Views of high ridges and snow-capped peaks can be seen on all sides. At this altitude (about 4040 m) it is possible to see yaks and yak herders. Camp is beneath a ruined fortress at the base of Mount Jomolhari.

towards Mount Jomolhari and its subsidiary to the west, Jichu Drake to the north and unclaimed summits and ridges to the east.

Climb the hillside to the lakes of Tshophu (4380m) and continue high above the eastern side of the second lake across a scree slope to a crest. Descend into a hidden valley and climb steeply to Bhonte La at 4890m. From the pass the trail eventually switch-backs down to the Dhumzo Chhu and after you cross the river there is a short climb to a camp in a meadow at Chora at 3800m.

Crossing that stream, the trail heads up the hillside, dropping into a small side valley before emerging onto a ridge. Here the route turns south, ascending past a few huts to Takhung La (4520m). A short descent leads to Thombu Shong, with three yak herders’ huts. We camp at Thombu Shong at 4180m.

The trail then makes a steep descent, switch-backing down the ridge, finally reaching the helipad at Gunitsawa (2730m) from where your driver can meet you to drive to Thimphu.