Next to trekking Nepal trekking Bhutan has become second most popular Himalayas trekking destination. Though there are key differences between the two countries in terms of access and costs, there are differences also in terms of character of the treks.
Bhutan practices highly regulated government monopoly on tourism. No independent travel is allowed in Bhutan and consequently trekkers must sign up on an organized trek through a licensed Bhutan tour operator in order to be able to visit Bhutan at all. All tours are regulated basically at same mandatory minimum daily tariff and the same rate applies whether one sleeps in a hotel or in a tent on a trek.
Compared to Nepal the land cost is higher though alpine style trekking support is much the same, with all provisions and camping equipment, sleeping tents as well as dining tens and toilet tents, included. Trekkers carry only their daypacks, and all of their gear is transported on pack animals, typically ponies and yaks.
Most popular treks in Bhutan are Bhutan Cultural Trek, Gangtey Trek, Druk Path Trek, Chomolhari Trek, Laya Gasa Trek, Masa Gang Trek, Gangkar Puensum Trek, Snowman Trek and Nabji Trek.
Compared to Nepal most treks pass through regions of very few or often no villages. Exception is the Laya Gasa trek that leads into the remote region of the Layap people, a very rewarding trek.
The most popular trek is the Bhutan Cultural trek in Bumthang in Central Bhutan. Its popularity is namely on account of its passing through villages settlements thus allowing contact with the locals. It is also easy enough where trekkers do not have to be in a great physical shape.
