Yaktsa Trek is a scenic Himalayan trek in Bhutan that offers stunning views of Mount Jomolhari, peaceful alpine meadows, and traditional yak-herding villages. Known for its moderate difficulty, it combines natural beauty with authentic cultural encounters along high mountain trails.
The Yaktsa Trek, also known as the Jomolhari Yaksa Trek, is a spectacular 7-day high-altitude trek in Bhutan that offers close-up views of Mount Jomolhari (7,314m). Traversing pristine alpine landscapes, remote yak herder camps, and two high mountain passes (Bhonte La and Takhung La), this trek combines natural beauty with cultural encounters. It’s a moderately strenuous route ideal for trekkers seeking a shorter Himalayan adventure without compromising on scenery or challenge.
Tergo-La Trek is recently introduced and hardly trek by the guest. Its the best chance to experience this route before the trek become popular.
The trek begins at Drukgyel Dzong, a historic fortress located at the end of the Paro Valley. From here, you follow the Paro Chu (river) through wide open farmland and pine forests. The trail is gentle and scenic, passing traditional farmhouses, small settlements, and apple orchards. After approximately 5–6 hours, you reach Sharna Zampa, a pleasant campsite near the river, surrounded by woods.
This is one of the longest trekking days, taking about 7–8 hours. The trail continues along the river through a dense forest of oaks, fir, and rhododendron. You’ll cross several bridges and gain altitude steadily. As you approach Soi Thangkha, glimpses of Mount Jomolhari appear in the distance. The campsite is in an open meadow beside a river, offering a peaceful rest spot after a long day.
Today’s walk is shorter and more relaxed, lasting 5–6 hours. The trail gradually ascends through yak herders’ camps and small villages, including Dangochang. You’ll enjoy increasingly stunning views of the snow-capped Himalayas, especially Mount Jomolhari. Arriving at Jangothang Base Camp—one of the most beautiful campsites in Bhutan—you’ll be greeted by sweeping alpine scenery and dramatic mountain vistas.
This day is reserved for acclimatization and light exploration. You can take short hikes to Jomolhari Glacier, Tshophu Lakes, or nearby ridges that offer panoramic views of Jomolhari (7,314m), Jichu Drake, and Tshering Gang. The goal is to let your body adjust to the altitude in preparation for the high passes ahead while enjoying the high-altitude wilderness.
This is a challenging and rewarding day, typically taking 6–7 hours. You ascend steeply to Bhonte La Pass (4,890m)—the highest point on the trek—where you’re rewarded with awe-inspiring panoramic views. From the pass, descend through yak pastures and rhododendron forests to Soi Yaksa. The campsite is nestled in a serene valley below towering cliffs.
The trail begins with a gentle climb and then a steeper ascent to Takhung La Pass (4,520m), offering scenic views of surrounding peaks. This is a shorter trekking day (5–6 hours), allowing time to enjoy the natural surroundings. After crossing the pass, you descend slightly into a broad, grassy valley to camp at Thombu Shong, a beautiful alpine meadow.
The final day of trekking involves a steep descent through forested hillsides, yak herder trails, and into lower altitudes. You’ll pass through mixed vegetation and small settlements before reaching Gunitsawa village, where the trek officially ends. From here, you’ll drive (~2 hours) to Thimphu or Paro, marking the end of the trek.
