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INDIA: Himalaya: Ladakh & Kashmir
Snow Man Laya Trek Bhutan, Paro – Lunana Region - Nikkachu
• 29 days / 28 nights • 23-day trek with 4-9 hrs. walking time / day • physically very demanding •
• 11 pass crossings between 4320 and maximum 5115 m above sea level •
• trekking path, open areas, glaciers, scree slopes • Accompanied by: trekking guide & team •
• 22 overnight stays in the tent 3960 m above sea level •
Introduction
Already when you are approaching Paro in western Bhutan by flight you can see, if you have a little luck with the weather, what makes the famous Snow Man Trek so appealing to passionate travelers: the high mountain scenery of the Himalayas captivates with powerful beauty, and produces the profound desire to experience these mountains oneself, with all ones senses. The not quite 40,000 km² small kingdom of Bhutan lies between Northeast India and Tibet (China), which is why it is since centuries linking major trade routes.
Earlier it was among others the members of the "Laya", a semi-nomadic tribe living here, whose name also means "snow", who transported all kinds of goods over peaks and through valleys. We will follow during this trekking a part of their routes, which are leading among others over eight of the highest passes in the world. Following an initial acclimatization period, which also gives the opportunity to visit some important sightseeing places, finally the Snow Man Trek starts on day three of our stay, which leads in the 24 days over a total of eleven passes, and a maximum height of 5200 m above sea level.
Fitness and health are basic requirements for this trekking. The overcoming of the physical challenge will be rewarded with the experience of unique mountain vistas, pristine forest landscapes, crystal clear mountain lakes and mystical waterfalls, the chance of sighting some very rare animal species such as blue sheep (bharal) or even snow leopards, as well as the encounter with the inhabitants of this peaceful kingdom, in which the "Gross National Happiness" has been placed above economic growth.
Highlights
- Fascinating mountain world with breathtaking panoramic views.
- Pristine forests, picturesque mountain lakes and waterfalls
- Sighting of rare animal species, impressive biodiversity and encounters with local people like the semi-nomadic Laya.
- National Museum
- Taktsang Monastery (Tiger's Nest) from the 17th century, built on a 900 m high rock face.
- Punakha Dzong and National Library in Thimphu.
Trekking Route
Day 1 – 2 : Arrival at the international airport in Paro, sightseeing. Overnight at hotel.
Day 3 - 5 : Trek from Shana to Jangothang. Overnight in tent.
Day 6 : Rest and acclimatisation day at 4115 m above sea level. Overnight in tent.
Day 7 - 12 : Trek from Jangothang to Laya. Overnight in tent.
Day 13 : Rest and acclimatisation day at 3880 m above sea level. Overnight in tent.
Day 14 - 19 : Trek from Laya to Thanza. Overnight in tent.
Day 20 : Rest and acclimatisation day at 4060 m above sea level. Overnight in tent.
Day 21 - 26 : Trek from Thanza to Nikachu. Overnight in tent.
Day 27 - 28 : Drive from Nikachu via Punakha to Thimphu, sightseeing. Overnight at hotel.
Day 29 : Drive to Paro and flight home or to next destination.
Best Travel Period
For holidays in Bhutan, the spring months are suitable, when nature awakens to colorful life, on the other hand the fall, when the monsoon has left the country again. The Snow Man Trek we follow in the months of
April, May and June, as well as in September and October
Tags: paro trek, bhutan trek, himalayas, snow man trek, sightseeing, monastery visit, bhutanese culture