Trekking in Bhutan

Page sponsored by Boundless Journeys

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Bhutan, known mostly for its happy citizens and enthralling dzongs, should really toot its own adventurous horn a bit more in recognition of its trekking opportunities – they are unbeatable, and unforgettable. 

The landscape just about begs to be conquered. Wooded trails, wildflowers, snowy peaks, and riverside paths are all elements that make the trekking circuits a must-complete for anyone who has even thought about crafting a bucket list. You can start your journey on the outskirts of a peaceful town like Paro, disappear into the Himalayan foothills for a week, and come out the other side right smack in the middle of Gangkha, another of its stunning villages just a short transfer away from the country’s capital, Thimphu. A 7-day trek to the base of sacred Mt. Chomolhari, plus time to visit in the towns, fits snugly into a 2-week adventure. 

The fantastic routes and economics of time are not what make this the perfect trekking destination, however. It is the richness of what you experience on the trail that will stay with you forever. 

Want to see the world’s most intense soccer game (according to the children playing) in a remote village at 12,000 feet with nothing more than a few buildings and a mountain culture steeped in years of yak herding? Feel like shooting the cross-cultural breeze with local young men who are out repairing your routes foot bridges on their own accord? Ever wanted to sip steaming hot tea brought to your tent each morning as you re-awaken your sense of adventure, and your muscles, in preparation for a 15,000’ pass complete with thousands of billowing prayer flags?

Bhutan trekking offers all of these experiences and a thousand more just as rewarding. It is the combination of the culture on flat land (relatively speaking) and the challenge in the mountains that naturally draws adventurers to its peaks and its people. 

A perfect complement to the natural wonder of the country is traveling with a local guide to make sure your trip is completed in comfort, companionship, and customization. Award-winning tour operator Boundless Journeys has been offering adventures in Bhutan for nearly a decade, and has relationships with the best local trip leaders. They have been recognized by National Geographic Traveler for exceptional itineraries to Bhutan, and were voted by Travel + Leisure readers as a top 10 “World’s Best” Tour Operator. Why? Because they take the big picture of adventure and break it down into the smaller elements of enjoyment. Spontaneous trips to local homes for an authentic meal, camp staff whose greatest concern is your safety and satisfaction, time spent at archery tournaments in hidden valleys...if you are willing to put one foot in front of the other, Boundless Journeys will put you one step ahead – always. 

Photos & text by BoundlessJourneys.com