Bhutan: Tale of Trails

Trudging on to develop the truest connection with nature, Bhutan offers you the best way to go about it.

Tiger’s Nest trail

Also known as the Taktsang, the Tiger’s Nest monastery is located to the north of Paro at the height of 3120m. It is a popular destination for hiking and walking for both the locals and the tourists, taking on average 5 hours of round trip hike to make the visit. 

If you are unable to hike up but still want to visit the monastery, you can hire a horse. If you have forgotten your hiking poles, do not worry, you can buy one at the foot of the hiking trail. 

You can stop for lunch in the cafeteria on the way to the monastery. 

The trail is a wide dirt trail and not overly steep. You can enjoy the scenic view along the way with rest stops. Almost halfway up, you can decide between continuing the hike or turning around while taking a breather to enjoy the spectacular view in front of you. 

From here on, it is not just a dirt trail but a stone staircase will lead you to the monastery. Covered in colorful prayer flags, the view makes the strenuous climb worth it. 

The best times to visit this trail are October through November. 

Make sure to pack your hiking shoes, water, snacks, and most importantly, CAMERA!

Bumdra Trail

Considered a challenging route, the Bumdra Trail takes about 14 hours to reach the destination at 3800m. Taking about 14 hours, it is considered a challenging route. The Bumdra Trail is ideal for backpacking, camping, and hiking. Once there, you can hike to the sky burial site which is believed to be blessed by Guru Rinpoche. Or, you can choose to spend your time in leisure and relax. 

The trail passes through the pine forest from where you can overlook Paro and even get a bird’s eye view of the Tiger’s nest. 

The best time to hike the trail is from March to May and September to November. During these months, the trails are usually well-maintained and easily accessible, allowing you to enjoy the breathtaking views and cultural landmarks along the route. 

The overnight campsite near Bumdra Monastery is the perfect for a getaway from modern life and connecting with nature. 

Jhomolhari Trek

At 4100m, Mount Jhomolhari is one of the most popular trekking routes in Bhutan.  Often referred to as the “Bride of Kangchenjunga,” it sits on the border of Bhutan and Tibet and is one of Bhutan’s most sacred mountains. 

The trek takes about 10 days to complete and on the route, you can see the twin peaks of Jhomolhari and its neighboring peak of Jichu Drakay. 

You start from Drugyel Dzong in Paro, head to Shanna Zampa, and then to the alpine meadows of Thang Thanka. Proceed to the camp at Jangothang to spend your time admiring the views of Jomolhari and Jichu Drake while your body acclimatizes to the height. 

You then move on to Yeli La and make a descent to Shodu before ascending to Barshong. The final descent is via Dolom Kencho, heading to Dodina before the completion of the trek. 

The trail itself is arduous and tiring, requiring a lot of grit and resilience. It is sure to connect you to Mother Nature. 

Snowman Trek

Undoubtedly one of the world’s greatest treks, The Snowman Trek is one of the most  difficult  treks to undertake in the world!

With its path winding along the mountainous border between Bhutan and Tibet, it takes about 25 days starting from Paro and ending at Lunana in Northern Bhutan. 

The trekkers have to cross 11 high mountain passes, out of which 4 are over 5000m with Rinchenzoe La being the highest at 5332m. 

It is surely a grueling journey to make but it is worth it. The recommendation is that it should be attempted only by experienced hikers because it is a long and strenuous journey that

requires a good level of fitness. 

The best time to attempt the trek is in summer as during the winter, most of the routes are covered with snow and not feasible. 

It is a challenge that awaits you. 

Druk Path Trek

A six-day introductory trek to Bhutan, the Druk Path starts from Paro, and hiking over beautiful mountain ranges, you end up in Thimphu. 

It reaches an altitude of 4200m and bears an incredible view of Mount Gangkar Puensum (7570m), the unclimbed mountain.

It is one of the easiest treks to make and along the route, you will see the dwarf rhododendrons and other colorful flora.

The path is best trekked from late February to June and from September to December. 

A leisure walk in the nature.