Overview

One of the last remaining isolated adventures on the planet...
trekking through the magical Kingdom of Bhutan

Bhutan is a magical kingdom of spirit set high in the Himalayan Mountains, known as The Land of the Thunder Dragon. It’s Buddhist Monarch, perhaps in combination with the surrounding setting, has managed to inspire a people that are rich in peace and happiness. The close relationship we have with our Bhutanese hosts/guides, Lotay and Phuntso Rinchen, give each one of our clients the opportunity to experience Bhutan on a very intimate level. You will be invited into homes, take part in traditional Bhutanese ceremonies and have access to some of the more isolated monastaries around the country. We give you access to the purity and magnificence of Bhutan that you will not be able to find with any other outfitter.

We are proud to offer several different trekking itineraries...from the hardest and most rugged "Snowman" trek to the more moderate Jhomolhari trek as well as treks that you will never find in a guide book. We know Bhutan and are happy to design a trek that works for you with regards to the level of difficulty as well as itinerary and budget.

For those friends and family members who want to experience the wonders of Bhutan without the more strenuous high mountain trekking, we offer a "Tour of Bhutan" which is a lower impact way to travel through this magical destination. This journey will primarily be taken by private car service with occasional day hikes. The itinerary will coincide perfectly with those that are doing the trek on foot so that travel to and from Bhutan can be shared as well as the first and last days of the journey in Paro.

Bhutan lies in the heart of the vast Himalaya and to both its west and east, rugged mountain ranges stand between it and the hill districts of India. Towering to the northwest, the stark and dramatic mountains of the Chomolhari Range form the frontier with Tibet. Very few visitors have entered this tiny Himalayan kingdom and even fewer have been privileged to trek into her high mountains. Of the few areas open to trekkers and climbers the route to the base camp of Chomolhari (7314m), the sacred mountain of Bhutan, is probably the most aesthetically beautiful.

Bhutan is not just about scenery and unbelievable mountains; it is also about friendly people and an enduring and living Buddhist faith with magnificent monasteries, rich religious traditions and about a turbulent past. The great fortresses or 'dzongs' found throughout the country are mute testimony to the wars, sieges and attempted invasions in times gone by. Today the country is a stable and peaceful kingdom where the king is revered and the economy is measured in 'Gross National Happiness'! Trekking through the dense forests, walking above the tree line with the nomadic yak herders, enjoying rare sightings of musk deer and blue sheep, and standing beneath the dramatic ice peaks of Chomolhari - these all make this one of the most rewarding treks in the entire Himalaya.

Any of our Bhutan trips offer the rare opportunity to experience high mountain wilderness during the Spring and Fall. The trails are unspoiled and will be shared with few other people. The mountain views are magnificent, and so are the wildlife and wildflowers, but most of all it’s the Bhutanese people that make this truly a once in a lifetime experience. Determined to preserve not only their land but also its inspiring and dynamic culture, the Bhutanese people may change us forever.

A little about Bhutan...

Location of Bhutan: Southern Asia, between China and India

47,000 sq km

about half the size of Indiana

Land Boundaries: 1,075 km

Border Countries: China 470 km, India 605 km

Coastline: 0 km (landlocked)

Climate of Bhutan: varies; tropical in southern plains; cool winters and hot summers in central valleys; severe winters and cool summers in Himalayas

Elevation extremes: Lowest Point : Drangme Chhu 97 m Highest Point : Kula Kangri 7,553 m

Natural Resources: timber, hydropower, gypsum, calcium carbide.

Bhutan's climate is as diverse as it's land. Depending on the altitude, area and amount of sunlight, the climate can range from bitter cold to a humid, hot tropical climate. The precipitation that Bhutan gets comes between the months of June to September and averages for the year about 25 inches (650 mm). A small country covering a little over 18,000 sq mi (47,000 sq km), Bhutan's land is very varied. Snow peaks in the Himalayas, swamps and highlands are just some of the land conditions that are found in a short range from each other. The three main areas in Bhutan are the Great Himalayan Region, Middle Himalayan Region and the Duars.

The Duars, a plain only 5-8 miles wide (8-13 km), are located along the Indian border and have a tropical climate. The northern section of the Duars is home to wildlife such as tigers and deer with its rugged, coarse terrain. The southern portion of the Duars is cultivated for rice, but had at one time been a jungle filled with bamboo.The Middle Himalayan region is part of the Himalayan range that spreads down from the north and surrounds rich, broad valleys. The valleys, with their mild climate are cultivated and populated. The rainfall in this region is average, not humid and wet like the Duars.

The Great Himalayan Region borders Tibet and is relatively uninhabitable. The highest peak in Bhutan is located here, Kula Kangri (4,900-9,200 ft/1,500-2,800 m). The high valleys are home to a few people, but the main inhabitants in the bitterly cold climate are Bhutanese yaks.

History of Bhutan
Not much is identified with Bhutan's history before the 7th century, which is when Buddhism was introduced. After this time, the chronicles kept by Buddhists record Bhutan's history. Buddhism was brought in to Bhutan when feudal lords in their separate valleys, not a central government, ruled the country.After monks from the Kargyupa sect of Mahayana Buddhism built monasteries throughout the valleys, the Drukpa subsect became the most popular form of religion. A Drukpa monk, Ngawang Namgyal, started the first formal government in 1616 - that of a theocratic government. Namgyal was able to unite the influential Bhutanese families, this after he defeated many challengers’ subsect leaders.

Namgyal's government consisted of two leaders - one with spiritual responsibilities (dharma raja) and the other with civil responsibilities (deb raja). This split form of government continued until the early 1900's. Conflict occurred in Bhutan approximately 100 years after the deb raja formed a peace treaty with the English East India Company. Rivalry was rampant between two governors in Bhutan (of Tongsa and Paro) who held staunchly opposite views toward the British. Ugyen Wangchuck, the pro-British governor, was able to unite the country after defeating all his opponents.

In 1907 Ugyen Wangchuck became the first druk gyalpo of Bhutan and he ruled from 1907 to 1926. Jigme Wangchuck, Ugyen's son, ruled from 1926 to 1952 and was followed by Jigme Dorji Wangchuck who ruled from 1953 to 1972. The fourth druk gyalpo, Jigme Singye Wangchuck began his reign in 1972.

Peoples of Bhutan
The official estimate of Bhutan's population in 1990 was about 600,000 but other sources estimate the population for 2000 was just under 2 million. Those living in Bhutan of Nepali origin have been excluded from the official census since 1990 which results in such a large discrepancy in population numbers.

Bhutan has four major ethnic groups: Bhutia, Sharchops, Nepali, and other indigenous groups. The Bhutia, who are descended from Tibetans, live in the central and northern regions of Bhutan. This ethnic group basically dominates politics in Bhutan particularly with it's contribution of government officials and monks that come from it.

Believed to be Bhutan's earliest settlers, the Sharchops live in the southeastern and eastern region. They speak both Tibeto-Burman languages as well as Hindi.

The Nepali people are the latest immigrants to Bhutan. Living in the southwestern and south central section of Bhutan, immigration of Nepali's has been forbidden by the Bhutanese government since 1959. Fear of Bhutan becoming too heavily populated with Nepalis brought about this and the ban on living in the central Himalayan region. Bhutan traditions and culture are to be retained and not dilute Bhutanese distinctiveness.

There are small groups of ethnic minorities that live all throughout Bhutan with the largest group living in the Duars. This group is related to those groups living in India's Assam and Bangla states.

Join us and share the Vision

Itinerary

We offer multiple treks and itineraries for experiencing Bhutan. Here we have listed our most popular Jhomolhari Trek. However, we are pleased to create an itinerary that suits your trekking desires with regards to level of difficulty as well as budget. Each of our treks are primarily on foot, trekking through the high Himalaya. Our Cultural Tour is a way to discover Bhutan with a bit less exertion, primarily by private car with intermittent hikes along the way. This is a great way for multiple family members or friends to experience Bhutan "together".

Jhomalhari Trek Itinerary

Days 1 - 2 Home - Bangkok, Thailand
The Gateway for our journey is Bangkok, Thailand. You will be met by a MountainVision representative for transport to the the Novotel, Suyarnabhum Airport Hotel. Make sure to arrive in Bangkok on October 3rd. Most flight don’t arrive until later in the evening.

Day 3 Bangkok to Paro, Bhutan
We depart from Bangkok very early for our flight to Paro, Buhtan. If the skies are clear you’ll be treated to some breath taking views of the highest peaks in the world including Mt. Everest, Makalu and beautiful Kanchenjunga. Paro stands at 7,500 ft. above sea level, where we are met by our Bhutanese hosts and guide and transfer to our hotel. After lunch we pay a visit to Ta Dzong, built in 1651 as a watch tower and in 1968 inaugurated as Bhutan’s National Museum. The collection includes art, relics, religious thangkha painting, postage stamps, coins and handicrafts, as well as a small natural history collection. Below Ta Dzong is Rinpung Dzong (Paro Dzong), the Fortress of Jewels, built in 1646.

Day 4 Paro, Bhutan
This morning we drive to Drugyel Dzong, built in 1647 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyel to commemorate his victory over the Tibetans in 1644. Drugyel Dzong means ‘fortress of the victorious Drukpas’. When the high mountain air is clear the towering peak of Mount Jhomolhri , 7314 metres (24,000 feet) appears as an impressive backdrop. The mountain, which marks the frontier with Tibet, is sacred, as are all the mountains in Bhutan, and it is the dwelling place of the Goddess Jomo. It was first climbed in 1937, but the expedition never actually set foot on the summit. Jomolhari has never been climbed since and it is now a ‘protected peak’.
In the afternoon, visit Kyichu Lhakhang. Built by the Tibetan King, Songtsen Gampo in the 7th century, it’s one of the oldest and most sacred shrines of Bhutan. Overnight at the hotel in Paro.

Day 5 Paro to Shana
Hike time: 5-6 hours
Estimated distance: 9 miles
Elevation change: 1000 ft
Camp at 9,250 ft
Our trek starts from Drukgyel Dzong (2,580) with a short downhill walk on a wide trail. The trail then climbs gently through well maintained rice terraces and field of millet. Later on we come to apple orchards and forests. Soon the valley widens, and we reach the army post of Gunitsawa (2,810m). This is the last stop before Tibet. We continue upwards to just beyond Sharma Zampa (2,870 m), where there are several good camping places in meadows surrounded by trees.

Day 6 Shana to Thangthangkha
Hike time: 7-8 hours
Estimated distance: 12 miles
Elevation change: 2500 ft
Camp at 12,300 ft
The trail again follows the Pa Chu (Paro river), ascending and descending through pine, oak and spruce forest. After crossing a bridge to the left bank of the river, We stop for a lunch . Then we continue along the river, climbing upwards through rhododendron forest, and crossing the river once more before reaching our campsite (3,750m).

Day 7 Thangthangkha to Jangothan
Hike time: 5 hours
Estimated distance: 9.5 miles
Elevation change: 1,400 ft
Camp at 13,251 ft
The path ascends for a while until we reach the army camp. We then follow the river above the tree line, enjoying stunning views of the surrounding peaks. Hot lunch is served at a yak herder's camp. A short walk from here into the valley takes us to our campsite at Jangothang (4,040 m) where the view of Jhomolhari and Jichu Drake are superb.

Day 8 Jangothang Halt to Lingshi
Hike time: 7-8 hours
Estimated distance: 9.5 miles
Elevation change: +2,300 ft, -2,400 ft
Camp at 13,120 ft
The trail follows the stream for half an hour and crosses the bridge to the right bank. We now start our climb up the first ridge, enjoying breathtaking views of Jhomolhari, Jichu Drake and Tserimgang. The trail then takes us across a fairly level valley floor until the climb up to Nyele-la pass (4,700 m). We descend gradually from the pass to our campsite at Lingshi (4,000m) enjoying a panoramic view of the mountain peaks and Lingshi Dzong as we walk.

Day 9 Lingshi to Shodu
Hike time: 8-9 hours
Estimated distance: 12.5 miles
Elevation change: +2,700 ft, -2,400 ft
Camp at 13,440 ft
The Laya -Gasa route leaves the Jhomolhari trek route here. Our trail climbs up towards a small white chorten on a ridge above the camp, then turns south up the deep Mo Chu valley. The trail stays on the west side of this largely treeless valley, climbing steadily a short distance above the Mo Chu. It then crosses the river, and climbs steeply for two hours to Yeli-la (4,820 m). On a clear day you can see Jhomolhari, Gangchenta, Tserimgang and Masagang from this pass. We descend alongside a stream to a rock shelter in the cliff face, and then continue on downstream till reaching Shodu (4,100m), where we will camp in a meadow with a chorten in it.

Day 10 Shodu to Barshong
Hike time: 6-7 hours
Estimated distance: 9 miles
Elevation change: -1,600 ft
Camp at 11,800 ft
We are now back at the tree line, and our path follows the course of the Thimphu Chu, descending through rhododendrons, junipers and mixed alpine forests. There are stunning views of rocky cliff faces and waterfalls along the way. We stop at the riverside for a hot lunch, then the trail takes us gradually upwards to the ruins of Barshong Dzong (3,600m), near which we camp for the night.

Day 11 Barshong to Dolam Kencho
Hike time: 5-6 hours
Estimated distance: 8 miles
Elevation change: variable
Camp at 11,800 ft
The trail descends gently through a dense forest of rhododendron, birch and conifers, then drops steeply to meet the Thimphu Chu. The trail runs along the left bank of the river, climbing over ridges and descending into gullies where side streams run down into the river. The final stage of the trail climbs around a cliff face high above the Thimphu Chu, coming out onto Pastureland where we camp for the night at 3,600 m.

Day 12 Dolam Kencho to Dodena to Thimphu
Hike time: 3 hours
Estimated distance: 5 miles
Elevation change: finish at Dodena @ 8,800 ft
The trail winds in and out of side valley above the Thimphu Chu, making a long ascent through a forest of conifers and high altitude broadleaf species to a pass at 3,510 m. The trail then drops steeply down to the river, following it southward to the road head at Dodena (2,600 m). Here we meet a vehicle and drive to Thimphu and overnight at the Thimphu Hotel.

Day 13 Thimphu (Capital of Bhutan) to Paro
Early morning drive to Paro and hike up to the famous Tiger’s Nest (Taktsang) monastery in Paro. Overnight in Paro.

Day 14 Paro to Bangkok
After an early breakfast in the hotel we drive to the airport for flight back to Bangkok. We’ve arranged another night for your here at the Novotel to relax prior to catching flights home.

Day 15 Flights home

Gear List

Our suggestions in parenthesis.
Use as a guide for alternative brands

• Day Pack
  (Mountain Hardwear Sortie)
  1,500-3,000 cl. 3 Liter Water bladder (Camelback) should fit within a sleeve in the pack. Make sure it is comfortable. Remember that horses are carrying most of your weight.
• Sleeping Bag 
  (Down- Mountain Hardwear Cloud Rest) 
  (Synthetic- Mountain Hardwear Switch) 
  You will have to choose between Down or Synthetic. There are pros and cons with both. Rated at least 10 degrees F. It will get cold overnight as we spend 3 nights over 13,000 ft.
• Duffel Bags 
  (Mountain Hardwear Large Expedition Duffel)
  Large expedition size duffel. Made from either sturdy vinyl or canvass. This is the bag that will be carried on the trek with all of your gear that is not on your back. It must be sturdy. These will be carried by horses during the trek. *Also have 1 other less sturdy duffel to leave street clothes at hotel while on trek.
• Boots 
  lightweight hikers or cross trainers (La Sportiva Zodiak) 
  sturdier hiking boot (La Sportiva Thunder GTX)
• Warm Hat
  (Mountain Hardwear Dome Perignon)
• Sunglasses 
  (Costa Del Mar Frigate) 
  A second spare pair strongly recommended.
• Trekking Poles
  Optional, but recommended.
• Glove and Mitten Combo 
  1 pair of liners (Mountain Hardwear Powerstretch) 
  1 pair of windstoppers (Mountain Hardwear Gravity)
• Weatherproof Pants
  (Mountain Hardwear Typhoon)
• Weatherproof Jacket 
  (Mountain Hardwear Typhoon)
• Pile Jacket 
  (Mountain Hardwear Windstopper Tech Jacket)
• Insulated Jacket 
  (Mountain Hardwear Subzero)
• Cotton/Linen long sleeved shirt
• Lightweight Trekking Pant
  2 pairs (Mountain Hardwear Convertable Pack Pant)
  Convertible pant/short are the best.
• Capelin/Polypro top/bottom
  2 sets each light and medium
• Socks 
  (4)Medium trekking weight (Smartwool)
• Hygiene/toiletry kit
  Only the basics. Recommend baby wipes & powder for taking ‘mountain bath’
• Water bottle 
  (Nalgene) You will need at least 1 wide mouth bottle in case bladder freezes up high.
• Snack foods to supplement standard meals. Make sure to bring items you really enjoy, not just lame energy bars.
• Pee bottle or female spout
• First Aid Items.
  Only the basics. Tylenol, Motrin, Cipro, Moleskin...etc. We provide the main medical kit with critical meds. Bring a spare set of any personal meds you are taking.
• Sunscreen 30 – 45 SPF
• Headlamp and spare batteries
• Plastic Bags
  (garbage bags) 
  1 or 2...many uses. Big enough to hold critical items in your mountain duffel to add rain protection. Also a few small sandwich bags.
• Hand sanitizer
  (small pocket size is best)
• Bandana
• Hat/visor
• Music player 
  Optional, but be aware that Ipod and similar hard drive MP3 devices break above 17,000ft.
• Knife or multitool
  (if you think you might use it)
• Duct tape 
  Put a few wraps around trekking pole
• Journal and Camera
• Items you might want to give to local porters…shoes, shirts, socks, sunglasses
• Tip money.
  This is optional of course... but if you feel the service was exceptional from the staff, the usual guideline is approximately $100 for the trek.

Don’t forget to:

• Label your gear (including trekking poles)
• Make two copies of your passport and your credit cards.

Fees

Standard Jhomalhari Trek - $2,700

Grand Trek Guided by Jeff Evans - $4,000

• $800 Air Ticket from Bangkok to Paro (subject to change)
• Single Supplement: $450 includes tents & hotels

Nonrefundable deposit guarantees spot. Pay $500 with check using instructions on application or pay with credit card below. 3% processing fee will apply to all credit card purchases.

Cost of Trip Includes

• All land travel
• Lodging - Double occupancy. Extra charge for Single room
• Lodge and camping accommodation for entire trek
• All meals from Day 3 until departure
• National Park gate fees where applicable
• Local guides and porters
• All meals while on trek

Additional Benefits

• Satellite phone available for emergencies during trek
• Participation in our live dispatches, including group photos and trip stories (on Grand Expeditions)
• Top quality food during trek
• We offer pre-trek Colorado 14er weekend training (additional charge)
• Pre-trek advice on training and gear
• Western leader with group throughout trek

Trip Cost Does Not Include

• International airfare to and from Bangkok
• Bangkok to Paro roundtrip flight
• Any hotel costs en route to and from Bangkok and Paro due to flight delays
• Single room specific request
• Cost of hotel en route between the US and Bangkok
• Additional tips for local staff
• Personal drinks, snacks, food, alcohol and gifts
• Subsequent lodging beyond nights listed in itinerary
• Travel Insurance is required on this trip (Medivac Insurance)
• Charges incurred as a result of delays beyond the control of MountainVision Expeditions

Travel Details

Trip resources

The MountainVision Trip Resource Page is a list of valuable resources for your upcoming trip...weather forecasts, gear, health links, travel insurance, world clocks, etc.

Flights

You are welcome to work with your own travel specialist; however, we at MountainVision highly recommend Dana Welch at The Travel Society. Dana has many years of expedition travel experience. She can be reached at 303.563.6225 or dana@travelsociety.com.

You will need to have MountainVision Expeditions purchase your flight into Paro through Druk Air. Once your itinerary is set and we have received your payment for trek and flight, we will purchase your ticket and send you the e-ticket itinerary. 2009/2010 flights from Bangkok into Paro are approximately $800.

Traveler’s Insurance

It is mandatory that everyone purchase travelers insurance before leaving the country for the Bhutan Trek. There are many companies that provide the proper insurance and approximate cost will be $100-$350. Our team travel agent, Dana Welch, will assist you with this. Several companies for you to consider are www.travelguard.com, www.sevencorners.com and www.ihi.com.

Note: If you plan on obtaining trip insurance for your MountainVision Expedition, you will have to obtain your coverage within 2 weeks of making your initial trip deposit only if you expect to be covered for any PRE-EXISTING CONDITIONS. Otherwise, you are able to obtain the insurance up to one month prior to departure

Health Issues

Consult your doctor, travel clinic or email us for advice concerning inoculations and precautions you should consider. Start this process early as some shots are taken over several weeks.

Immunizations we recommend for Bhutan:

• Hepatitis A
• Tetanus (up to date)
• Typhoid

Check out the CDC guidlines for Bhutan.

Great care is taken to insure the food is prepared safely and in a healthy manner. If concerned, avoid salads, ice cubes in drinks, and eat only fruits with skins, which have been peeled. Ethnic foods are naturally tempting and should not be completely disregarded. Pay attention to the preparation if possible and enjoy the opportunity to be adventurous in trying the array of unique foods offered in Thailand and Bhutan.

It is prudent to rely basically on bottled water or drinks although boiled water will be available during the trek. A sealed bottle will ensure the bottle has not been refilled. Don't swallow water while showering and remember to use bottled water for brushing your teeth. You will discover bottled water is readily available on the trek. Though it will not be cheap the higher we climb.

Pre-Climb Training

We will give advice on training prior to the trek if you think you need it. In addition we will be holding one to two optional but highly recommended training days in the Colorado Rockies. Each day, held over different weekends, will allow team members to get to know each other as well as test new equipment and talk through the trek with your leader.

We recommend all MVX clients join us for our 14er Fitness program here in the beautiful Colorado Rocky Mountains. A great way to prepare for your upcoming adventure.

Also, please print out and follow our Pre Trip Training and Conditioning Guideline.

Passport and Entry Requirements

A valid passport is neccesary for entry to Bhutan and must be valid for 6 months after entry. A visa is also mandatory to enter Bhutan and must be acquired through MountainVision Expeditions. Once you are signed up for the trip we will assist you in securing your visa which will be sent to you approximately 2-3 weeks prior to your departure.

Currency, Credit Cards & Traveler's Checks

We recommend that you take US cash in small bills as well as credit cards. You can change US$ fairly easily in Bangkok. However, there are very few ATMs in Paro, so you should have most of the cash you want on the trip with you prior to entering Bhutan. The staff will accept US$ for tips. You can change travelers checks in banks but this is generally very time consuming.

Payment Schedule

An $800 deposit will secure your place on the team. Deposit due 4 months prior to departure date. Balance due 6 weeks prior to departure. If paying by check, please follow instructions on the MounainVision Expeditions Application Package. For payment with credit card please follow instructions on the Bhutan Fees tab above.

Please email info@mountain-vision.com with any questions regarding payment.

Any Questions?

MountainVision Expeditions 
Office- 303.880.1930

Contact us at info@mountain-vision.com to learn more about our Bhutan Adventure Trek.