A 17-day expedition from Bumthang to Trashiyangtse that follows an old trade route over Rodung La. Expect high passes (to ~4,160 m), remote campsites, village visits, and rich Bhutanese culture paired with sustained hiking.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The first light hits a meadow at Phokpey and the valley exhales — prayer flags stir, horses stamp, and the Rodung La looms like a line of weathered teeth against the sky. You shoulder a daypack and step from Bhutan’s cultivated valleys into a chain of forests, meadows and high passes that still carry the old trade-road rhythm.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
17 days
Fitness Level
Good cardiovascular fitness and regular hiking experience recommended; be prepared for consecutive long days with elevation change.
Wildlife
History
The route follows an old trade road linking central Bumthang with eastern districts; many passes and storehouse ruins reflect centuries of seasonal trade and movement.
Conservation
Trek operations use local guides and porters to minimize your footprint; stick to established trails, pack out waste where possible, and respect grazing rotations used by herders.
Reserve your spot on the 17 Days Wild East Rodung La Trek From Central to Eastern Bhutan today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Prioritize acclimatization
Start slowly in Bumthang and expect your first nights to be at 2,600–3,600 m; allow your body to adapt before long ascent days.
Carry a light daypack
Porters and ponies transport main luggage—bring only essentials (water, layers, snacks, camera) for daily hikes.
Sturdy, broken-in boots
Trails include wet forest floors, rocky ascents and steep descents—supportive ankle boots reduce blister and sprain risk.
Bring local currency & respect customs
Small villages may not accept cards; remove hats and speak quietly when entering lhakhangs (temples) out of respect.
Sturdy waterproof trekking boots
Support and traction on steep, wet, and rocky trail sections.
Three-season sleeping bag liner
Adds warmth to provided sleeping systems during cold alpine nights.
Layered insulating clothing (base, mid, shell)
Handles wide temperature swings from valley heat to sub-zero nights.
Water purification (tablets or filter)
Useful where potable water is limited between camp setups.