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.
Led by long-time Mountain Madness guide Deanna Zabaldo, 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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Trip Perks
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Deana Zabaldo has hands-on experience in the Himalayas and a passion for its culture and peoples. As a Peace Corps Volunteer in Nepal, she learned about the complexities of international development, regional politics, caste hierarchy, economic disparity, and modernization — all while hiking through the world’s most spectacular mountains. This experience continues to shape her today: she is now an expert trekking guide in Bhutan and Nepal, as well as a catalyst for innovation and change through fundraising, volunteering, and sustainable development.
Deana enjoys sharing her love of the Himalayas while supporting clients through safe, challenging, and inspiring adventures. Whether drinking yak milk in nomad tents or chatting with street vendors, she is able to create an authentic experience for clients and bring the culture alive through rapport with landless farmers, wealthy factory owners, sari-clad women, and hermit monks. She has explored from rice paddies to mountaintop temples, including Tibet, Mongolia, and Bhutan. Moved by the spiritual and cultural vibrancy of the region, she’s a gifted storyteller about Tantric gods, Bhutanese refugees, the realities of Shangri-La, and secret explorations. Her expertise in the area and her commitment to client service led her to win the 2013 World Guide Awards. She also designed the Hidden Valley of Happiness trip for Mountain Madness, which won Outside Magazine’s Best Himalayan Trip in 2012.
While calling San Francisco home, Deana also spends time each year in the Himalayas, guiding treks and supporting charitable projects. She has an abiding dedication to make a positive impact in the world through transformative travel and sustainable development. Her experience includes conducting education and training for Lucent Technologies, directing cross-cultural programs for Intrax Cultural Exchange, and teaching university psychology and adult literacy. She holds a Master’s in Behavioral Psychology and is a certified Wilderness First Responder.
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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 Bhutan, Takstang Gompa. Known as the “Tiger’s Nest,” Takstang is perched on the side of a cliff 3,000 feet about the valley floor.
Go dancing! Our trek for 2020 will feature an extension to join the Paro Tshechu, an exciting and colorful display of traditional culture featuring mask dances and other entertainment.
Along the way the snow-capped peaks and spectacular views will captivate you. We will camp beneath the sacred mountain of Chomolhari (7,314 meters or 23,930 feet). Our highpoint on the trek is going over the Yeli La at 16,130 feet (4,930 meters). We will conclude our journey with a cultural tour of Thimphu Valley, and our final brush with the mystical east before departing for home.
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Price
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Bhutan Snowman Trek
$8,900 – 29 Days / Includes travel time
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w/Mask Dance Festival
$9,900 – 31 Days / Includes travel time
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Price Includes
- Guide(s) and staff
- Trekking permit fees
- City tours
- Two scheduled hotel nights in Paro (double occupancy)
- Three scheduled hotel nights in Thimphu (double occupancy)
- One scheduled hotel night in Bumthang (double occupancy)
- Scheduled restaurant meals in Paro, Thimphu and Bumthang
- 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
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Price Does Not Include
- International airfare
- Bhutan entry visa and airport fees
- Domestic flight in Bhutan (approx $200)
- Excess baggage charges
- Personal equipment and clothing
- Personal expenses (phone calls, laundry, room service, extra hotel nights, extra meals, etc.)
- Alcoholic and bottled beverages
- 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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Bhutan Snowman Trek
- Sep 30, 2020 — Oct 28, 2020
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w/ Mask Dance Festival
- Sep 30, 2020 — Oct 30, 2020
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.
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 you will need to arrive in Paro, Bhutan on Day 3 of the itinerary. You will cross the date line in mid-flight to Asia, thus losing a day. If you are traveling from outside the U.S. your itinerary may require less time to reach Paro, so all that is required is that you arrive on Day 3 of the itinerary, where Mountain Madness services begin. If you arrive early, we can assist with extra hotel arrangements and activities. Otherwise, you can arrive at any time on Day 3. You will be met at the airport by a Mountain Madness representative and transferred to your hotel.
Your return flight home should be scheduled for the second to last day of the itinerary.
Please contact our office for any help needed with your flight schedule.
Bhutan Snowman Trek Day by Day
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Day 1-2
Travel
Depart from home and travel to Paro, Bhutan.
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Day 3
Paro
Elevation: 7,200 ft / 2,194 m
After meeting you at the 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: 7,612 ft / 2,320 m
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
Elevation: 7,612 ft / 2,320 m
We begin our day with a morning climb to the top of Buddha point to visit the massive Buddha statue and temple that overlooks the valley and then head towards town. The capital is charming — with police officers directing traffic at roundabouts and not a single stoplight. We’ll stop by the weekend market, which sells everything from prayer wheels and archery supplies to pineapples and hot chili peppers. After lunch, we circumambulate the town’s iconic Memorial Chorten with locals who come to walk and recite their daily mantras and then visit the unexpectedly interesting post office — where you can see/buy stamps from Bhutan’s unique and varied collection or make stamps from your own photo.
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Day 6
Thimphu
Elevation: 7,612 ft / 2,320 m
Today we start with a ritual blessing for our journey from Buddhist nuns at a nearby monastery. From there, we visit a local handicraft school which trains students in traditional Buddhist arts. We’ll see them painting deities, embroidering mythic animals, and carving auspicious symbols into wood. After a picnic lunch, we’ll visit the luxurious Tara temple which includes a massive silver statue of this well-known feminine deity. This evening we make final preparations and pack for the trek.
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Day 7
Gasa
Elevation: 9,100 ft / 2773 m
In the morning, we drive 2 hours towards the trailhead, crossing Dochula Pass at 10,220 feet / 3115 meters, where we can see our first Himalayan mountain panorama if the weather is clear. After the pass, we descend to the fertile valley of Punakha. We’ll stop to tour the ornate fortress-monastery and learn how Drukpa magic was used to repel Tibetan invasions. Punakha dzong is also the winter capital of the national body of monks. Onward for a 3‑hour drive to the end of the road, where we stay for the night.
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Day 8
Koina / TongshouDra
Elevation: 10,700 ft / 3261 m
Distance: 1 hr drive; 6 mile / 9.7 km trek
During our short morning drive on a winding dirt road that hugs the mountain tightly, we will have views of Gasa’s fortress monastery and the picturesque background of Mt. Kang Bum at 21,300 feet / 6492 meters. At the end of the road, we meet the old trail once used by monks traveling from Tibet, and we begin our trek into the mountains, camping in a gorge by the river tonight.
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Day 9
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 evening, hopefully, the local women will come to dance and sing traditional Bhutanese and Layap songs.
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Day 10
Rodophu
Elevation: 13,825 ft / 4213 m
Distance: 9 miles / 14.5 km
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 11
Rodophu
13,825 ft / 4213 m
Today we acclimatize to the higher altitude and take a short hike to the upper ridge for mountain views and good acclimatization.
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Day 12
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 13
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 14
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 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.
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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
Thanza Village
Elevation: 13,450 ft / 4099 m
While we rest and regroup, a new group of pack animals will be arranged, and the mules from Laya will start their return journey. Today we can explore the village, take day hikes, wash up, do some laundry, and prepare for the next leg of our journey. The trekking staff will also be busy preparing for the next days’ meals and getting organized.
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Day 18
Tshorim
Elevation: 15,974 ft / 4868 m
Distance: 9 miles / 14.5 km
We are now well relaxed and full of energy for the second half of the trek. We resume the same trail until it splits near the Yak herders camp at Djundje. We opt for the lower route, Tshorim. After lunch we continue our trek with the majestic views of Table Mountain.
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Day 19
Zanam
Elevation: 16,072 ft / 4898 m
Distance: 9 miles / 14.5 km
Start your day with a gradual climb to Tshorim. It’s a beautiful giant turquoise blue glacier lake. Soon you will see the stunning Gangkar Puensum (24,735 ft / 7541 m), the tallest unclimbed mountain in the country. You will reach Gophula pass (17898 ft / 5455 m). A short break to celebrate crossing the highest pass by adding few rocks to the Cairns and tying on prayer flags for good luck. From the pass, the trail is mostly downhill on glacier moraines, with just a short climb. It becomes very scenic as you enter the next valley and onto our camp near the river.
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Day 20
Minchugang
Elevation: 13,809 ft / 4208 m
Distance: 9.9 miles / 15.9 km
We can expect an easy day with a nice trail, mostly downhill following the clear Sasha Chu river, losing a lot of elevation while crossing a few streams and wide open alpine meadows until you reach our campsite by the Yak herder’s summer camp.
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Day 21
Warthang
Elevation: 14,612 ft / 4454 m
Distance: 7 miles / 11.3 km
Today is a challenging day with three passes to cross. But very beautiful with lakes and scenic views of deep gorges. The trek starts with a gradual climb for quite a while, followed by a steep climb gaining 1,450 feet / 442 meters. There is no proper marked trail, so you will need to set your own pace. It gets easier when you see the pass in front of you marked with cairns and prayer flags at Phodrang La (15259ft / 4652 m). The second pass is a little steeper and higher called Sakela La (15810 ft / 4820 m). We trek past a beautiful meadow and finally to the smaller Warthang La (15678 ft / 4780 m). Another short drop through a wide-open meadow and then to camp (14612 ft / 4455 m).
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Day 22
Dhur Tshachu
Elevation: 10,857 ft / 3309 m
Distance: 6.2 miles / 10 km
Today starts with a gradual trail as a warm-up and then a steep climb for about 45 minutes to Nephu La pass (17306 ft / 4495 m). After the pass the trail is a steep downhill with scenic views of mountain ranges and deep gorges, soon you will enter the tree line, and a forest of alpine rhododendron and silver fir, and sometimes, colorful Larch trees. Today, after a huge drop in elevation (up to 4,500 ft / 1372 m), we will be rewarded at the camp with a natural hot spring spa.
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Day 23
Dhur Tahschu
Elevation: 10,857 ft / 3309 m
Rest day at a hot spring! You may choose to take a hot shower and soak in a mineral hot spring. Or do laundry and write in your journal. Anyway, it’s a day to thoroughly relax and enjoy!
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Day 24
Tsho Chenchen
Elevation: 12,860 ft / 3919 m
Distance: 9.9 miles / 15.9 km
This is another big day, the trail is mostly a steep climb through an alpine rhododendron and silver fir forest, but there are lots of switch-backs to make it easier. We will gain more than 3000 feet / 914 meters in elevation before reaching the first pass, Gongto La (14,193 ft / 4327 m). A short drop will be followed by a final climb to Djule La (14,924 ft / 4550 m). A newly built chorten marks the pass, and from here the trail is downhill to an open meadow, grazing land for Yaks (12860 ft / 3920 m).
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Day 25
Chok Chomi
Elevation: 10,496 ft / 3199 m
Distance: 9.3 miles / 15 km
We start our day visiting a Yak herders camp to check out a day in the life. We continue our journey through an alpine meadow to a rhododendron shrub and conifer forest. We meet the trail to Mt. Gangkar Puensum, and follow the glacier river downstream all the way to Bumthang valley. Soon we will drop in elevation walk along a muddy trail in a bamboo forest. After crossing a stream, a short climb will take you to camp (10,496 ft / 3200 m).
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Day 26
Dhur Metsi Zam / Jakar / Bumthang
Elevation: 8,528 ft / 2599 m
Distance: 8.1 miles / 13 km
Today is considered an easy day with a gentle climb, and then mostly downhill through a blue pine forest. It;s a muddy trail in some places, and you may encounter wildlife such as wild boar, barking deer, Kalij pheasant and laughing thrashes. Soon you will come to a viewpoint over a valley cradling Dhur village. Your car and driver will be waiting with snacks. Saying goodbye to our trekking staff, we drive to Bumthang, where hot showers, comfortable beds and cold Red Panda beer await! Overnight at hotel.
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Day 27
Flight to Paro
7,330 ft / 2235 m
We will take a domestic flight to Paro. It will be an amazing flight with magnificent views of all the mountain ranges and gorges in the region. That afternoon we can explore downtown Paro for some last-minute shopping. Overnight at hotel.
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Day 28-29
Fly Home
Depart Paro and fly home. Arrive home on Day 29.
Note on Itinerary: Although 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.
Mask Dance Festival Extension
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Day 28-29
Mask Dance Festival
Drive to a mask dance festival, performed at fortresses and monasteries throughout Bhutan. Monks perform a series of carefully choreographed dances to honor the saint who introduced Buddhism to Bhutan. This is a sacred event and Bhutanese believe that attending this celebration offers them a special blessing for spiritual protection. Overnight in hotel. Return to Paro for flight home.
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Day 30-31
Fly Home
Depart Paro and fly home. Arrive home on Day 31.
Note on Itinerary: Although 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.
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 climbing 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 (22Lbs Max)
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 22 lbs (10 kg) 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)
Full length inflatable. When sleeping on snow make sure to purchase pad rated to do so
Examples:
Therm-a-Rest NeoAir
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Sleeping pad (foam)
Closed cell foam 3/4 or full length. This pad is used in conjunction with the first pad
Examples:
Therm-a-rest Ridgerest
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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
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 light to 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 recommended and ideal
Examples:
Helly Hansen Vanir, Feathered Friends Volant, Marmot Guide’s Down Hoody, Outdoor Research Virtuoso Hoody
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Sun hoody (optional)
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 climb
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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 purification
Steri Pen, Potable Aqua, Polar Pure crystal iodine. Purifies drinking water while on the climb. this will only be necessary as a back-up.
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Water flavoring
Powdered additives like Gatorade or NUUN tablets make treated water taste better
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Snacks (trek)
Trail snacks are important, and an assortment of candy bars are available at teahouses along the way. Bring some power/energy 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
See Health and Medical Information
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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
$8,900
29 Days / Includes travel time
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Book Trip
w/Mask Dance Festival
$9,900
31 Days / Includes travel time
Elevation
Gophula Pass: 17,898 ft / 5455 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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