Question 1

How is Bumthang Owl Trek weather?

Accepted Answer

Bumthang temperatures are low all year-round. Between October to May, temperatures drop as low as -16°C and between June to September, the highest temperature is 13°C. As you climb to a higher altitude, the temperature drops even further. So stay prepared with thermals, and wear lots of layers.

Question 2

I am a first timer. Can I go for Bumthang Owl Trek?

Accepted Answer

The Bumthang Owl Trek is a relatively easy one which you can complete even as a first timer, but please make sure that you have a good fitness level and can walk for 4-5 hours.If you have any respiratory, heart, or circulatory ailments, we do not recommend doing the trek. The trek is also not recommended for children up to 13 years of age.

Question 3

What is the level of fitness expected from participants?

Accepted Answer

Participants are expected to have a good level of fitness to complete this trek without experiencing fatigue. You must be active and capable of walking for a duration of at least 5 hours.

This trek is not meant for those experiencing heart or respiratory problems that restricts movement. It is also not recommended for children.

Question 4

What are the clothes and equipment that I should carry from my end?

Accepted Answer

You are expected to carry the following on the trek:
Waterproof jackets and pants
Cap/hat 
A pair of sunglasses
Winter hat and gloves
Thermal underwear Trekking shoes that are lightweight and waterproof
Comfortable footwear for the campsite
Backpack with rain-cover
Water bottles with a capacity of at least 3 liters Hiking poles to reduce the walking impact on your joints
Head lamp with extra batteries
Lots of layers, instead of single thick clothes, to shield you from the chilly weather.

Question 5

Which type of shoes should I carry?

Accepted Answer

For your Trek to Bumthang Owl we recommend carrying a pair of trekking shoes that are lightweight, waterproof and tried-and-tested before the trek. Also, bring along a pair of comfortable footwear to slip into during your stay at the campsite.

Question 6

What kind of food will be provided during this trek? What about safe drinking water?

Accepted Answer

For the duration of the trip, all meals will be prepared by a certified chef who shall cook local Bhutanese cuisine with organic vegetables. Western food can also be cooked on request. Since the package is inclusive of food, that’ll be well taken care of. Bhutan’s tap water isn’t potable, therefore you will need to purchase bottles of packaged drinking water before setting out on the trek.

Question 7

How should I prepare myself for Bumthang Owl Trek?

Accepted Answer

Before heading for the trek, make sure to:
Book your flight tickets well in advance and get your insurance, because these aren’t included in the package
Send us a scanned copy of your passport with minimum six months validity, so we can take care of the visa procedure
Pack well, as per the list shared above
Exercise well
We shall take care of everything else!

Question 8

Is Bumthang Owl Trek safe to do?

Accepted Answer

The Bumthang Owl Trek is an easy one and extremely safe, if you have a healthy lifestyle and can walk long distances. We travel in groups and are guided by experts who come with their helpers and horses in tow. So it is extremely safe as long as you stay with the group and don’t wander off alone.

Question 9

Will there be snow on this trek?

Accepted Answer

Bumthang experiences deep snow in March, and a good amount of snow cover in May and October, too. If you aren’t a fan of the snow and want to trek at ease, you can plan your trek prior to or after these months. If you enjoy the snow, any time of the year is great for a trek!

Question 10

Will there be mobile connectivity on Bumthang Owl Trek?

Accepted Answer

Although Thimphu offers good mobile connectivity, as you go to a higher altitude the connectivity reduces, especially in the valleys. Therefore, chances of network coverage, even on a local card are rare.

Question 11

How many kilometres will we cover each day?

Accepted Answer

On an average we shall cover around 7 to 8 kms each day, with halts at monasteries and villages. The duration to cover this distance will be approximately 4 to 5 hours each day.

Question 12

What will we see during the trek?

Accepted Answer

On your Trek to Bumthang Owl you shall see the dense blue pines, lush forests rich with fir, spruce, bamboo and hemlock, and vibrant rhododendron flowers. Delve into history as you visit local villages inhabited by the nomadic tribes. Look forward to seeing various monasteries and walk along the lakes and rivers, admiring Bhutan’s beautiful landscape, beyond. The best bit though, is the scenic view on the Royal Heritage Trail and the majestic Mt. Gangkar Phuensum, standing tall in the distance.

Question 13

Is Diamox advisable?

Accepted Answer

While on trek, basic medical facilities and a medical kit will be available with us. For any other medication such as Diamox, specific you your condition, please consult your doctor for professional medical advice before consumption.

Question 14

What is the difficulty level of Bumthang Owl Trek?

Accepted Answer

The journey to Bumthang Owl is an easy one, provided you aren’t suffering from any health or heart disorders and are fit enough to walk long distances.

Question 15

How much weight will I have to carry?

Accepted Answer

Along with the experts who will be guiding you on the trek, there will be helpers, horses and horsemen. The horses shall carry 20kg worth of personal equipment belonging to the group. Make sure you travel light, so as to walk freely without any load.

Question 16

What is the best time to go on Bumthang Owl Trek?

Accepted Answer

Weather at Bumthang is extremely chilly for most of the year, owing to the fact that Bhutan experiences erratic rains and snow through March, May, July and undoubtedly, winter. Although very cold, October to June is a great time to visit Bumthang. But an ideal time for the trek is April to early June, because this is when you can admire some amazing flora and fauna, including the pretty rhododendron flowers, and the owls hooting through the night. Beware! You may also come across the Himalayan Black Bears.