PRE-TRIP EXPEDITION
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.
Western Bhutan’s less-traveled high Himalayan trek
Immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of the western Bhutan Himalaya on this classic, fully-supported expedition. Hike up steep, forested valleys to high mountain passes reaching 13,900 feet (or 4,235 meters), where you'll see snow-capped peaks like Mt. Kanchenjunga (world’s third highest) on the horizon. At the end of each day's trek, unwind in our camps—including an unforgettable night by a sacred high-altitude lake near the Tibet-Indian border. Return to Haa where you'll meet up with the rest of the group for your journey to Bhutan's spectacular Royal Highland Festival.
HEALTH & SAFETY
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.
ITINERARY
VIEW DAY BY DAY
OCTOBER 11: ARRIVAL IN PARO FROM BANGKOK
Touch down in Paro, the emerald gateway to Bhutan, on a spectacular flight threading Himalayan peaks. This first day offers gentle acclimatization with easy touring: stroll Paro town’s markets, admire the National Museum at Ta Dzong, and rest in preparation for the journey ahead. Overnight in Paro.
Field Notes:
Altitude: Paro 2,200 m / 7,218 ft
Drive Time: Airport transfer 15–20 min
Activity: Light acclimatization walking (1–2 miles / 1.5–3 km)
Terrain: Valley floor, paved paths
October 2026 Weather & Climate (Paro): Stable autumn conditions with clear skies. Daytime ~16–20°C (61–68°F); nights ~5–10°C (41–50°F). Low humidity, excellent visibility.
Packing Guide: Lightweight base layers, light fleece, comfortable walking shoes, sun hat, sunglasses.
Meals included: Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Nemjo Heritage Lodge, Tiger's Nest Camp or the Olathang Lodge
OCTOBER 12: TREKKING OR DRIVING INTO HAA VALLEY
Set out on the Trans Bhutan Trail, following centuries-old footpaths once used by farmers and local nobility. The full-day trek climbs steeply from Paro through evergreen forests to the high ridge of Kaley La, from where deep forests open onto vast views, before descending into the pristine Haa Valley. Guests preferring a gentler pace may drive and enjoy a guided village walk. We stay at the Soednam Zingkha Lodge, a traditional lodge housed in the old home of the former governor, the “Haabi Penlop.” In the evening, cross a small wooden bridge across a rushing stream to the opposite side of the lodge to soak in traditional style in wooden tubs. Fiery cups of local rice Ara, a hot alcoholic drink will be served to heighten the experience. Afterwards, enjoy Hoentey, a rich and heavy dumpling made from buckwheat and dried and preserved vegetables.
Field Notes:
Altitude Profile:
Start: Paro 2,200 m / 7,218 ft
High Point: Kaley La ~3,700 m / 12,139 ft
End: Haa 2,670 m / 8,760 ftTrekking Distance: ~6–8 miles / 10–13 km
Elevation Gain/Loss: +1,500 m / -1,000 m (approx.)
Time on Trail: 6–8 hours
Terrain: Forest trails, steep ascents, ridge traverse, descent
Support: Day packs carried; vehicle support option available
October 2026 Weather & Climate: Strong diurnal variation. Valley start ~14–18°C (57–64°F); high pass ~5–10°C (41–50°F); nights ~0–5°C (32–41°F). Dry and clear.
Packing Guide: Moisture-wicking base layer, mid-weight fleece, light down or insulated jacket for pass, trekking pants, trekking poles, hiking boots.
Meals included: Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: The Soednam Zingkha Heritage Home or comparable
OCTOBER 13: TREK TO TREASURE LAKE
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 viewed 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.
Field Notes:
Altitude Profile:
Start: Haa ~2,700 m / 8,858 ft
High Ridge: ~3,800–4,000 m / 12,467–13,123 ft
Camp: ~3,900 m / 12,795 ftTrekking Distance: 6–8 miles / 10–13 km
Elevation Gain: +1,200 m / 3,937 ft
Time on Trail: 6–7 hours
Terrain: Forest ascent, alpine ridge, remote valley descent
Camp Conditions: Fully supported expedition camp
October 2026 Weather & Climate: Alpine conditions. Day ~6–12°C (43–54°F); night ~-5 to -2°C (23–28°F). Strong sun, rapid cooling.
Packing Guide: Thermal base layer, fleece, down jacket, trekking pants, gloves, warm hat, hiking boots, camp shoes, headlamp.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Fully supported Bhutan Himalaya Expedition Camps
OCTOBER 14: 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.
Field Notes:
Altitude Profile:
Start: ~3,900 m / 12,795 ft
Tshejey Pass: 4,237 m / 13,900 ft
Camp: ~4,200 m / 13,780 ftTrekking Distance: 5–7 miles / 8–11 km
Elevation Gain: +300–400 m / 1,000–1,300 ft
Time on Trail: 5–6 hours
Terrain: Steep ascent, exposed high pass, alpine basin
Camp Conditions: High-altitude exposed lakeside camp
October 2026 Weather & Climate: Cold alpine. Day ~3–8°C (37–46°F); night ~-8 to -5°C (18–23°F); wind chill common.
Packing Guide: Full layering system—thermal base, fleece, insulated/down jacket, windproof shell, gloves, hat, neck buff, UV protection, insulated socks.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Fully supported Bhutan Himalaya Expedition Camps
OCTOBER 15: 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.
Field Notes:
Altitude Profile:
Start: ~4,200 m / 13,780 ft
Bjara Pass: 4,255 m / 13,963 ft
Camp: ~3,900–4,000 m / 12,795–13,123 ftTrekking Distance: 6–8 miles / 10–13 km
Elevation Gain/Loss: Rolling high-altitude terrain
Time on Trail: 6–7 hours
Terrain: Alpine meadows, exposed ridgelines
Camp Conditions: Remote alpine camp
October 2026 Weather & Climate: Cold, dry, and exposed. Day ~4–9°C (39–48°F); night ~-8 to -4°C (18–25°F).
Packing Guide: Down jacket, windproof shell, thermal layers, gloves, sunglasses, SPF, trekking poles, insulated water bottles.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Fully supported Bhutan Himalaya Expedition Camps
OCTOBER 16: 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.
Field Notes:
Altitude Profile:
Start: ~3,900 m / 12,795 ft
High Point: ~4,200 m / 13,780 ft
Camp: ~3,800–3,900 m / 12,467–12,795 ftTrekking Distance: 5–7 miles / 8–11 km
Elevation: Moderate gain/loss
Time on Trail: 5–6 hours
Terrain: Open alpine terrain, ridgelines, streamside camp
Camp Conditions: Final expedition camp
October 2026 Weather & Climate: Clear, crisp. Day ~5–10°C (41–50°F); night ~-6 to -3°C (21–27°F).
Packing Guide: Layered system, insulated jacket, camp footwear, warm socks, gloves, hat, light shell for wind.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Fully supported Bhutan Himalaya Expedition Camps
OCTOBER 17: RETURN HIKE TO HAA & 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 a good traditional soak in a hot stone bath, and our reunion with the rest of the group back at the Zingkha Lodge.
Field Notes:
Altitude Profile:
Start: ~3,800 m / 12,467 ft
End: Haa 2,670 m / 8,760 ftTrekking Distance: 4–6 miles / 6–10 km
Time on Trail: 3–5 hours
Drive Time: Trailhead → Lodge ~30–45 min
Terrain: Gradual descent, forest re-entry
Recovery Note: Increased oxygen, warmer conditions
October 2026 Weather & Climate: Milder. Day ~12–16°C (54–61°F); night ~0–5°C (32–41°F).
Packing Guide: Light layers for descent, breathable shirt, light fleece, trail shoes optional for final section.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodations: Zingkha Lodge
TREK SUMMARY
Max Altitude: ~4,255 m / 13,963 ft
Highest Camp: ~4,200 m / 13,780 ft
Temperature Range:
Day: ~3–18°C (37–64°F)
Night: ~-8 to 5°C (18–41°F)Weather Pattern:
Dry post-monsoon clarity
Strong UV exposure
Large day/night swings
TREK PACKING LIST
1. Layering System (Non-Negotiable)
Base layer (light + thermal)
Fleece mid-layer
Insulated jacket (down/synthetic)
Shell (windproof/water-resistant)
2. Lower Body
Hiking pants (primary)
Thermal bottoms (high camps)
3. Extremities
Warm hat
Sun hat
Gloves (light + insulated)
Wool socks (multiple pairs)
4. Footwear
Broken-in hiking boots (primary)
Camp shoes (essential for recovery)
5. Trek Essentials
Trekking poles
Headlamp
Sunglasses (high UV)
SPF + lip balm
Insulated water bottles