What Makes the Pumola Hike Special
The Pumola Hike, sometimes known as Pomola Hike, weaves through some of Bhutan’s most quintessential mountain scenery — tranquil forests of blue pine, open meadows, and grazing yaks along the way. This trail offers a balance of gentle adventure and serene beauty, rewarding hikers with glimpses of the highlands that stretch between Thimphu and Paro.
Along the route, you may encounter herds of horses or yaks and experience the pristine calm that defines Bhutan’s countryside. The hike culminates at Pomola Pass, where several trails diverge, allowing trekkers to choose different return routes or connecting paths.
The Pumola Hike is one of Thimphu Valley’s most scenic high-altitude day hikes, offering you a rewarding climb to one of the best panoramic viewpoints near the capital. Sitting at around 3,800 metres, Pumola Pass delivers sweeping Himalayan vistas on clear days — including distant views of sacred peaks such as Gangkar Puensum, the world’s highest unclimbed mountain.
What makes this hike stand out is the dramatic sense of elevation gain and the feeling of journeying from dense forest into open alpine landscape within just a few hours. Compared to the gentler monastery walks around Thimphu, Pumola feels more adventurous and remote, yet it remains accessible as a half-day or full-day excursion.
About the Pumola Trail
The Pumola Hike departs from the upper Motithang area, with the trailhead situated just above the Takin Reserve near a local tea shop. As the path ascends through dense pine and juniper forests, hikers will quickly notice the cooling temperatures and the thinning air of the higher altitude.
From there, the route winds through stands of blue pine and rhododendron forest, following a river valley below Phajoding. The mix of wildlife and natural beauty makes this one of the area’s most scenic forest hikes.
The path climbs steadily along well-worn forest tracks, occasionally opening to viewpoints overlooking the Thimphu Valley. Early sections are moderate and shaded, making for a comfortable warm-up. As you gain altitude, the vegetation gradually transitions, and the forest begins to thin.
This path is also frequented by horse caravans and yak herders, so it’s common to meet pack animals along the way. Allow them to pass safely — they’re used to travelers but can nudge anyone standing too close to the edge of the trail. Because of the regular animal traffic, the ground can get muddy, but the footprints make the trail easy to follow.
Midway through the hike, prayer flags begin to appear more frequently, fluttering along ridgelines and marking the sacred nature of the route. The climb becomes more exposed and slightly steeper as you approach the higher elevations. Take your time here — the altitude is the main challenge rather than the terrain itself.
Near the top, the trail emerges onto the windswept Pumola Pass. On clear days, this is where the magic happens. Snow-capped Himalayan peaks stretch across the horizon, while deep valleys fall away beneath you. The viewpoint feels wild, open, and immensely rewarding after the steady climb.
After crossing a small creek, you’ll reach a wide clearing with a large “picnic rock” in the center — a perfect spot for a break or lunch. Continue along the left side of the creek, following whichever branch of the path feels clearest. The track occasionally splits and rejoins, so there’s little risk of getting lost; if unsure, simply keep heading upward until the trail reappears.
At Pomola Pass, marked by a chorten, you’ll find several route options:
Right: leads to a gompa and connects with the Phajoding trail.
Straight ahead: continues toward Paro, running roughly parallel to the Druk Path (some horsemen complete this route in a day).
Left: loops back toward Thimphu Buddha Point.
Choose your route based on time, weather, and stamina — all are scenic but vary in difficulty and duration.
Most hikers spend time soaking in the views, taking photographs, and enjoying the crisp mountain air before descending via the same route.
What You’ll Love About This Hike
One of the best high viewpoints near Thimphu
Possible distant views of Gangkar Puensum on clear days
Beautiful transition from pine forest to alpine ridge
Dramatic prayer flag-lined ridgelines
A true sense of Himalayan elevation without multi-day trekking
Ideal for active travellers seeking a rewarding day hike
Pumola Hike Tips
Start early — clouds often build by afternoon at higher elevations
Acclimatise in Thimphu for at least a day before attempting
Bring plenty of water, snacks, and sun protection
Wear layers — it can be windy and cold near the pass
Hiking poles can help on the descent
Portions of the trail pass near Royal property. Do not cross fences or shortcuts, even if they seem convenient, as these areas are restricted and patrolled by Royal Guards.
Getting to the Pumola Trail
Starting Point: Sangaygang (BBS Tower) / upper Motithang area. The trailhead is located above the Takin Reserve in Thimphu, near a small roadside tea shop.
Travel Time from Thimphu City Centre: 15–20 minutes by car
Make It Part of Your Bhutan Journey
The Pumola Hike is perfect if you want to experience Bhutan’s high mountain scenery without committing to a multi-day trek. It pairs beautifully with other Thimphu highlights such as Buddha Dordenma, Motithang Takin Preserve, or a relaxed evening in the capital.
For travellers seeking bigger views and thinner air, Pumola delivers one of the most memorable day hikes in western Bhutan.
Here are some popular Bhutan tours where you can include this Pumola Hike:
