12 Days Soi Yaksa Trek (Jomolhari Loop)

Arrive at Paro International Airport, where your guide will welcome you as soon as you step out of the arrival hall. Before we begin the journey to Thimphu, you’ll get your first glimpse of the Paro Valley—a place rich with history, sacred monasteries, and some of Bhutan’s most treasured landmarks. Towering above the valley is Mount Jomolhari (7,300m), whose glacial waters feed the Pa Chhu river winding through the fields and villages below. As it’s your first day at altitude, we’ll keep the pace light. We’ll then drive to Thimphu, check into your hotel, enjoy your first taste of Bhutanese cuisine, and, if time allows, explore a few gentle sights around the capital.

This morning, drive to Haa Valley via Chele La, one of Bhutan’s highest and most scenic passes. Enjoy sweeping views of Paro and Haa, and if the weather is kind, enjoy a picnic. In Haa, explore the valley and visit Katsho village and Katsho Lhakhang. Opened to tourists only in 2002, Haa remains one of Bhutan’s most untouched regions. As there are no tourist-standard hotels here, we return to Paro for the night.

After an early drive to Shana, your trek begins. The trail follows the river through thick forest and isolated farmhouses. As the valley narrows, the terrain becomes steeper and wilder. You’ll pass a junction leading to the historic Tremo La trading route to Tibet. Several wooden bridge crossings bring you to Thanthangka, tonight’s campsite. Weather permitting, this is where you may glimpse Mount Jomolhari for the first time.

The trail rises steadily towards an army camp, opening up as you leave the tree line behind and step into a world of sweeping alpine vistas. With every turn, the mountains seem to draw nearer, their snow-draped ridges catching the light in a way that feels almost otherworldly. Lunch is served at a humble yak herder’s camp—an unforgettable moment of warmth and simplicity against a backdrop of towering peaks. 

From here, it’s a gentle walk into Jangothang, your home for the next two nights. This high valley is one of the Himalayas’ most breathtaking campsites, framed by the majestic faces of Jomolhari and Jichu Drakye rising like guardians of the landscape. It’s the kind of place that reminds you why people come to Bhutan—to stand still, breathe deeply, and feel small in the best possible way.

Today is a rest and acclimatisation day. We take a short hike following the “trek high, sleep low” principle to help your body adjust. With snow-capped peaks, grazing yaks and sweeping meadows, Jangothang is one of the most beautiful campsites in the Himalayas.

Leaving camp, the trail leads to two river bridges; we cross the first and begin a sharp zigzag ascent, gaining about 300m quickly. The climb rewards you with majestic views of Jomolhari (7,315m), Jomolhari II (6,942m), and Jichu Drakye. A meadow with yak tents marks the end of the climb, after which the trail levels out. Camp tonight is by the first lake.

Today we cross the highest pass of the trek, so we begin early. Morning weather tends to be clear, offering better views. The steady climb to Bonte La is rewarded with a summit marked by cairns and prayer flags, along with panoramic Himalayan vistas. From here, descend into the stunning Soi Yaksa valley, framed by cliffs, waterfalls, and snowy peaks.

This dramatic stage offers views of glaciated peaks and yesterday’s valley. The walk covers around 10–11km with an ascent of about 700m. After passing a village, a steep climb leads to a pass draped in prayer flags. Looking back reveals the previous day’s route, while the other side opens towards tonight’s campsite. Follow a high ridge trail before gently descending to Thombu Camp, the second-highest campsite of the trek.

Today is a shorter walking day of 4.5–5 hours, with a small 180m ascent followed by a long descent of roughly 1,560m. Cross the valley through a swampy area before climbing steeply through rhododendrons to Thombu La. The ridge walk from here is one of the highlights of the entire trek—airy, panoramic and unforgettable. A final steep descent leads to the military helipad near the Bhutanese army camp, where your vehicle will be waiting. Drive back to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.

Enjoy a relaxed day exploring Thimphu. Visit cultural landmarks, browse local crafts, or simply unwind after the trek.

Today’s walk features gentle stretches with a few short climbs and switchbacks descending a dramatic cliff. The trail continues through bamboo forests and follows the mule track above the river until you reach Dodina. Your vehicle will meet you here for the short drive back to Thimphu.

Enjoy your final morning in this enchanting kingdom. After breakfast, proceed to the airport for your flight. May the trek leave you with lasting memories of Bhutan’s mountains, culture and warmth. We look forward to welcoming you—and your friends—back for another Himalayan adventure.