Best Treks in Bhutan
Bhutan is a landlocked country of stunning natural beauty, boasting some of the world’s best trekking trails. Indulge in snow-capped peaks, sprawling mountain ranges, and picturesque dzongs and monasteries in your Bhutan trek.
Nestled in the Himalayas, this tiny country offers some of the most scenic treks in the world. From high mountain passes to remote valleys, Bhutan is a paradise for trekkers. In this blog, we will take a look at the Best treks in Bhutan that every trekking enthusiast should experience.
1. The Druk Path Trek
It is a 5-day trek that takes you through some of the most stunning landscapes in Bhutan. This trek starts from Paro and goes through Thimphu, covering a distance of around 50 kilometers. The trek takes you through high mountain passes, dense forests, and picturesque villages.
Detailed Itinerary: Click Here
Along the trek you can find Buddhist Lhakhangs adorning rugged cliffs and an atmosphere of tranquility and serenity pervades the landscape. The highlight of the trek is the stunning view of Mount Gangkar Puensum ( the highest peak in Bhutan , virgin lakes and the pervasive serene landscape.
Time for Drukpath Trek: March to May, Mid September to Mid December
2. Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek
The Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek is a 6-day trek that takes you through the beautiful Dagala mountain range. You’ll see numerous lakes and stunning mountain vistas along the way. This trek starts from Thimphu and covers a distance of around 40 kilometers.
You won’t run into many other hikers on the Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek. This hike begins above Thimphu and leads to several breathtaking high-altitude lakes, but it doesn’t get close to the legendary thousand.
Detailed Itinerary: Click Here
The hike typically takes place over the course of five to six days. Your route takes you to an altitude of 15,416 feet (4,700 meters), yet your highest tent is just at 14,104 feet (or 4,300 meters). Mount Everest in Nepal, Jomolhari, Masanggang, Jichu Drake, Tiger Mountain in Bhutan, and many more of the world’s most famous peaks are all within sight.
The trail also passes several authentic Bhutanese villages as well as places abundant with birds, alpine flowers, and picturesque meadows.
Best Time for Dagala Trek: March to May, Mid September to Mid December
3. Jomolhari Trek
The Jomolhari Trek is a 8-day trek that takes you to the base of Mount Jomolhari, one of Bhutan’s most sacred peaks. This trek starts from Paro and goes through Thimphu, covering a distance of around 120 kilometers. Along the way, you’ll pass through remote villages, ancient temples, and beautiful forests. The highlight of the trek is the stunning view of Mount Jomolhari.
Detailed Itinerary: Click Here
The Jomolhari trek is a challenging eight-day journey that begins in Paro. The highest base camp is located at a height of 4,100 meters (13,448 feet). There is no better way to see the twin peaks of Jomolhari and the adjacent peaks of Jichu Drake and Tsheringang than from this path (well, maybe from a Druk aircraft!). The Jomolhari hike goes to Lingzhi, at an elevation of 4,950 meters (16,236 feet), and then back down to the Thimphu area. The treks range from very tough to extremely difficult.
The first day of the Jomolhari trek takes you from Drukgyel Dzong, at the head of the Paro valley, to Shanna Zampa, at an elevation of 9,348 feet (2,850 meters).
Best Time for Jomolhari Trek: April to June to May, September to November
4. Laya Gasa Trek
The Laya Gasa Trek is a 15-day trek that takes you through the stunning valleys and forests of northern Bhutan. This trek starts from Paro and goes through Thimphu, Punakha, and Gasa, covering a distance of around 220 kilometers. The highlight of the trek is the chance to meet the Layap people, one of the country’s most isolated communities.
Detailed Itinerary: Click Here
It is a great fun to experience the Bhutan Cultural at the heart of this trek. You will get to know some of the picturesque landscapes of spectacular mountain ranges and the nomad valleys. In addition, if you plan your holiday around October , you may be able to watch Royal Highland Festival.
The Jomolhari Trek stands out for its unique blend of cultural immersion and stunning natural beauty. Unlike other treks in Bhutan, it offers close encounters with traditional village life and unrivaled views of the sacred Mount Jomolhari. The trek’s diverse ecosystems, ranging from lush forests to alpine meadows, showcase Bhutan’s rich biodiversity, with chances to spot rare wildlife. Traversing high mountain passes like Bhonte La provides panoramic vistas, making this trek a uniquely enriching experience.
5. Bumdra Trek
If you are on a short Bhutan Visit and want to enjoy at least a night camping in wilderness, then Bumdra Trek is just for you. The trek takes you at an altitude of 4000 meters, to a magical place where one hundred thousands Dakinis (The Female Buddhas) have convened and flew away.
You have two options to take the hike to Bumdra. One you can start from basement of Tiger Nest, Paro and retrace the same path. The other starts from Sangchen Choekor Buddhist College, Paro and ends at the basement of Tiger Nest. The trails pass grasslands, meadows of wild flowers ,grazing horses and remote and ancient monasteries.
We recommend the second options as it can give you the wider view of Himalaya Ranges.
In general, it takes about 5 hours to reach Bumdra from Sang Choekor.
The initial 3 hours hike is a steep ascent over the ridge but the tranquility and the epic view may keep your spirit going.You can also catch the magnificent view of Paro and Do Chhu valley occasionally. All along the journey you will be welcomed by prayer flags.
After 3 hours or so you will reach Chhoe Chhoe Tse Lhakhang (temple) overlooking the Paro Valley and Giant snow capped mountains . Usually we stop here for lunch . We can enjoy a good packed lunch here , have a chat with the care taker and head further for the trek.
We may need to climb another 30 minutes uphills , before reaching the forest of pines. The hike from here onwards till Bumdra is less strenuous and takes about an hour to reach . After reaching Bumdra we will take a rest over a cup of hot coffee and enjoy the tranquility that pervades the place.
Detailed Itinerary: Click Here
6. Snowman Trek
The Snowman Trek is considered one of the toughest treks in the world. This 24-day trek takes you to some of the most remote and stunning regions of Bhutan.
Detailed Itinerary: Click Here
You’ll cross high mountain passes, trek through remote valleys, and see some of the country’s most beautiful lakes and glaciers. This trek is not for the faint-hearted, but the stunning views and the experience of trekking in such remote regions are truly unforgettable.
It can be considered a haven for trekkers, offering ample opportunities for mountain tourism and exploration of the country’s cultural and natural riches. Along the trail you will be offered a chance to relish breathtaking vistas, picturesque landscapes, snowy mountain passes, magnificent glaciers, stunning mountain scenery, and secluded villages.
Best Time for Snowman Trek: April to June to May, September to November
7. Trans Bhutan Trek
The Trans Bhutan Trek is a challenging hiking trail that traverses the entire length of Bhutan, a small landlocked country located in the eastern Himalayas. The trek starts in the town of Paro, located in western Bhutan, and ends in the town of Trashigang, located in the eastern part of the country.
The trek is approximately 500 kilometers long and takes around 25-30 days to complete. But you can just a section of it .The trail passes through several high mountain passes, dense forests, and remote villages, offering trekkers a unique opportunity to experience Bhutan’s diverse landscapes and cultures.
The trek is typically undertaken during the months of March to May and September to November, when the weather is most favorable.
Overall, the Trans Bhutan Trek is a challenging but rewarding adventure that provides trekkers with a unique perspective of Bhutan’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Conclusion
Trekking in Bhutan is the most adventurous activity one can ever experience. It is a test of stamina, bravery, and enthusiasm. In Bhutan, the Himalayan ranges are famous for wonderful and courageous trekking. However, if you are planning treks in Bhutan, can contact Bhutan inbound for the most comfortable, hassle-free experience. With them, explore the Dagala Thousand Lakes, Jomolhari Trek, went to Druk Path Trek & and many more. So, what are you waiting for? Contact now!
What to Pack for Your Trek:
Clothing:
Lightweight or trekking trousers
Tracksuit and shorts
Fleece pants for evenings
Fleece jacket
Down jacket
Waterproof jacket
Head and Hands:
Warm hat and skull cap
Neck warmer
Sun hat
Waterproof and warm gloves/mitts
Footwear:
Trekking boots
Trekking poles
Camp shoes
Additional Essentials:
Several pairs of socks
Daywear T-shirts
Sunglasses with UV protection
Sunscreen and lip balm
Lightweight towel
Sleeping bag
“THE MOUNTAINS ARE CALLING – I MUST GO ”
Google Reviews
Jenny Chua
In Nov 24, we had the privilege of exploring Bhutan with the guidance of an exceptional tour guide, Kinlay Dorji & Jigme Tshering from Bhutan Best Inbound Tour agency and I couldn’t be more impressed with the experience. From the moment we arrived, they ensured every detail of our trip was perfectly planned and executed, making it truly stress-free and enjoyable. Their deep knowledge of Bhutan’s history, culture, and traditions was remarkable, and they shared stories and insights that brought the country’s rich heritage to life. Whether we were visiting iconic landmarks like the Tiger’s Nest Monastery or strolling through serene villages, their passion for Bhutan was evident and contagious. What truly stood out was their dedication to providing personalized service. They were always attentive to our needs, ensuring we were comfortable, well-fed, and immersed in the beauty of Bhutan. Their warm hospitality, patience, and ability to adapt to our preferences made the journey unforgettable. If you’re planning a trip to Bhutan, I cannot recommend this tour guide enough. They truly go above and beyond to ensure you experience the heart and soul of the Land of the Thunder Dragon. An absolute five-star experience!
Reviewed on: 1/14/2025
Terri KimOur first time in Bhutan couldn’t have been as amazing & memorable as it was without the wonderful team behind Bhutan Best Inbound Tour who were with us every step of the way. We decided (very last minute) to go to Bhutan with only weeks to spare. I decided to go with Bhutan Best Inbound Tour based on online reviews, responsiveness (via WhatsApp), and reasonable pricing. Because our trip was short (5 days/4 nights) and we already rushed to book our flights/accommodations, we were mainly looking for a dedicated tour guide/driver to explore Thimphu, Punakha, and Paro. Deki, who planned our itinerary, was responsive and accommodating to all my inquiries and requests. She answered my questions, and put my mind at ease when it came to our visas. She was lovely to work with, and made us feel prepared before our trip. But what she couldn’t have prepared us for was how amazing Bhutan would be and how much we would love our trip. We arrived at Paro International Airport early in the morning, and were greeted outside with white scarves by our guide and our driver who were patiently waiting for us. Our guide, Phub, was fantastic. Not only was he like a walking encyclopedia about his country, the culture, and Buddhism, he was personable and so funny. He was also quite the photographer, capturing the best angles and even directing us on how to pose. Phub was also very flexible with our daily schedule, and accommodating to our requests, which we appreciated immensely. He also shared tips & tricks that only locals would be privy to, which made this trip much more intimate and fulfilling than if we decided to go without a tour guide. I HIGHLY recommend a tour guide if you are thinking of going to Bhutan for the first time. We had two drivers, both very humble and excellent drivers. I felt very safe in the car despite impatient drivers, the occasional cow and dog, and landslides. On our day trip to Punakha from Thimphu, a landslide extended our trip by an hour each way, but our driver was patient and made sure we were comfortable. The breathtaking views (and company) made the delays worth it. We were so fortunate to have such wonderful drivers who prioritized our safety. From the kindness of the people to the delicious food, from the beautiful weather to the rich culture, and of course, Tiger’s Nest (which left us breathless, both figuratively and literally), Bhutan is truly a special country that left us with so many beautiful memories. We plan to visit Bhutan again, and when we do, we can’t wait to work with Bhutan Best Inbound Tour for all our needs. If you’re looking for a tour guide, I highly recommend reaching out to Bhutan Best Inbound Tour for a seamless experience
Reviewed on: 12/24/2024
Suresh KaruI had an amazing 7 nights 8 day trip to Bhutan, Phub my guide and driver Nima made it a memorable vacation. They were professional , kind and always helpful , also their local knowledge made it an experience unforgettable to me. The hotels they choose had excellent service, the cook made my favourite dish Idli. The home stay hostess was always smiling and kind. They also had the best price for the tour package.If I ever return to Bhutan I would choose them again Hands down .
Reviewed on: 9/30/2024
Charles VrtisEverything about my experience in Bhutan was outstanding from start to finish! It is very serene, stunningly beautiful, and its people are exceptionally kind and welcoming! Of course, had I not chosen the right tour operator, I might have left with different feelings. Fortunately, I selected Bhutan Best Inbound Tour. From the start, my experience with them was smooth and seamless. Deki, my contact in arranging the logistics, could not have been more responsive and helpful. She made everything so easy, including arranging for a visa. And, I cannot say enough good things about my guide and driver. They really made my experience in Bhutan so wonderfully memorable. I felt completely comfortable and safe with the driver, Jigme. Not only that, he always had a smile on his face. My guide, Tenzin (“Tax”] Loday was great. He was prompt, reliable, and very engaging. He is now my Bhutanese brother! His love for his country shows, and his clear and helpful explanations about its history and sites could not have been better. Thank you Bhutan Inbound Tour!
Reviewed on: 3/30/2024
Brian NYCHuge thanks to Bhutan Best Inbound Tours for an amazing experience in magical Bhutan! My guide Phub is a true expert who taught me so much about the history and culture of Bhutan, and he took perfect care of me each and every place we visited. Our driver Lobzang got us to all of our destinations safely and on time, and they made a great team, always keeping me smiling and in awe of the beauty of bucket list Bhutan. Everything was smooth from start to finish, the hotels were all excellent and comfortable, and I highly recommend Bhutan Inbound and my friends Phub and Lobzang to anyone planning a trip to stunning Bhutan!
Reviewed on: 10/14/2023
