Druk Path Trek
The six day trek is the most popular trek in the country as it passes through a gorgeous natural landscape of blue pine forests, high ridges and pristine lakes while at the same time offering the opportunity to visit some ancient lhakhangs, dzongs and villages.
The Druk Path Trek is also a fairly easy hike to undertake as the distances between rest camps is fairly short. The trail takes you through forests of fir, blue pine and dwarf rhododendrons at altitudes ranging between 2400-4200 m. On the third day hikers will arrive at Jimiling Lake, whose crystal clear waters are home to gigantic trout.
Day 1
Arrive Paro
Enjoy afternoon sightseeing around Paro, including a visit to the National Museum, Ta Dzong and Rimpong Dzong.
Day 2
Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery
Morning hike to Tiger’s Monastery. Afternoon visit Drukgyal Dzong and Kyichu Lhakhang.
Day 3
Paro – Jele Dzong (Trek Starts)
The first day can be quite arduous as you have to climb more than 1,000 m elevation. You start from the Ta Dzong (National Museum) in Paro. The trek follows a gravel road past a few farms for about 30 minutes and then climbs up a steep ridge before leading through blue pine and fir forests to Damche Gom. Once you reach the ridge below Jili Dzong you descend about 100 m to the campsite below the Dzong.
Day 4
Jili Dzong – Jangchulakha
You begin with a steep climb for about an hour and a half, then the slope evens a bit and the ascent is more gradual. The trail takes you through thick alpine forests and dwarf rhododendron tress. You may see herders and their yaks around your campsite.
Day 5
Jangchulakha – Jimelang Tsho
The trail follows a ridge and on a clear day the view of the mountains and valley are simply stunning. The campsite is close to the Jimgelang Tsho Lake. This lake is known for its giant sized trout.
Day 6
Jimgelang Tsho – Simkotra Tsho
The trail takes you through dwarf rhododendron trees and past Janetso Lake. You may come across some yak herder camps where you will have the opportunity to get a glimpse of a nomad’s life. The campsite is close to Simkotra Tsho Lake.
Day 7
Simkotra Tsho – Phajoding
The day begins with a gradual climb. If the weather permits, you will have a spectacular view of Mount Gangkar Puensum, the highest mountain in Bhutan and several other Himalayan peaks. From this pass, the trek takes you downhill towards Phajodhing where you will halt for the night. The camp is located just above Phadjoding Monastery.
Day 8
Phajoding – Mothithang
After passing Phadjoding monastery, the trek to Thimphu (Mothitang) is downhill through a forested area of mostly blue pine. The walk, at a leisurely pace, takes about three hours.
Day 9
Thimphu Sightseeing
Buddha Point, National Memorial Chorten, Changangkha Lhakhang, Takin Zoo, Textile Museum, Postal Museum and Folk Heritage Museum.
Day 10
Excursion to Chelela Pass
Drive to Chelela pass. Its a two hours drive from Paro. Later on visit Drukgyal Dzong and Kyichu Lhakhang.
Day 11
Depart from Paro
After breakfast, drive towards airport for onward journey.
- Bhutan Tourist Tariff Royalty & Visa fees.
- All private excursions and transfers in superior air-conditioned vehicle.
- Local English speaking guide/tour leader.
- Experienced driver.
- Accommodation in carefully selected, highest standard government approved hotels & guesthouses.
- All meals in Bhutan.
- All entrance fees and permits.
- All personal expenses such as bars, beverages, laundry, telephone and tips.
- Medical / Travel Insurance.
- Airfare.
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