The scope for trekking in Bhutan is immense - from short walks to arduous
treks. The very moment you step off the road to start your trek you
will be totally de-linked from the stressful sights and sounds of urban
life. Instead, you will enjoy views of snowcapped peaks, dense forested
hillsides and river valleys, and the sounds of birds and gushing
streams, flowing down to the temperate river valleys from the melting
snows of the mighty Himalayan peaks. Trekking provides an excellent
opportunity to experience the real heart of Bhutan and gain insight into
the rural culture of the kingdom.
In general, trekking in Bhutan is physically demanding due to
frequent and abrupt changes in elevation necessitated by the terrain.
Some trekking days can involve a strenuous walk along a rocky and muddy
path, keeping on the move for 7-9 hours with few rests along the way, so
as to reach the designated campsite before dark. A trek in Bhutan can
be anything from a three day leisurely walk around a valley, to the
arduous 25 day Snowman trek, taking one well above the snowline into
Bhutan’s most remote high altitude settled region, Lunana. Most people
take a trek which lasts around one week
The most important consideration is weather: the winter snows and
summer rains effectively limit most treks to autumn and spring, Bhutan’s
most popular trekking seasons. If you want to see alpine flowers you
need to come during summer (July and August), but you should be prepared
to encounter rain (and possibly leeches!). During the autumn, nights
are cold but the days are clear, so you will enjoy spectacular views
presenting great photo opportunities. Late spring is warmer, and the
blooming season for endemic varieties of the Himalayan rhododendron, but
there is a higher possibility of rain or snow. In winter, trekkers can
enjoy several pleasant and not too taxing low altitude walks in the
hills around the Punakha/Wangduephodrang valleys. Weather is very
settled at this time of the year, with clear, sunny days and deep blue
skies.
On your trek you will be accompanied by a small and efficient
trekking team, who will guide you, prepare the meals, and look after all
the camping arrangements. We provide two-person tents with foam
mattresses, eating utensils, dining & toilet tents. Everything is
transported by pack animals: horses in the low lands and yaks at higher
elevations. There are no tea houses or lodges along the trekking routes.
