Bhutan Trek with International Mountain Guides
This trek is considered one of the most spectacular in the Himalaya.
The attractions of this trek are diverse and many. The semi tropical and alpine forests at lower altitude give sanctuary to a wealth of bird life and flora, while above the tree line there is every chance of seeing blue sheep and various species of eagles and vultures.
Throughout the trek, there are magnificent views of the mountains, with Chomolhari (22,500ft), Jitchu Drake and Tsering Gang being particularly prominent.
Expedition Highlights
This trek also provides fascinating insight into Bhutan's ethnic Diversity. The most important villages of Laya, Gasa and Lingshi fall on this trekking route and these villages are home to a mountain people of Tibeto — Burmese origin who are famous for their yak hair clothing and conical bamboo hats. You will also meet semi-nomadic families grazing their yaks on the high summer pastures.
Beginning upstream along the Paro chu, we follow the ancient caravan route to Tibet, through the Seo valley in the shadows of Chomolhari and Jitchu Drake, over the Nyele la pass and into the Lingshi valley. The numerous lakes in the Seo valley abound with fish. At Lingshi, we get to visit the picturesque Dzong from where it is actually only a day's walk to Tibet.
Heading east over the three high passes of Gobula, Jarila and Shinjela and we then enter the famous Laya valley. The ethnic diversity of the nomads here can be seen in the villages. We then continue on to the well known hot springs of Gasa ending our trek at Tashitang — the road head where we'll meet our vehicles and drive to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan.
The trek involves some 150 miles of rugged walking across passes up to 4960m. Our efforts will be well rewarded in this outstanding trek in one of the most remote and beautiful corners of the Himalaya.
IMG ran their first trip to Bhutan in the fall of 2005. What a trip and what a success! The relationships we established will endure for years. If you're looking for an absolutely unique trek in a region still undiscovered by the masses, Bhutan is the place and now is the time.
No short cuts on this program. We want everyone to see sunrise on Chomolhari, the villages of Lingshi, Laya and Gasa, and explore the monasteries and sights of Paro and Thimpu. And, wait until you see Tiger's Nest! Words cannot do it justice. We will travel over 150 miles. The views and memories will be worth every step. And remember, an IMG Senior Guide will be your leader. Don't wait another year.