The Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan offers some of the world’s most extraordinary high-altitude trekking, where forested valleys rise to snowbound passes beneath the soaring peaks of the eastern Himalaya. 

From demanding expeditions such as the legendary Snowman Trek to classic routes like the Druk Path and the Jomolhari trek, Bhutan’s mountain trails combine dramatic scenery, remote wilderness and a deeply rooted Buddhist culture.

This comprehensive Cicerone guidebook provides everything you need to plan and complete Bhutan’s finest multi-day treks with confidence. With detailed stage-by-stage route descriptions, mapping, acclimatisation advice and essential logistical guidance, it supports thorough preparation for high-altitude Himalayan journeys in one of the world’s most distinctive trekking destinations.

• Detailed coverage is provided for 22 of Bhutan’s premier trekking routes, including the Snowman Trek, Druk Path and Jomolhari trek — high-altitude trails of between 2 and 24 days designed for experienced hikers comfortable with sustained ascents and remote conditions
• Clear stage-by-stage descriptions with sketch mapping to support navigation across mountain passes, isolated valleys and rugged Himalayan terrain
• High-altitude preparation and acclimatisation guidance from experienced high-altitude trekker and guide Bart Jordans, reflecting the realities of trekking in Bhutan, where many routes exceed 4000m and careful pacing is essential
• Comprehensive planning advice covering permits, visa requirements, mandatory guides and tour arrangements, transport logistics and the best trekking seasons in Bhutan
• Cultural insight into Bhutanese Buddhist heritage, enhancing your journey past dzongs, monasteries and prayer-flag-lined passes

Remote and remarkably unspoilt, Bhutan rewards those willing to venture high into its mountains with vast horizons, sacred sites and a rare sense of solitude. Whether crossing 5000m passes or walking between fortress-monasteries and alpine camps, these are treks that demand commitment and preparation — but reward hikers with breathtaking Himalayan vistas, sacred monasteries, and unparalleled tranquillity in one of the world’s most pristine mountain regions. 

Trekking in Bhutan - Quick Facts

Guide name: Trekking in Bhutan (multiple routes)
Location: Bhutan, Eastern Himalaya, South Asia
Total distance: Varies by route; 10–343 km (depending on trek)
Typical duration: 2–24 days
Start/Finish: Varies by route (e.g., Paro to Thimphu for Druk Path; Laya to Bumthang for Snowman Trek)
Trail type: High-altitude multi-day trekking trails
Difficulty: Challenging to very challenging; suitable for experienced hikers comfortable with sustained ascents and remote conditions
Terrain: Forested valleys, alpine meadows, high mountain passes, rugged ridges
Navigation: Sketch maps, stage profiles, and GPX recommended
Guide requirement: A licensed Bhutanese guide is mandatory for all trekking routes
Best season: Late March to early June and late September to November (for stable weather and clear trails)
Accommodation: Mainly camping 

Author Top Tip 

“It is possible to visit Bhutan as part of a group or as an individual, but in both cases, a Bhutanese tour operator is needed, and you will always be guided on trek by a Bhutanese guide and some staff. For individuals, there is a surcharge. Unlike elsewhere in the Himalaya, there are no teahouses or lodges along the treks to provide food or accommodation.”

- Bart Jordans, author of Trekking in Bhutan 

Map key
Overview map
Foreword by Her Majesty the Queen of Bhutan
Prefaces

Introduction
The thrill of Bhutan
Preparations and practicalities
Trekking
Climate and trekking seasons
Organising a trek
Getting there and getting around
Accommodation and food
Environmental and cultural awareness
Equipment and maps
Medical considerations
Using this guide
All about Bhutan
Protected areas
Plantlife
Wildlife
Yaks and yak herding
The formation of the mountains
Rivers and glaciers
Mountaineering in Bhutan
Buddhism and local beliefs

West Bhutan

The Haa Valley
Trek 1    Haa Planters' Trail
Trek 2    Nob Tshona Patta Tsho and Rigona Tsho

Lunana
Trek 3    The Lunana 'Snowman' Trek
Trek 3A    Lunana to Bumthang
Trek 4    The Jhomolhari Bonte La Circuit
Trek 5    Shana to Thimphu via Lingshi
Trek 6    Masa Gang Base Camp from Laya
Trek 7    The Druk Path Trek

The Dagala (Thousand Lakes) Trek
Trek 8    Geynikha to Talakha
Trek 8A    Geynikha to Dagana

The Phobjika Valley
Trek 9    The Original Gangte Trek
Trek 9A    A Southern Gangte Trek

Central Bhutan

The Black Mountains
Trek 10    The Nabji Korphu Trek
Trek 11    The Nubi Chutey Trek
Trek 12    Trongsa to Dur Tsachu
Trek 13    Bumthang to Lunana

Gangkar Punsum
Trek 14    Gangkar Punsum Base Camp via Dur Tsachu
Trek 15    Gangkar Punsum southeast face via Thole La
Trek 16    Gangkar Punsum southeast face and Base Camp

Bumthang
Trek 17    Bumthang Cultural Trek, Tang valley and Lhuntshi valley
Trek 18    Bumthang Owl Trek and the Royal Heritage Trek

Zhemgang
Trek 19    The Ura Buli Trek

East Bhutan

Trek 20    Rigsum Gompa to Dechhenphodrang
Trek 21    The Merak Sakteng Trek
Trek 22    The Far-Out East Bhutan Trek

Appendix A    Route summary table
Appendix B    List of maps
Appendix C    Useful contacts
Appendix D    Useful terms and acronyms
Appendix E    Bibliography
Appendix F    Acknowledgements
 

Seasons

The best seasons for most treks are spring and autumn. Low-altitude treks can be done in winter. Expect monsoon rains in the summer.

Centres

Most treks start in the western part of Bhutan, in Paro. However, the guide also includes routes starting in other locations, such as Bumthang and eastern Bhutan.

Difficulty

All treks in the guide are graded. Trekking routes in Bhutan are on good trails, though most cover ground at high altitude, meaning that extra time is needed for acclimatization. No specialist climbing equipment is required.

Must See

The classic Lunana 'Snowman' Trek; views of Gangkar Punsum, the world's highest unclimbed massif; birds and wildlife; the rich Bhutanese culture

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