Bhutan Rhododendron Trek
Temperate Forest
Plants
Advanced
Bhutan — Bumthang Valley
April to May
Overview
Witness 46 species of rhododendron blooming in Bhutan's pristine mountain forests.
Equipment
- Plant press
- Macro camera lens
- Altitude medicine
- Rain gear
Safety Notes
- Altitude ranges from 2,500-4,000m
- Leeches active in warm wet weather
Identification Tips
1
Different species bloom at different elevations — plan ascent timing
2
R. arboreum (national flower) blooms bright red at lower elevations
3
Epiphytic orchids hide on rhododendron branches
Species Checklist
| Species | Likelihood | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Rhododendron arboreum | common | 2,500-3,000m, bright red flowers |
| Rhododendron hodgsonii | uncommon | 3,000-3,500m, pink clusters |
| Blue Poppy (Meconopsis) | rare | Alpine meadows above 4,000m |
| Blood Pheasant | uncommon | Rhododendron understory |