Trekking in Bhutan: 22 multi-day treks including the Lunana 'Snowman' Trek, Jhomolhari, Druk Path and Dagala treks

Boasting soaring snow-clad peaks and tranquil valleys, and a rich Buddhist culture, Bhutan is an ideal destination for trekkers wishing to experience the magic of the Himalaya without the commercialism. Although independent trekking is not permitted, it can nonetheless prove difficult to obtain information. This guide describes 22 official treks and a handful of trek variants, with comprehensive advice about planning and preparation and plentiful cultural information to enhance any visit. You will find thorough coverage of all the practicalities, with notes on trekking seasons, outfitters, transport, accommodation and food, ethics and etiquette, equipment and medical considerations (including safety at altitude). The guide also offers a fascinating insight into Bhutanese mountain life, from local superstitions and beliefs to plants, wildlife and yak husbandry. Route description is presented alongside sketch mapping and information on local points of interest. Included are the classic Lunana 'Snowman' Trek, the Jhomolhari and Dagala Treks, and the Druk Path, as well as many other treks - both well-established trails and other routes of a more exploratory nature, venturing into remote and seldom-visited areas of the country. Visitors to Bhutan can expect breathtaking mountain scenery and unspoilt landscapes, a vibrant culture and genuine hospitality. Trekking here is a truly unique experience, promising memories that will last a lifetime.

Table of Contents:
Map key Overview map Foreword by Her Majesty the Queen of Bhutan Prefaces Introduction The thrill of Bhutan Preparations and practicalities Trekking Climate and trekking seasons Organising a trek Getting there and getting around Accommodation and food Environmental and cultural awareness Equipment and maps Medical considerations Using this guide All about Bhutan Protected areas Plantlife Wildlife Yaks and yak herding The formation of the mountains Rivers and glaciers Mountaineering in Bhutan Buddhism and local beliefs West Bhutan The Haa Valley Trek 1 Haa Planters' Trail Trek 2 Nob Tshona Patta Tsho and Rigona Tsho Lunana Trek 3 The Lunana 'Snowman' Trek Trek 3A Lunana to Bumthang Trek 4 The Jhomolhari Bonte La Circuit Trek 5 Shana to Thimphu via Lingshi Trek 6 Masa Gang Base Camp from Laya Trek 7 The Druk Path Trek The Dagala (Thousand Lakes) Trek Trek 8 Geynikha to Talakha Trek 8A Geynikha to Dagana The Phobjika Valley Trek 9 The Original Gangte Trek Trek 9A A Southern Gangte Trek Central Bhutan The Black Mountains Trek 10 The Nabji Korphu Trek Trek 11 The Nubi Chutey Trek Trek 12 Trongsa to Dur Tsachu Trek 13 Bumthang to Lunana Gangkar Punsum Trek 14 Gangkar Punsum Base Camp via Dur Tsachu Trek 15 Gangkar Punsum southeast face via Thole La Trek 16 Gangkar Punsum southeast face and Base Camp Bumthang Trek 17 Bumthang Cultural Trek, Tang valley and Lhuntshi valley Trek 18 Bumthang Owl Trek and the Royal Heritage Trek Zhemgang Trek 19 The Ura Buli Trek East Bhutan Trek 20 Rigsum Gompa to Dechhenphodrang Trek 21 The Merak Sakteng Trek Trek 22 The Far-Out East Bhutan Trek Appendix A Route summary table Appendix B List of maps Appendix C Useful contacts Appendix D Useful terms and acronyms Appendix E Bibliography Appendix F Acknowledgements

About the Author :
Bart Jordans has been guiding, exploring treks and trekking peaks in the Himalaya, Karakoram, Hindu Kush, European Alps and on Kilimanjaro since 1984. Originally from the Netherlands, he lived in Bhutan for over four years and in Vietnam for two. Bart is now a freelance trekking guide for several well-known companies. When not in the mountains, he works in the outdoor gear business and writes articles on the mountains of Bhutan, on which he is a noted expert.