Bhutan

Trans Bhutan Trail, October 2026

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Trans Bhutan Trail October: Explore Bhutan's Ancient Path

A heritage trail rebuilt with modern homestays

Embark on the Trans Bhutan Trail in October. Discover cultural gems, pristine landscapes, and a unique trekking experience through the heart of Bhutan.

40-80Km

Total Trekking Distance

3,780m

Highest Altitude

October-February

Best Season

8-16

Group Size
Experience Host

Key Highlights

TBT Adventure

Relish the adventure of passing by multiple mountain passes connecting various valleys

Mountain Villages

Trek past multiple mountain villages, some of which have just a couple of houses

Unique Culture

Experience the Bhutanese way of life intimately as you criss-cross over multiple towns on the trail

On the Trail

The path climbs steadily, winding through quiet forests and alpine meadows, each turn offering glimpses of Bhutan’s natural beauty.

Your Journey

Day-by-Day Itinerary

A detailed breakdown of each day's adventure, from the moment you arrive in Bhutan to your final departure.

Highest Point:

Thrumshing La (3,780 m)

Region:

Eastern Bhutan

8

Day 8: Fly Home

After a memorable journey through Bhutan’s mountains, valleys, and sacred sites, transfer to Paro International Airport for your flight home. Depart with lasting memories of the kingdom’s serene landscapes and timeless spirit.

n/a

n/a

7

Day 7: In the Heart of Paro

Travel from Thimphu to Paro through scenic mountain landscapes, with the option to hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery perched high above the valley. The day blends movement and reflection, set against one of Bhutan’s most striking and spiritual settings.

Personal stay

Lunch

6

Day 6: From Valleys to the Capital

Drive from the open landscapes of Phobjikha to Thimphu, passing through varied mountain scenery and traditional settlements. Arrive by afternoon and spend the rest of the day exploring Bhutan’s capital at your own pace, experiencing its blend of heritage, everyday life, and modern energy.

Yarkey Hotel

All meals included

5

Day 5: From Streamside Paths to the Valley of Cranes

Complete the final walk on the Trans Bhutan Trail with an easy forested hike to a village and onward to a small town. Drive to the open valleys of Phobjikha and end the journey with a restorative hot stone bath, marking a calm and satisfying close to the trail.

Gangtey Pinewood Resort, Phobjikha

All meals included

4

Day 4: Through Forests to a Streamside Haven

Set out early for the longest day on the trail, climbing steadily from camp through forests, meadows, and ridge paths. By late afternoon, reach a secluded village and settle into a quiet campsite beside a stream, surrounded by untouched wilderness.

Campsite by stream

All meals included

3

Day 3: Meadows, Passes, and Hidden Villages

Begin with an easy walk across open meadows before ascending through dense forest to a scenic mountain pass at around 2,550 metres, offering expansive valley views. Descend to a remote hillside village, followed by a short transfer to a quiet campsite for a relaxed evening in nature.

Forest campsite

All meals included

2

Day 2: Walking Into Bhutan

Walk a section of the historic Trans Bhutan Trail, crossing the Pho Chhu Suspension Bridge and continuing through forests, farmlands, and village settlements. The steady 13 km hike ends in a quiet rural village, where camp is set for a peaceful night in Bhutan’s countryside.

Village campsite

All meals included

1

Day 1: Arrival in the Valley of Happiness

Arrive in Paro and drive through scenic mountain landscapes to Punakha, Bhutan’s former royal capital. Visit the iconic Punakha Dzong at the river confluence before checking in and unwinding in the quiet valley, easing into Bhutan’s calm, unhurried pace.

Dhensa Resort, Punakha

All meals included

Key Notes

The Trans Bhutan Trail is a long distance cultural route linking valleys, villages, and mountain passes, combining moderate to demanding walking days with deep immersion in Bhutan’s landscapes, history, and everyday rural life.

What to Expect

Inclusions & Exclusions

Everything you need to know about what's covered in your trip and what you'll need to arrange separately.

Included

All accommodation in hotels and luxury campsites (for 6 nights)

All meals as per itinerary

Private vehicle for all transfers and internal travel

Experienced English-speaking guide throughout

All permits and entry fees for treks and cultural sites

Not Included

International flights to/from Bhutan

The Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) for US passport holders (100$ per person per day)

Bhutan visa processing and applicable fees (40$ per person)

Personal expenses (e.g. laundry, tips, phone calls, alcohol)

Travel insurance & Medical expenses or emergency evacuation

Anything not mentioned under “Inclusions”

GST 5%

Is This Trek Right For You?

Who This Trek Is Ideal For

The Wild Rodung La Trek is designed for fit beginners and intermediate trekkers seeking an authentic Eastern Himalayan experience without committing to extreme expedition-level terrain.

Who Can Do This Trek

The Trans Bhutan Trail is suitable for trekkers with good fitness who enjoy long walking journeys cultural immersion and varied terrain. Ideal for travelers interested in Himalayan landscapes Buddhist heritage rural villages and slow travel. Prior trekking experience is helpful but not mandatory for shorter sections.

Challenges to Expect

The trail involves long walking days with repeated ascents and descents across valleys passes and ridgelines. Stone paths forest trails and village routes are common. Weather can vary greatly between regions and elevations. Facilities are basic in remote sections and walking endurance is key.

Fitness Expectations

You should be able to walk five to eight hours a day consistently. Good stamina and leg strength are required. Preparation with regular walking hill climbs or cardio will help you enjoy the trail comfortably especially on multi day sections.

FAQs

How do I book a trip with Juniper Outdoor?

Booking with Juniper Outdoor is simple. Once you find a trip that excites you, click the "Contact Us " or “WhatsApp” button on the trip page. This will lead you to a short form that collects your contact information and preferences. Our team will then reach out to you with availability, a brief consultation if needed, and next steps. You can secure your slot by paying a deposit or full amount, after which we’ll send you a detailed pre-departure pack including packing lists, training recommendations (if applicable), and travel tips. We recommend booking at least 4 weeks in advance to secure your spot, especially for treks with limited permits or during peak season. If you're planning a private or custom departure, we’ll guide you through tailoring the experience to your group’s needs. Feel free to contact us anytime with questions before or after booking.

What’s included in the cost of a Juniper Outdoor trip?

Our trip cost includes nearly everything you’ll need for a seamless experience.Typically, this covers all accommodations (lodges, campsites, or guesthouses),meals during the expedition, support staff (guides, cooks, porters), permits, transport during the trip (like internal drives or local transfers), and group equipment such as tents, sleeping bags, and technical gear. Each trip page has a detailed “What’s Included” section, and we encourage you to review it carefully. What’s not included are your travel expenses like flight tickets to and from the trip start point (unless stated), personal trekking gear(clothing, hiking boots, backpacks), insurance, and incidental personal expenses like snacks or souvenirs. For some international trips or expeditions, flights, visa fees, and extra nights before/after the trip may be additional.Transparency is key at Juniper, so we’re always happy to walk you through the cost breakdown or advise on gear rentals or purchases if needed.

What safety measures do you have in place during your trips?

Safety is non-negotiable at Juniper Outdoor. Every trip is led by a certified wilderness first responder (WFR) or trained mountain guide, equipped to handle altitude sickness, minor injuries, and emergencies. We carry comprehensive first aid kits, pulse oximeters, and oxygen cylinders on all high-altitude expeditions. Our campsites are chosen for safe terrain and proximity to evacuation routes when needed. For more remote trips, we have satellite communication devices and access to rescue services. We limit group sizes to ensure individual attention and regularly conduct risk assessments during the journey. Additionally, we brief all participants on mountain hygiene, hydration, and acclimatization best practices. Your pre-departure pack will also include a checklist of safety essentials you should carry personally. Our ethos is simple: the mountain will always be there — we don’t take unnecessary risks. Your health and well-being come before any summit.

What kind of people join Juniper Outdoor trips?

Our community is wonderfully diverse — but they share a few commonthreads: curiosity, grit, humility, and a love for the outdoors. We’ve welcomed solo travelers in their 20s, retired couples in their 50s, and families with teenagers seeking a shared adventure. Many are working professionals looking for a reset, creatives or entrepreneurs craving nature, or global citizens wanting to connect to remote corners of India and beyond. Most importantly, they value slow travel, meaningful conversation, and respectful exploration. Our groups are intentionally small — usually 10 to 16 people — to foster connection without crowding the trail. The vibe is inclusive and uncompetitive; there’s space for both silence and storytelling. Whether you're new to trekking or a seasoned mountaineer, you’ll find that our trips attract kindred spirits — people who are as excited by the journey as they are by the summit.

What kind of gear do I need to bring for the trek?

We provide a detailed packing list tailored to each region, season, and difficulty. Generally, you’ll need sturdy trekking shoes, a daypack, weatherproof outerwear (like a rain jacket or down jacket), layered clothing for cold and warm conditions, a headlamp, refillable water bottles, sun protection, and personal toiletries. For multi-day treks, we recommend moisture-wicking base layers, gloves, a warm hat, and trekking poles. Juniper provides all group camping gear — tents, sleeping bags, mats, and technical equipment (ice axes, crampons, if needed). We also help connect you with rental services if you’re missing something, especially for big-ticket items like jackets or sleeping bags. Packing light but smart is key. We’ll send you a downloadable checklist in your pre-departure kit, and our team is happy to review your packing plan with you before you arrive. Good gear means more comfort, confidence, and joy on the trail.

What kind of food is served during the trip?

Food is a big part of the Juniper experience. Whether you’re in a guesthouse, mountain lodge, or remote campsite, you’ll be served nutritious, locallynutritious,locally inspired meals designed to fuel your journey. On the trail, our kitchen team prepares hot breakfast (think porridge, eggs, paratha), packed or hot lunches, evening snacks, and hearty dinners (dal, rice, vegetables, pasta, or local dishes). We use clean water, fresh ingredients, and avoid oily or spicy food at altitude. Hot drinks like tea, coffee, and soups are always available. We cater to vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets on request. If you have allergies or specific preferences, let us know in advance — we take dietary needs seriously. Meals are timed to your exertion, ensuring you’re energized for the climb and able to recover properly. Expect delicious mountain hospitality: soul food with a view.

Key Highlights

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