HIKING IN BHUTAN
Hikes in Bhutan are in the most pristine forms. The trails are hardly populated by human settlements, there are no tea houses like in other countries such as Nepal, and nature reigns in all her splendor from the snowcapped mountains to the twinkling alpine streams and verdant greenery. You might even spot wildlife on your hikes through the forested trails. The trick is to enjoy your hikes while taking care of yourself and your carbon footprints like trash you might produce on the way. The best time to hike is arguably during the autumn months of September to November as the climate is conducive and the country looks resplendent. Here are the nine best hikes you can take through the country if you are an avid hiker or adventure seeker:
SEVEN POPULAR HIKES IN BHUTAN
1. Dochula To Lungchutse Lhakhang Hike
This is a three-hour hiking trail from Dochula pass to the Lungchutse monastery. Since this is quite an easy trail it can be attempted by both novice and veteran hikers. The view from the top of the trail is exhilarating with a number of mountain peaks.
2. Gangtey Nature Hike
Gangtey takes you on a downhill hiking trail where you can view a glacial valley and the modest beauty of the Bhutanese outskirts with grazing animals and colorful wild blossoms. It is a wonderful hike through forests and valleys and takes around two hours.
3. Taktsang hike
The Taktshang hike takes around five to six hours to and fro. It starts from the base of a mountain where there is a craft bazaar with wonderful souvenirs on display. Mid-way, you can stop at the famed Taktshang Cafeteria for lunch or refreshments. If your energy runs out before you reach the monastery, you can take a horse ride but don’t give up till you actually reach the destination. The charming monastery perched on a cliff is something you don’t want to miss
especially on a Bhutan visit.
4. Ngang Lhakhang to Tahung Hike
Tahung Hike starts from Ngang Lhakhang Temple in Bumthang also known as the Swan temple and takes you through streams, meadows and bamboo forests. The trail takes you all the way to Phephe La after which you will come across a stone shrine with prayer flags to mark the end of the six-hour hike.
5. Khamsum Chorten Hike
This hike in Punakha is one of the best in Bhutan. It starts fom Khamsum Chorten, an old monument. You will come across picturesque valleys and farmlands over the course of the short, steep and sweet two –hour hike.
6. Druk Path Trek
A challenging six-day trek, it will take you through a number of pristine lakes, pine forests and\ remote settlements. This trek is in Paro where you will get to see nature at its untouched best. The level of trek is difficult but worth it for all the sights, sounds and experiences it offers.
7. Jomolhari Laya Gasa Trek
If you have an adventurous heart and are ready to sweat it out for 12 days through alpine valleys, meadows, forests and lakes, this trek is for you. It offers you fascinating sights of the mountain peaks and will give you a new perspective on enjoying nature in all her finery as you hike far, far away from the crowds and chaos of civilization.
