About Trekking

To see this Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan at its most splendid form, one has to trek. From the towering snow peaks of the Inner Himalaya to the verdant forests which cloak the hills and the peaceful valleys, the trails lead into a wilderness still pristine and famous for its ecological richness and diversity.
We offer challenging treks like Snowman, Laya, Wild East Rhodung La and Jhomolhari but we also have some easy and moderate treks such as Druk Path, Royal Trek and Juniper Trail.

Trekking in Bhutan is unique comparing to other countries in the Himalayan regions. The walks are long and arduous but they are complemented by fresh air and wonderful views of mountains, hills, villages and the greenery. Only a few tourist treks each year and paths and communication may not be as good as they are in other Himalayan destinations.

However, we provide adequate facilities for the trekkers. The trekkers are accompanied by a trained guide, a cook, a cooking assistant and at least one horseman. All provision and belongings are carried by horses and yaks. Trekkers rarely have to carry more than a day pack.

Bhutanmahayana has ample of knowledge on trekking and other needs of the trekkers as to make the journey as adventurous and comfortable as possible. The support crew walks ahead of the trekking party each day and pitch camp before the trekkers arrive. A warm cup of tea that waits as you reach the camp is the most welcome treat after ten hours hiking up and down the mountains, sometimes as high as 5000m.

All meals are carefully planned. Breakfast is always cooked and dinner includes a choice of at least four dishes. In many of the country, villages are scarce and few people will cross the path and as a result we take every precaution to ensure the safety and comfort of the trekkers.
Altitude sickness is an acute problem for trekkers in Bhutan. Almost all of the designated treks go above 3,000 meters (9,000 feet).  For those walkers who have not properly acclimatized or those who suffer from altitude sickness we advise them not to trek. If they wish to, it is advisable to start slowly and allow yourself to acclimatize.

Pace
On a typical trek day, we will be woken at 6.00 am, by a member of the camp crew bringing tent tea, followed shortly by a bowl of hot washing water. By 7.30 am, when breakfast is ready, we will have packed ready for the day’s activity (day pack, and main luggage if appropriate). We leave with our guide just before 8.30 am and spend the rest of the day walking at an unhurried but steady pace. We stop for about an hour for a hot lunch and at our next campsite, at about 4.30 pm. The crew will pack up the tents, load the horses, overtake us and have the new camp ready for our arrival. A hot drink will be ready when we arrive, followed by washing water and our evening meal. After eating, we discuss the route for the following day with our guide before retiring to bed.

This will sound very familiar to anyone who has trekked in Nepal, the main differences being that the camp crew is much smaller in Bhutan and there are no tea houses or shops along the way.

Fitness
It is essential that participants undertake regular walking in the months leading up to the start of the Tour so that you can enjoy to the full what this trip offers. The itinerary gives an indication of the distances involved. Previous experience of multi-day trekking as well as of extended periods camping over 3000 m is preferable.

It is accepted practice in Bhutan for the Guide to assess trek participants as to their physical fitness, and their ability to undertake what is ahead. In the event of serious concern he will stop and possibly turn back those who, in his opinion, cannot complete the undertaking.

Acclimatization
Every effort has been made to allow gradual acclimatization to the altitude, but this is a factor which is unpredictable for anyone. Many folk have their own ideas about how to combat the effects of altitude and we always carry Diamox with us and use it if we feel the need. If you plan to use such a drug for the first time, visit your doctor well in advance of the trip and ensure that you have a trial at home so that you understand what the effect is on you before administering it at height.