The trek, before you go

Fit enough to walk 15–22 km a day, five to eight hours at a time, for about eight days running. There is no technical climbing — it is all walking — but solid general fitness and ideally prior high-altitude trekking experience are strongly recommended, because much of the route sits above 4,000 m.

In tents. Bhutan treks are camping treks, not teahouse treks — there are no lodges anywhere on the route. Your crew pitches camp at established campsites each afternoon; some, like Jangothang, have a basic kitchen shelter and permanent toilets, but expect simple sanitation throughout.

No. Pack ponies (and yaks at higher camps) carry the tents, food and your main bag, and a full crew — licensed guide, cook and helpers — travels with you. You walk with a daypack: water, warm layers, rain shell and camera.

Cold, even in the best trekking months — most camps beyond day one sit between roughly 3,300 m and 4,100 m, and nights at that altitude drop below freezing. Bring a warm sleeping bag rated for sub-zero temperatures, or confirm your operator provides one.

Acclimatisation. Base camp sits at 4,044 m and the days that follow cross Nyile La and Yele La, both near 4,900 m — so the itinerary deliberately pauses for a day beneath the mountain before going higher. Use it for a gentle day walk, drink plenty of water, and tell your guide early if you feel unwell.

Typically the licensed guide, cook and camp helpers, two-person sleeping tents, dining and toilet tents, foam mattresses, all camp meals, and the ponies that carry equipment. International airfare, travel insurance and personal drinks are typically not included — check your operator’s exact list.

Yes — the Jomolhari Loop. It reaches Jangothang the same way, then returns to the Paro side over Bhonte La (about 4,890 m) instead of continuing across to Thimphu, and is generally rated a notch easier than the full traverse. Operators name the two routes inconsistently, so always check which one you are booking.