At Across Bhutan travel agency, we understand that trekking in Bhutan is more than just a physical feat; it is a pilgrimage into the heart of the Himalayas.
Bhutan’s mountains are not merely rocks and ice—they are the sacred residences of deities, preserved by a culture that values spiritual sanctity over summit trophies.
To help you find your path, we have curated this guide to the Kingdom’s most significant peaks and passes, ranked from the most accessible gateways to the most grueling expeditions on Earth.
Accessible Passes and Highlands
Best for: Culture-focused travelers, families, and those seeking “maximum view for minimum effort.” These locations are ideal for travelers who want to experience the grandeur of the Himalayas without the physical toll of a multi-day trek. If you are short on time or prefer the comfort of a hotel bed at the end of the day, these routes offer high-altitude vistas, vibrant local history, and a deep sense of the Bhutanese landscape through short, manageable walks.
Pele La Pass
- Elevation: 3,350 m / 10,990 ft
- Difficulty: Easy
- Recommended Duration: 1 day
Located in the Black Mountains, Pele La serves as the traditional boundary between western and central Bhutan. The pass is a place of transition where the vegetation shifts from dense forest to high-altitude dwarf bamboo, often populated by grazing yaks. Travelers are treated to sweeping views of the high peaks, while the pass itself is marked by a classic white chorten and a sea of prayer flags that carry blessings on the wind.
Ura La Pass
- Elevation: 3,600 m / 11,800 ft
- Difficulty: Easy
- Recommended Duration: 1 day
Ura La is the gateway to one of Bhutan’s most beautiful and traditional valleys in Bumthang. The descent from the pass provides a spectacular view of the northern mountain wall, framed by the golden barley fields of the valley below. It is a favorite for those who want to experience the architectural beauty of a medieval village while enjoying the crisp, thin air of the highlands without the strain of a multi-day trek.
Black Mountains
- Elevation: Up to 4,575 m / 15,010 ft
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Recommended Duration: 3–5 days
The Black Mountains act as a natural divide between the cultural and linguistic regions of Bhutan. These peaks lack the permanent ice of the Great Himalayas but offer a complex, rugged landscape that is home to diverse flora and fauna. This range is the winter sanctuary for the rare Black-Necked Crane, and trekking here feels like walking through a private garden of rhododendrons and ancient pines, isolated from the modern world.
Mid-Altitude Ranges and Spiritual Peaks
Best for: Active hikers, photography enthusiasts, and travelers seeking a deep spiritual connection.
This category suits those who enjoy regular hiking and are looking for a blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion. These routes take you further into the wilderness, often requiring several days of walking and camping. It is the perfect choice for hikers who want to escape the crowds and see Bhutan’s rare flora and fauna while maintaining a pace that allows for meditation and photography.
Tawang Range
- Elevation: Moderate heights
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Recommended Duration: 4–5 days
Extending along the eastern border, the Tawang Range is a biodiversity hotspot. It provides a softer landscape of rolling hills and dense greenery compared to the jagged north. The range is a haven for birdwatchers and those looking for unspoiled nature and a sense of serenity, offering a unique perspective on the cultural and geographical diversity of the eastern frontier.
Donga Range
- Elevation: 6,390 m / 20,965 ft
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Recommended Duration: 5–7 days
The Donga Range forms a natural watershed in northeastern Bhutan. Because it is rarely visited by tourists, it remains one of the most unspoiled natural habitats in the Kingdom. Trekking along its ridges offers a chance to see rare species and maintain a deep connection to the country’s biodiversity, far from the more established trekking trails.
Tsenda Gang
- Elevation: 6,100 m / 20,013 ft
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Recommended Duration: 6–8 days
Known as the “Great Eel Mountain” due to its elongated shape that stretches across the horizon, Tsenda Gang is a highlight of the Laya-Gasa region. The journey here is a masterclass in ecological diversity, moving from lush subtropical forests to high alpine meadows. Keep a sharp eye out for blue sheep and the elusive snow leopard, which are known to roam these pristine slopes.
Tarigung
- Elevation: 6,200 m / 20,341 ft
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Recommended Duration: 6–8 days
Tarigung is located in a picturesque and less-frequented region, offering a tranquil environment for nature lovers. The trek involves navigating the lush valleys of Bumthang and crossing the Jakar La pass. The area is defined by its clear glacial streams and serene alpine meadows, making it a captivating destination for those seeking solitude.
Jowo Durshing
- Elevation: 6,300 m / 20,669 ft
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Recommended Duration: 4–6 days
Jowo Durshing is a peak of profound spiritual significance, with a trek that begins in the culturally rich Bumthang Valley. The journey is a blend of adventure and pilgrimage, passing ancient monasteries and traditional villages. Reaching the vicinity of this peak provides a profound connection to Bhutan’s spiritual heritage, with vistas that have inspired monks and travelers for centuries.
High Himalayan Expeditions
Best for: Seasoned trekkers, mountain lovers, and those with high-altitude experience.
These expeditions are designed for hikers who have a high level of physical fitness and a taste for true adventure. You will spend over a week in the mountains, crossing high passes and camping in thin air. This is the realm of the giants—where you stand at the base of the world’s highest unclimbed peaks. It is for those who understand that the reward of a breathtaking sunrise is worth the sweat of a steep ascent.
Risum
- Elevation: 6,500 m / 21,325 ft
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Recommended Duration: 12–14 days
Risum is a majestic peak located in the remote Laya region. The trek follows the picturesque Laya-Gasa trail and crosses high mountain passes like the Kang La. It is a rewarding experience for those who love vibrant high-altitude meadows and the unique culture of the highland people who call these mountains home.
Khangbum (Gasa Region)
- Elevation: 6,500 m / 21,325 ft
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Recommended Duration: 15–18 days
Starting from the town of Gasa, known for its healing hot springs, the journey to Khangbum is a tranquil and immersive wilderness experience. The “White Peak” is surrounded by dense forests and clear glacial streams. It offers a sense of peace and isolation that is increasingly hard to find, making every step toward its snow-covered slopes feel like a discovery.
Drangla
- Elevation: 6,700 m / 21,982 ft
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Recommended Duration: 10–12 days
Drangla, which translates to “High Pasture,” is situated in the remote Laya region. True to its name, the peak is surrounded by lush meadows and rhododendron forests that bloom in a riot of color during the spring. The area is a sanctuary for unique wildlife, including the Himalayan takin and the golden langur, providing a perfect blend of high-altitude scenery and nature watching.
Gangchen Ta
- Elevation: 6,784 m / 22,257 ft
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Recommended Duration: 12–16 days
Also known as Gangchentag, this peak sits near the Bhutan-Tibet border. Its remote location ensures that it remains relatively untouched by human activity, preserving its ecological integrity. Trekkers can enjoy a profound sense of isolation and serenity, surrounded by the untouched wilderness of the high Himalayas and the dramatic shadows of the border peaks.
Jitchu Drake (Paro District)
- Elevation: 6,662 m / 21,857 ft
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Recommended Duration: 8–10 days
Located near Jomolhari, Jitchu Drake is famous for its dramatic ridges and sharp glaciers. It is revered as a sacred site and remains unclimbed, standing as a sentinel over the Paro district. For many trekkers, its imposing stature and aesthetic beauty make it one of the most photographed and cherished landmarks in the entire country.
Chomolhari Kang
- Elevation: 6,722 m / 22,054 ft
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Recommended Duration: 8–10 days
Closely associated with the legendary Jomolhari, this peak is a highlight of the popular Chomolhari trek route. Crossing the Nyile La pass at 4,890 meters (16,043 ft) provides a panoramic view of the peak and the turquoise glacial lakes below. It is a destination that perfectly balances physical adventure with spiritual connection.
Masang Kang (Jigme Dorji National Park)
- Elevation: 6,556 m / 21,509 ft
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Recommended Duration: 12–14 days
Located within the protected confines of Jigme Dorji National Park, Masang Kang is surrounded by pristine forests and glacial streams. The mountain is a testament to Bhutan’s commitment to conservation. While it is off-limits for climbing, its untouched wilderness draws adventurers who wish to witness the raw beauty of the high-altitude terrain.
Jomolhari
- Elevation: 7,326 m / 24,035 ft
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Recommended Duration: 8–10 days
Jomolhari dominates western Bhutan both visually and symbolically. Known as the “Bride of Kangchenjunga,” the mountain is considered the abode of a protective goddess. The trek to its base camp crosses alpine meadows used by yak herders and high passes where the weather shifts with the gods’ whims. There is no summit ambition here, only proximity and respect, making the sight of the massif glowing in the early light a life-changing memory.
Extreme Wilderness and Unclimbed Giants
Best for: Elite adventurers, “hard-core” trekkers, and those seeking the world’s most remote landscapes.
This category is reserved for the few who are ready to disconnect from civilization for nearly a month. These are the most difficult treks on the planet, requiring extreme mental and physical resilience. You will navigate treacherous glacial moraines, cross multiple passes above 5,000 meters (16,400 ft), and experience total isolation. It is for the adventurer who wants to see what 99% of the world never will.
Jichu Drake (Northern Massif)
- Elevation: 6,989 m / 22,930 ft
- Difficulty: Extreme
- Recommended Duration: 20+ days
Often visible from the Jomolhari trek, this higher classification of Jichu Drake is associated with powerful local deities. The mountain offers a breathtaking view of snow-clad peaks and deep, vertical valleys. Its cultural importance adds a spiritual dimension to the adventure, making it a deeply meaningful experience for the seasoned trekkers who explore its vicinity.
Naya Kang
- Elevation: 6,500 m / 21,325 ft
- Difficulty: Extreme
- Recommended Duration: 18–20 days
Also known as Gangkhar Tey, Naya Kang is situated in the remote Lunana region. The journey involves crossing rugged terrains and crossing the Thampe La pass. It is a peak that offers a profound sense of achievement, as reaching its vicinity requires navigating some of the most difficult trekking trails in the world.
Tsheringma
- Elevation: 6,500 m / 21,325 ft
- Difficulty: Extreme
- Recommended Duration: 24–28 days
Named after the goddess of longevity and prosperity, Tsheringma is a core feature of the legendary Snowman Trek. The journey involves navigating the high-altitude passes of Rinchen Zoe La and Thampe La. Trekkers are rewarded with stunning vistas of glacial lakes and vibrant spring forests, making it a journey of both natural beauty and deep cultural significance.
Kangbum (Lunana Region)
- Elevation: 6,500 m / 21,325 ft
- Difficulty: Extreme
- Recommended Duration: 24–28 days
Deep in the remote Lunana region, this version of Kangbum is defined by its isolation and challenging terrain. It remains off-limits to climbers, preserving its status as an untouched natural wonder. The local communities hold the mountain in high spiritual regard, and the trek to see it is a journey into the heart of Bhutan’s most untamed landscapes.
Chura Kang
- Elevation: 6,520 m / 21,391 ft
- Difficulty: Extreme
- Recommended Duration: 24–28 days
Chura Kang, or the “Mountain of the Owl,” is located in the most remote reaches of Lunana. Its distinctive shape stands out against the horizon as you cross the Gangla Karchung La pass at 5,120 meters (16,798 ft). Reaching this peak is a test of endurance, offering unparalleled views of pristine glacial valleys that few humans will ever see.
Durshing La
- Elevation: 6,800 m / 22,310 ft
- Difficulty: Extreme
- Recommended Duration: 25+ days
Located in the remote Lunana region, Durshing La is known for its awe-inspiring presence. The trek involves crossing some of the highest passes in the Himalayas. It is a rewarding destination for those seeking a true wilderness adventure, where the only sounds are the wind and the shifting of ancient ice.
Lhasha Gang
- Elevation: 6,850 m / 22,474 ft
- Difficulty: Extreme
- Recommended Duration: 24–28 days
Sitting near the Bhutan-Tibet border, Lhasha Gang’s secluded location ensures it remains pristine. The journey involves trekking through the rugged terrain of Lunana and crossing the Karchung La pass. Trekkers are rewarded with panoramic views of snow-covered peaks and a sense of isolation that provides an authentic wilderness experience.
Jamdo Gang
- Elevation: 6,900 m / 22,638 ft
- Difficulty: Extreme
- Recommended Duration: 25+ days
Near the Tibetan border, Jamdo Gang is one of Bhutan’s most remote peaks. Its secluded location ensures an untouched environment and a deep sense of solitude. Reaching this area requires traversing the Tsorim La at 5,515 meters (18,094 ft), making it a true frontier adventure for the world’s most experienced trekkers.
Singye
- Elevation: 6,950 m / 22,802 ft
- Difficulty: Extreme
- Recommended Duration: 24–28 days
Named after the “Lion” to symbolize strength and majesty, Singye is a formidable part of the Snowman Trek. The journey involves navigating the Sinche La pass at 5,005 meters. Climbers are greeted with a 360-degree view of the surrounding peaks, a sight that serves as a powerful reminder of the raw power of the Himalayas.
Gangkhar Phuensum South
- Elevation: Subsidiary peak
- Difficulty: Extreme
- Recommended Duration: 25+ days
A subsidiary of the world’s highest unclimbed mountain, this peak adds to the majestic profile of the north. Its rugged terrain and extreme weather conditions present significant challenges. The area is famous for its deep valleys and clear glacial rivers, contributing to the overall mystique of the Gangkhar Puensum massif.
Table Mountain (Zongophu Kang)
- Elevation: 7,100 m / 23,294 ft
- Difficulty: Extreme
- Recommended Duration: 24–28 days
Zongophu Kang is famous for its unique flat-topped shape, resembling a massive table in the sky. The area is characterized by rugged terrain and stunning vistas, attracting mountaineers who seek the most dramatic views in the Bhutanese Himalayas. It remains a notable landmark that defines the horizon of the remote north.
Masang Gang (Laya Region)
- Elevation: 7,194 m / 23,599 ft
- Difficulty: Extreme
- Recommended Duration: 14–16 days
This version of the “Elephant Mountain” is the formidable peak of the Laya region. Reaching its vicinity takes you through pristine forests and high mountain passes, offering an immersive experience of Bhutan’s rugged beauty. The region is remote and less explored, making it a haven for adventurous trekkers seeking solitude.
Kangphu Kang
- Elevation: 7,204 m / 23,635 ft
- Difficulty: Extreme
- Recommended Duration: 25–28 days
Located in the isolated Lunana region, Kangphu Kang is surrounded by glacial lakes and unspoiled nature. Due to its remote location and the difficulty of access, it is rarely visited. Trekkers who venture here are rewarded with a sense of solitude rarely found anywhere else on the planet.
Tongshanjiabu
- Elevation: 7,207 m / 23,645 ft
- Difficulty: Extreme
- Recommended Duration: 25+ days
Standing along the Bhutan-China border, Tongshanjiabu is known for its steep and slippery slopes. It remains unclimbed due to the country’s strict mountaineering policies. The peak is one of the most challenging and inaccessible mountains in the region, forming part of the rugged wall that protects the Kingdom.
Teri Kang
- Elevation: 7,300 m / 23,950 ft
- Difficulty: Extreme
- Recommended Duration: 24–28 days
Teri Kang rises deep in northern Bhutan along the Snowman Trek. Reaching its vicinity requires crossing multiple high passes above 5,000 meters. What distinguishes Teri Kang is its sheer physical presence along long glacial corridors—it is not a brief viewpoint, but a constant companion over several days of travel through the least altered mountain environments left in the Himalayas.
Liankang Kangri
- Elevation: 7,535 m / 24,721 ft
- Difficulty: Extreme
- Recommended Duration: 25+ days
One of the tallest peaks along the border, Liankang Kangri’s snowy ridges are visible from miles away. It is among the most revered mountains in Bhutanese culture. Prohibited for climbing, it stands as a monument to untouched beauty, preserved for future generations to admire from the valleys below.
Kula Kangri
- Elevation: 7,538 m / 24,731 ft
- Difficulty: Extreme
- Recommended Duration: 25+ days
Kula Kangri is a prominent regional giant characterized by its massive size and striking snow-covered slopes. While its exact location is sometimes debated, its grandeur is undeniable. Visitors witness panoramic views of the surrounding peaks that are truly awe-inspiring, solidifying its place as a cornerstone of the Himalayan landscape.
Gangkhar Puensum
- Elevation: 7,570 m / 24,836 ft
- Difficulty: Extreme
- Recommended Duration: 25–30 days
Standing as the highest peak in Bhutan and the highest unclimbed mountain in the world, Gangkhar Puensum is the crown jewel of the Himalayas. Its name means “White Peak of the Three Spiritual Brothers.” Due to its sacred status, the mountain remains untouched. Its allure lies in its mysterious aura and the pristine wilderness that surrounds it, representing the ultimate frontier of mountain exploration.
At Across Bhutan, we are ready to guide you through these sacred landscapes.
Would you like us to customize a trekking itinerary for you, starting with the iconic Jomolhari or the legendary Snowman Trek?
