Bhutan isn’t just mountains—it’s a living poem in stone and sky. If you’re dreaming of waking up to snow-capped peaks, sleeping under alpine stars, and feeling both humbled and inspired by ancient monasteries, then trekking here is for you. In 2025, two routes stand out for their beauty, challenge, and soulful reward: Jomolhari Trek and Druk Path Trek. Let’s walk through what makes them special, when to go, how hard they are, and how to prepare so your journey into Bhutan’s high places feels like home.
Jomolhari Trek: Deep wilderness, dramatic peaks (including Mount Jomolhari), high mountain passes, alpine meadows, remote valleys. It’s not an easy stroll—but that’s part of the magic.
Druk Path Trek: A shorter, more accessible route. It connects Paro and Thimphu. You pass through rhododendron forests, remote lakes, high ridges, and the Labana La pass (~4,200 m). It gives a perfect mix of scenic beauty + cultural touchpoints.
| Trek | Duration / Altitude | Terrain & Hard Parts | Who it Suits best |
| Jomolhari Trek | ~10-12 days, highest passes around ~4,900-5,000 m; base camps around 4,000-4,500 m. | Steep ascents & descents; cold nights; remote camps (not many lodges); variable weather; long walking days across passes; altitude challenges. | trekkers with good fitness; some prior multi-day hiking; people who love remote wilderness and are okay with basic conditions. |
| Druk Path Trek | ~4-6 days typically; passes over ~4,200 m (Labana La); campsites, lakes, forest/ridge walks. | Moderate: some steep segments, elevation gain; weather changes; nights cold; trail sometimes muddy or snow-covered depending on season. But less remote than Jomolhari. | Good for trekkers who want a serious experience but maybe don’t have 2+ weeks; also good for first-timers in Himalayan trekking with good preparations. |
| Trek | Best Months | What to Expect Weather-Wise |
| Jomolhari Trek | Spring (March-May) & Autumn (September-November) | Clear skies, mild days, cold nights. Trails are dry, visibility high, views dramatic. Spring: blossoms, new growth; Autumn: crisp air, stable weather |
| Druk Path Trek | Same: Spring & Autumn are best. Monsoon (June-August) brings heavy rain; Winter (Dec-Feb) is cold, snow in places. | In spring, rhododendrons in bloom; trail conditions good. Autumn = stable, clear skies. Monsoon = risk of landslides, slippery paths. Winter = quiet & beautiful for those ready for cold, but nights can get harsh. |
Licensed tour operators required: Independent trekking is generally not allowed in Bhutan; you’ll need to go through a licensed operator who arranges permits, logistics, lodging/camping, and guide/porter support.
Guides are invaluable: They not only show the trail, but help with acclimatisation, weather decisions, safety, share stories of flora, fauna, culture. If possible, pick one who knows the region well (for Jomolhari especially).
Porters / support staff: They carry camping gear, camping-kitchen equipment, supplies. Great to use — it lightens your pack and helps you enjoy more. Always treat them well, respect their culture, pay fair wages.
Acclimatisation days: Build in time to adjust, especially above 3,500-4,000 m. Jomolhari has several nights above this altitude; listen to your body.
Packing smart: Warm layers, waterproof top layer, good boots, sun protection, headlamp, sleeping bag rated for cold nights, etc. Be light but prepared.
If time or fitness levels don’t allow for Jomolhari, or you want something gentler:
Bumdra Trek: Shorter-duration, less high altitude, easier logistics. Good mix of culture + hiking.
Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek: Fantastic scenery, especially lakes, less harsh than Jomolhari.
Snowman Trek: If you want the ultimate challenge. Extremely remote, high passes, long duration; considered one of the hardest treks in Bhutan. Not for the faint of heart.
Bhutan’s treks are more than footpaths in the hills—they are journeys into the heart of nature, kindness, culture, and silence. Whether you choose the majestic Jomolhari trek with its high passes and wild beauty, or the more accessible but still soul-stirring Druk Path trek, you’ll come away changed: more grounded, more small in the world, yet more expansive in your spirit.
If you feel ready, warm up your boots, pack lightly, and breathe in those Himalayan skies. Whenever you’re prepared, Namgay Adventure Travels would be honoured to help you walk these trails—guide you safely, show you the hidden turns, the quiet lakes, the ancient monasteries, and share stories of our mountains. Let’s wander Bhutan together.
