Bhutan offers lots of opportunities for trekking with its splendid scenic beauty, lofty mountains and deep valleys untouched by modernization. Trekking in this Himalayan kingdom is a wonderful experience for any one who enjoys hiking and camping in rich natural habitats, meeting indigenous people and their cultures. It is quite different from trekking in Nepal where you may meet other trekkers at every bend. The country ranges from the dense forest of subtropical jungles to the 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.

Although the Himalayas have always held a long-standing attraction to the western world it is a recent development here. Bhutan is one of the most exclusive and rare destinations for any tourist. The unique culture, architecture, lofty snowcapped peaks, fortress like dzongs, Lamaist Buddhist traditions and its friendly people leave an everlasting impression on the visitor.

Trekking Season
The best periods for trekking in Bhutan are October-November and March-May for all high altitude treks going over 4000 meters. Some the shorter treks (Druk Path, Bumthang, Gangtey) can be undertaken anytime from October to May through the winter.

In the autumn clear warm days prevail affording the best mountain views. In the spring mixed weather pattern prevail with clear spells followed by occasional thunder showers and light rain. Spring is best for flowering rhododendrons (which Bhutan is famous for) along with magnolias and other flowering plants.

Major Trekking Routes in Bhutan

The Druk Path Trek
Paro valley to Thimphu (or vice versa), crossing a chain of mountains that separates the two valleys. Although there are very few villages to see, there are wonderful lakes teeming with fish at 4000 meters (13,000 feet) and spectacular rhododendron forests that bloom in May. In clear weather there are magnificent views of the high Himalayan peaks.

Bumthang Culture Trek
Bumthang located at an altitude of 3,400 meters (11,155 feet). The four valleys of Bumthang, is revered by the Bhutanese as the sacred land of Bhutan with many important Nyingmapa saints coming from here including the famous Pema Lingpa. The trek crosses several villages and wends through the picturesque Bumthang countryside, giving an exceptional opportunity to be in contact with rural life.