Trekking in Bhutan

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.

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

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