Trans Bhutan Trail
Bhutan's restored 403km heritage route linking western and eastern valleys across the country.
Know before you go
Trip readiness
Best timing
March-May, September-November
Treat this as the first planning window, then verify local trail and weather conditions.
Time needed
28 days
Include acclimatization and transport buffers for mountain routes.
Permit status
Permit required
Must be arranged through the Trans Bhutan Trail organization or a licensed Bhutanese tour operator.
Difficulty
Moderate
nationwide route. Match this to fitness, altitude experience, and daily walking hours.
Live conditions
Trail weather available
Use the weather card before starting, especially during monsoon and winter windows.
The Trans Bhutan Trail is a restored historic pathway used for centuries by pilgrims, messengers, traders, and officials before road travel displaced it in the 20th century. Reopened in 2022 after a major restoration effort, the trail crosses the full width of the country from Haa in the west to Trashigang in the east, passing through remote villages that see few visitors. Most travelers walk sections rather than the full route, with the Punakha-to-Bumthang segments being the most popular. The trail organization provides logistical support including camping, meals, and local guides.
Help us get it right
Know Trans Bhutan Trail better than we do?
We write from research and reporting, and the ground changes faster than we can keep up. If something here is out of date, or you have been and would tell it differently, we would rather hear it.