Druk Path Trek
The Druk Path Trek is one of the most popular treks in Bhutan. It is a moderately tough trek starting from Paro to Thimphu or vice versa, passing through blue pine forests and beautiful lakes, with views of magnificent mountain ranges and rhododendrons.
Overview
- DAY 1: Arrive at Paro airport, and visit Ta Dzong and Paro Rimpung Dzong.
- DAY 2: Hike to Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest), an iconic religious site.
- DAY 3: | START OF THE DRUK TREK PATH: Trek from Paro to Jili Dzong.
- DAY 4: Trek from Jili Dzong to Jangchulakha.
- DAY 5: Trek from Jangchulhaka to Jimilang Tsho.
- DAY 6: Trek from Jimilang Tsho to Simkotra Tsho.
- DAY 7: Trek from Simkotra Tsho to Phajoding.
- DAY 8: Trek from Phajoding to Thimphu City.
- DAY 9: Explore Thimphu's attractions.
- DAY 10: Transfer to the airport for departure.
Day to Day Itinerary
DAY 1 | Arrival
On arrival at Paro airport, you will be received by our representatives and led to your hotel. After lunch, visit Ta Dzong, the National Museum, which once served as a watchtower overlooking Rimpung Dzong. A short walk will take you to Paro Rimpung Dzong, where you can cross a traditional cantilevered bridge. Drive back to the hotel for the night.
DAY 2 | Hike to Taktsang
Taktsang, also known as Tiger’s Nest, is one of Bhutan's most iconic landmarks and a significant religious site. Built in 1692 at a cave where Guru Rinpoche meditated, legend states that he flew to the site on the back of a tigress. The hike takes about 2-3 hours, ascending to an altitude of 2950m above sea level.
DAY 3 | Start of the druk path trek
The trek begins from the National Museum in Paro and leads to Jili Dzong (Distance: 8 km, Time: 4-5 hrs). This uphill climb reaches an elevation of over 1065m as you pass through farms and blue pine forests. The descent starts upon reaching Jili Dzong, located at an elevation of 3490m.
DAY 4 | Trek from Jili Dzong to Jangchulakha (Distance: 10 km, Time: 4-5 hrs).
The hike begins with a steep climb through thick alpine forests and rhododendron trees before easing into a more gradual ascent. Enjoy views of Mount Jomolhari and other snow-capped mountains. Camp near Yak Herders Camp at Jangchulhaka (3780m).
DAY 5 | Trek from Jangchulhaka to Jimilang Tsho (Distance: 11 km, Time: 4-5 hrs).
Follow a ridge with stunning views of valleys and mountains if weather permits. Camp near Jimilang Tsho, famous for its giant-sized trouts, with breathtaking views of Mount Jichu Drake (6989m).
DAY 6 | Trek from Jimilang Tsho to Simkotra Tsho (Distance: 11 km, Time: 4 hrs).
Along the way, enjoy plenty of dwarf rhododendron trees and pass Jane Tsho Lake and Yak Herders Camp. After a short climb along the ridge and a steep descent, reach your camp near Simkotra Lake (4040m).
DAY 7 | Trek from Simkotra Tsho to Phajoding (Distance: 10 km, Time: 3-4 hrs).
Today's climb leads you to a saddle at 4150m for views of Mount Gangkhar Puensum and other peaks on clear days. Descend to a small lake before climbing up to Phume La pass (4210m), surrounded by prayer flags. Camp for the night at Phajoding (3780m).
DAY 8 | End of Trek: Trek from Phajoding to Thimphu City (Distance: 5 km, Time: 3 hrs).
This trek takes you down through blue pine forest to the Radio Station—Bhutan's only broadcasting service. Upon arrival in Thimphu, transfer to your hotel. In the late afternoon, visit the Memorial Stupa or explore the town for souvenir shopping.
DAY 9 | Thimphu Sightseeing
Your last day includes visits to key attractions in Thimphu such as Buddha Point, the Traditional School of Arts and Crafts, Folk Heritage Museum, and Takin Preserve Centre. In the evening, enjoy relaxing hot stone baths.
DAY 10 | Departure
Your representatives will drop you off at the airport and bid you farewell as you depart Bhutan.