KE Adventure

From Darjeeling to Bhutan

Bhutanses Monk, India and Bhutan Hiking Vacation

Adventure trekking in the Eastern Himalaya
A combination of the Singalila Ridge and Chomolhari treks
Charming hotels in Darjeeling and Kalimpong
Bhutan's mystical Paro Valley

East of Kangchenjunga, the Himalayan ranges extend through the former kingdom of Sikkim into the adjacent territory of Bhutan. Home to some of the world's finest mountain scenery, this fascinating region is the focus of a splendid 3-week holiday which combines two short treks and the chance to visit many historic towns, temples and monasteries. From the spectacularly located hill-station of Darjeeling, we walk for 6 days on the Singalila Ridge and enjoy tremendous views of Everest, Makalu and Kangchenjunga. We then travel to the atmospheric bazaar town of Kalimpong, before continuing our journey across the border into Bhutan. Linking together the 2 treks involves a fascinating 2-day road journey through parts of Sikkim and the south-western corner of Bhutan that are definitely 'off the map' as far as most travellers are concerned. This road journey is an integral and important element of this unique holiday. After a day's sightseeing in the enchantingly peaceful Paro Valley, we then set off on the delightful 6-day trek to Chomolhari and the dramatic mountain scenery of west Bhutan. This is a wonderfully varied adventure in a part of the world that is relatively little-visited.

Trip Guide

This trip is a combination of two unique and exciting treks, and aims to give a comprehensive taste of the available trekking in the Eastern Himalaya plus an insight into the culture of its Buddhist peoples. The conditions, which we encounter on the treks will range from easy trails, sometimes in forest, to occasional steep ascents and magnificent walks along scenic ridges. Conditions underfoot are notoriously changeable and can be tricky in Bhutan, as the country sits at the milder and wetter end of the Himalayan chain. We have graded this trek at the lower end of our MODERATE scale. It should be noted that trekking at altitudes above 3000m. / 10,000ft. make greater demands on the body than walking at low elevations, and is of itself challenging even for fit hikers. You will need to ensure you are physically prepared for the trek and you should be comfortable with walking for 4 to 7 hours each day and for several days continuously. These two classic treks should be within the capabilities of fit and active hikers