Short trek to Tshoka and Dzongri
Day one climbs from Yuksom through forest and over the Prek Chu bridges to Sachen and on to Tshoka at about 3,000 m. Day two passes Phedang through rhododendron forest to Dzongri at about 4,000 m. A dawn walk to Dzongri Top shows the range from Kabru to Pandim at close range. The return follows the same trail.
This is a serious high-altitude trek despite its short length. It must be done with a registered guide and park permits, and the jump in height from Tshoka to Dzongri can bring on altitude sickness. Many groups add a rest day at Dzongri.
Questions travellers ask
Good to know
How hard is the Dzongri trek
It is moderate to hard. Days are 5–7 hours of steady climbing, and you gain over 2,000 m in two days, which is fast. Fitness helps, but altitude is the real challenge. Walk slowly, drink plenty of water, and turn back if headache, nausea or breathlessness at rest get worse. A rest day at Dzongri is wise.
Can I do the Dzongri trek in winter
Some agencies run Dzongri in December and early January, when skies are clear but nights fall well below freezing and snow may cover the trail. It needs proper winter kit and an experienced guide. The trek is generally closed in the monsoon from June to September. Check current status before you travel.
Where do trekkers sleep on the way to Dzongri
Most groups use tents set up by their agency. There are also basic government trekkers' huts at Tshoka and Dzongri, used on a first-come basis or as booked through your agency, with shared bunk rooms and no heating. Bring a warm sleeping bag rated to well below freezing, even in spring and autumn.
Also in Yuksom
More hours to plan around
