15 Days 14 Nights Snowman Run Bhutan

Toughest ultramarathon across Bhutan’s remote wilderness.

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Paro Valley

Day 1: Arrival in Paro

Arrive at Paro International Airport and meet your guide. Visit Paro Dzong and Ta Dzong National Museum to glimpse Bhutanese history and art. Savor traditional Bhutanese cuisine and relax amid scenic Himalayan peaks.

Prepare mentally and physically for the challenging journey ahead.



Chele La Pass

Day 2: Paro to Haa via Chele La Pass

Drive over Chele La Pass, offering panoramic views of Haa and Paro valleys. Stop at Katsho Village to explore Katsho Lhakhang, a quaint local temple. Return to Paro for dinner.

Enjoy a calm evening before the upcoming high-altitude activities.



Tiger’s Nest

Day 3: Hike to Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest)

Embark on a moderate hike to Taktsang Monastery, perched on cliffs above the valley. Observe fluttering prayer flags and enjoy lunch with a panoramic view.

Descend to visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples, reflecting on the kingdom's spiritual essence.



Chele La Preparation

Day 4: Paro to Chele La & Prep for Snowman

Return to Chele La Pass for acclimatization and scenic exploration. Light trekking along nearby trails helps prepare for the ultra-marathon.

Witness pristine landscapes and alpine flora while adjusting to high-altitude conditions. Evening briefing with your guide about the Snowman Run route and preparations.



Snowman Run Start

Day 5: Snowman Run Start: Paro to Chelela Base

Begin the Snowman Run from Paro, passing through pine and rhododendron forests and traditional Bhutanese settlements.

Overnight at a high-altitude lodge near Chele La, allowing rest before higher elevations.



Haa Valley

Day 6: Chele La to Haa Valley

Continue traversing mountainous terrain and high passes, observing native wildlife along the way.

Cross alpine meadows and glacial streams, reaching Haa Valley in the late afternoon. Explore the valley briefly and rest for the night in a local lodge, soaking in the breathtaking Himalayan surroundings.



Laya Village

Day 7: Haa to Laya

Journey toward Laya, the remote high-altitude village, through narrow valleys and pristine forests.

Spot local flora and fauna, with opportunities for photography. Overnight in a traditional lodge, preparing for the ultra-challenging sections ahead.



Lunana

Day 8: Laya to Lunana

Traverse snow-clad paths, glacial streams, and rugged terrains toward Lunana, encountering nomadic settlements.

Observe yak herders and their flocks. Overnight in local guesthouses, experiencing traditional Bhutanese hospitality in one of the kingdom’s most remote regions.



Lunana Exploration

Day 9: Lunana Exploration & Altitude Acclimatization

Spend the day exploring Lunana’s glacier-fed rivers and alpine pastures.

Acclimatize further to extreme altitudes in preparation for the most demanding sections of the Snowman Run. Enjoy rare Himalayan wildlife sightings, including blue sheep and high-altitude birds. Evening discussions with guides focus on safety and route strategies.



Lingshi

Day 10: Snowman Run: Lunana to Lingshi

Commence the high-altitude segment of the Snowman Run toward Lingshi, crossing passes over 5,000 meters.

Witness awe-inspiring glaciers and mountain vistas, testing endurance and mental strength. Overnight stay in basic lodges, emphasizing rest and recovery amid pristine Himalayan isolation.



Laya Backtrack

Day 11: Lingshi to Laya Backtrack

Run through rugged terrain and alpine valleys, gradually descending toward Laya.

Scenic vistas include cascading waterfalls and highland plateaus. Interact with local villagers and observe traditional customs. Evening rest ensures recovery before the next stage.



Gangtey Valley

Day 12: Laya to Gangtey (Phobjikha Valley)

Drive to Phobjikha Valley, the winter sanctuary of Black-necked Cranes.

Explore the valley’s serene landscapes and visit Gangtey Monastery. Relax after the ultra-challenging sections of the run, enjoying alpine meadows and spotting local birdlife.



Punakha Dzong

Day 13: Gangtey to Punakha

Descend toward Punakha, traversing scenic valleys and rivers.

Explore Punakha Dzong, Chhimi Lhakhang, and the Pho Chhu Suspension Bridge, appreciating Bhutanese architectural mastery. Reflect on your journey so far amid lush landscapes and historical sites.



Thimphu

Day 14: Punakha to Paro via Thimphu

Drive back to Paro, stopping in Thimphu for sightseeing.

Visit Buddha Point, National Memorial Chorten, and Simply Bhutan Cultural Center. Capture photos and enjoy local shopping before continuing to Paro for your final overnight stay.



Paro Airport

Day 15: Departure from Paro

Catch your early flight from Paro International Airport.

Reflect on completing the Snowman Run, high-altitude challenges overcome, encounters with Bhutanese culture, and breathtaking Himalayan vistas. Take home memories of the world’s toughest ultramarathon and the kingdom’s pristine wilderness.