Bhutan, nicknamed the “Last Shangri-La,” is renowned for its magnificent scenery, deep spiritual rituals, and rich cultural heritage. Hiking in Bhutan is a delightful experience for individuals who value nature and its creations. In addition to the stunning natural settings, Bhutan’s strong feeling of peace and spirituality affects every aspect of life, making it a popular destination for many visitors. Bhutan hiking across mountain ranges may take you to new places, energize your soul, and bring you closer to nature. Get up, pack your luggage, and live in the present moment, or you’ll miss out on the opportunity to tap into your inner hiking passion.

Best Time to Hike in Bhutan

If you want to know when it would be appropriate for hiking in Bhutan, actually it depends on when you want to. If you would like to go hiking in the winter, the months of December through March are great. However, the most popular months for hiking are September through November, when the weather is ideal and Bhutan looks breathtaking.

 Best Trails for Hiking in Bhutan

For adventure enthusiasts, we’ve selected top hiking paths in Bhutan to help you explore the Land of Happiness. Take a peek.

1. Dochula to Lungchutse Lhakhang Hike

The Lungchutse Hike is an easy hiking trail that is suitable for both perfectionists and novices. The hike begins at the Buddhist shrine at Dochula Pass and ends at the Lungchutse monastery, taking around 3 hours. As is claimed, the view from above is breathtaking, as you can see multiple mountain peaks from the Lungchutse monastery.

• Where: Thimphu, Bhutan.
• Duration: 3-4 hours.
• Level: Easy.

2. Gangtey Nature Hike

Gangtey Nature Route is a downhill hiking track in Bhutan that offers magnificent views of the glacial valley. It will show you the beauty and simplicity of the Bhutanese landscape. You are entering a world of grazing animals, wildflower-filled meadows, and a picturesque wander through forests and valleys. Spend your two-hour hike taking in the splendor of Bhutan’s scenery.

• Where: Phobjikha Valley, Bhutan.
• Duration: 2-3 hours.
• Level: Easy.

3. Taktsang Goenba Hike

Paro Takstang Goemba, also known as the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, is a lovely Buddhist monastery. The climb up to the monastery follows a wide trail that begins at the foot of the mountain from the parking lot. You can even take a rest in between at the renowned Takstang Cafeteria, which is a popular hangout for hikers. The round trek takes approximately 5 to 6 hours, so plan your hike appropriately. If you grow fatigued along the route, you can rent a horse halfway through but strive to finish the walk since the satisfaction of reaching the top will astound you.

• Where: Paro, Bhutan.
• Duration: 5-6 hours.
• Level: Moderate.

4. Ngang Lhakhang to Tahung Hike

Tahung Hike, which crosses streams and passes through meadows and bamboo forests, begins at Ngang Lhakhang Temple, also known as the Swan Temple, and continues to Phephe La. After completing the hike at the Phephe La location, you will come across a stone shrine with prayer flags, which is an ideal location to take Instagramable photos to commemorate your ecstatic win.

• Where: Bumthang, Bhutan.
• Duration: 6 hours.
• Level: Moderate.

5. Khamsum Chorten Hike

Hike up to Bhutan’s best hiking location and admire the ancient monument’s beautiful architecture. Khamsum Chorten, erected in 1990, is one of Bhutan’s oldest monuments. The hike begins at the Punakha town parking lot and travels through interesting valleys and farmlands. It’s short, steep, and will leave you breathless.

• Where: Punakha town, Bhutan
• Duration: 2 hours.
• Level: Difficult

6. Druk Path Trek

This is a tough six-day trek that also happens to be Bhutan’s most popular trekking and hiking destination. While trekking on this nature-blessed route, you’ll pass by several pristine lakes, pass through deeply shaded pine jungles, and rhododendron fields, walk along high ridges amid ancient religious sites, and meet friendly locals in age-old settlements high in Bhutan’s mountains. Overall, you will return with a smile on your face and a lifetime of memories in your heart!

• Where: Paro.
• Duration: 6 days.
• Level: Difficult

7. Jomolhari Laya Gasa Trek

If you want to enjoy the spectacular landscapes of Bhutan’s lush valleys and hills on your trek, this is the one for you. Though challenging and time-consuming, this twelve-day trek through Bhutan’s hills and forests is the perfect combination of adventure and relaxation. This walk will take you through Bhutan’s captivating and natural landscapes that tourists rarely hear about, rewarding you with the most lovely panoramas of pastoral alpine meadows and lush valleys.

• Where: Drukgyel, Paro.
• Duration: 12 days
• Level: Difficult

8. Nabji Korphu Trek

If you’re looking for a simple and relaxing trek in Bhutan, consider the pleasant Nabji Korphu trek. This walk is easier than the other options for hiking in Bhutan and will provide you with just as many breathtaking views of valleys and hills as the other treks, as well as Bhutan’s refreshing weather. You can complete it in 6 or 7 days, depending on your speed and the number of rest stops you make along the way. This trail begins in Trongsa Dzongkhag and leads to elevations ranging from 1,000 to 1,500 meters via lush vegetation and breathtaking scenery.

• Where: Trongsa Dzongkhag.
• Duration: 7 days, 
• Level: Easy.

9. Merak Sakteng Trek

The Merak Sakteng Trek is ideal for individuals looking for a one-of-a-kind and challenging Bhutan trek. This walk immerses you in Bhutan’s semi-nomadic lifestyle and rich culture, set in stunning valleys and hills. After your seven-day trip, the hunt for this exquisite rural setting will lead you to the protected area of Sakteng, where the sights will astound you and the lack of urbanization will relax you! It’s undoubtedly one of the most unusual experiences in the nation.

• Where: Sakteng
• Duration: 7 days
• Level: Difficult

10. Ura Hike

This is one of Bhutan’s most stunning treks. Ura Valley is around 50 kilometres away from Bumthang Valley. On the way, you’ll come across Shell Thang La Pass (3600 meters). Your Ura trek begins right here. The hike in the Ura Valley leads you past beautiful forests, rolling hills, and charming villages. The walk provides breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making it ideal for photography and enjoying nature’s quiet.

• Where: Ura Valley, Bumthang
• Level: Easy

11. Wangditse hike

Drive above Thimphu, pass through Mothitang, and stop by Takin Reserve Century to witness our national animal, the ‘Drong Gemtse’, which is said to have the body of a cow and the head of a goat and was created by the Buddhist Master known as Divine Mad Man. The trail winds up via many hanging prayer flags, making the area lovely, and looking back, you can see Thimphu city. At first, the trail appears to lead up into the mountains towards Phajoding. However, after 10 minutes of sharp ascending, you will follow the sidewalk to the right, where the terrain becomes smoother and simpler. 

• Where: Wangditse, Zilukha 
• Level: Easy

12.Tango Cheri Monastery Hike

From the confluence at Dodina, a steep 45-minute trail ascends through a forest adorned with prayer flags to Cheri Goemba. This monastery, established by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1620, became home to Bhutan’s first monk body. Inside the upper goemba, a richly decorated silver chorten houses the ashes of the Zhabdrung’s father, whose body was smuggled from Tibet. Cheri is a significant site for meditation retreats, so please avoid disturbing anyone.
Cheri’s goenkhang (protector chapel) features the two patron protector deities of Cheri and Tango. From the goemba, a steep climb leads to the Demon-Subjugating Monastery, built into the cliff where the Zhabdrung overcame local demons. You may spot tame brown goral (mountain goats) grazing around the monastery grounds.
Monastic cells are scattered up the steep slopes behind the goemba, which is currently undergoing major reconstruction. Traditional building materials are transported via a steep cableway running down to the valley floor. From here you can continue Tango hike

Tips for Hiking in Bhutan

• Before beginning on the walk, make sure to check the weather.
• Before embarking on the hike, go to the gym to prepare for a strenuous hike.
• Carry sunscreen, athletic shoes, and a water bottle.
• Do not forget to bring some warm clothing.
• Pack lightly.
• Carry food in packages.
• Always carry a raincoat in your backpack.

Wrapping up

Bhutan hiking offers a unique opportunity to see the country’s natural beauty and learn about its spiritual, historical, and cultural heritage. Every trek provides a look into the heart of Bhutan. Hikers may help conserve these paths for future generations and allow Bhutan to continue providing the world with its unique blend of natural beauty and spiritual serenity by practicing sustainable and responsible hiking habits. Visit Bhutan Inbound to plan your next journey and find out more about trekking in Bhutan.