Do I need a guide to trek in Bhutan?

Yes. Every trek requires a licensed trekking guide.

What is the easiest multi-day trek in Bhutan?

The Druk Path between Paro and Thimphu is the most popular introduction: about five days with a high point of around 4,200 metres.

How long is the Snowman Trek?

Around 25 trekking days or more, covering over 300 km, with a highest pass of over 5,200 metres.

Trekking in Bhutan

Bhutan's treks range from the five-day Druk Path between Paro and Thimphu to the Snowman Trek, nearly four weeks through remote Lunana and one of the hardest treks in the Himalaya. Every trek must be accompanied by a licensed trekking guide.

Updated 30 October 2026

The rules

Under Bhutan's Tourism Rules and Regulations 2024, reaffirmed by a notification of the Department of Tourism of 8 April 2026, every trek requires a licensed trekking guide.

Druk Path Trek

The classic first trek links Paro and Thimphu over the ridge between them, past high lakes such as Jimilang Tsho, descending past Phajoding to Thimphu. It is always walked from Paro to Thimphu, as pack horses are available only in Paro.

Duration: usually 4 to 6 trekking days, about 54 km
Highest point: about 4,200 m
Best seasons: spring and autumn; summer brings rain and leeches

Snowman Trek

Through the remote Lunana region in the north. Weather, altitude and length make it one of the most demanding treks in the Himalaya.

Duration: about 25 or more trekking days, over 300 km
Highest pass: over 5,200 m
Season: roughly June to October; closed by snow in winter

When to trek

Spring (March to May) and autumn (late September to November) give the most stable weather. In winter, high passes can be closed by snow; during the monsoon, paths turn muddy and views are often clouded.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a guide to trek in Bhutan?: Yes. Every trek requires a licensed trekking guide.
What is the easiest multi-day trek in Bhutan?: The Druk Path between Paro and Thimphu is the most popular introduction: about five days with a high point of around 4,200 metres.
How long is the Snowman Trek?: Around 25 trekking days or more, covering over 300 km, with a highest pass of over 5,200 metres.