, passing through Laya, Lunana, and some of Bhutan’s most isolated villages.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the route with exclusive insights:
Start at Paro (2,200m) and spend time acclimatizing before the trek.
Visit the iconic Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest Monastery), a 900m cliffside monastery where Guru Rinpoche is said to have meditated for three months.
Hidden Secret: There’s a small meditation cave inside where only a few monks are allowed to enter.
Jangothang Base Camp (4,080m) offers a majestic view of Mt. Jomolhari (7,326m).
Spot blue sheep, Himalayan griffons, and golden eagles.
Secret Detour: A small monastery near Jangothang is rarely visited but offers a spectacular sunrise view over the Himalayas.
Altitude: 3,800m
✔ Meet the Layap people, a semi-nomadic tribe with unique bamboo hats and yak-wool robes.
✔ Visit Laya Monastery, a hidden gem rarely mentioned in travel guides.
✔ Learn about traditional medicine made from high-altitude herbs used by monks for centuries.
Altitude: 4,000m+
✔ One of the most remote villages in the world, accessible only by this trek.
✔ Trekkers pass through glacial lakes, unmarked caves, and ancient Dzongs (fortresses).
✔ Secret Buddhist Sites: Some caves here were used by monks who lived in complete isolation for decades.
The toughest climb, battling thin oxygen levels, cold (-25°C), and blizzards.
✔ Views of Kangkar Puensum (7,570m), the highest unclimbed peak in the world.
✔ Hidden Danger: Many trekkers report experiencing altitude-induced hallucinations at this point.
Descend to the Bumthang Valley (2,800m).
✔ Visit Kurjey Lhakhang, where Guru Rinpoche left his body imprint in a cave.
✔ Soak in the Bumthang hot springs, known for their healing properties after a month of trekking.
Yeti Footprints? Many trekkers have reported large footprints in the snow, fueling local beliefs that Bhutan’s mythical snowman (Migoi) roams these valleys.
Secret Herbal Medicine: Bhutanese guides use a rare high-altitude herb that prevents altitude sickness—a well-kept secret of Himalayan medicine.
Ancient Hidden Monasteries: Some monasteries along the route are not listed on maps and house monks who have lived in isolation for over 50 years.
Ancient Yak Trading Routes: The trail follows an old yak trade route between Bhutan and Tibet that was used for centuries before being abandoned.
✔ Best Time to Trek: October – November (stable weather, clear skies).
✔ Physical Training: High-altitude simulation, strength training, and endurance running.
✔ Packing Essentials:
The Snowman Trek is not just a trekking challenge—it’s an elite badge of honor in the mountaineering world. It is an unparalleled adventure that pushes you to the limits while revealing the untouched beauty and mystery of Bhutan. Few have attempted it. Even fewer have conquered it.
Bhutan offers unspoiled landscapes for nature enthusiasts—pristine forests, snow-capped peaks, and vibrant rhododendron valleys. Hiking trails like the Druk Path Trek unveil breathtaking panoramas. The country’s strict environmental policies ensure that its natural beauty remains untouched.
Follow Us
Terms & Conditions | Privacy Policy | © Tripjyada Tourism. All rights reserved.
GSTIN : 19AATFT6367Q1ZS
9558515518 / 9083701454 / 8927169005
info@tripjyada.com
Head Office : Shivmandir, Siliguri, Darjeeling - 734011 Corporate Office : 197, Jodhpur Gardens, Kolkata - 700045