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Walking the high trails near Laya - Bhutan High Trails via Laya, Bhutan
Walking the high trails near Laya  | David Symonds
Trekking through Jangothang to the iconic Jichu Drake in Bhutan - Bhutan High Trails via Laya, Bhutan
Trekking through Jangothang to the iconic Jichu Drake in Bhutan  | Gavin Turner
Punakha Area, Bhutan - Bhutan High Trails via Laya, Bhutan
Punakha Area, Bhutan  | Lachlan Gardiner
Pack horses carrying camp equipment through Jigme Dorje National Park - Bhutan High Trails via Laya, Bhutan
Pack horses carrying camp equipment through Jigme Dorje National Park  | Gavin Turner
Drukyel Dzong, Paro Valley, Bhutan - Bhutan High Trails via Laya, Bhutan
Drukyel Dzong, Paro Valley, Bhutan  | Lachlan Gardiner

Bhutan High Trails via Laya

An exhilarating remote trek crossing high mountain passes

Bhutan
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 34 reviews

18 Days from

$ 

Trip Code: BHT
View dates to Book
Essential Information
Duration
  • 18 Days
Activities
  • 12 day trek
Accommodation
  • 5 nights hotel
  • 12 nights camping
Meals
  • 17 Dinners
  • 16 Lunches
  • 17 Breakfasts
Difficulty Grading  
7 / 10

Challenging

Carbon Footprint  

32kg of CO2-e PP per day

(545kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)

Trip highlights

  • Traverse five Himalayan passes - including Sinche La (5005m) - on one of Bhutan’s most demanding and rewarding trekking routes
  • Experience life in Laya, a high-altitude village home to the resilient Layap people and their distinctive culture
  • Begin and end your adventure with visits to Bhutan’s iconic dzongs and sacred sites, including Paro’s cliffside Taktsang Monastery
  • Camp deep in remote alpine wilderness, among yak pastures, birch forests and glaciated valleys framed by high ridgelines

Overview

Join us on this deep journey into the far reaches of the Kingdom of Bhutan. Starting in the fertile valley of Paro, this high-altitude trek leads you over the Druk Path, past alpine pastures and yak-grazed ridges, to the hidden settlement of Laya, one of Bhutan’s most remote mountain villages.

From the cliffside Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest) to the shoulder of Sinche La (5005m), this is a route for seasoned trekkers drawn to raw, isolated wilderness. You’ll cross five major Himalayan passes, walk beneath the towering flanks of Jomolhari (7314m) and Gangchenta, and descend through deep, glaciated valleys.

Along the way, meet Layap herders and camp in pristine wilderness locations framed by alpine ridgelines and glacier-fed rivers. Traverse terrain that shifts from ancient rhododendron forests and groves of spruce, fir and juniper, to wide open valleys dotted with seasonal wildflowers. At night, fall asleep to the remote mountain silence, with stars blazing overhead. Conclude in Gasa and Punakha, with a restorative soak in the natural hot springs.

This is a fully supported expedition-style trek with expert guides, kitchen crew and pack animals – allowing you to focus on the challenge and the rewards of a route that few outsiders ever experience.

Itinerary

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After clearing customs and immigration, you will be met by your World Expeditions representative and transferred a short distance through the town of Paro to our accommodation. Depending on your arrival time and the completion of trek preparations, we plan to explore parts of the town and visit several important cultural sites. Our sightseeing includes the impressive Paro Rinpung Dzong, a magnificent fortress monastery that dominates the valley and serves as both a religious and administrative centre. Considered one of Bhutan’s finest dzongs, it has long served as the architectural model for many others across the kingdom. Above the dzong stands Ta Dzong, a historic watchtower that now houses the National Museum of Bhutan. The museum contains a fascinating collection of artefacts including traditional costumes and battle dress, priceless jewellery, religious objects, and displays showcasing Bhutan’s unique flora and fauna. There may also be time to stroll through Paro town, where small shops sell everyday goods alongside traditional handicrafts made from wood, cloth and metal. Along the valley you may notice archery ranges, reflecting Bhutan’s national sport, often set beside willow-lined fields and traditional wooden bridges. Accommodation: Hotel in Paro

Meals: D

Today provides a wonderful introduction to Bhutan as we explore the beautiful Paro Valley, a landscape of forested hills, traditional farmhouses and cultivated fields. The valley supports a variety of agriculture, including asparagus, strawberries, shiitake mushrooms and seasonal grain and vegetable crops. The patchwork of fields, framed by ornate Bhutanese farmhouses and wooded slopes, creates a striking and colourful setting. This morning we take a short drive to the trailhead for Taktsang Monastery, famously known as the Tiger’s Nest. Perched dramatically on a cliff at 3,100 metres (10,171 feet) above the valley floor, it is one of Bhutan’s most sacred pilgrimage sites. The trail climbs steadily through chir pine forest, taking around 1.5 hours to reach a teahouse that offers excellent views of the monastery across the gorge. From here, a further 30-minute walk brings us to a spectacular viewpoint almost directly opposite the cliffs where the monastery is set. According to legend, Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) arrived here on the back of a flying tigress to subdue local spirits and meditate in the caves that later became the monastery. Although Taktsang was partially destroyed by fire in 1998, it has since been beautifully restored. After returning to Paro for lunch, we continue our sightseeing with a visit to the National Museum, housed in the historic watchtower Ta Dzong above Paro Dzong. The museum displays an impressive collection of artefacts, traditional costumes, religious objects and exhibits relating to Bhutan’s natural and cultural heritage. In the evening, you will repack your bags, leaving behind any items not required for the trek. These will be safely stored with our local partner until our return. Accommodation: Hotel in Paro

Meals: B,L,D

This morning we drive up the Paro Valley, passing through beautiful rural landscapes before reaching the historic ruins of Drukyel Dzong (2,580 m / 8,465 ft). Originally built in 1647, the dzong served as a fortress guarding the valley from Tibetan invasions and remains an important historical landmark. Continuing further up the valley, we drive to Shana (2,860 m / 9,383 ft) where our trek begins. The scenic drive passes through traditional farming country with fields of rice, wheat, barley, mustard, potatoes and radishes, along with herds of grazing cattle. Along the way we also gain our first views of Mount Jomolhari (7,314 m / 23,996 ft) rising at the head of the valley. From Shana we begin trekking along a broad and relatively gentle trail, following the valley floor through lightly forested terrain and open fields. We stop for lunch along the way, enjoying our packed meals surrounded by the quiet Himalayan landscape. The trail gradually ascends through the valley, passing areas that have recently seen development as part of a Bhutan Government project to bring electricity to remote villages further up the valley. By late afternoon we reach our campsite at Thongo Zampa (3,250 m / 10,663 ft) beside the river. Accommodation: Wilderness camp at Thongo Zampa

Meals: B,L,D

Today we continue trekking within Jigme Dorje National Park, the largest protected area in Bhutan, covering approximately 4,350 square kilometres. The park extends north beyond Laya to Lunana and south across vast tracts of wilderness. While it is a protected area, park management based in Gasa must balance conservation with the needs of local farmers and semi-nomadic yak herders who depend on these landscapes. The park supports a remarkable diversity of flora and fauna across both low and high altitudes. The forests along today’s trail are dense and varied, including oak, maple, birch, larch pine and alder, gradually giving way to increasing numbers of rhododendron and pine as we gain elevation. Depending on the season, the rhododendrons may be in bloom, with different species appearing as we climb higher, including rhododendron arboreum, griffithianum, and cinnabarinum. Many of the campsites along this route are not permanent settlements despite having place names. Most are simply clearings beside water sources, used seasonally by yak herders and by workers involved in the large-scale electrification project bringing power to remote communities further up the valley. Some camps located near small settlements may also offer the opportunity to recharge camera batteries and phones for a small local fee. Accommodation: Wilderness camp at Soi Thangthangkha

Meals: B,L,D

Today we continue ascending through the upper valley toward Jangothang, the spectacular base camp beneath Mount Jomolhari (7,314 m / 23,996 ft). The setting here is a magnificent alpine landscape surrounded by high Himalayan peaks. To our right rises the impressive summit of Jichu Drake (6,794 m / 22,290 ft), its elegant ridge stretching down toward the pass that we will cross in the coming days. The valley gradually widens as we approach our campsite. We camp near seasonal settlements used by yak herders from the Paro Valley, who spend the summer months grazing their herds in these high pastures. Similar to their counterparts in southern Tibet, many herders still live in traditional woven yak-wool tents during this time. By now we are well above the treeline, and the landscape becomes increasingly alpine, characterised by low tundra vegetation including juniper and rhododendron setosum. In the surrounding rocky slopes it is sometimes possible to spot blue sheep (bharal) moving across the cliffs. Accommodation: Wilderness camp at Jangothang

Meals: B,L,D

Today is an important acclimatisation day at Jangothang, allowing time for our bodies to adjust to the higher altitude while exploring the spectacular alpine surroundings beneath Mount Jomolhari. One option is a scenic hike up the valley toward the glacier below Jomolhari, offering dramatic views of the mountain’s imposing north face. Alternatively, we may trek to the Tshophu Twin Lakes (4,520 m / 14,829 ft) near Nye La Pass, a beautiful excursion through high alpine terrain with excellent opportunities for photography. These high lakes sit within a remote mountain basin framed by towering Himalayan peaks, providing a striking perspective of the surrounding wilderness. From a mountaineering perspective, these peaks have seen relatively little climbing activity. Jichu Drake (6,794 m / 22,290 ft) was first successfully climbed by Doug Scott in 1988, on his third attempt, highlighting the challenging conditions found in this far eastern section of the Himalaya. Being among the first high mountains to receive the summer monsoon, weather conditions here can be particularly demanding. Accommodation: Wilderness camp at Jangothang

Meals: B,L,D

oday is one of the more challenging and rewarding stages of the trek as we cross Nyile La (4,890 m / 16,043 ft). From camp we begin a steady ascent across rolling alpine slopes of grass and low shrubs, gradually gaining height toward the pass. The climb is long but manageable if taken at a steady pace. The final approach becomes steeper, where grassy slopes give way to scree and sandy terrain before reaching the summit of the pass. The views along the ascent toward Jomolhari and Jichu Drake are spectacular. Local communities undertook significant effort during the regional electrification project, carrying power poles across this high pass by hand. From the pass we leave the dramatic peaks of Jomolhari (7,314 m / 23,996 ft) and Jichu Drake (6,794 m / 22,290 ft) behind as we descend through slopes covered with dwarf rhododendron toward the remote settlement of Lingshi. In the distance we see Lingshi Dzong, a historic fortress built to protect the region’s villages from historic Tibetan incursions. Before reaching the village, the trail turns off toward a quiet valley where we cross a stream, followed by a short but steep climb and final descent to our peaceful campsite at Chazhithang, beside a mountain stream. Accommodation: Wilderness camp at Chazhithang (near Lingshi)

Meals: B,L,D

While trekkers heading only to Jomolhari Base Camp return toward the roadhead today, our journey continues northeastward deeper into the highlands of Bhutan. We begin by ascending past the impressive Lingshi Dzong (4,200 m / 13,780 ft), a historic fortress overlooking the valley. The trail then traverses open alpine pastures dotted with rhododendron and daphne shrubs, offering wide views across the surrounding mountains. Gradually we descend toward the picturesque village of Chebisa, a beautiful valley of grazing pastures scattered with traditional stone houses topped with shingle roofs. A short walk from camp leads to a striking waterfall cascading from a rocky cliff, fed by a hanging lake high above the valley. Near the waterfall stand groves of ancient, gnarled juniper trees, adding to the atmosphere of this remote landscape. Our campsite is located close to the village. During the night you may hear the deep bark of Tibetan mastiffs and other herding dogs, which guard the village livestock from predators. Earplugs are recommended for a peaceful sleep. Above Chebisa stretch the alpine grazing grounds of blue sheep (bharal), which feed high on the slopes during summer and descend closer to the villages during the winter months. Accommodation: Wilderness camp at Chebisa

Meals: B,L,D

From Chebisa, the trail ascends gradually through alpine terrain toward Gombu La (4,440 m / 14,567 ft). As we gain elevation, expansive views open behind us toward Lingshi and the surrounding mountain peaks. The high alpine slopes are rich in birdlife, and sightings of hill partridges are possible along the trail, while Himalayan griffon vultures may be seen soaring overhead on thermal currents above the pastures. After crossing the pass, we descend through increasingly dense forest. The landscape transitions through stands of cypress, followed by spruce and birch, with large clusters of rhododendron griffithianum and campylocarpum. In season, wildflowers such as iris and edelweiss may be seen along the trail. Our campsite at Shomuthang (4,221 m / 13,849 ft) is set beside a small farm settlement, located in a clearing near the river and surrounded by thick alpine shrubs. Accommodation: Wilderness camp at Shomuthang

Meals: B,L,D

This morning we climb steadily across grassy alpine slopes toward Jare La (4,785 m / 15,699 ft). Blue sheep and Himalayan griffons are sometimes seen in this high mountain environment. From the pass, marked by prayer flags and cairns, we enjoy expansive views across the valley toward Shinge La, the highest pass of our trek. Descending from the pass, the trail winds through forests of rhododendron, spruce, cypress and birch before reaching a broad valley floor where grazing animals are often seen. Along the way we may encounter the people of Laya, recognisable by their distinctive woven conical hats decorated with colourful beads. Like many high-altitude herders of the region, they live seasonally in yak-wool tents while tending their livestock. From the valley we climb several hundred metres to reach our campsite at Robluthang, set in a quiet hollow surrounded by high mountain scenery. Accommodation: Wilderness camp at Robluthang

Meals: B,L,D

Today we cross the highest pass of the trek, Shinge La (5,005 m / 16,421 ft). The ascent takes around four hours and is best approached at a slow, steady pace to ensure a comfortable climb before the long descent that follows. From the pass we gain impressive views of nearby peaks, including Gangchenta (6,840 m / 22,441 ft), often referred to as the “Tiger’s Ears.” Descending through boulder fields and grassy alpine slopes, magnificent views unfold across glacial landscapes. Turquoise alpine lakes and glacial streams lie beneath the dramatic ridges of Gangchenta, while further down the valley the effects of glacial erosion are clearly visible in the lateral and terminal moraines scattered across the valley floor. As we continue lower, dense forests of tall conifer trees surround the trail before we reach our peaceful riverside campsite at Lemithang (4,150 m / 13,615 ft), with the striking peaks of the Tiger’s Ears rising above the valley. Accommodation: Wilderness camp at Lemithang

Meals: B,L,D

This morning we descend steadily through thick forest as the trail follows the river valley toward Laya, the first major village we encounter on the trek. The path winds down through dense woodland before emerging into the grazing pastures used by farmers on the outskirts of the settlement. A final climb brings us to Laya village, set on a broad spur several hundred metres above the Mo Chhu River. With around 800 inhabitants, Laya is one of the most remote highland communities in Bhutan. Despite its isolation, the village includes a school, small hospital, local shops and a gompa serving the community. Life here is challenging, particularly during the long winters when heavy snowfall can isolate the village. Much of the local livelihood depends on yak herding, providing meat, wool and dried cheese, along with a single annual crop of barley, mustard and turnips. Below the village lies an army post guarding the frontier with Tibet, while to the east there are magnificent views toward Masang Gang (7,194 m / 23,602 ft) and the remote region of Lunana, through which the famous Snowman Trek passes. Accommodation: Wilderness camp at Laya

Meals: B,L,D

Today is set aside to rest and recover after the demanding stages of the previous days, while also providing time to explore the unique highland community of Laya. After a relaxed start to the morning, we spend time visiting the village and interacting with local residents. There may be opportunities to observe daily life such as threshing barley with villagers, visiting the local school, or stopping at one of the small village shops. Depending on logistics and camping arrangements, we may either remain in Laya village for the night or descend through forest to the Mo Chhu River, where we camp near an army post that protects the frontier with Tibet. Accommodation: Wilderness camp

Meals: B,L,D

Today we complete our trek, descending from Laya along a broad trail through forests of tall conifers to the Mo Chhu River and the nearby army post. The trail then follows the river downstream toward the roadhead at Taktsimakha. Along the way we pass through beautiful forest of spruce, larch, birch, maple and rhododendron, while impressive waterfalls cascade over large boulders beside the trail. The fertile soils in this region can be muddy underfoot, as the path is frequently used by horse caravans transporting supplies between Laya and the roadhead. At Taktsimakha, our waiting vehicle transfers us to the village of Gasa (2,850 m / 9,350 ft), the local administrative and monastic centre of the region. The village is home to an impressive Gasa Dzong, historically built to guard the trade route between Bhutan and Tibet. Below the village we visit the famous Gasa hot springs, where we can relax in the warm mineral waters — a perfect way to ease tired muscles and celebrate the completion of our trek. Accommodation: Wilderness camp at Gasa

Meals: B,L,D

This morning we drive to the fertile valley of Punakha, a scenic journey of around 2–3 hours through idyllic countryside. The road passes small villages, agricultural terraces and subtropical forests, with waterfalls cascading down the surrounding hillsides. On arrival in Punakha, we visit the local bazaar before exploring the magnificent Punakha Dzong, one of Bhutan’s most impressive fortresses. Situated at the confluence of the Pho Chhu (male) and Mo Chhu (female) rivers, the dzong contains 21 temples, administrative buildings and an assembly hall. It also serves as the winter residence of the Je Khenpo, the head monk of the Drukpa Kagyu Buddhist order, Bhutan’s official religious tradition. Later we enjoy a short walk through farmland to Chimi Lhakhang, a small temple dedicated to Bhutan’s beloved saint Drukpa Kunley, often known as the Divine Madman. Living nearly 500 years ago, he was famous for teaching Buddhist philosophy through humour, songs and unconventional behaviour. Accommodation: Hotel in Punakha

Meals: B,L,D

Today we drive to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan and home to around 150,000 people. The journey takes us over the scenic Dochula Pass (3,100 m / 10,170 ft), where we pause to admire the 108 memorial stupas built by the Queen Mother. From this beautiful mountain viewpoint we may also raise prayer flags for good fortune. Descending into the Thimphu Valley, we visit the Memorial Chorten, built in 1974 by the Royal Grandmother Ashi Phuntsho Choden in memory of the Third King, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. This revered monument is a gathering place for Bhutanese who circumambulate the stupa while offering prayers. After lunch at a traditional Bhutanese restaurant, we continue our sightseeing with a visit to Buddha Point (Kuensel Phodrang), home to the impressive Buddha Dordenma, a towering statue standing 51.5 metres (169 ft) high overlooking the valley. Depending on time, we may also visit some of Thimphu’s cultural highlights including the Textile Museum, the lively Farmers’ Market, the Post Office famous for Bhutan’s unique stamps, or a traditional workshop demonstrating Bhutanese handmade paper production. Accommodation: Hotel in Thimphu

Meals: B,L,D

This morning we complete our sightseeing in Thimphu, including the opportunity to witness an archery contest, offering a glimpse into Bhutan’s beloved national sport. We then drive to Paro, a scenic journey of around 1–2 hours through forested valleys and traditional villages. On arrival we visit Dungtse Lhakhang, an important temple traditionally attributed to King Songtsen Gampo, whose temples across Bhutan and Tibet symbolise the early introduction of Buddhism to the region. The temple contains well-preserved ancient murals that provide fascinating insight into Bhutanese religious art and spiritual traditions. Later there is free time to stroll through Paro town, where local markets and traditional shops offer a variety of handicrafts and souvenirs. In the evening we gather for a farewell dinner with our guide and driver, celebrating the completion of our memorable journey through the Kingdom of Bhutan. Accommodation: Hotel in Paro

Meals: B,L,D

After breakfast, you will be transferred to Paro International Airport for your onward flight. Your journey through Bhutan concludes today.

Meals: B

Ready to start your adventure?

4 scheduled departures between 9 Oct 2026 and 8 Oct 2027.

  • Departs 9 Oct 2026 – ends 26 Oct 2026 (18 days)
  • Departs 5 Apr 2027 – ends 22 Apr 2027 (18 days)
  • Departs 20 Sep 2027 – ends 7 Oct 2027 (18 days)
  • Departs 8 Oct 2027 – ends 25 Oct 2027 (18 days)
View dates to Book

What's included?

Included

  • All meals during the trek: 17 breakfasts, 16 lunches and 17 dinners
  • The use of a World Expeditions trek pack including a quality sleeping bag, down or fibre fill jacket and insulated mat (valued at over US$500)
  • Bhutan visa fees
  • All park entrance fees and trekking permits
  • Good quality accommodation in Paro and Thimphu
  • Accommodation in fully serviced wilderness campsites
  • Private transportation
  • Airport transfers if arriving on Day 1 and Day 18
  • Expert bilingual guide
  • Safety equipment including portable altitude chamber, group medical kit and satellite phone for emergency use
  • Animals to carry up to 20kg of personal equipment
  • All group camping equipment
  • Sightseeing and entrance fees as listed
  • Souvenir World Expeditions kit bag

Not included

  • International flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Meals not listed as included
  • Personal expenses such as laundry, etc.
  • Bottled water, aerated and alcoholic drinks
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Any items not listed as included

Reviews (34)

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I would HIGHLY recommend World Expeditions. I have done a few treks now with other companies. WE was, by far, the best. They were professional, organized, and so on top of everything. Our guide Kinzang was absolutely wonderful and truly seemed to enjoy showing us his country, customs, and the mountains we trekked. Moreover, one of our trekkers fell ill (mountain sickness and stomach issues), and Kinzang was incredibly professional. He immediately noticed the trekker's symtpoms and was very thoughtful in handling the situation. High praise for our guide, the porters and chef, and WE. What a fantastic company! I will use them again.

Meghan|Colorado, United States
6 May 2026
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amazing trek in Bhutan, couldn't have asked for more - everything was managed well by World Expeditions and the Bhutan ground operator. We had a very experienced guide and it was clearly notable the difference in standard between our group and the group from another company travelling in parallel with us.

Craig|WA, Australia
28 Apr 2026
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It was an amazing trip in a beautiful country.

Nina Sigrid Erna|Germany
25 Nov 2025
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An amazing trek with such a great group of people

Brett|QLD, Australia
9 Nov 2025
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I have just completed the Bhutan High trails via Laya trip and would recommend this trip by World Expeditions without reservation. We happened to have near perfect weather, but our guide was unbelievably good: astute, sensitive, knowledgeable and passionate about his country. The views were spectacular,and the exposure to culture, village life, and Buddhist ways was a point of difference from other similar treks I have done (Huayhuash, Toubkal, Ladakh). The usual pleasures were daily highlights - great food, a hot drink at daybreak, and twice daily hot washing water. It was cold at night. We were all treated to hot water bottles. Small treats, but valuable a sub zero temperatures.

Wayne|New Zealand
4 Nov 2025
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A truely wonderful experience on so many levels. I signed up for the physical challenge of the trekking and the high passes along with the scenery and isolation but in end it was so much more. Very personalised insights into the culture, society and history. Thoughtful discussions about Buddhism as we saw this being practiced first hand in the remote holy places. I got a sense of a World yet to be touched by the nasty sides of globalism. The chief guide was fantastic, a true gentleman and the camp staff and food was amazing for the high altitude and remote context. This is not though an easy walk and needs to be respected as such.

Bradley|NT, Australia
4 Nov 2025
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This was a wonderful trip, especially due to the guide and accompanying support staff. Thank you so much

Christina|WA, Australia
24 Oct 2025
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Truly great experience in an amazingly beautiful and spectacular country. We had a great team to support us with Tashi our guide really awesome! The trek was well supported with good equipment, good catering and lots of nice touches like hot water bottles at night in the tent and a beautiful celebratory lunch at the conclusion. The walk itself was spectacular and well paced. I’d highly recommend this walk and this country with its wonderful people and amazing sights!

Keith|VIC, Australia
14 Oct 2025

A wonderful trek with all aspects catered for - great mountains, food, culture, itinery and conveniences. The expert guide, Namgay was knowledgable, caring and made the trek a pleasure to be part of. WE organising of the trek was also excellent. Highly recommended.

Gregory|TAS Australia
8 May 2025

Extra trip info

Meals on TrekTrek PackWill My Trip Run?Why Book With Us
Food - Bhutan Treks | Lachlan Gardiner

Meals are an important part of the trekking experience in Bhutan and often become one of the highlights of the journey. Even while camping in remote mountain areas, our trekking crew prepares fresh, varied meals that many travellers say rival restaurant quality.

Breakfasts typically include fruit, muesli, toast and eggs to fuel the day ahead. Lunch and dinner feature a range of satisfying dishes such as chicken or lamb curries alongside fresh vegetarian meals served with rice and bread, providing the energy needed for long days on the trail.

Mealtimes are also a chance to relax and connect with your fellow trekkers and crew, sharing stories from the day while enjoying a hearty meal. Many travellers remark afterwards that the quality and variety of food in Bhutan’s remote mountains is one of the most pleasant surprises of the trek.

Dietary requirements can usually be catered for on request – please speak with our team for more information.

Use of essential equipment is included in your trip cost | Tim Charody

If you don’t trek regularly, investing in specialised gear for a single adventure can be expensive. Quality equipment designed for high altitude and cold conditions is essential, yet we see many trekkers in Nepal with gear that might look suitable, but will not be effective in many Himalayan conditions.

To save you hassle, and money, we provide the use of a World Expeditions Trek Pack including a quality sleeping bag, down or fibre-fill jacket and a cosy fleece sleeping bag liner. At our Eco-Comfort Camps we even supply an extra blanket. You receive your Trek Pack at the start of your trip, use it throughout your trek, and can pack it into your World Expeditions souvenir kit bag when travelling on the trail.

Just as importantly, it supports your safety and comfort. Staying warm at night and getting proper rest (along with good food) are critical to maintaining energy and enjoying your trek in the Himalaya.

Every departure date advises whether the date is confirmed, and roughly how full it is. Here is what each one means.

Is the departure confirmed?

Guaranteed to go This departure has reached its minimum number and will run.
It is the point travellers should wait for before booking any non-refundable flights.
Close to guaranteed This appears only when a date is close to reaching minimum numbers. If it shows 1 or 2 to guaranteed, book as a pair on a date needing two and it reaches its minimum. Your booking confirms the date for everybody already booked.

How full is the date I am looking at?

Space is filling or Space is filling fast This date has bookings and places are still open. Filling fast means limited spots available, so don't leave your decision too late.
Closing soon Down to its last few places, or close enough to departure that we are finalising numbers. Still bookable online.
Closed Not bookable online - either full, or inside the notice we need to arrange permits, flights and logistics. Ask us anyway, you never know!

Availability questions answered

Will this trip actually go ahead, or could it be cancelled?

If a date shows Guaranteed to go, it runs regardless of further bookings.

What does 2 to guarantee mean?

It means two travellers are enough to confirm the departure. It could be 2 more to add to the group, or the date only needs 2 people to run. Either way, if you book for two people, the date will become guaranteed to run.

What happens if my departure does not reach minimum numbers?

You will know the status before you book. Every date on this page is labelled, and dates marked “Guaranteed to go” are running regardless of further bookings. Where a date has not reached its minimum we either offer a surcharge to operate for a smaller group size so it can still run, or we cancel it. We contact you directly either way.

Will I get my money back if you cancel a departure?

If we cancel a departure due to not meeting minimum trip numbers, you receive a full refund of everything you have paid us less any non recoverable costs, where insurance may cover you. We cannot refund money committed elsewhere – additional non refundable deposits advised at the time of booking, flights, visas, vaccinations, gear - which is why it is worth waiting for “Guaranteed to go” before booking other arrangements around this trip date. Please read our Booking Terms and Conditions before you book.

Why can't I book some dates online?

Each trip closes online a set time before departure. Permits, internal flights and hut or campsite bookings all have to be arranged before we take payment. Call or enquire as it might still be possible to organise last minute places.

The date I want is closed. What are my options and why does it say to enquire?

Cancellations happen and places do open up on closed dates, so it is worth being on our list. We can also tell you which nearby date on the same trip has space, which is usually the faster route.

None of these dates suit me. Can you run this trip on another date?

Yes, as a private departure. We can run this trip on a date you choose, for your own group - family, friends, a club, or in many cases, just for the two of you. Tell us when you want to travel and who is coming, and we will build it around that.

  • Delivering active and immersive travel experiences since 1975 – with deep expertise in Bhutan and the greater Himalaya
  • Fully supported camping expedition complete with comfortable sleeping and dining tents
  • Stay energised with three hot meals daily prepared fresh by our team of dedicated cooking staff
  • Led by wilderness first aid trained local guides equipped with group medical, portable altitude chamber and satellite phone for emergency use
  • Use of World Expeditions trek pack including quality sleeping bag, down jacket and insulated sleeping mat

Guaranteeing A Great Bhutan Trip

Pioneering World Firsts
Quality equipment
Quality accommodations
Innovative itineraries
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