Jigme Dorji National Park

Jigme Dorji National Park is Bhutan's largest and oldest protected area, covering 4,349 km² across Gasa, Thimphu, Paro, Punakha, and Wangdue Phodrang districts. Established in 1974 and named after the third king, the park spans an extraordinary altitudinal range from 1,400 m to over 7,000 m, encompassing virtually every ecosystem found in Bhutan — from subtropical forests to alpine tundra and permanent snow.

The park is home to some of the world's rarest and most iconic species, including snow leopards, Bengal tigers, Himalayan black bears, red pandas, blue sheep, and takin (the national animal). It also contains several of Bhutan's highest peaks, including Gangkar Puensum (7,570 m), the highest unclimbed mountain in the world. The legendary Snowman Trek passes through the park, which is also the traditional territory of semi-nomadic yak-herding communities.

By Plane

Paro Airport (PBH IATA) is the nearest international airport. Trekking routes into the park start from Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, and Gasa.

By Train

By Car / Road

Road access to the park is limited. Some areas are accessible by vehicle from Thimphu (Takin Preserve) or Punakha, but the core of the park is only reachable on foot via multi-day treks. Permits from the park office in Thimphu are required.

The park has no internal road network. Trekking on foot is the only way to explore the park's interior.

• Glacial valleys and alpine meadows — Some of the most spectacular high-altitude scenery in the Himalaya.

• Wildlife — Snow leopards, takin, blue sheep, red pandas, and over 300 bird species.

• Laya and Lunana villages — Traditional yak-herder communities within the park.

• Jomolhari and other peaks — Views of some of Bhutan's highest mountains.

• Snowman Trek — The park is the central corridor for this epic 25-day trek.

• Jomolhari Trek — A shorter (7–10 day) trek through the western part of the park.

• Wildlife and birdwatching — Guided treks with experienced naturalist guides.

• Cultural visits — Interact with yak-herder communities (Layap, Lunanap).

Trekkers carry their own food or arrange meals at trekking camps. Yak-herder camps may offer suja and yak cheese.

Treat all water. Suja (butter tea) is available at herder camps.

Camping is the only option inside the park. Full trekking equipment is essential.

No commercial facilities inside the park. All supplies must be carried in.

• Laya — Inside the park. High-altitude village.
• Lunana — Inside the park. Remote village.
• Gasa — Southern gateway to the park.
• Thimphu — Access via the western park boundary.
• Paro — Access via the Jomolhari Trek route.