Bhutan Snowman Trek
One of the most challenging treks in the world explores the most remote region of Bhutan
Join us for an unforgettable adventure to the spiritual land of Bhutan, nestled high in the Himalayas. Experience Bhutanese culture and customs, monasteries, and landscape lush with rhododendron and alpine forests. Breathtaking views of unclimbed summits, high ridges and deep river gorges will reward us. This trek, one of the most challenging in the world, crosses a number of high passes among 22,966-foot / 7,000-meter peaks and explores the most remote region of Bhutan.
The Snowman Trek combines cultural immersion, very remote and challenging trekking, and visits to locations shrouded in mystery. Very few trekkers attempt the Snowman Trek but those that accept the challenge will be rewarded with what is most certainly a rare adventure and probably a trip of a lifetime.
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Description
Bhutan, ancient and never colonized, is bordered by China, Tibet and India, and is a constitutional monarchy. Traditional Buddhist values are the foundation of government, business and personal life. The philosophy of “Gross National Happiness” guides the government and the former King stated, “Gross National Happiness is more important than Gross National Product.” Bhutan is cautious in allowing growth and development and tourism is strictly limited to maintain the country’s pristine valleys and peaks of the Eastern Himalaya.
Our tour of Bhutan starts in the town of Paro, located in a lush valley of rice terraces and white painted monasteries and temples that populate the hillside. We visit one of the most famous monasteries in the world, Takstang Gompa. Known as the “Tiger’s Nest,” Takstang is perched on the side of a cliff 3,000 feet about the valley floor.
This year’s fall itinerary features a visit to The Thimphu Festival. This is a vibrant celebration held on the 10th day of the 8th month of Bhutan’s lunar calendar. The days start off with prayers and rituals in the dzong to honor deities, followed by colorful mask dances performed by monks, showcasing the eight manifestations of Guru Rinpoche. The festival is a lively time when locals dress in their best, enjoy traditional food and drinks, and come together to celebrate. It’s one of Bhutan’s most popular events, drawing huge crowds who soak in the festive atmosphere and rich culture.
Once on the trail, the the snow-capped peaks and spectacular views will captivate you. With close to two weeks in Snow Leopard country be sure to keep your eyes peeled! We were lucky enough to spot a leopard two times in 2023, unfortunately both were too far away for a photo!
Have a Question? Contact Us!
Price
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Bhutan Snowman Trek
$10,950 – 27 Days / Includes travel time
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Single Supplement (I want my own room and tent) – $1,400
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Price Includes
- Guide(s) and staff
- Bhutan Visa and SDF Fees
- Trekking permit fees
- All scheduled hotel nights (double occupancy)
- All scheduled restaurant meals (alcoholic beverages not included)
- All accommodations and food while on the trek
- All team trekking gear, tents and cooking gear
- All support staff including cooking staff, porters and pack animals
- Ground transportation and airport transfers in Bhutan
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Price Does Not Include
- International airfare to predetermined airport
- Group flight to/from Paro likely from Bangkok (~$1000). Mountain Madness will arrange this flight — please contact our office for details.
- Excess baggage charges
- Personal equipment and clothing
- Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, room service, extra hotel nights, extra meals, etc.)
- Alcoholic and bottled beverages
- Required Travel insurance with trip cancellation, medical and evacuation policy
- All expenses associated with non-scheduled departure
- Guide/Staff gratuities
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Payment Schedule
- $700 deposit at time of registration, which includes a $300 non-refundable registration fee
- Balance due 120 days prior to departure
- The balance may be paid by check, wire transfer, ACH or credit card with a 3% convenience fee
Dates
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2025 Snowman Trek Dates
- Sep 29, 2025 — Oct 25, 2025 Sold Out
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2026 Snowman Trek Dates
- Sep 27, 2026 — Oct 23, 2026
Policies
Cancellation / Refund Policy
- MMI strongly recommends trip cancellation/interruption and evacuation insurance for all trips. Our insurance partner, Ripcord, offers comprehensive travel insurance including trip cancellation, as well as rescue/evacuation policies and can assist in answering any questions. In addition, Participant is expected to have sufficient medical insurance as prescribed by their country of origin. Participant understands that MMI does not include any type of insurance with the cost of the trip.
- If you decide to cancel your trip or change your itinerary, MMI must be notified in writing. Your trip will be cancelled from the date written notice is received. If proper written cancellation notice is not received, amounts paid and reservations made will be forfeited.
- Non-refundable fees may apply for certain trips in order to secure permits and other services. MMI must strictly adhere to cancellation policies outside MMI’s control.
- Due to the personalized service we offer on our trips, MMI reserves the right to waive any fees. We will attempt to accommodate changes and cancellations, waiving certain fees when feasible.
- Circumstances outside the control of MMI and its partners, may require amended cancellation/refund policies. Such circumstances may include, but are not limited to COVID-19, natural disasters, wildfires, terrorism and so forth.
International Trips/Courses:
- Full refund, less the non-refundable registration fee, will be provided 121 days or more before the departure date
- No refunds will be provided 120 days or less before the departure date
Trip Insurance
We strongly recommend the purchase of travel cancellation insurance to protect you from the unexpected. You aren’t likely to think of it now, but people do get ill, break a bone, have a family emergency or get assigned to a last-minute business trip. If you are in remote areas, please note that emergency rescue & evacuation can be very expensive.
We also strongly urge you to consider rescue and evacuation insurance if your own policy does not provide the coverage needed. Services available may include, but are not limited to, helicopter evacuation, medical care, etc.
If you choose not to purchase insurance, you assume full responsibility for any expenses incurred in the event of a medical emergency and/or evacuation, as well as for trip cancellation, interruption, lost luggage, etc. We are not the experts and therefore ask that you please consult our travel insurance partner directly with any specific questions.
To protect against losses due to illness, accident, or other unforeseen circumstances, Mountain Madness strongly recommends the purchase of travel insurance as soon as possible after making a deposit. Mountain Madness has partnered with Redpoint Resolutions as our preferred travel insurance provider. Redpoint’s Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance™ is designed for adventurers.
For a quote, or to purchase travel insurance, please click this link Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance™ or call +1 – 415-481‑0600. Pricing varies based on age, trip cost, trip length, and level of coverage.
Critical benefits of Ripcord Rescue Travel Insurance include:
- A completely integrated program with a single point of contact for emergency services, travel assistance, and insurance claims
- Evacuation and rescue services from your point of injury or illness to your hospital of choice
- Comprehensive travel insurance for trip cancellation/interruption, primary medical expense coverage, baggage loss or delay, emergency accident and emergency sickness medical expense, emergency dental, accidental death and dismemberment, and more
- Optional security evacuation coverage in case of an unplanned natural disaster or other security events
- Waiver for pre-existing conditions (must be purchased within 14 days of tour deposit)
- Optional “Cancel for Any Reason” coverage (must be purchased within 14 days of tour deposit)
Itinerary
Flight Information
The total number of days for your trip includes all travel to and from your destination, with some exceptions. Dates listed on the website start with your departure date from the U.S. and include the day you arrive home. For this trip we will take a group flight between Paro & Bangkok on Day 3 & 26 of the itinerary. This flight will be arranged by Mountain Madness and invoiced separately. Please confirm your flights to/from BKK with our office before booking.
Bhutan Snowman Trek Day by Day
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Days 1-2
Travel
Depart from home and begin the journey to Paro, Bhutan.
Please note that team will be on a group flight to Paro which will be arranged by Mountain Madness. This flight will likely originate in Bangkok, but we ask you to please contact the Mountain Madness office before booking your flights to Bangkok.
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Day 3
Paro
Elevation: 7,200 ft / 2,194 m
After arriving at Paro International Airport, we begin our introduction to Bhutan with an orientation and a sweeping view of Paro town, followed by a visit to Paro’s impressive monastery-fortress (dzong). Dropping by the hotel so that you can get settled in, we’ll then make a late afternoon visit to an ancient temple dating back to the earliest stories of Buddhism in Bhutan.
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Day 4
Tiger’s Nest & Thimphu
Elevation: 10,236 ft / 3,120 m
Distance: 4 miles / 6.5 km
In the morning, we hike to one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites in Bhutan, the fabled Tiger’s Nest monastery (5−6 hrs r/t) perched high on a cliff. Nearby, we also find a more secluded temple with a fierce feminine goddess. On the way down, we stop at a teahouse for lunch. After our day of hiking, we drive 1.5 hours to the capital of Thimphu.
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Day 5
Thimphu Festival (Fall) / City Tour (Spring)
Fall: The Thimphu Festival is a vibrant celebration held on the 10th day of the 8th month of Bhutan’s lunar calendar. The days start off with prayers and rituals in the dzong to honor deities, followed by colorful mask dances performed by monks, showcasing the eight manifestations of Guru Rinpoche. The festival is a lively time when locals dress in their best, enjoy traditional food and drinks, and come together to celebrate. It’s one of Bhutan’s most popular events, drawing huge crowds of both locals and tourists who soak in the festive atmosphere and rich culture.
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Spring: Today we’ll enjoy a city tour of Thimphu. Some of the highlights include a visit to the Great Buddha Dordenma which sits on the hillside just outside of town. We’ll also stop at the Cenenary Farmers Market to check out some Bhutanese fruits and vegetables. Other likely stops include the post office where you can pick up & send some post cards after choosing your favorite stamp (note there are 1000’s of options!). As time allows we’ll stop at other local artisanal shops and other more typical shops of Thimphu. -
Day 6
Punakha
Elevation: 3,936 ft / 1,200 m
The day starts out with a drive through a forest of pine and hemlock adorned with hanging lichens all the way up to Dochula Pass (3,115m / 10,220ft) where we’ll enjoy spectacular views of the Himalayas. From the top of the pass we’ll descend down to the fertile valley of Punakha where we’ll stretch our legs with a short hike up to the 14th Century Temple Chhimilakhang at the top of the hill. We’ll finish the day with a drive to PunakhaDzong where we’ll overnight in a hotel.
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Day 7
Takshimakha
Elevation: 10,755 ft / 3,278 m
We leave the fertile valley of Punakha and drive through JigmeDorji National Park, home of many rare species of animals including the Snow Leopard, Red Panda, Clouded Leopard, Bengal tiger, Himalayan Black Bear and the Bharal aka the Himalayan Blue Sheep. As we pull into Gasa keep an eye out for people from all over the country soaking in the hot springs. Nearby is GasaDzong, a 17th century stronghold that played an important role in protecting the locals from Tibetan invaders. Continue on from Gasa to the end of the road to our first camp. Overnight in tents.
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Day 8
Laya
Elevation: 12,465 ft / 3799 m
Distance: 10 miles / 16 km
Our trail is mostly up along the river today. As we near Laya, we will notice the local people carrying their loads on yaks, which are better suited to higher altitude than the horses we have seen to this point. The 800 residents of this village have their own distinct customs, language, and dress. The women’s clothing is particularly unique with black wool jackets and cone-shaped bamboo hats. In the afternoon, we’ll take in the sights and sounds of the Highland Festival.
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Day 9
Rodophu
Elevation: 13,825 ft / 4213 m
Distance: 9 miles / 14.5km
Leaving Laya village, we gradually descend to a military camp and show our trekking permits before proceeding. Continuing down, the trail soon divides for Lunana and Gasa. We take the upper trail and climb steeply through the forest. In less than an hour, we reach a view point from where the Mo River and its tributary, the Rodophu River, are visible. As the trail continues, we may pass by a yak herder camp, depending on their seasonal migration. The trail curves through rhododendrons and mixed conifer with lichens and brings us to a short final climb to camp.
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Day 10
Rodophu
We’ll use today as an acclimatization day. We’ll spend some time on self-care before venturing out for an afternoon hike.
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Day 11
Narethang
Elevation: 16,200 ft / 4937
Distance: 10 miles / 16 km
Leaving the camp, we soon climb through rhododendron shrubs to the ridge. The trail is likely to be wet, rocky, and steep to the Tshemo La (16,090 ft / 4904 m). Marked by cairns and prayer flags, the pass offers a superb view of Gangla Karchung, Jhomolhari, Jitchu Drake, and the valley towards Lunana. The route then crosses a generally flat, barren plateau with puzzling yak trails. Follow your guide to find camp!
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Day 12
Tarina
Elevation: 12,915 ft / 3936 m
Distance: 10 miles / 16 km
The morning climb takes ~2 hrs to the Kangla Karchung La (16,465 ft) where we find an astonishing view of mountains: KangBum, Treigang and Jejekangphu Gang. The views are among the best of the trek! A massive glacier descends from Tserigang to the deep turquoise lake at its foot. Now we begin a steep descent into Lunana valley with a wet and slippery trail. Crossing a large bridge over the Tarina River brings us to camp.
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Day 13
Woche
Elevation: 13,655 ft / 4162 m
Distance: 8.5 miles / 13.7 km
The day begins on a trail parallel to the Tarina River with beautiful waterfalls cascading down either side of the valley. We climb gently out of the valley past several huge landslides and eventually steeply to the northeast into the high side of the valley of Woche, the first settlement of Lunana region. The path to camp climbs sharply up the Woche valley, then gradually descends towards two streams. After crossing the second one, we reach our campsite.
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Day 14
Woche Rest Day
Elevation: 13,655 ft / 4162 m
Enjoy a casual morning and maybe a second cup of tea before your hot shower. The rest of the day will be spent between self-care, downtime and a short hike to explore the area a bit more.
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Day 15
Lhedi
Elevation: 12,790 ft / 3898 m
Distance: 8 miles / 12.9 km
The trail to Lhedi begins with a climb in the Woche valley. The trail is wide, sandy, and beautiful with alpine flowers. After ~2 hrs, we reach the Kesha La (15,305 ft / 4665 m). Descending from the pass offers an excellent view of the surrounding mountains including Jejekangphu Gang’s triple peaks. We then follow the Phở river down to the heart of the Lunana district. Continuing along the riverbed, we reach a small settlement and camp. If time permits we may visit the local school and/or the medical clinic.
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Day 16
Thanza
Elevation: 13,450 ft / 4099 m
Distance: 10.5 miles / 16.9 km
Today’s trek starts through a forest of fir and juniper, the last forest we will encounter for a while as we move above the tree line again. The trail follows the north bank of the Phở River, past several small farms, where a big U‑shaped valley comes in from the north. We can see the great Table Mountain (22,960 ft / 6998 m) which dominates the entire valley. Continue hiking to the small village of Chozo with an old dzong. Then it’s another 1 ½ hr hike to Thanza through a flat sandy trail to the camp.
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Day 17
Djundji
Elevation: 14,890 ft / 4540 m
Distance: 4.5 miles / 7 km
From Thanza we’ll start climbing to gain views of Thanza Valley, Chozo and Luanana mountains. From here the trail turns south up a side valley where we’ll pass high above a multi-step waterfall. The trail eventually parallels the river and after an hour or so we arrive at camp.
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Day 18
Tsho Chena
Elevation: 16,272 ft / 4960 m
Distance: 5.6 miles / 9 km
From camp we’ll head southwest up into a rocky side valley and climb up to Jaze La Pass (16,890ft / 5150m). After some photos and a short break at the pass we’ll descend between snow covered peaks along side a string of alpine lakes.
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Day 19
Rest Day Tsho Chena
Elevation: 16,272 ft / 4960 m
Rest days are important on an expedition like this. It gives us a chance to rest up and take care of some much needed self-care. Sleep in, take a shower, read a book, listen to a podcast, whatever you like! In the afternoon we’ll likely head out for a short hike to explore the area a bit.
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Day 20
Jichudramo
Elevation: 16,595 ft / 5145 m
Distance: 12 miles / 19 km
Today we’ll log some miles without too much elevation gain/loss. The day starts out along the shore of a large alpine lake before climbing to a ridge that leads to an unnamed pass at 16,732ft / 5100m. From the pass we’ll hike next to another large alpine lake which takes us to the second pass of the day, Loju La (16,875ft / 5145). From the pass we’ll descend to camp at Jichudramo.
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Day 21
Chukarpo
Elevation: 15,910 ft / 4850 m
Distance: 12 miles / 19 km
Another day…another big pass to tackle! Today we’ll cross some glacial moraine and a stream or two before our climb to Rinchen Zoe la pass at 17,470ft / 5326m. After soaking in the 360 degree views our long descent into a broad valley begins. As the valley narrows the trail steepens a bit before flattening out before camp near the tree line.
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Day 22
Thampoe Tsho
Elevation: 14,285 ft / 4355 m
Distance: 9.5 miles / 15 km
Our descent continues today along and across many small streams. Eventually the trail follows the river to a yak pasture called Gala Pang Chhu. From here it’s a steep climb through a juniper & silver fir forest. We’ll generally follow a stream which leads us to a beautiful, clear, turquoise lake set in a bowl and surrounded by steep mountain granite. We’ll camp here for the night.
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Day 23
Maurothang
Elevation: 12,130 ft / 3698 m
Distance: 13 miles / 21 km
Today starts out with a reasonably steep climb to Tempe La Pass at 15,300ft / 4665m. Tighten up your boots because our big descent begins here. Along the way we’ll see Om Tsho, a sacred lake, discovered by Pema Lingpa. Enjoy the waterfalls as the trail descent steepens a bit before reaching Zezey Thang. The descent continues to the source of the Nikka Chhu River. From here things flatten out a bit as we follow the river through the forest and meadows until we reach camp.
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Day 24
Nikka Chhu / Punakha
Elevation: 8,390 ft / 1070 m
Distance: 14.5 miles / 23.5 km
Our last day on the trail is a big one however the trail itself is relatively easy. Generally downhill for the bulk of the day finds us in forests of thick dwarf bamboo. In the forest we’ll cross several rivers over various types of bridges. Eventually the forest gives way to a large meadow overlooking the village of Sephu. Soon we’ll be a dirt road that emerges onto the mail road at Nikka Chhubridge where we’ll celebrate with, and bid farewell to, our pony drivers and kitchen crew. After a short celebration we’ll make the 2hr drive to Punakha where we’ll overnight in a hotel. Showers and wifi for everybody!
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Day 25
Thimphu
Elevation: 7,500 ft / 2286m
Sleep in a little, have a second cup of coffee, take another shower… Today is pretty simple, we’ll make our way back to Thimphu (2.5hr drive) and enjoy some souvenir shopping before our celebration dinner.
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Day 26
Depart For Home
Enjoy another casual morning today by sleeping in a little or stretching your legs with a stroll around town. In the late morning we’ll load up one last time for our drive to Paro where we’ll eat lunch and pick up some last minute souvenirs before heading to the airport for our afternoon flight to Bangkok.
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Day 27
Travel Home
It may be possible to arrange connecting flights late on Day 25 but a stopover/overnight in Bangkok will likely be necessary.
Note on Itinerary: We do our very best to follow the schedule listed, this itinerary is subject to change due to inclement weather, unsafe route conditions, or other reasons beyond our control and in the guide’s best judgement.
**Please check with the Mountain Madness office before booking your flights.
Equipment for Bhutan Snowman Trek
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Carrying Gear
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Day pack (30-45L)
With padded shoulder straps and waist belt; used for carrying personal gear such as water bottle, extra clothing, snacks, camera, etc. Individual loads will be between 10 and 20 pounds. A pack with a volume between 1800-2500 cu. in. (30-45 liters) serves most people’s needs well
Examples:
Osprey Stratos
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Pack cover
Waterproof cover
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Large duffel bag (100L capacity)
Your mountain gear will be kept in it and the entire duffel will go into the group mountain bag that will be carried by the porters. Limit loads to items on the equipment list. Your large duffel cannot exceed 25 kgs (55lbs) Approximate size: 28”x16”x16” No wheels or hard sides, please
Examples:
Patagonia Black Hole
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Small duffel bag
Large enough to hold everything you’re not taking on the mountain. Will be stored at hotel, to be used after trip
Examples:
Patagonia Black Hole
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Small padlock for duffel bags
Extra security
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Baggage tags
Makes identifying your bags easy at airports or hotels
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Sleeping Gear
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Expedition quality sleeping bag (-10-0F)
One down or synthetic bag rated from -10 - 0°F /-18 to -23°C
Examples:
Feathered Friends Snowbunting, Marmot Never Summer
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Sleeping pad (inflatable or closed cell foam)
This can be an inflatable or closed cell foam pad. Make sure to purchase a pad rated for cold conditions.
Examples:
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir & Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol
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Climbing Gear
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Adjustable trekking poles
Three piece poles recommended
Examples:
Black Diamond Trail Back Pole
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Head and Face
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Fleece or wool hat
It must cover the ears
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Shade hat or baseball cap
A visor hat with a good brim is essential for protection from the sun
Examples:
Mountain Madness trucker hat
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Bandanas or neck gaiter
Various uses, i.e. cleaning glasses, sun protection when tied around the neck, etc. We have our own Mountain Madness neck gaiter available for purchase!
Examples:
Mountain Madness neck gaiter
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Balaclava or Buff
A thin balaclava will add significant warmth on that cold summit day
Examples:
Outdoor Research, Marmot
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Sunglasses or Glacier glasses (w/hard case)
Essential eye protection whether in the tropics, at high altitudes or by the water. Sun glare off the snow can be intense so polarized 100% UVA/UVB glasses work best. Consider bringing a spare pair
Examples:
Julbo
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Hands
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Fleece gloves
Lightweight gloves to use while trekking and hanging around camp
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Climbing gloves
A shell system of a fleece liner and waterproof shell that handles cold
Examples:
Outdoor Research Arete
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Feet
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Thin socks (2 pair)
Two pairs of synthetic or wool socks to wear under heavy wool socks to help prevent blisters and keep feet dry
Examples:
Smartwool or Cool Max
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Thick socks (3 pair)
Three pairs of synthetic or wool socks, medium to heavyweight. Check boot fit with thin and thick socks on
Examples:
Smartwool or Thorlo
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Gaiters
One pair of gaiters made of breathable material; keeps dirt and snow out of boots. Make sure they fit over your boots
Examples:
Outdoor Research Verglas or Crocodiles
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Hiking boots
One pair medium-weight hiking/backpacking boots, waterproof, large enough to be comfortable with one thin and one thick sock
Examples:
Salomon Quest 4D
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Tennis shoes or sandals
Lightweight to wear in camp after a long day of hiking
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Upper Body
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Synthetic t-shirts
Two synthetic or merino wool t-shirts. No cotton!
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Long-sleeved Base Layer
Two lightweight to mediumweight, pull-over is best
Examples:
Patagonia Capilene
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Sports bras
Two, synthetic, no cotton!
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Softshell Jacket w/ hood
This is what you will be wearing while hiking at higher altitudes or while kicking around camps at lower altitude. This jacket should be full-zip
Examples:
Outdoor Research Ferrosi
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Hardshell jacket w/ hood
A good jacket made of Gore-Tex (recommended) or waterproof nylon, roomy enough to fit over multiple layers
Examples:
Outdoor Research Foray, Patagonia Triolet
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Down or synthetic jacket w/hood
This is your most important piece of warm gear and will mean the difference between an enjoyable climb or a miserable one. A warm, full zip jacket with hood is ideal.
Examples:
Helly Hansen Vanir, Feathered Friends Volant, Marmot Guide’s Down Hoody, Outdoor Research Virtuoso Hoody
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Sun hoody
This piece with a high SPF rating and lightweight fabric offers protection from high altitude sun
Examples:
Outdoor Research
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Lower Body
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Undergarments
Adequate supply for the entire trip
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Hiking shorts
One pair of quick-drying shorts. Good for hiking at lower elevations on the mountain
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Long base layer
Two pairs light or mediumweight
Examples:
Patagonia Capilene
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Softshell pants
Softshell pants are water resistant, yet highly breathable and durable. Great for colder conditions over a pair of long underwear or tights higher on the mountain or summit day
Examples:
Outdoor Research Voodoo, Mountain Hardwear Touren, Patagonia Guide
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Hardshell pants
waterproof and breathable with side zips (minimum of ¾ zips recommended) Gore-Tex or equivalent
Examples:
Outdoor Research Furio, Arcteryx Beta AR
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Miscellaneous
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Stuff sacks/ditty bags/plastic bags
To organize gear in your duffle and pack. All clothing should be kept dry using waterproof stuff sacks or large heavyweight plastic bags (trash compactor bags work great)
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Toiletries
Toothbrush and paste, comb, tampons, biodegradable soap (small amount), etc. Bring enough for the entire trip
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Toilet paper
1 – 2 rolls stored in a plastic bag
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Sunscreen
Bring plenty of sun block with SPF of 40 or more. It's easy to underestimate the amount necessary for your trip!
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Lip balm
Must have SPF rating of 20 or more. Bring two just in case!
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Ear plugs
To block out snoring and other noise to ensure a good night's sleep
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Water Bottles/Water System (Trekking)
Two one-liter, wide-mouthed plastic bottles. If you use a collapsible water bottle or hydration system you are welcome to bring it along for drinking water. However, bring at least one hard plastic bottle.
Examples:
Nalgene
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Water flavoring
Powdered additives like Gatorade or NUUN are a nice change of pace to water and help replenish much needed electrolytes.
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Snacks (trek)
Trail snacks are important. Bring some power/energy/candy bars or if there is something else you particularly like to eat while hiking. You will be fed well throughout the trek, so this is just something extra
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Headlamp
Bring extra batteries!
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Pocket knife or multitool
Simple Swiss Army type with scissors. Make sure you transport in checked bag, not carry-on!
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Personal first aid and drug kit
small personal first aid kit with ample bandaids and moleskin
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Nausea medications
Pepto Bismol tablets; Maalox, Gelusil M or Mylanta antacid tablets. Donnatal for stomach cramps. Probiotic capsules taken daily may help keep your gastro-intestinal system working smoothly
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Towel
For wash up in camp
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Handi-Wipes
A small pack or two anti-bacterial are great for general hygiene
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Spare contacts and glasses
Contacts can be a problem in dusty conditions, so make sure you have your back-up glasses with you. Glasses wearers should have a spare set
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Umbrella (optional)
Protection from rain and sun; compact and light weight
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Poncho
A poncho is great for lower down on the mountain when it is raining. Rather than having to wear your hard-shell jacket and overheat, just throw the poncho over yourself and your pack and you will stay dry as a bone
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Spare bottle for a pee bottle, and a pee funnel (Lady J or Freshette) for women
It can be a cold walk to the toilet at night
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Insect repellent
A must!
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Personal electronics
Phone with camera, and/or separate camera. Bring extra batteries and memory!
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Electronics charging
If you want to charge your electronics along the way, a small, lightweight solar panel to charge batteries or portable charging device may be a good addition
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Travel power adapter
Most come in kits with all the plugs you need. Double-check to make sure you’re taking the correct adapter/plugs
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Travel clothing
Comfortable clothing for travel before and after the expedition
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Book Trip
Bhutan Snowman Trek
$10,950
27 Days / Includes travel time
Elevation
Rinchen Zoe la pass at 17,470 ft / 5326 m
Route
Snowman Trek
Difficulty
Advanced
Similar to level four, but there may be four difficult days in a row over passes and could have elevation gains of more than 3,000 feet / 915 meters. Given multiple difficult days on this level of trek endurance is key and preparation should be more rigorous.
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