Trekking in Bhutan

Trekking in Bhutan offers a unique taste and experience, passing through breathtakingly beautiful landscapes. Most of the trekking routes run through rural settlements and lush temperate forests, home to some endangered species of flora and fauna, and extend to the snow-capped mountains of the Himalayas. Cascades of waterfalls joining the major river systems in the country are attractions for trekkers along the trekking trails. Trekking provides an excellent opportunity to explore the greater part of Bhutan – from rural hamlets in the valleys to nomadic yak herders in the high mountains.

From gentle walks to high-altitude treks

Our treks stretch from short, soothing walks through terraced fields in the countryside to some of the most arduous high-altitude treks. Walking through the coniferous forests of rhododendrons at 3,100m on the five-day Druk Path Trek, and taking the trails of the twenty-seven (27) day Snowman Trek in the alpine region crossing several passes at more than 5,500m, gives a unique opportunity to all trekkers. Strenuous walks of seven to nine hours along rocky and muddy trails (particularly in summer) are rewarded with vistas of picturesque peaks and valleys under a clear blue sky.

When to trek

Weather is an important consideration for the trek. Limited by winter snows and summer rains, spring and autumn are Bhutan’s peak seasons for trekking. Spring is warmer, with a fresh environment marked by the blossoming flowers of varied species of flora – rhododendrons in full blossom. Late spring may see rain. Summer is not an ideal time for trekking in Bhutan, for the monsoon is at its height. However, it is the best time to savour the beauty of alpine flowers. Clear autumn days present spectacular views of the scenic valleys of Bhutan. You will come across rural folk in their fields harvesting their crops in October and November. During winter, treks in the alpine region are not accessible because of snow. Nonetheless, treks in the valleys of Paro, Punakha and Wangduephodrang ensure a pleasant walk with settled weather under a clear sky.

Camping treks and your trekking team

All trekking in Bhutan is arranged as camping trips. Designated trekking camps will have an adequate water supply as well as meadows to feed ponies. On your trek, you will be accompanied by a small and efficient trekking team. Apart from overseeing all camping arrangements, the team will guide you and prepare the meals throughout the trek. We provide tents with foam mattresses, eating utensils, and dining and toilet tents. Everything related to transportation is done by pack animals – horses in the lowlands and yaks at higher elevations. There are no tea houses or lodges along the trekking routes.

The Snowman Trek

Bhutan is well known for the highest unclimbed mountain in the world and the most difficult trek in the world (the Snowman Trek). The length of the trek, the altitude, the remoteness and the weather make the Snowman the most difficult.

Itineraries tailored to you

Bhutan Trekking Services can tailor trekking arrangements to meet individual needs and preferences.