Lunana Snowman Trek

22 Day(s)

Overview The Lunana Snowman Trek is also a challenging and breathtakingly beautiful trekking journey that traverses the remote and rugged landscapes of Bhutan, a Himalayan kingdom. Spanning approximately 200 miles, this trek renowns for its stunning vistas of towering peaks, pristine alpine lakes, and remote villages that offer a glimpse into traditional Bhutanese culture. Starting in Paro, the trek also winds through dense forests, ascending to high mountain passes that often exceed 16,000 feet in elevation. Trekkers get treatment with awe-inspiring views of snow-capped peaks, including some of the world's highest mountains. The trail crosses remote valleys like Laya and…

Trip Highlights

The Lunana Snowman Trek is one of the most challenging and rewarding treks in Bhutan. Here are some of the highlights of the trek:

Remote and rugged terrain: The Lunana Snowman Trek takes you through some of the most remote and rugged terrain in Bhutan. You’ll pass through high mountain passes, deep valleys, and beautiful glacial lakes.
Spectacular scenery: The trek offers spectacular views of the Himalayas, including Mount Jomolhari, which is one of the most sacred mountains in Bhutan. You’ll also see beautiful forests, meadows, and traditional villages.
Unique culture: The trek takes you through traditional villages where you can interact with the locals and learn about their unique culture and way of life. You’ll see traditional dress, handicrafts, and taste local cuisine.
High altitude challenge: The trek takes you to altitudes of over 5,000 meters (16,400 feet), which presents a challenge for even experienced trekkers. You’ll need to be in good physical condition and acclimatize properly to the high altitude.
Wildlife spotting: The Lunana Snowman Trek offers opportunities to spot wildlife such as the blue sheep, Himalayan black bear, snow leopard, and musk deer.

Overall, the Lunana Snowman Trek is a challenging and rewarding adventure that takes you through some of the most beautiful and remote terrain in Bhutan, providing a unique cultural experience and a true test of physical endurance.

Itinerary

Upon arrival in Paro, you’ll be met by your tour operator and transferred to your hotel. You’ll have some time to explore Paro and visit the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery.

After breakfast, you’ll drive to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. Along the way, you’ll stop at the Tamchog Lhakhang iron bridge and the Tachogang Lhakhang temple. In Thimphu, you’ll visit the National Memorial Chorten and the giant Buddha statue.

You’ll drive to Punakha, the ancient capital of Bhutan. Along the way, you’ll cross the Dochula Pass, which offers spectacular views of the Himalayas. You’ll visit the Punakha Dzong, one of the most beautiful and historic fortresses in Bhutan.

You’ll drive to Gasa, where you’ll begin your trek. You’ll pass through beautiful villages and terraced farmland, and eventually reach the hot springs of Gasa.

You’ll begin your trek today, starting with a steep climb to the Bari La Pass (3,810m/12,500ft). You’ll then descend to the Koena campsite, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

You’ll continue your trek through beautiful rhododendron forests and reach the village of Laya. Laya is known for its unique culture and traditional dress.

Today is a rest day in Laya, which will give you a chance to explore the village and interact with the locals. You can also visit the Laya School and learn about Bhutan’s education system.

You’ll leave Laya and begin your climb to the Sinche La Pass (5,005m/16,417ft), the highest point on the trek. You’ll then descend to the Rodophu campsite, which is located by a beautiful glacial lake.

You’ll cross the daunting Gangla Karchung Pass (5,120m/16,800ft), which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. You’ll then descend to the Narethang campsite, which is located on a beautiful meadow.

You’ll continue your descent through beautiful valleys and forests and reach the Tarina campsite, which is located by a beautiful river.

You’ll follow the trail along the river and reach the village of Woche, where you can visit the village temple and interact with the locals.

You’ll pass through beautiful forests and reach the village of Lhedi, which is known for its handicrafts and textiles. You can visit the local market and shop for souvenirs.

You’ll follow the trail through beautiful valleys and reach the village of Thanza, which is located in a wide valley surrounded by snow-capped peaks.

Today is a rest day in Thanza, which will give you a chance to explore the village and interact with the locals. You can also visit the local monastery

Today’s trek begins with a steep climb from Thanza to the top of the ridge. From there, you’ll have a stunning view of the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas. You’ll then descend to the beautiful lakes of Tshochena, where you’ll camp for the night.

Today, you’ll cross the Gophu La pass at an altitude of 5,340 meters (17,520 feet). The pass offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, and you may even spot some blue sheep or musk deer. You’ll then descend to Jichu Dramo, where you’ll camp for the night.

Today’s trek begins with a climb to the Rinchen Zoe La pass at an altitude of 5,320 meters (17,450 feet). From there, you’ll descend to the valley of Chukarpo and camp for the night.

Today, you’ll climb up to the top of the Tampela pass at an altitude of 4,500 meters (14,760 feet). From there, you’ll have stunning views of the surrounding mountains, including Mount Jomolhari. You’ll then descend to the beautiful lake of Thampe Tsho, where you’ll camp for the night.

Today’s trek is relatively easy, as you’ll mostly be walking downhill. You’ll pass through several traditional villages and beautiful forests before reaching the campsite at Maurothang.

Today’s trek takes you through beautiful forests and traditional villages. You’ll cross the Nikachu Chazam bridge, which is the end point of the Lunana Snowman Trek. From there, you’ll be picked up and driven to Punakha.

Today, you’ll visit the famous Punakha Dzong, which is one of the most beautiful and historic dzongs in Bhutan. After lunch, you’ll drive back to Paro, where you can relax and explore the town.

Today is the final day of your Lunana Snowman Trek. You’ll be transferred to the airport for your departure flight.

What's Included

Trekking permits: You’ll need a trekking permit to enter the restricted areas of Bhutan. Your tour operator will obtain the necessary permits on your behalf.
Guided trek: A local guide will accompany you on the trek to ensure your safety and provide you with information about the local culture and environment.
Camping equipment: Your tour operator will provide all camping equipment, including tents, sleeping bags, and sleeping mats.
Meals: Your tour operator will provide all meals during the trek, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Support staff: A team of local staff, including cooks, porters, and horsemen, will assist you during the trek.
Transportation: Your tour operator will arrange transportation to and from the trekking trailhead.

What's Excluded

International airfare: You’ll need to arrange your own international flights to and from Bhutan.
Travel insurance: You’ll need to obtain travel insurance that covers trekking at high altitudes and medical emergencies.
Personal gear: You’ll need to bring your own personal trekking gear, including hiking boots, warm clothing, and a backpack.
Personal expenses: You’ll need to cover any personal expenses, including souvenirs, snacks, and drinks.
Tips: It is customary to tip your guide and support staff at the end of the trek.

Trip Information

The Lunana Snowmen Trek is a challenging high-altitude trek in Bhutan that takes you through some of the most remote and beautiful landscapes in the world. Here’s some information to help you plan your trip:

Duration: The trek is typically 25-28 days long, including travel time to and from Bhutan.

Difficulty: The Lunana Snowmen Trek is considered one of the most challenging treks in Bhutan. It involves crossing several high mountain passes, including the highest pass in Bhutan (Gangla Karchung Pass at 5,120m/16,800ft). The trek also takes you to very remote areas where you may not see other trekkers for several days.

Best time to go: The best time to do the Lunana Snowmen Trek is from mid-June to mid-October, which is Bhutan’s trekking season. During this time, the weather is generally dry and sunny, and the trails are less muddy.

Permits: You’ll need to obtain a trekking permit from the Bhutanese government to do the Lunana Snowmen Trek. You’ll also need a Bhutanese tour operator to arrange your trekking logistics and guide you along the way.

Equipment: You’ll need to bring all your own trekking gear, including a warm sleeping bag, waterproof hiking boots, warm layers, a good quality backpack, and a waterproof jacket and pants. You’ll also need to bring any personal medications, as there are no medical facilities along the trek.

Accommodation: During the trek, you’ll be camping in tents. Your tour operator will provide all camping gear and meals, and a team of local staff will set up and take down your camp each day.

Cost: The cost of the Lunana Snowmen Trek varies depending on the tour operator and the specific itinerary you choose. Expect to pay between $5,000 and $8,000 per person for a fully organized trek, including permits, equipment, food, and guides.

Overall, the Lunana Snowmen Trek is an incredible adventure that will take you through some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world. It’s a challenging trek that requires a high level of fitness and stamina, but the rewards are well worth the effort.

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