Historically a pilgrimage route, the fully-restored Trans Bhutan Trail reopened to visitors in September 2022. Its 250 miles of scenic footpath will offer visitors a unique perspective of the Asian country and likely will become one of the world’s most iconic cross-country...See more
Historically a pilgrimage route, the fully-restored Trans Bhutan Trail reopened to visitors in September 2022. Its 250 miles of scenic footpath will offer visitors a unique perspective of the Asian country and likely will become one of the world’s most iconic cross-country walks.
To do the trek, you have to hire a guide who will lead you along this spectacular trail. We asked guide Galey Tenzin to give us an idea of what you might experience over seven days on the Trans Bhutan Trail.
See lessDuration
7 Days
Language
English
Highlights
The Trans Bhutan Trail, a historic pilgrimage route, fully reopened in September 2022. Stretching 250 miles, it offers a scenic cross-country trek and a unique way to experience Bhutan. Trekkers must hire a guide, and a seven-day journey provides a glimpse of the trail’s cultural and natural highlights.
Include/Exclude
- Bhutan Royalties, tourists fees, Visa fees and taxes.
- Accommodations in listed or similar hotels (pleasant hotels 3 star) during the tour.
- All meals, including evening tea/coffee etc through-out the trip.
- All land transfers, sightseeing with entrance fees
- Bottled water in the vehicle and other camp services.
- Luxury hotel upgrades available at additional cost.
- Travel insurance
- Expenses of personal nature
- Drinks like beer, whisky, coke, fanta and Mineral water
- Telephone and internet
Trans Bhutan Trail Trek
Day 1
Paro
Day 2
Hike from Tsendona to Damchona – 10 miles (16 km); 7 hours; 2900ft (884m) elevation gain, 1047ft (319m) elevation loss
Day 3
Hike from Damchona to Tsaluna – 10.75 miles (17.25 km); 6 hours; 2526ft (770m) elevation gain, 2664ft (812m) elevation loss
Day 4
Hike from Tsaluna to “Buddha Point” – 12.2 miles (19.65km); 9 hours; 3930ft (1198m) elevation gain, 4308ft (1313m) elevation loss
Day 5
Hike from Dochula to Simtokha – 9.3 miles (15km); 7 hours; 3235ft (986m) elevation gain, 1729ft (527m) elevation los
Day 6
Tiger’s Nest hike – 7.5 miles (12km); 7 hours; 2625ft (800m) elevation gain, 394ft (120m) elevation loss
Day 7
departure
Frequently Asked Questions
The Trans Bhutan Trail is a historically significant pilgrimage and messenger route that stretches across Bhutan for 250 miles. It was fully restored and reopened in September 2022, offering a unique way to experience Bhutan’s culture, nature, and villages
Yes. Hiring a guide is mandatory, as the trail passes through remote areas and includes cultural sites, villages, and forests that require local knowledge. Guides also provide safety, logistics, and storytelling about the trail.
The full trail is 250 miles (400 km), but most travelers do a 7-day section covering highlights from Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha, including Tiger’s Nest.
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Pine, oak, and rhododendron forests
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Mountain passes and steep slopes
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Rice fields, farmland, and remote villages
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High-altitude sections near Pumola and Dochula Pass
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Occasional muddy trails and rocky riverbeds
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