After more than 60 years
This hiking trail may be entered again
In Bhutan, after many years, a famous path opens.
© MB Madland/Shutterstock.com
A famous hiking trail is reopening after more than 60 years. The Trans Bhutan Trail is a highlight for adventurers.
After around 60 years, hikers can once again venture onto the Trans Bhutan Trail. The path leads over 400 kilometers through the Buddhist country of Bhutan, which lies on the edge of the Himalayas. Adventurers are offered a breathtaking mountain panorama paired with fascinating monastery and temple complexes.
The Himalayas and a green culture
In March 2022, the path is scheduled to reopen after extensive restoration work, as reported by Forbes magazine. Those interested can walk or cycle the way. Tourists are given the opportunity to venture into the remotest parts of the kingdom and learn about the culture of the eastern Himalayan region. The path meanders through numerous cities, primeval forests and a national park.
The almost 39 square kilometer country has around 750,000 inhabitants. It is one of the poorest in the world. Free schools and access to medical care only existed in Bhutan in the 1950s. The state religion is Vajrayana Buddhism. 80 percent of the land area is over 2,000 meters above sea level, and about two thirds is forested. The population is very environmentally conscious and is strongly committed to nature conservation. They mainly use hydroelectric power plants and solar energy. No wonder then that Bhutan is the first country with a negative carbon footprint. This means: more is bound than emitted.
Path is already over 500 years old
The Trans Bhutan Trail is said to have existed 500 years ago. At that time it served as a pilgrimage route – the Buddhists came from the east to the holy places in the west of the country or moved on to Tibet. In addition, the route was once part of the ancient Silk Road, one of the most important trade routes between Europe and Asia. Many riders were also on the route and brought important messages from A to B.
After more and more roads were built in Bhutan in the 1960s, the path gradually fell into disrepair. The bridges and stairways rotted and eventually could no longer be crossed. But now a non-profit organization has financed the restoration with the help of donations.
Entry regulations in Corona times
Currently warns the Foreign Office before unnecessary tourist trips to Bhutan. Due to the high number of corona cases, the country is currently classified as a high-risk area. Fully vaccinated individuals must quarantine for two weeks upon arrival in Bhutan. Three weeks are required for unvaccinated people.