Top 10 Trekking Routes in Bhutan for 2025: From Iconic Trails to Hidden Gems

Trekking in Bhutan is more than an adventure; it’s a journey into an untouched paradise. With Bhutan Travel Now, you get to explore pristine landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and spiritual tranquility that few places on Earth offer. This small Himalayan kingdom is quickly becoming a top destination for hiking enthusiasts seeking both challenge and connection.

Trekking in Bhutan

The Ultimate Trekking Destination

With its unspoiled wilderness, towering Himalayan peaks, and rich biodiversity, Bhutan is a trekker’s dream. You’ll pass by crystal-clear lakes, remote highland villages, and dense forests teeming with rare wildlife. Few human settlements mean your trek is peaceful and immersive, offering a raw, undisturbed encounter with nature.

A Unique Trekking Experience

Your adventure begins in pine-scented forests, winding past ancient trees and mystical monasteries. As you climb higher, rugged glacial valleys and snow-dusted peaks welcome you. The silence is profound, interrupted only by birdsong and the gentle rush of streams. Trekking in Bhutan fills your spirit with freedom, solitude, and awe-inspiring views.

Why Trek in Bhutan?

  • Pristine Nature: Untouched Himalayan landscapes.

  • Cultural Richness: Sacred monasteries and warm-hearted locals.

  • Spiritual Journey: Deepen your inner peace through nature.

  • Adventure & Solitude: Experience challenge away from modern distractions.

Top 10 Trekking Routes in Bhutan for 2025

Whether you're looking for a short hike or a multi-week expedition, Bhutan Travel Now presents ten of the best trekking routes to explore in 2025. Each route has been carefully selected based on its scenic beauty, cultural value, difficulty level, and uniqueness.

1. Druk Path Trek

  • Best Time: Feb–May, Sept, Dec

  • Duration: 4 to 6 Days

  • Start: Paro | Finish: Thimphu

  • Max Elevation: 4,235m

  • Difficulty: Moderate

This classic trek links Paro and Thimphu and is perfect for first-timers. You'll pass stunning lakes, rhododendron forests, and ancient dzongs. The views of Mount Gangkar Puensum are unforgettable.

2. Jomolhari Trek I

  • Best Time: Apr–Jun, Sept–Nov

  • Duration: 8 Days

  • Start: Shana | Finish: Dodina

  • Max Elevation: 4,820m

  • Difficulty: Hard

One of Bhutan's most iconic treks, this route takes you to the base of sacred Mount Jomolhari. High-altitude meadows and yak herder camps make it a cultural and visual feast.

3. Snowman Trek I

  • Best Time: Mid-Jun to Mid-Oct

  • Duration: 25 Days

  • Start: Gunitsawa | Finish: Sephu

  • Max Elevation: 5,320m

  • Difficulty: Hard

Renowned as one of the world’s toughest treks, this epic journey crosses 11 mountain passes. Reserved for experienced trekkers, it's the ultimate test of endurance and offers unmatched Himalayan scenery.

4. Dagala Thousand-Lake Trek

  • Best Time: Apr–May, Sept–Oct

  • Duration: 6 Days

  • Start: Geynizampa | Finish: Chamgang

  • Max Elevation: 4,520m

  • Difficulty: Moderate

This hidden gem features pristine alpine lakes, blooming meadows, and panoramic views of Bhutanese and Tibetan peaks. It's remote yet accessible for seasoned hikers.

5. Bumthang Owl Trek

  • Best Time: Mar–Jun, Nov–Dec

  • Duration: 3 Days

  • Start: Menchugang | Finish: Tharpaling Monastery

  • Max Elevation: 4,400m

  • Difficulty: Moderate

Ideal for culture lovers and birdwatchers, this short trek in central Bhutan is rich in folklore and biodiversity. Night walks often reveal the region's namesake owls.

6. Merak-Sakten Trek

  • Best Time: Mar–May, Sept–Nov

  • Duration: 6 Days

  • Start: Chhaling | Finish: Phongmey

  • Max Elevation: 3,480m

  • Difficulty: Moderate

Venture into eastern Bhutan to meet the Brokpa people and discover unique traditions untouched by modern life. This cultural trek is off the mainstream tourist path.

7. Gangtey Trek

  • Best Time: Mar–May, Sept–Nov

  • Duration: 3 Days

  • Start: Phobjikha Valley | Finish: Tikke Zampa

  • Max Elevation: 3,480m

  • Difficulty: Easy

This low-altitude trek offers scenic beauty and birdlife, including the endangered black-necked crane. It’s short, peaceful, and spiritually uplifting.

8. Haa Nub Tshonapata Trek

  • Best Time: Apr–Jun, Sept–Oct

  • Duration: 5 Days

  • Start/Finish: Haa

  • Max Elevation: 4,180m

  • Difficulty: Moderate

Explore Bhutan’s remote west through lush forests and mystical lakes. Perfect for those looking for solitude and natural beauty.

9. Nabji-Korphu Trek

  • Best Time: Oct–Apr

  • Duration: 6 Days

  • Start: Tongtongphey | Finish: Nimshong

  • Max Elevation: 1,500m

  • Difficulty: Easy

This community-based trek in central Bhutan offers cultural immersion, village homestays, and ecological richness. It supports local livelihoods and is perfect for socially conscious travelers.

10. Bumdrag Monastery Trek

  • Best Time: Feb–May, Sept–Dec

  • Duration: 2 to 3 Days

  • Start/Finish: Paro

  • Difficulty: Easy

This spiritual trek takes you to the sacred Bumdrag Monastery, said to be visited by 1,000 Dakinis. It's ideal for a short and peaceful Himalayan escape.

Plan Your Trek with Bhutan Travel Now

Whether you're an adventurer, a culture-seeker, or a spiritual traveler, Bhutan Travel Now is here to guide your journey. From permits and local guides to gear and logistics, we make trekking in Bhutan smooth and unforgettable.

Bhutan is calling. Are you ready to answer? Let Bhutan Travel Now help you create your perfect trek into the heart of the Himalayas.

Location: Bhutan

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