Everything travellers ask us about trekking in Bhutan — visas, costs, seasons, fitness, altitude, and booking.
Planning & Booking
Yes. Bhutan requires all international tourists to trek with a licensed guide and a registered tour operator — independent, unguided trekking is not permitted. We provide certified guides, camp staff, and full logistics for every route.
The two best seasons are spring (March–May), when rhododendrons bloom, and autumn (September–November), which offers the clearest mountain views of the year. The summer monsoon brings heavy rain and winter snow closes the high passes. See our full best time to trek guide.
For most treks, book 3–6 months ahead, especially for the autumn peak season. The Snowman Trek should be planned 6–12 months in advance because of limited permits and complex logistics.
Our minimum group size is two people. Solo travellers are welcome and can be matched with other solo trekkers on the same dates, or book privately at a supplemental rate.
Costs & Visas
Your cost has two parts: the government Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), currently USD 100 per person per night for most international visitors, plus your trek package covering guides, staff, camping, food, transport, and permits. The total depends mainly on trek length, group size, and season. Read our full cost & SDF guide.
All visitors except Indian, Bangladeshi, and Maldivian nationals require a visa. We arrange a visa approval letter through the Tourism Council of Bhutan, and the visa is stamped on arrival at Paro airport. Your passport must be valid for at least six months. We handle all visa processing as part of your booking.
Packages include the SDF, visa arrangements, all transport within Bhutan, hotels before and after the trek, all camp accommodation and meals, a certified guide, permits, camping equipment, a trek chef, kitchen staff, and pack horses. International airfare, travel insurance, a personal sleeping bag, and personal gear are not included.
Yes. Comprehensive travel and medical insurance is mandatory and must include emergency helicopter evacuation, high-altitude trekking cover above 4,000m, medical treatment, and trip cancellation.
Fitness, Altitude & Safety
It depends on the route. Short treks like Chele La and Druk Path suit reasonably fit beginners. Major treks such as Jumolhari and Laya Gasa need prior multi-day hiking experience. The Snowman Trek requires extensive high-altitude experience. Use our trek comparison guide to find your match.
The Snowman Trek is the highest and hardest, crossing 13 passes up to around 5,350m over 28 days through Lunana. The Laya Gasa Trek reaches roughly 5,005m at the Shingchen La.
Our itineraries build in gradual ascent and acclimatisation days. Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol at altitude, ascend slowly, and tell your guide immediately if you feel unwell. Many trekkers discuss a preventive Diamox prescription with their doctor. Our guides are trained in altitude-sickness management — see altitude guidance.