Trekking in Bhutan

BHUTAN OFFERS great opportunities for trekking with its splendid scenic beauty, lofty mountains, and deep valleys. Lifestyles change from the colorful, lively pace of Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan, to the more traditional, simple remote mountain villages only accessible by foot. Bhutan Tourism Corporation Limited is considered the pioneering expert on trekking programs, employing the best senior guides in the kingdom, top equipment, and great food. Some of the treks that BTCL created have become legendary; the famous “Snowman Trek” has become the international standard.

Trekking in this Himalayan kingdom is one of the most wonderful experiences a visitor can have. The country ranges from the dense forest of subtropical jungles to alpine shrubs endowed with a wide spectrum of Himalayan flora and fauna. The land is thinly populated with scattered settlements. A person may walk for several days before sighting a village. The beautiful landscape, unique architecture, snowcapped peaks, colorful dzongs, Lamaist Buddhist traditions, and friendly people leave an everlasting impression on the visitor.

Trekking permits are required for all parties. A trekking day usually consists of six hours of walking. Pack animals, ponies, and yaks for the higher altitude treks are provided for carrying provisions, baggage, and equipment. All necessary camping equipment, food, and food preparation are provided.

All trekking parties are accompanied by a trained guide, a cook, an assistant, and at least one horseman to make sure your needs are met every hour of the day. The support crew walks ahead of the trekking party each day and pitches camp, including setting up the tents before the trekking party arrives. They wake you up in the morning with a hot cup of tea and provide a basin of hot washing water that feels heavenly.

All meals are carefully planned. Breakfast is always hot and dinner includes a choice of at least four dishes. In many of the remote parts of the country, villages are scarce and few people cross trekkers’ paths; therefore BTCL takes every precaution to ensure the safety and comfort of trekkers.

Altitude sickness is an acute problem for trekkers in Bhutan. Almost all of the designated treks go above 3,000 meters (9,843 feet). Those who have not properly acclimatized or suffer from altitude sickness are advised not to trek. If you are not used to high altitudes it is a good idea to start slowly and allow yourself to acclimatize.

Each trek has its own beauty and charm. A few, such as the Snowman trek, are the most physically challenging mountain treks with unpredictable weather. Still others are for any age group, not too long or strenuous, with visits to places of interest. Depending on your route, a trek in the Himalayas can bring you up close and personal to a 25,000-foot peak in three days, just by putting one foot in front of the other. The silent magnificence of the mountains both humbles and inspires you.