About Trekking in Bhutan

Treks are basically backpacking trips without the heavy packs. Trekkers carry just a light daypack with the day's essentials while all other gear is transported from camp to camp by ponies or yaks. Nor do trekkers have to fuss with setting up camp and cooking. A well trained staff sets up the tents, prepares the meals and generally take cares almost everything except for the walking! Everything from dining to sleeping tents is provided and First Time trekkers are often amazed by the level of creature comforts possible on a well organized trek. With these aspects taken care of, you are left free to enjoy the hike and the spectacular scenery.

Bhutan has some of the best trekking in the world, with breathtaking scenery, a rich Buddhist culture, friendly people, and few other visitors.

Weather

The difficulty with trekking here, aside from the high cost ($200/day), is the weather. Unlike Nepal and Ladakh, the windows for good high-altitude trekking in Bhutan are short: about 3 weeks in April and 3-4 weeks in October. Although the official season extends longer, you have the best chances of clear weather and little snow in the second half of April or the first three weeks of October. There are several low-altitude "winter treks" however, which can be walked in other seasons.

Difficulty

Although most of the treks themselves are not difficult, the high altitude and difficulty of reaching rescue services means that especially the treks through the High Himalayas are not for the faint-of-heart. However, if you have saved up some money, and are in good shape, you will have one of the best experiences imaginable.