Bhutan is one of those destinations that strikes different. Hidden deep within the Himalayas, this small nation has been able to remain relatively unspoiled by big tourism. For anyone who is into trekking, trekking in Bhutan is well worth it.
The trails wind you through some really gorgeous stuff - dense forests, ancient monasteries on cliff tops, and mountain scenery that'll leave you standing still. You'll encounter locals who still live their grandparents' lives, and trust me, it's a breath of fresh air.
One great thing is that you won't be battling the crowds for that ideal shot. Bhutan has limited visitors, so you have those quiet moments where you have the mountains all to yourself.
There's more than just hiking, though. Things to do in Bhutan include checking out weekend markets, watching monks go about their daily routines, and trying food you've probably never heard of. The whole permit process can be a headache to figure out yourself, which is why our Bhutan tour packages handle all that bureaucratic stuff while you focus on the adventure.
Best Time to Go Trekking in Bhutan
The best months for trekking in Bhutan are March to May (spring) and September to November (autumn). The skies are clear, the weather is pleasant, and the views of the mountains are amazing.
- In spring, the forests come alive with blooming flowers and fresh greenery.
- In autumn, the skies are crisp and blue - perfect for photos and high-altitude treks.
Avoid the monsoon season (June to August) as trails get muddy and views are often blocked by clouds. Winter (December to February) can be freezing at high altitudes, with snow closing many trekking routes.
Do Checkout: Best of Bhutan in 5 Days
Best Treks in Bhutan - Where to Go
There’s no shortage of beautiful trails in Bhutan. Whether you’re new to hiking or someone who lives for adventure, Bhutan has something special for you. The best treks in Bhutan don’t just offer scenic views - they take you through sacred mountains, high passes, peaceful forests, and quiet villages where time seems to slow down.
Here’s a closer look at some of the most memorable treks in Bhutan, what makes them special, how long they take, and who they’re best suited for.
1. Druk Path Trek - A Short and Scenic Classic
Duration: 5-6 days
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Best for: First-time trekkers, short vacationers
If you're short on time but still want to experience trekking in Bhutan, this is your go-to trail. The Druk Path Trek connects Paro to Thimphu, Bhutan’s two major towns. Though it’s one of the shortest treks in Bhutan, it doesn’t fall short on beauty.
You’ll walk through pine forests, visit ancient temples, and even camp beside clear alpine lakes. On a clear day, you’ll catch amazing views of Mount Gangkar Puensum - one of the world’s highest unclimbed peaks.
What makes this trek even better is that it’s not too difficult. So even if you’re not a regular hiker, you can still enjoy it at a relaxed pace.
2. Jomolhari Trek - A Sacred Mountain Calling
Duration: 7-9 days
Difficulty: Moderate
Best for: Nature lovers and photographers
Named after the sacred Mount Jomolhari, this trek is one of the most beautiful Bhutan trekking routes. The trail takes you up to the base of this mighty mountain that rises over 7,300 meters.
You’ll pass through forests filled with blooming rhododendrons (in spring), cross clear streams, and stay near yak herder camps. There’s a mix of steep and flat paths, which makes it a great trek for those who are reasonably fit but not looking for extreme adventure.
If you love landscape photography, this is one of the best treks in Bhutan to bring your camera along.
3. Snowman Trek Bhutan - The Legendary Challenge
Duration: 25-30 days
Difficulty: Extremely Difficult
Best for: Experienced trekkers, mountaineers
Ask any serious hiker about their dream trek, and the Snowman Trek Bhutan is bound to come up. It’s considered one of the hardest long-distance treks in the world, and very few people complete it.
This trail crosses 11 high mountain passes, many of them over 5,000 meters in height. You’ll trek through remote villages, glacial valleys, icy rivers, and untouched wilderness. It’s hard, yes - but also one of the most rewarding journeys you can ever take.
The Snowman Trek Bhutan requires solid preparation, mental strength, and a love for remote places. If you’re up for it, it could be the biggest adventure of your life.
4. Laya Gasa Trek - Where Culture Meets Mountains
Duration: 12-14 days
Difficulty: Hard
Best for: Adventure seekers who want to meet remote communities
Laya Gasa Trek is a favourite among those who want a mix of rugged landscapes and cultural experiences. The trail takes you to Laya, one of the most isolated villages in Bhutan, where people wear traditional dress and speak their dialect.
Along the way, you’ll walk through deep valleys, see snowy peaks, soak in hot springs at Gasa, and meet local yak herders. It’s a real taste of old Bhutan, where life is simple and in harmony with nature.
This trek is long and involves some tough climbs, but it doesn’t reach the extreme heights of the Snowman Trek. It’s a perfect middle ground for those looking for adventure with a human touch.
5. Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek - Lakes, Views, and Peace
Duration: 6 days
Difficulty: Moderate
Best for: Quiet nature lovers and campers
As the name suggests, this trek takes you through an area filled with beautiful high-altitude lakes. Though you won’t pass by a thousand, you’ll see plenty - each one reflecting the sky and surrounding peaks like a mirror.
You’ll also enjoy open meadows, rhododendron forests, and views of the Himalayas. The trail doesn’t go too high, which makes it easier for many people to handle. It’s a quieter option too - you might not see any other trekkers at all.
This is one of the trekking places in Bhutan where you truly feel like you’ve escaped the busy world.
6. Bumthang Cultural Trek - Short, Easy, and Spiritual
Duration: 3-4 days
Difficulty: Easy
Best for: Cultural explorers, families
If you’re looking for an easy walk that’s more about temples and villages than high peaks, this is a great choice. The Bumthang Valley is the spiritual heart of Bhutan, filled with old monasteries, peaceful fields, and kind locals.
You’ll walk through small villages, visit sacred temples, and enjoy gentle countryside views. It’s a great add-on if you're already in Bhutan and don’t have time for a long trek.
This one is often included in Bhutan hiking tours that mix light walking with sightseeing and cultural visits.
7. Merak Sakteng Trek - A Hidden Eastern Gem
Duration: 6-7 days
Difficulty: Moderate
Best for: Off-the-beaten-path adventurers
This trail lies in Bhutan’s far east and is rarely visited. It’s a great way to meet the Brokpa people, who live in high-altitude villages and still follow ancient customs.
The landscape is different here - more open, windy grasslands, with wide skies and gentle hills. It’s ideal if you’ve been to Bhutan before and want something new and untouched.
Few Bhutan trekking tour companies offer this trek, but it’s worth asking for if you want to avoid touristy trails.
8. Gangtey / Phobjikha Valley Trek - Wildlife & Culture
Duration: 3-4 days
Difficulty: Easy
Best for: Beginners, nature enthusiasts, bird watchers (especially in winter to see black-necked cranes)
The Gangtey or Phobjikha Valley Trek is one of the most beautiful short treks in Bhutan. It takes you through the stunning glacial valley of Phobjikha, home to the endangered black-necked cranes in winter. The trail winds through pine forests, alpine meadows, and small villages, offering a peaceful experience and a glimpse of traditional Bhutanese life.
The trek is easy to moderate and perfect for beginners or those looking for a gentle hike. You’ll also get to visit the famous Gangtey Monastery, perched above the valley. It’s a serene and scenic introduction to trekking in Bhutan.
9. Bumdra Trek - Short & Scenic
Duration: 2 days / 1 night
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Best For: Beginners, short-trip travellers, nature lovers, and spiritual seekers
The Bumdra Trek is short and beautiful in Bhutan, perfect for beginners. It starts near Paro and takes you through quiet pine forests. Along the way, you’ll see amazing views of the mountains and green valleys. The trek leads to Bumdra Monastery, also called the "Cave of a Thousand Prayers."
You can spend the night camping near the monastery under the stars. The next day, you walk down to the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery, which makes the whole journey special. This trek is peaceful, not too hard, and gives you a taste of Bhutan’s nature and culture.
Do Checkout: 10 Day Complete Bhutan Package
Trekking Routes in Bhutan - What to Expect
All trekking routes in Bhutan are guided and well-managed. You’ll have trained local guides, porters to carry heavy gear, and everything planned for you.
Most treks include:
- Tents or local lodges
- Simple but warm meals (rice, soup, veggies, tea)
- Horses or yaks for carrying luggage
- Clean drinking water (boiled or filtered)
On some trails, you’ll pass by monasteries, glacial lakes, and remote villages. You might see yaks, blue sheep, and birds like the Himalayan monal.
Bhutan Trekking Tour - How to Book
You can’t trek alone in Bhutan. You need to go through a licensed tour operator. They will arrange everything - from permits to food, gear, and transport. These are often part of Bhutan trekking packages, which include:
- Guide and support staff
- All meals and camping gear
- Permits and fees
- Airport pickup and drop-off
- Cultural sightseeing (if added)
The good thing is that you don’t need to worry about planning. Your tour company will handle it all. You just need to choose the best treks in Bhutan for your taste.
What to Pack for Trekking in Bhutan
You don’t need fancy gear, but you do need the right stuff:
- Good hiking boots (broken-in)
- Warm clothes (layers work best)
- Rain jacket
- Wool socks, gloves, hat
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- A small daypack
- A reusable water bottle
- Flashlight or headlamp
- Basic medicine (headache, cold, motion sickness)
Your tour company usually provides tents, sleeping bags, and food. But check in advance just to be sure.
How Much Does Trekking in Bhutan Cost?
Bhutan has a special tourism policy. You must spend a minimum per day - this is called the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF).
As of now, most Bhutan trekking packages cost between ₹17,200- ₹21,500 per day, depending on the trek. This includes your guide, meals, permits, stays, and transport inside Bhutan.
Yes, it sounds high, but everything is included - and it helps Bhutan keep tourism responsible and eco-friendly.
1. Trekking-Specific Packages
Some trek tips with added logistics:
- Druk Path Trek: ₹33,500-₹34,400 per day ( US $390)
- Jomolhari Trek: ₹34,400/day ( US $400)
- Snowman Trek Bhutan: ₹47,300/day ( US $550)
- Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek: ₹34,400/day ( US $400)
- Bumthang Cultural Trek: ₹30,100/day ( US $350).
2. Additional Costs
- Bhutan visa/permit fee: ₹3,500 (One-time).
- Travel insurance: ₹4,300-₹12,900
- Tips for guides/porters: ₹430-₹860/day (guide), ₹260-₹430/day (staff)
Fitness & Safety Tips
Even the easy treks need some preparation. Here's how to get ready:
- Walking regularly before your trip - 5-10 km daily, helps
- Try a few hill hikes to build stamina
- Drink lots of water while trekking
- Go slow - don’t rush up high trails
- Listen to your guide
- Take rest days if needed
If you're doing the Snowman Trek Bhutan, you must be very fit and experienced with high altitudes. It’s not for beginners.
Trekking in Bhutan isn’t just a holiday. It’s a journey into a slower, deeper, more peaceful way of life. You don’t just walk through mountains – you walk through a culture that values happiness, respect, and balance.
Whether you choose a short Bhutan trekking tour or go all in on the legendary Snowman Trek Bhutan, you’ll come back with memories that stay with you forever.
So tie your boots, take a deep breath, and let the mountains of Bhutan show you something truly special.
