TREKKING ADVENTURE
Hiking Bhutan's majestic Gangkhar Puensum with the western trek to Treasure Lake
The activities on this trip are rated as moderate and suits a wide range of interests and physical fitness levels. The hikes on this trip can range from moderate to challenging, depending on your abilities. Trip members should be in good health and comfortable standing or walking for extended periods of time and confident navigating mixed and steep terrain that may include rocky trails, slippery conditions and, or, steps and stairs. Daily activities include city walking tours, hiking to and entering monasteries, temples and fortresses, driving over winding mountain roads and easy to moderate hiking with some strenuous options where possible. The general elevations in the valleys will mostly range from 6,800 ft to 9,000 ft, with drives that will take us over higher passes before descending to the average elevations mentioned above. The final hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery is 10,000 ft.
Accommodations
The high-end accommodations on this journey feature traditional Bhutanese style with modern elements. The lodges are handpicked for regional character, comfort, and hospitality, including our beautiful family lodge in the central highlands of Bhutan, the Mountain Resort (see more on the Mountain Resort below). In peak season, depending on availability, we may use lodges comparable to the ones we have listed or advertised.
Expedition Staff
Every expedition is curated by expert native-born guides and trip leaders who also facilitate meetings and learning experiences with other locally knowledgeable people along the way. Our experienced team shares valuable insights and local expertise to ensure a culturally rich adventure of discovery through the Himalayan landscape and traditions of Bhutan.
The activities on this trip are rated as moderate and suits a wide range of interests and physical fitness levels. The hikes on this trip can range from moderate to challenging, depending on your abilities. Trip members should be in good health and comfortable standing or walking for extended periods of time and confident navigating mixed and steep terrain that may include rocky trails, slippery conditions and, or, steps and stairs. Daily activities include city walking tours, hiking to and entering monasteries, temples and fortresses, driving over winding mountain roads and easy to moderate hiking with some strenuous options where possible. The general elevations in the valleys will mostly range from 6,800 ft to 9,000 ft, with drives that will take us over higher passes before descending to the average elevations mentioned above. The final hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery is 10,000 ft.
Accommodations
The high-end accommodations on this journey feature traditional Bhutanese style with modern elements. The lodges are handpicked for regional character, comfort, and hospitality, including our beautiful family lodge in the central highlands of Bhutan, the Mountain Resort (see more on the Mountain Resort below). In peak season, depending on availability, we may use lodges comparable to the ones we have listed or advertised.
Expedition Staff
Every expedition is curated by expert native-born guides and trip leaders who also facilitate meetings and learning experiences with other locally knowledgeable people along the way. Our experienced team shares valuable insights and local expertise to ensure a culturally rich adventure of discovery through the Himalayan landscape and traditions of Bhutan.
The activities on this trip are rated as moderate and suits a wide range of interests and physical fitness levels. The hikes on this trip can range from moderate to challenging, depending on your abilities. Trip members should be in good health and comfortable standing or walking for extended periods of time and confident navigating mixed and steep terrain that may include rocky trails, slippery conditions and, or, steps and stairs. Daily activities include city walking tours, hiking to and entering monasteries, temples and fortresses, driving over winding mountain roads and easy to moderate hiking with some strenuous options where possible. The general elevations in the valleys will mostly range from 6,800 ft to 9,000 ft, with drives that will take us over higher passes before descending to the average elevations mentioned above. The final hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery is 10,000 ft.
Accommodations
The high-end accommodations on this journey feature traditional Bhutanese style with modern elements. The lodges are handpicked for regional character, comfort, and hospitality, including our beautiful family lodge in the central highlands of Bhutan, the Mountain Resort (see more on the Mountain Resort below). In peak season, depending on availability, we may use lodges comparable to the ones we have listed or advertised.
Expedition Staff
Every expedition is curated by expert native-born guides and trip leaders who also facilitate meetings and learning experiences with other locally knowledgeable people along the way. Our experienced team shares valuable insights and local expertise to ensure a culturally rich adventure of discovery through the Himalayan landscape and traditions of Bhutan.
The activities on this trip are rated as moderate and suits a wide range of interests and physical fitness levels. The hikes on this trip can range from moderate to challenging, depending on your abilities. Trip members should be in good health and comfortable standing or walking for extended periods of time and confident navigating mixed and steep terrain that may include rocky trails, slippery conditions and, or, steps and stairs. Daily activities include city walking tours, hiking to and entering monasteries, temples and fortresses, driving over winding mountain roads and easy to moderate hiking with some strenuous options where possible. The general elevations in the valleys will mostly range from 6,800 ft to 9,000 ft, with drives that will take us over higher passes before descending to the average elevations mentioned above. The final hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery is 10,000 ft.
Accommodations
The high-end accommodations on this journey feature traditional Bhutanese style with modern elements. The lodges are handpicked for regional character, comfort, and hospitality, including our beautiful family lodge in the central highlands of Bhutan, the Mountain Resort (see more on the Mountain Resort below). In peak season, depending on availability, we may use lodges comparable to the ones we have listed or advertised.
Expedition Staff
Every expedition is curated by expert native-born guides and trip leaders who also facilitate meetings and learning experiences with other locally knowledgeable people along the way. Our experienced team shares valuable insights and local expertise to ensure a culturally rich adventure of discovery through the Himalayan landscape and traditions of Bhutan.
ACCOMMODATIONS
HEALTH & SAFETY
We are following strict national and international safety guidelines and protocols (Royal Government of Bhutan, WHO, and CDC (US) recommendations) to keep you, our staff, and the Bhutanese people safe. This includes new measures for maintaining personal health and hygiene, social distancing best practices, face covering requirements, cleaning, handwashing and more.
UPDATED BOOKING & CANCELLATION POLICY
With global travel resuming, we have changed our booking and cancellation policies back to normal. Normal cancellation policies are now in effect and final trip payment is due (4 months/120 days before trip start date, whichever is earlier). Trip cancellation policies are outlined in our trip confirmation emails and available by request.
PEACE OF MIND
April 30 - May 21, 2024;
May 04 - May 21, 2024;
May 09 - 21, 2024
TRIP DATES 1: APRIL 30-MAY 21
US$17,768/- per person*
(Includes all land costs: hotels, transport, meals, trekking and commissaries; government SDF fees and taxes; One-way Domestic Flight from Paro to Bumthang) INTERNATIONAL FLIGHT TO PARO FROM GATEWAY CITY NOT INCLUDED & TO BE HANDLED BY GUEST.
TRIP DATES 2: MAY 04-21
US$15,686/- (INCLUDING ALL LAND COSTS FOR 18 DAYS, GOVERNMENT SDF, TAXES, & AIR FROM BANGKOK + 1 DOMESTIC FLIGHT)
TRIP DATES 3: MAY 09-21
US$9,318/- per person (Includes all land costs: hotels, transport, meals, trekking and commissaries; government SDF fees and taxes; One-way Domestic Flight from Paro to Bumthang) INTERNATIONAL FLIGHT TO PARO FROM GATEWAY CITY NOT INCLUDED & TO BE HANDLED BY GUEST.
***PLEASE NOTE AIRFARE EXCEPTIONS ABOVE***
___________
*REGIONAL FLIGHTS:
Via Delhi:
$699/-per person Royal Bhutan Airlines Flight (Economy) Or $1,100 per person (Business Class)
Via Bangkok:
$899/-per person Royal Bhutan Airlines Flight (Economy) Or $1,300 per person (Business Class)
___________
**DOMESTIC FLIGHTS: Please add $250/- per person for one one-way domestic flight from Paro to Bumthang - included in trip price ***exception***
* ** Bhutan Himalaya Expeditions handles these flight bookings, ticketing & arrangements
DATE
*When signing up together as part of the same group
Prices are per person based on double occupancy and DO NOT include international airfare to/from your destination or regional flights to Bhutan from Gateway Cities such as Bangkok or Delhi, and internal flights in the country during the expedition. We will arrange such regional flights for our guests and fares will be quoted at airline cost as a courtesy to our guests with no extra booking or reservation fees. Regional flights from Bangkok start from $980 per person & from $175 per person for internal domestic flights where a short-duration flight is included on your itinerary. Surcharges may apply to certain travel dates based upon international or local holidays, as well as local events and festivals.
Single Traveler supplements will be assessed in addition to our published trip price, and are available on request. All prices and fares are quoted in U.S. dollars and subject to change.
If you'd like to travel with your own special group of friends or family on dates different from the ones shown above, this expedition can be arranged March through May & October through February.
TRAVEL SEASONS
TRIP DATES 1: APRIL 30-MAY 21
US$17,768/- per person*
(Includes all land costs: hotels, transport, meals, trekking and commissaries; government SDF fees and taxes; One-way Domestic Flight from Paro to Bumthang) INTERNATIONAL FLIGHT TO PARO FROM GATEWAY CITY NOT INCLUDED & TO BE HANDLED BY GUEST.
TRIP DATES 2: MAY 04-21
US$15,686/- (INCLUDING ALL LAND COSTS FOR 18 DAYS, GOVERNMENT SDF, TAXES, & AIR FROM BANGKOK + 1 DOMESTIC FLIGHT)
TRIP DATES 3: MAY 09-21
US$9,318/- per person (Includes all land costs: hotels, transport, meals, trekking and commissaries; government SDF fees and taxes; One-way Domestic Flight from Paro to Bumthang) INTERNATIONAL FLIGHT TO PARO FROM GATEWAY CITY NOT INCLUDED & TO BE HANDLED BY GUEST.
***PLEASE NOTE AIRFARE EXCEPTIONS ABOVE***
___________
*REGIONAL FLIGHTS:
Via Delhi:
$699/-per person Royal Bhutan Airlines Flight (Economy) Or $1,100 per person (Business Class)
Via Bangkok:
$899/-per person Royal Bhutan Airlines Flight (Economy) Or $1,300 per person (Business Class)
___________
**DOMESTIC FLIGHTS: Please add $250/- per person for one one-way domestic flight from Paro to Bumthang - included in trip price ***exception***
* ** Bhutan Himalaya Expeditions handles these flight bookings, ticketing & arrangements
DATE
*When signing up together as part of the same group
Prices are per person based on double occupancy and DO NOT include international airfare to/from your destination or regional flights to Bhutan from Gateway Cities such as Bangkok or Delhi, and internal flights in the country during the expedition. We will arrange such regional flights for our guests and fares will be quoted at airline cost as a courtesy to our guests with no extra booking or reservation fees. Regional flights from Bangkok start from $980 per person & from $175 per person for internal domestic flights where a short-duration flight is included on your itinerary. Surcharges may apply to certain travel dates based upon international or local holidays, as well as local events and festivals.
Single Traveler supplements will be assessed in addition to our published trip price, and are available on request. All prices and fares are quoted in U.S. dollars and subject to change.
If you'd like to travel with your own special group of friends or family on dates different from the ones shown above, this expedition can be arranged March through May & October through February.
TRAVEL SEASONS
2024 Dates & Prices
2024 Dates & Prices
DATES & PRICES
WHAT'S INCLUDED
Flight and airfare costs to and from Bhutan, such as your international flights to a regional Gateway City (e.g., Bangkok or Delhi); roundtrip flights to Bhutan from the regional gateway cities (which will be arranged by us at cost) and internal airfare where applicable for domestic flights in the country (which will also be arranged by us at cost)
Trip cancellation insurance or any other travel insurance
Alcoholic beverages
Gratuities
All ground transportation, visas for Bhutan and airport transfers
All Accommodations
All meals, including excursions to try well-known local restaurants
The expertise and services of your Bhutanese Trip Leaders, Guides & dedicated trip field staff
Courtesy booking services & arrangements for round-trip regional flights from gateway cities (such as Bangkok) to Bhutan & any internal domestic flights (airfare is additional).
Sightseeing, special events & receptions, visits, and entry fees
All environmental national parks & conservation fees and permits
All Trek Arrangements (if you signed up for a trek), including expedition-grade high altitude, sub-zero sleeping bags, community camping and commissary equipment (comfortable and roomy two-person tents, kitchen and dining tents, and other community equipment), camp, cook and support staff (we reccomend you bring your own fitted hiking poles and personal sleeping bag liners)
WHAT'S INCLUDED
WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED
ITINERARY
PRACTICAL DETAILS
| RECOMMENDED POSTS
TRIP PHOTOGALLERY
THIS STRENUOUS TREK to the base of the world’s highest unclimbed peak is where, in 2014, witnesses reported seeing the footprints of the mythic "migoi" or yeti.
Bhutanese scholars translate the name Gangkhar Puensum to mean “White Peak of the Three Spiritual Siblings,” a reference to the massif’s shape, which includes a central prominence or peak and two subsidiary “peaks” that form a part of the same mountain mass. Bhutan has banned professional climbing on this and its other mountains because local customs hold the peaks as the sacred homes of holy spirits. This as-yet-unclimbed mountain remains one of the last places in the world where humans have not left their literal footprint—a precious reminder that there are still places of great mystery left in the world.
SHARE:
Discover Bhutan's lightly traveled classic Himalayan trek
APRIL 30: PARO/THIMPHU
VIEW DAY BY DAY
Arrive early from Delhi or Bangkok (Transit visa not required). Drukair KB203 departs Delhi at 4:10 AM and lands in Paro at 6:40 AM. (Transit e-visas required!)
Drukair KB153 from Bangkok departs at 6 a.m. and lands at 8:15 a.m. in Paro. (Visas not required for Thailand)
Your Bhutan Himalaya Expeditions staff will greet you at the airport and escort you for your journey.
Begin with optional refreshments at Paro’s Mountain Café before transferring one hour to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital.
Check-in at the city's smart new address downtown, the Capital Hotel, before a walk up the hill to stretch cramped muscles and exercise your hiking muscles for the coming trek. Visit the newly refurbished Takin Zoo on the outskirts of the city. Enjoy a quiet and restful dinner at the hotel this evening, or venture out into the bustling downtown with your new Bhutan Himalaya Expeditions friends.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Capital Hotel or comparable
MAY 1: THIMPHU FOREST HIKE
Begin our hiking acclimatization today, starting at the 13th century Changgangkha temple and climbing through pine forests on a winding mountain trail to the giant brass Buddha “Dordenma”statue overlooking the capital. Following the hike, drive into town and visit the Bhutan Trust Fund for Environmental Conservation for discussions. Afterward, stop by the Thimphu offices of the World Wildlife Fund.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Capital Hotel or comparable
MAY 2: THIMPHU/BHUTAN FOUNDATION PROJECTS/SILVERSMITHS
This morning, drive up to the Bhutan Broadcasting Service tower and take the level forest hike to Wangditse temple with a birdseye view of majestic Tashichhodzong, the building that houses the offices of the king and Bhutan’s monastic elders, including the chief abbot of the kingdom, His Holiness, the Je Khenpo. From there, continue to the future-forward Super Fab Lab and the Chuniding Organics food processing unit, both projects supported by the Bhutan Foundation. We visit the silversmiths’ workshop this afternoon to meet skilled local artisans and see fine examples of their craft. Transfer one hour to Paro later this evening to check in at the Olathang Hotel.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Olathang Hotel cottages or comparable
MAY 3: TRANS BHUTAN TRAIL/HAA
Stretch your trekking muscles today on the final western stretch of the Trans Bhutan Trail. Overnight in a charming former governor’s country home in Haa valley, complete with its private Buddhist chapel. Enjoy a traditional herbal medicine bath beside a rushing stream before dinner.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Zingkha Heritage Lodge or comparable
MAY 4 & 5: TREK TO TREASURE LAKE
TREK START
This is not one of Bhutan’s more famous treks and is, for that reason, one of our favorites! This less-traveled route gives us the option to share the purer aspects of trekking in Bhutan by cutting out the busier trails. In fact we like to think of it as our little secret! Climbing sharply through oak and deciduous trees with vibrant leaves that are best in late fall, it takes us along a high Himalayan ridge-line before descending to the peaceful lake where its mirror surface reflects an ever-changing sky. We camp deep in the Womji valley today.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Fully supported Bhutan Himalaya Expedition Camps
CAMP AT TREASURE LAKE
Today, we make the steep uphill climb through dense forests of pine to summit Tshejey Pass at 13,900 feet before a panoramic descent to Treasure Lake.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Fully supported Bhutan Himalaya Expedition Camps
MAY 6 - 8: COMPLETE THE LOOP TREK TO HAA/PARO
CAMP TSHABJO
We climb back up to Bjara pass, where we're likely to see herds of the wild Blue Sheep the pass is named for. The maximum altitude for the day is 13, 963 feet.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Fully supported Bhutan Himalaya Expedition Camps
CAMP TSHOKAM
After a spectacular day of hiking that offers, weather cooperating, excellent views of Mount Jomolhari, we camp beside a clear running stream for our final night on the trail. This is an evening when we discover some of the hidden talents of our Bhutanese staff and crew who all love a good camp song.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Fully supported Bhutan Himalaya Expedition Camps
RETURN HIKE TO HAA & DRIVE TO PARO
After a trailside picnic lunch, we end our loop in Haa, from where we continue our drive to the lodge, arriving back in time for an evening return to the Paro COMO Uma Resort, where a good soak may be in order!
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Olathang Hotel cottages or comparable
MAY 9: FLIGHT TO BUMTHANG/BUDDHIST BLESSING
We fly early this morning to Bumthang on a breathtaking 25-minute flight. On arrival, check in at our family-owned lodge, the Mountain Resort. Visit the fascinating Bhutan Foundation-supported Wangduechhoeling Palace Museum across the street. In the afternoon, take a walking tour of valley temples along the “pilgrims route,” ending at the Kharchu monastery for a traditional Buddhist blessing to wish us luck for the trek.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Mountain Resort or comparable
MAY 10–18: GANGKHAR PUENSUM TREK DETAILS
Day 1:
Start at trailhead at Toktu Zampa (2620m/8856ft) or Shobtang; finish beyond Khakthang army camp (2898m/9505ft); Distance 16km (10 miles); Trek duration 4–5hrs; Altitude gain 280m (918ft) Altitude loss none.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Bhutan Himalaya Expeditions Camp
Day 2:
Start beyond Khakthang army camp (2898m/9505ft); finish in Gophu (3269m/10,722ft); Distance 16km (10 miles); Trek duration 6hrs; Altitude gain 369m (1210ft); Altitude loss none.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Bhutan Himalaya Expeditions Camp
Day 3:
Start at Gophu (3269m/10,722ft); finish in Tsawuu (3780m/12,400ft); Distance: 15km (9.5 miles); Trek duration 5–6hrs; Altitude gain 511m (1676ft); Altitude loss none.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Bhutan Himalaya Expeditions Camp
DAY 4:
Start at Tsawuu (3780m/12,400ft); finish in Bamurpa (4430m/14,530ft); Distance 20km (12.5 miles); Trek duration 7–8hr; Altitude gain 650m (2132ft); Altitude loss none.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Bhutan Himalaya Expeditions Camp
DAY 5:
Rest & exploration around Bamurpa (4430m/14,530ft). If we’re lucky and the timing is right, we might meet and visit with local yak herders in the area.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Bhutan Himalaya Expeditions Camp
DAY 6:
Start from Bamurpa (4430m/14,530ft); finish in Tsampa (3675m/12,054ft); Distance 22.5km (14 miles); Trek duration 6-8hrs; Altitude gain none; Altitude loss 755m (2476ft)
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Bhutan Himalaya Expeditions Camp
DAY 7:
Start in Tsampa (3675m/12,054ft); finish at Solang Chhu (Thole Tsho) (4420m/14,480ft); Distance 14km (9 miles); Trek duration 5–6hrs; Altitude gain 745m (2445ft); Altitude loss none.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Bhutan Himalaya Expeditions Camp
DAY 8:
Start from Solang Chhu (Thole Tsho) (4420m/14,480ft); finish in Lambrong (4070m/13,350ft); Distance 14.5km (9 miles); Trek duration 6hrs; Altitude gain 312m (1023ft); Altitude loss 662m (2171ft).
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Bhutan Himalaya Expeditions Camp
DAY 9:
Start from Lambrong (4070m/13,350ft); finish in Lungsum (3170m/10,400ft); Distance 14km (9 miles); Trek duration 4–5hrs; Altitude gain none; Altitude loss 900m (2952ft).
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Bhutan Himalaya Expeditions Camp
MAY 19: END OF TREK/EXIT IN BUMTHANG/DRIVE TO GANGTEY
Start from Lungsum (3170m/10,400ft); finish in Dhur (2688m/8817ft); Distance 12km (7.5 miles); Trek duration 4hrs; Altitude gain none; Altitude loss 482m (1582ft).
This morning we depart camp at 8 am, arriving in Jakar by noon; depart 1 pm after lunch and hot showers, arriving in Gangtey between 5- & 6pm
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Dewachen Lodge or comparable
MAY 20: DRIVE TO PARO
This morning we depart Dewachen Lodge at 8 am after breakfast, arriving in Paro for lunch around noon to 1 pm. This evening we enjoy a bonfire farewell dinner featuring Himalayan specialities at a friend's old refurbished country home-turned lodge.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Olathang Hotel cottages or comparable
MAY 21: RETURN FLIGHT TO KATHMANDU/BANGKOK
This morning we bring you back to the airport in time for your return flight to Kathmandu / Bangkok.
SPECIAL NOTES & DISCLAIMERS
ITINERARY
Please note that all trip and itinerary descriptions are accurate at the time of publication. While we strive to keep the actual running of the trips as close to our original description as possible we cannot rule out changes or modifications and, or, variations on the ground as a result of factors that may be beyond our control. If such circumstances occur, we always strive to do better, or at minimum match the trip described but this may not always be possible.
ACCOMMODATIONS
Infrequently, we may also have to swap out the lodges and accommodations listed on your trip as a result of seasonal overbooking; in such instances we will always find a comparable hotel of the same category and amenities as replacement/s.
AIRFARE COSTS
Please note that while we make every endeavor to accurately price our trips, airfares subject to change by the airline are outside our control. As a result, current charter flight costs currently included the trip trip may change and we may be forced to generate a final additional invoice to make up any such potential differences in cost. While we don't expect this to happen in this case, a reduced number of travelers may result in a per-individual fare increase for which we will send out an addendum invoice if the occasion arises, within reason, to cover any such potential shortfalls. Guests will be notified of any such changes well before trip departure.
We begin in Bhutan’s capital, Thimphu, with cultural touring and visits to the offices of the Bhutan Trust Fund for Environmental Conservation, the World Wildlife Fund, and some of the diverse projects of the Bhutan Foundation for a deeper understanding of Bhutan’s commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development.
Acclimatization hikes in Thimphu, Paro and Haa include a climb up the final western leg of the Trans Bhutan Trail, following which we embark on the Trek to Treasure Lake.
take a mountain flight to Bumthang in central Bhutan, where the main trek begins and ends. After a traditional Buddhist blessing to ensure a safe expedition at a local monastery, we hike through pristine forests, remote villages, and panoramic mountain vistas. The route described leads to Gangkhar Puensum’s southeast face and back, returning via the same way. However, late-breaking local conditions and the updated advice of our regional caravan leaders and muleteers may require modifications in terms of safety and trail accessibility. A final return flight from the central highlands to Paro caps off the journey before a final night in Bhutan prior to your return flight to Delhi or Bangkok, and onward home.
CUSTOM TRIPS
If this trip or schedule doesn't meet your needs, we also arrange private journeys throughout the year with flexible dates.
WHAT TO EXPECT
The trekking activities on this trip are rated as strenuous. Please See the "About Trekking Expeditions" tab below for further details and notes on trip participation fitness.
The cultural portions of this trip are rate moderate and suits a wide range of interests and physical fitness levels. The hikes on this trip can range from moderate to challenging, depending on your abilities. Trip members should be in good health and comfortable standing or walking for extended periods of time and confident navigating mixed and steep terrain that may include rocky trails, slippery conditions and, or, steps and stairs. Daily activities include city walking tours, hiking to and entering monasteries, temples and fortresses, driving over winding mountain roads and easy to moderate hiking with some strenuous options where possible. The general elevations in the valleys will mostly range from 6,800 ft to 9,000 ft, with drives that will take us over higher passes before descending to the average elevations mentioned above. The final hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery is 10,000 ft.
ACCOMMODATIONS
The high-end accommodations on this journey feature traditional Bhutanese style with modern elements. The lodges are handpicked for regional character, comfort, and hospitality, including our beautiful family lodge in the central highlands of Bhutan, the Mountain Resort (see more on the Mountain Resort below). In peak season, depending on availability, we may use lodges comparable to the ones we have listed or advertised.
EXPEDITION STAFF
Every expedition is curated by expert native-born guides and trip leaders who also facilitate meetings and learning experiences with other locally knowledgeable people along the way. Our experienced team shares valuable insights and local expertise to ensure a culturally rich adventure of discovery through the Himalayan landscape and traditions of Bhutan.
ABOUT TREKKING EXPEDITIONS
The trekking activities on this trip are rated as strenuous and challenging. Trip members should be in good health and confident hiking mixed and steep terrain at increasingly higher altitudes that may include rocky trails, slippery conditions, potential rain, snow, icy conditions and, or steps and stairs.
Physical activities include city walking tours, steep hiking to monasteries, temples and fortresses, driving over winding mountain roads and strenuous hiking/trekking during the trek. The general elevations in the valleys will mostly range from 6,800 ft to 9,000 ft, with drives that will take us over higher passes before descending to the average elevations mentioned above. This will help acclimate us for our trek which, following the cultural journey, will take us to much higher elevations, exceeding elevations of 4,937 m/16,200 feet or more.
Our trekking expeditions are bespoke itineraries designed for active travelers that combine guided excursions, cultural insights, art and customs, with camping, sleeping bags, trekking tents and and three meals plus daily hot beverages and refreshements included. Personal sleeping bag liners, trekking poles, adequate thermal layers, warm clothing, and other personal gear reccommended.
Our journeys are small group adventures of usually 8 to 12 travelers, with a maximum of 16 guests per group. Unlike most tour providers we seek to maintain the idustry's lowest ratio of guests per Bhutan Himalaya Expeditions staff. This ensures that our journeys feel more like a shared adventures with local friends than a tourist's jaunt through the countryside.
GETTING THERE
Fly from your home city to Bangkok, Singapore, New Delhi Kolkata, or Kathmandu (Main Gateway Cities)*
Overnight
Fly from Gateway City to Paro, Bhutan.
IMPORTANT: Bhutan Himalaya Expeditions makes round-trip flight arrangements from the Gateway City of your choice to Bhutan as a courtesy to our travelers. Airfare is not included in trip price.
For further details please email us contact us using the Reserve Online button on this page.
*Bangkok is the primary Gateway City and offers the most frequent and most reliable flights to Bhutan.
OUR TRAVEL EXTENSIONS
(with optional Bangkok Transit arrangements)
If you're thinking of traveling to some of the other interesting destinations in the region before or after Bhutan you may like to consider our travel extensions. That way you can spend less time juggling and coordinating multiple bookings and more time experiencing the magnificent World Heritage site of Angkor Wat, a peaceful Laotian sojourn, discovering Vietnam or experiencing India.
For further details, and to see past travel extensions, please visit our Regional Extensions page.
WHAT TRAVELERS ARE SAYING
“...a challenging and rewarding experience. Many thanks to Karma and his team of guides, horsemen, and camp chefs, and to my wonderful trekking companions for making it a trip of a lifetime.”
~ Mark Pearson, Boise, ID
ACCOMMODATIONS
High-end traditional lodges
Small Group Adventure
DURATION
20 days
ACTIVITY LEVEL
Difficult to Strenuous
Or call 1-855-4-BHUTAN (248826)
TRIP TYPE
ACTIVE ● HIGH HIMALAYAN TREK
ASK A QUESTION
EXPLORE OUR STUNNING LANDSCAPE WITH BHUTAN HIMALAYA EXPEDITIONS
Sign up to receive travel updates and offers, tips & insights from Bhutan Himalaya Expeditions
