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Best Day Hikes in Bhutan
Discover Bhutan’s most rewarding day hikes, from sacred monasteries and alpine valleys to forested ridges with sweeping Himalayan views - each offering a glimpse into the country’s rich culture and breathtaking natural beauty.
By Walk into Luxury
From serene forest trails to sacred mountain temples, Bhutan offers some of the best day hikes in the Himalayas, where nature and spirituality meet in perfect harmony. Whether you’re trekking to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, wandering through rhododendron forests above Dochula Pass, or following the gentle valley trails of Gangtey and Punakha, each hike reveals a different facet of this extraordinary kingdom — one of peace, pristine landscapes, and deep cultural heritage. Perfect for travellers seeking authentic experiences without multi-day trekking, these routes capture the very essence of hiking in Bhutan.
Image above: Chele La Pass, credit Marcus Westberg
Image: Views from Dochula Pass descending to Punakha
Read on for our guide to Bhutan's best day hikes, many of which feature in our journeys.
Lungchutse Hike from Dochu La Pass, near Punakha
This is one of our favourite hikes in Bhutan, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas from a tranquil temple high above Dochula Pass. Enjoy a gentle uphill trail to Lungchutse Temple, winding through untouched forest that bursts into colour during spring, when rhododendrons bloom. This rarely crowded hike offers spectacular views of the Himalayas on a clear day, along with the sense of serenity and stillness that many seek in this part of the world.
Image: Lungchutse Temple, credit Carissa Nimah
Learn more: Guided Lungchutse Hike, featured in all of our Bhutan journeys.
Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten Hike, Punakha
This scenic half-day hike follows the Mo Chhu River before gently climbing to the Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten - a uniquely designed stupa perched high above the Punakha Valley, dedicated to peace, prosperity, and protection. While the route can be extended to include the Giligang Trail, we recommend keeping to the shorter version, as the descent through the terraced rice fields is a true highlight, offering both a unique experience and sweeping valley views. You end at a suspension bridge over the Punakha river and can finish with a visit to Punakha Dzong, one of Bhutan's most impressive fortresses.
Image: Khamsum Namgyal Chorten and Punakha Valley, credit Amankora
Learn more: Guided Walk to Khamsum Chorten, featured in all of our Bhutan journeys.
Longtey Lomey Hike, Phobjikha Valley
The Longtey Valley offers a range of scenic hiking routes suitable for all levels. Adventurous hikers can take on the full Longtey–Lomey Hike from Longtey village toward Gangtey, or follow the trail in reverse, climbing from Gangtey to Longtey village. Those seeking a shorter option can enjoy a circular trail leading to a viewpoint with sweeping 360-degree views of the valley. Each route offers stunning vistas of the Phobjikha Valley and meanders through peaceful bamboo forests, alpine meadows, and traditional Bhutanese villages, making for an immersive and rewarding experience in one of Bhutan’s most picturesque landscapes. A picnic lunch overlooking the valley is included in Walk into Luxury's Longtey Valley hike.
Image: Longtey valley hike, credit Gangtey Lodge
Learn more: Guided Longtey Lomey Hike, featured in 13 Day Best of Bhutan Luxury Journey and 9 Day Bhutan Valleys Luxury Walk.
Tiger's Nest Hike, Paro
Widely regarded as one of Bhutan’s best hikes, the Tiger’s Nest Hike takes you to the famous Taktsang Monastery, dramatically perched on a cliff face. This moderately challenging 6km hike typically takes 5 to 6 hours return, with a steady incline to the summit. The breathtaking views and the monastery’s unique setting make every step worthwhile. It’s an essential experience for anyone visiting Bhutan.
Image: Tiger's Nest Monastery
Learn more: Guided Hike to Tiger's Nest, featured in all of our Bhutan journeys.
Kila Nunnery Hike from Chele La Pass, between Paro and Haa Valley
This spectacular walk begins at Chele La Pass - one of Bhutan’s highest motorable points - offering breathtaking panoramic views of Mt Jomolhari and the surrounding Himalayan peaks. Beyond the incredible scenery, the hike also takes you on a spiritual journey to Kila Nunnery, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most sacred nunneries. Home to around 50 nuns who live, meditate, and study here, visiting this serene retreat offers a rare and deeply meaningful experience few have the chance to witness. Enjoy the serenity of the trail and the spiritual significance on this short but rewarding hike.
Image: Kila Goenpa
Learn more: Guided Hike to Kila Goenpa, featured in 7 Day Bhutan Luxury Hike with Tiger's Nest, 13 Day Best of Bhutan Luxury Journey and 13 Day Nepal and Bhutan Private Trek.
Bushman's Trail Walk, Bumthang
The Bushman’s Trail Walk gently climbs through open pastures and quiet pine forests, leading to a beautiful hilltop viewpoint with sweeping views of the valley below - an ideal spot to pause and enjoy the surroundings. Along the way, you’ll pass important cultural sites, before concluding at a traditional museum that offers insight into local rural life. For those feeling adventurous, the hike can be extended to the sacred site of the nearby Mebar Tsho (Burning Lake), adding a spiritual dimension to this enriching journey. This hike perfectly combines natural beauty, culture, and tranquillity, making it a memorable experience.
Image: Bumthang, credit Marcus Westberg
Learn more: Guided Bushman's Trail Hike, featured in 13 Day Best of Bhutan Luxury Journey.
Gangtey Nature Trail, Phobjikha Valley
One of the most tranquil experiences in the Phobjikha Valley, the Gangtey Nature Trail follows a gentle 5km path past traditional Bhutanese farmhouses, open meadows, and serene pine forests crossing gently flowing rivers. This easy walk offers sweeping views of the valley and, for those visiting between October and February, a rare opportunity to witness the annual arrival of the rare, black-necked cranes migrating from Tibet. This is an easy walk, but one that allow you to immerse yourself in the Bhutanese landscapes. The pictures don't do it justice.
Image: Gangtey Nature Trail
Learn more: Guided Gangtey Nature Trail Walk, featured in 9 Day Bhutan Valleys Luxury Walk, 13 Day Best of Bhutan Luxury Journey and 17 Day Ultimate Bhutan and Nepal Luxury Journey.
Buddha Point Walk, Changangkha Lhakhang to Buddha Dordenma
The Buddha Point Walk is a firm favourite, offering stunning views and culminating at the majestic 54-metre golden Buddha Dordenma, perched high above the Thimphu Valley. The trail begins at Changangkha Lhakhang - a 12th-century Buddhist temple renowned for its spiritual significance, panoramic outlook, and intricate traditional artwork. Winding through peaceful forest paths, this walk beautifully combines Bhutan’s natural beauty with its deep spiritual heritage, making it a truly memorable experience.
Image: Buddha Dordenma overlooking Thimphu Valley, credit Moshi Shai
Learn more: Guided Walk to Buddha Point, featured in 7 Day Bhutan Luxury Hike with Tiger's Nest, 9 Day Bhutan Valleys Luxury Walk, and 17 Day Ultimate Bhutan and Nepal Luxury Journey.
Zuri Dzong Viewpoint Walk on the Trans Bhutan Trail, Paro
This is a shorter walk, but one that truly packs a punch. In just 1.5 hours, you’ll experience a section of the Trans Bhutan Trail, enjoy a breathtaking viewpoint over the Paro Valley, and visit the historic Watch Tower (now a museum) and the beautiful Paro Dzong. Covering approximately 4km, this route offers a diverse mix of forest trails, village roads, and scenic riverside paths.
Image: View over Paro Valley, credit Walk into Luxury
Learn more: Guided Paro Valley View Walk, featured in 7 Day Bhutan Luxury Hike with Tiger's Nest (optional), 13 Day Best of Bhutan Luxury Journey and 13 Day Nepal and Bhutan Private Trek.
