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21-day Gangkar Puensum high altitude trek in Bhutan

21-day Gangkar Puensum high altitude trek in Bhutan | undefined

Explore the uncharted territory of Gangkar Puensum with one of our certified mountain guides in Bhutan. Embark on this exciting, high altitude trek to have an exceptional time.

Himalaya

21 Days

May, Jun, Sep - Nov

Very high

Advanced


Highlights

  • Explore the beautiful terrain of Gangkar Puensum in Bhutan.
  • Witness spectacular landscapes as you traverse rugged mountainous terrain.
  • Visit the famous Tiger's nest after the trek.

Description

Join us to trek on the highest mountain in Bhutan!

Standing at a staggering 7,570 meters, Gangkar Puensum is one of the most iconic peaks in the country. It is located on the border between Tibet and Bhutan and is considered the highest unclimbed mountain in the world.

The 21-day Gangkar Puensum Trek is a high altitude trek which will lead you to the uncharted territory of this mountain-giant. It will take you on a wild, challenging journey, which is hardly undertaken by hikers. Trekking on rugged terrain, you will venture into unexplored mountainous terrain where you will see breathtaking landscapes and gorgeous views all along.

Since it is an extreme trek, only experienced trekkers who are in excellent shape are advised to join us. And, if you are one of them, you sure will have an exceptional time!

The journey will begin and end in the city of Paro. The following days include hiking through Bumthang, Nga Lhakhang and Bamurupa. You will visit several ancient dzongs, walk through beautiful forest and see many clear lakes on the way.

We’ll halt at Bamurupa and from there, you’ll get the first glimpses of Gangkar Puensum- a truly enchanting spectacle! The trail further leads to the beautiful Zhigeyphu valley, which offers clear vistas of pristine lakes.

You’ll also be crossing several high passes every now and then. Passing by Tsampa and Tashisa, you will finally descend to Bumthang, after having lived an incredible time.

And we do know that a trip to Bhutan would remain incomplete without the famous Tiger’s Nest hike, so you will definitely get a chance to visit this landmark monastery before ending this trip!

If you have the required skills, get in touch now to book your seat on this one of a kind Gangkar Puensum Trek. We’ll be happy to guide you. Also, check out this amazing Snowman Trek II, if looking for more adventures in Bhutan.

Price includes

  • Accommodation included
  • Guiding fee
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner

Price details

  • Please note that the following are not covered:
  • • Firstly, incoming/outgoing Bhutan airfares and airport taxes are excluded.
  • • Additionally, drinks (alcoholic/nonalcoholic) beyond specified inclusions are not covered.
  • • Guides speaking languages other than English incur extra charges.
  • • Expenses of a personal nature, such as tipping, laundry, phone calls, or medical costs, are your responsibility.
  • • Moreover, extra costs due to unforeseen events (e.g., natural disruptions) are not included.
  • • Services outside Bhutan or bank transfer fees ($45) are excluded.
  • • Lastly, tipping for guides, drivers, etc., is at your discretion.

Meeting point

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Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Paro, transfer to Punakha I 1350m I 125km I 03 Hrs

Day 2: Punakha – Trongsa I 2180m I 129km I 07hrs

Day 3: Trongsa – Bumthang I 2600m I 65km I 02hrs

Day 4: Tharpaling Excursion

Day 5: Thangbi – Khakthang I Campsite: 2840m I 05-06hrs

Day 6: Khakthang – Kophu I Campsite: 3276m I 06-07hrs

Day 7: Kophu – Tsampa I Campsite: 3850m I 07-08hrs

Day 8: Tsampa – Shingo I Campsite: 4210m I 05 Hrs

Day 9: Shingo – Bamurupa I Campsite: 4500m I 05hrs

Day 10: Bamurupa halt

Day 11: Head to Zhigeyphu I Campsite: 4995m I 06hrs

Day 12: First halt at Zhigeyphu

Day 13: Second halt at Zhigeyphu

Day 14: Zhigeyphu – Tsampa I Campsite: 3720m I 04hrs

Day 15: Tsampa – Tshosarp I Campsite: 4430m I 05-06hrs

Day 16: Tshosarp – Tashisa I Campsite: 4117m I 06hrs

Day 17: Tashisa – Chokchum I Campsite: 3250m I 06-07hrs

Day 18: Chokchum – Dur – Bumthang I 2700m I 04hrs

Day 19: Bumthang – Punakha I 1350m I 216km I 07hrs

Day 20: Punakha – Paro – Tiger’s Nest I 2950m I 04km I 04hrs

Day 21: Hotel to airport

 

FAQs

How will accommodation and meals be handled during the trek?

Accommodation:

Camping: Since the Gangkar Puensum trek ventures into remote and pristine areas with no tourist lodges or hotels, camping is the only accommodation option throughout the trek.

• Spacious tents are provided (usually double occupancy unless requested otherwise).

• A dining tent, kitchen tent, and toilet tent are set up at each campsite.

• Sleeping mattresses and sometimes hot water bags for cold nights are included.

• Campsites are selected for scenic beauty, safety, and proximity to clean water sources.

Meals:

• All meals are freshly prepared by the trekking cook team, using local ingredients carried along or sourced from villages en route.

• Breakfast: Usually includes tea/coffee, porridge, eggs, toast or pancakes, and fruit.

• Lunch: Served hot whenever possible, or as a packed meal if the route is long.

• Dinner: A hot three-course meal with soup, a main course (Bhutanese/continental), and dessert.

• Snacks and beverages like tea, hot chocolate, and energy bars are provided during the day.

• Special dietary requirements can be accommodated if informed in advance.

Support Staff:

• A full trekking crew accompanies the group, including:

• Cook and assistant cooks

• Horsemen with pack animals for luggage and supplies

• Experienced local guides and camping staff

Water & Hygiene:

• Boiled and filtered water is provided for drinking.

• Basic washing water is made available at campsites.

• Eco-friendly toiletries and sanitation are encouraged to preserve the pristine environment.

What is the best time of the year for this hike?

October - November

What happens in the event of bad weather?

In the Event of Bad Weather:

  1. Trek Schedule Adjustments

• The itinerary may be modified to allow for delays due to snow, heavy rain, or landslides.

• Extra buffer days are often built into longer treks, allowing flexibility to wait out bad weather without compromising the overall route.

  1. Camp Setup & Shelter

• Campsites are selected in safe and sheltered locations, avoiding landslide-prone or flood-risk areas.

• Heavy-duty waterproof tents are used, and staff ensure all gear is protected from rain or snow.

• In extreme weather, trekkers may stay an extra day at the current campsite for safety.

  1. Emergency Evacuation Protocol

• If the weather causes a medical emergency (e.g., altitude sickness, hypothermia) or blocks the trail completely:

• The guide contacts base using satellite phone or radio.

• Helicopter evacuation can be arranged at your cost (weather permitting) through coordination with Bhutan's tourism authority and hospitals.

• Horse evacuation is an option in lower-risk cases, using pack animals to carry affected trekkers down.

  1. Experienced Staff and Contingency Planning

• Born Explorer guides are trained in wilderness first aid and know how to handle altitude, exposure, and emergency situations.

• They carry first aid kits, extra food supplies, and thermal blankets.

• Decisions are always made with client safety as the top priority.

  1. Communication & Updates

• Daily updates on weather forecasts are reviewed by the team.

• If conditions become too dangerous to proceed, the trek may be shortened or rerouted for safety.

What is the average distance and altitude gain that we will hike each day?

Daily Averages

• Hiking time: 5–7 hours per day

• Altitude gain (on ascent days): 400–600 m/day

• Distance: 10–12 km/day

• Highest Camp: Zhigeyphu at 4980 m

• Highest Point (optional): Viewpoints up to 5425 m

Notes:

• These are estimated distances as Bhutan's rugged terrain often makes exact GPS mapping tricky.

• Some days focus on exploration, where altitude gain and distance can vary depending on group preference and acclimatization.

• The difficulty gradually increases until Day 9–10, then transitions into long descents back to the valley.

Are there any other special requirements such as permits/insurance/vaccines that I need to consider before the tour?

Yes, for a trekking tour in Bhutan—especially one as remote and high-altitude as the one you’re planning—there are a few important requirements and considerations to keep in mind before you travel:

  1. Visa & Permits

• Bhutan Visa: All tourists (except citizens of India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives) must obtain a visa before arrival. This is arranged through a registered Bhutanese tour operator.

• Trekking Permit: Special trekking permits are required for certain restricted or protected areas (such as the area around Gangkar Puensum). Your tour operator typically arranges this.

• Route-Specific Permits: Since your trek passes through some remote valleys (e.g., Zhigeyphu, Melunghi Gang, etc.), your operator must coordinate with the Department of Immigration and Tourism Council of Bhutan.

  1. Travel Insurance

• Mandatory. Your insurance should cover:

• High-altitude trekking (above 4,000 m)

• Medical evacuation (helicopter rescue is sometimes the only option in remote areas)

• Trip cancellation/interruption

• Lost or delayed baggage

• Adventure activities

Make sure your insurance certificate clearly mentions coverage for altitudes above 5,000 m and trekking in remote areas.

  1. Vaccinations & Health Prep

• Bhutan doesn't have strict vaccination requirements, but it's highly recommended to be up to date on:

• Routine vaccinations (MMR, Tetanus, Diphtheria, Polio, Hepatitis A & B)

• Typhoid (especially if you're staying longer or eating outside hotels frequently)

• Rabies (if you plan on rural/animal exposure)

• Altitude medication: Talk to your doctor about Acetazolamide (Diamox) to prevent Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS).

  1. Physical Fitness & Acclimatization

• Daily altitude gains vary from 300 m to over 800 m, with maximum sleeping altitudes above 4,900 m.

• Pre-trek fitness training is recommended: cardio, strength, and stamina work.

• Be prepared for cold temperatures, especially at night, and long trekking days (up to 7–8 hours).

  1. Packing Essentials

• Good hiking boots (broken in)

• High-quality sleeping bag (rated -10°C or lower)

• Down jacket, layers, gloves, thermal underwear

• Headlamp, water purifier, trekking poles

• Snacks/high-calorie supplements

• First aid kit, personal medication

  1. Other Considerations

• Currency: Bring cash (Nu or INR); ATMs are unreliable in remote areas.

• Connectivity: Most of the trek will have no mobile coverage or Wi-Fi.

• Cultural etiquette: Dress modestly, especially around temples/monasteries.

Can I join a group?

Yes, you can definitely join a group for your Bhutan trek—and in fact, it's a popular option for both cost-sharing and added companionship, especially for longer treks like the one you're considering.

What experience do I need to have? How fit do I need to be? Is this program suitable for children or older people?

Experience & Fitness Requirements for This Trek

Since you're planning a long, high-altitude trek through areas like Zhigeyphu, Melunghi Gang, and Lhedi, here’s what you should know:

  1. Physical Fitness

• You don’t need to be an athlete, but you should have:

• Very good cardiovascular fitness

• Ability to walk 6–9 hours daily with breaks

• Comfort with elevation gain/loss (sometimes over 1000m in a day)

• Capacity to handle 3,500–5,000m altitudes for several days

Training tip: Practice hiking with a backpack, up and downhill, and at altitude if possible.

  1. Trekking Experience

Not strictly required, but ideally:

You’ve done multi-day treks before (3–5 days minimum)

You’re familiar with camping, using basic gear, and staying in remote areas

You can follow a guide's pace and instructions

If this would be your first major trek, it’s still possible, but you’d want to:

• Go at a slower pace

• Spend extra days acclimatizing

• Join a group or go with experienced trekkers

  1. Suitability for Children & Older People

• Children under 15: Not recommended due to altitude and endurance demands

• Teens (15–18): Only if they’re fit, enthusiastic, and have prior trekking experience

• Older adults (50+ years): Possible, but they must be very fit, have no heart/lung issues, and ideally have trekked at altitude before

Always consult a doctor before committing if you're over 50 or have any pre-existing health conditions.

Health Considerations

• You must be prepared for altitude sickness (AMS) risk

• Most treks have no road access—only horses or emergency evacuations if something goes wrong

• You should be mentally okay with basic conditions: tents, no showers, limited comms

How can I get to the trailhead/meeting point?

Don’t worry about navigating to the trailhead or meeting point—your host agent has it all covered. From the moment you arrive in Bhutan, they’ll take care of all logistics, including airport pickups, comfortable transportation, and guiding you to the trek’s starting point. Whether the journey involves long drives through scenic Himalayan landscapes or brief acclimatization stops in mountain villages, your guide will ensure a smooth and stress-free experience. You won’t need to figure out routes or timing—just relax and enjoy the journey. With your host leading the way, you're in safe and experienced hands every step of the way.

What are some recommended accommodations near our adventure location?

We understand that finding the perfect place to stay is an essential part of your adventure experience. To help you with this, we’ve curated a list of three highly recommended hotels that offer comfort, convenience, and a touch of local charm. These accommodations are well-suited for adventurers looking to relax and rejuvenate after an exciting day of exploration
Hotel Himalaya Kathmandu Nepal
See rooms
Hotel Shangri La Kathmandu Kathmandu Nepal
See rooms
Hotel Tibet Kathmandu Nepal
See rooms

About the guide

Guide profile image

Wild Mountain

Tour Operator

Wild Mountain Adventure is a leading adventure tour and travel company in Bhutan. It was founded in 2012 by Tandin, who is a passionate adventurer and mountain guide. The company is Licensed by the Department of Trade (License #1027883), approved by the Tourism Council of Bhutan (TCB) and an active member of the Association of Bhutanese Tour Operators (ABTO).

Being passionate adventurer ourselves, we take pleasure in rediscovering Bhutan with every visitor who embarks on a journey with us. By combining our extensive local knowledge and high standard service, we guive our guests an unforgettable experience and lasting memories.

We are absolutely committed to provide every resource necessary to meet and exceed our guest expectations. We would like to have a close and open relationship with our clients and make sure their needs are met.
We take you one steep deeper into Bhutan, where few tourists go, off the beaten path. If you’re into nature and thrilling adventures, let Wild Mountain Adventure take care of all your worries and take you between the lines of a truly memorable travel tale. We have handpicked trekking and mountain guides licensed by the Tourism Council of Bhutan.

We are into: Trekking, Hiking, Nature, Photography and Birding

Languages

English


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