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.
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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.
Himalayas Tour Packages
by Interest
