DRUK PATH TREK

9 NIGHTS | FROM US$3,870 | DEPARTS: PARO, BHUTAN

The four-day Druk Path trek is one of Bhutan’s most famous. It highlights the great diversity of the Bhutanese landscape. It passes through a gorgeous landscape of blue pine forests, high ridges and pristine lakes. There’s also the opportunity to visit ancient dzongs and villages.

Our carefully planned 9-night journey introduces you to Bhutan’s stunning natural environment, ancient Buddhist temples, well preserved traditions, and friendly and hospitable local people.

Combine the Druk Path trek with visiting the best of Bhutan’s sights. Experience this mystical land of the Thunder Dragon, where monasteries are part of the mainstream and traditional culture, architecture and Buddhism thrive.  

* Price based on twin share accommodation. Single room supplement available for US$45 per night, subject to availability.
Find out approximate trip price in your own currency here.

Maximum elevation: 4,210 m
Level of difficulty: Medium
Availability: March - May & September - November
Minimum group size: 2 people

Trip Inclusions

• Transport by private mini bus

• All meals, mineral water, tea and coffee

• 6 nights accommodation in handpicked hotels

• 3 nights fully serviced camping trek

• Bhutan daily fee including visa, Bhutan government tourism royalties and local taxes

• English, French or German-speaking Bhutanese guide

• All entrance fees at monasteries and museums

TRIP ITINERARY

DAY 1

Arrive in Paro, Bhutan: You will be met at Paro International Airport by your guide. Travel to your hotel just outside Paro. Explore the charming town centre and stroll across the picturesque wooden Nyamai Zam Bridge. As time allows, visit the formidable Rinpung dzong (fortress) of Paro, the national museum and the 7th century Kyichu Lhakhang temple, one of the oldest and most sacred shrines in Bhutan.
Overnight: Paro
Altitude: 2,195 m

DAY 2

Paro, Tiger's Nest excursion: An unforgettable hike to the Taktshang Gomba (Tiger’s Nest Monastery). The walk through blue pines, passing water-powered prayer wheels, leads you to the holy site. This ancient monastery clings miraculously to a sheer cliff above the valley floor. The views are magnificent over the Paro Valley. This hike also serves as a good acclimatization opportunity before your trek, as it reaches an altitude of 3,120 meters.
Driving time: 1 hour
Walking time: 5 hours
Overnight: Paro
Altitude: 2,195 m

DAY 3

Trek from Paro to Jangchulakha via Jili Dzong: After an early breakfast, drive (1 hour) to Damchena village through pine and oak forests. The trek begins with gradual climb to Jili Dzong (3450mtrs). On the way you pass stone houses, apple orchards, a mani (carved stone) wall and forests of golden moss. After that the trail heads through thick alpine forest and rhododendrons trees. Most of the walking is along a ridge-line. Mt. Jomolhari should be visible and you may encounter yak herders camped in their usual black woven yak hair tents.
Driving time: 1 hour
Walking time: 5-6 hours
Overnight: Camp
Altitude: 3,770 m

DAY 4 

Trek from Jangchulakha To Jimilangtso: After breakfast, set out along the ridge trail. On clear day the views of the mountains and valleys are beautiful, in particular the snow-capped Jichu Drake (6989m). You’ll cross the Langye Ja La pass (4,070m) before descending to the shore of Jimgelang Tsho. Camp tonight beside this lake, known for its giant sized trout. 
Walking time: 4-5 hours
Overnight: Camp
Altitude: 3,870 m

DAY 5 

Trek from Jimilangtso to Labana: Today the trail takes you through dwarf rhododendron forests. You will also pass the picturesque high-altitude lake Janye Tsho before coming to your campsite.
Walking time: 5-6 hours
Overnight: Camp
Altitude: 4,130 m

DAY 6

Trek from Labana to Thimphu via Phajoding: The day begins with a gradual climb up to the Phume La Pass (4,210m) with views to Jomolhari along the way, but the most stunning view is of Mount Gangkhar Puensum – the highest mountain in Bhutan. From the pass you head downhill towards Phajoding for lunch. The trail continues downhill, through a forest of mostly blue pine. Your car will be waiting at the base of the trek to drive you to your hotel in Thimphu.
Walking time: 4-5 hours
Overnight: Thimphu
Altitude: 2,320 m

DAY 7

Thimphu: Relax after your trek. Sightseeing options include the memorial chorten, Buddha Point, School of Traditional Arts and Crafts and Takin Reserve.
Overnight: Thimphu
Altitude: 2,320 m

DAY 8

Punakha: Cross the Dochula Pass to Punakha, visit the historic Dzong and the Temple of Fertility.
Driving time: 2.5 hours
Overnight: Punakha
Altitude: 1,310 m

DAY 9

Paro: Return to Paro and do any final shopping, sightseeing and perhaps enjoy a game of archery at the hotel.
Driving time: 4 hours
Overnight: Paro
Altitude: 2,195 m

DAY 10

Depart Paro

Other trips you may be interested in