Druk Path Trek

Druk Path Trek

A beautiful classic short five day trek through stunning mountain scenery, along winding ridges, crossing the chain of mountains that separate the two districts of Paro and Thimphu.  You'll also visit the key cultural sites in Paro, Thimphu and Punakha and have time to explore Kathmandu at the start and end of your trip.

This short classic trek is an excellent choice for anyone wanting to experience a great introduction to trekking in Bhutan but on a tight time schedule. Follow sparsely inhabited trails past ancient ruined forts. Enjoy beautiful mountain lakes teeming with fish. Walk through areas famous for lush rhododendron forests which bloom in Spring.  

The best views are in late autumn and winter with best times to visit from early October to the end of November and from early March to mid May.

Itinerary

• Day 01

  Arrive Kathmandu (1300m) and transfer to hotel.

  Welcome to Nepal. Once through immigration and baggage collection, head to the meeting area outside the airport where you'll be met by one of our local team for the transfer drive to your hotel. After time to rest and get refreshed, you'll have an informal briefing and overview about your flight to Bhutan tomorrow and your trek plus a chance to ask any questions. The rest of your day is at leisure to rest and relax or perhaps explore the local area. Optional half or full day guided sightseeing is available on request. This evening we invite you to enjoy a complimentary welcome dinner at one of the finest traditional Nepalese restaurants in Kathmandu. Overnight Kathmandu.

• Day 02

  Fly Kathmandu to Paro (2300m)

  This morning you'll be picked up for the transfer to the airport and your flight to Paro, flying with Druk Air, Bhutan's national airline. You'll be met at Paro International Airport for the transfer drive to your hotel. After check in, enjoy an afternoon guided sightseeing where you'll visit the Ta Dzong, a 17th century circular watchtower that is now home to Bhutan's National Museum, showcasing some of the finest cultural treasures. You'll also be able to visit the Rinpung Dzong, also known as Paro Dzong, a traditional fortress monastery that also houses government offices. There is also an interesting cantilever bridge below the monastery. Your evening is at leisure to relax or explore locally. Overnight at your hotel in Paro.

• Day 03

  Trek to Tiger's Nest (3110m) Taktsang Monastery, afternoon sightseing

  This morning it's a short drive from Paro town to the start of the trail for the hike up to famous Taktsang Monastery, also known as Tiger's Nest. The monastery perches on the cliffside and overlooks the valley below. Legend says that the Indian saint, Guru Padma Sambhava flew on the back of a tiger from Tibet to fight five demons who were trying to stop the spread of Buddhism in Bhutan. The trail is quite a steep uphill walk through the woods, taking around 1 1/2 to 2 hours to reach a tea house where we'll stop for a break and to enjoy the wonderful views of Taktsang Monastery. Around half an hour further ascent brings us to another viewpoint across from the monastery. The final part of the walk from here goes steeply down into the gorge before it climbs up again to the monastery gate. After a visit to the monastery we follow the same trail down again to the valley floor before driving back to Paro. This afternoon there should be time for some local sightseeing with a chance to visit the ancient temple of Kyichu Lakhang, one of 108 temples built by Songtsen Gampo, an important early Tibetan king. The rest of your late afternoon and evening is at leisure to rest and relax. Overnight at your hotel, Paro.

• Day 04

  Trek Paro across the Jili La (3490m) to Jili Dzong (3450m) 4 ½ hrs

  Today your trek begins following the route that is part of the original mule trail linking Thimphu Valley and the Paro Valley. The trek begins behind historic Ta Dzong which houses the National Museum, from where the path winds slowly upward, through forests of blue pine and rhododendron and towards the ridgeline. The initial part of the trail is quite steep so we take it slow and steady. As we ascend, the forest opens up to alpine meadows with beautiful vistas including breathtaking views of the Paro Valley below. The trail takes us through a variety of landscapes and scenery from lush pine and bamboo forests to birch and rhododendron then alpine meadows and through a yak herder’s camp. After around 4 to 5 hours we reach Jili Dzong campsite (3490m) this afternoon. After setting up our tents, enjoy a relaxed lunch and soak up the surrounding mountain views. The rest of your day is free to rest and relax at the campsite or explore the local surroundings. Later this evening dinner will be prepared at camp. Overnight at tented camp.

• Day 05

  Trek to Rawana (3890m) via Jangchu La (4180m) 12km 5-6 hrs

  This morning the trail ascends gradually through forests of rhododendron, juniper and other alpine vegetation, with panoramic views including the distant mountain ranges. We may meet yak herdsmen as we pass by the herders camps. After a few hours trek we reach the Jangchu La pass (4,180m), marked with prayer flags and cairns. From the pass we begin our descent through a forested area to reach our campsite at Rawana where we’ll set up. The rest of the evening is at leisure to relax at camp.

• Day 06

  Trek to Jimi Langtsho, Lake (3860m) – 11km 4-5 hrs

  We’ll continue to have wonderful panoramic views today as the trail continues through vibrant alpine, juniper and rhododendron forests before reaching Jimi Langtsho, a large and beautiful lake with a large chorten at one end. After we set up camp the rest of the late afternoon and evening is free to relax at camp or explore locally. Overnight at tented camp.

• Day 07

  Trek to Labana (4130m) via Janye Tsho and Simkotra Tsho - 11km 4-5 hrs

  Today we follow the trail as it ascends gradually, passing pristine high altitude lakes, through alpine meadows and rhododendron forests. We start by following the trail that leads around the eastern side of Jimi Langtsho, Lake. We pass a smaller lake called Janye Tsho, which reflects the surrounding peaks and continue towards Simkotra Tsho, another beautiful alpine lake. We pass through forests of juniper and pine before arriving at Labana campsite this afternoon. Enjoy the stunning mountain views from camp. Evening to rest and relax.

• Day 08

  Cross the Phume La (4210m), visit Phadjoding Monastery (3960m) to Thimphu 10 km, 6-7 hrs

  This morning the trail descends through lush mixed forests of juniper, rhododendron, and hemlock, with occasional glimpses of Thimphu Valley en route. The trail descends to famous Phadjoding Monastery and we may meet monks en route to visit sacred Jimi Langtsho lake, for a few days meditation. We’ll stop to explore this important religious site. Phadjoding Monastery is a well-known meditation centre and high on the cliff behind there is also a famous hermit temple. We continue to follow the trail down, sometimes steeply on a well-trodden path, past water driven prayer wheels and chortens, to arrive at the outskirts of Thimphu city where the trek concludes. It’s a short transfer drive to the hotel with your evening is free to explore the vibrant capital city of Bhutan. Overnight at hotel in Thimphu.

• Day 09

  Sightseeing in Thimphu and drive to Punakha via Dochula Pass (3140m)

  This morning enjoy guided visits to the key sites in Thimphu including the iconic Memorial Chorten, a revered Buddhist stupa built in memory of the third King of Bhutan. You’ll also visit the huge Buddha Dordenma statue, a symbol of peace and prosperity, from where you can enjoy panoramic views of Thimphu valley. Another key site is Changangkha Lhakhang, an ancient temple on a hilltop and Tashichho Dzong, an impressive fortress-monastery housing government offices and the King's Throne Room. Enjoy a traditional Bhutanese lunch at a local restaurant before the scenic afternoon drive of around 2 ½ to 3 hours to reach Punakha. En route we’ll stop at Dochula Pass (3,140m) to enjoy the breathtaking views of the Himalayas. You’ll also visit Chimi Lhakhang, the famous Temple of the Divine Madman, known for its unique history and fertility blessings. Your evening is at leisure to explore Punakha town and visit the local markets. Overnight at hotel, Punakha.

• Day 10

  Sightseeing in Punakha and drive to Paro.

  This morning it’s a short drive to visit Visit Punakha Dzong, an architectural masterpiece, the power base of Bhutan’s ancient rulers and one of Bhutan's most stunning fortresses. Enjoy the intricate woodwork, beautiful courtyards, and impressive design. We’ll also hike up to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, a temple offering panoramic views of the Punakha valley. Walk across the longest suspension bridge in Bhutan and enjoy the picturesque views of the Punakha River and surrounding landscapes. After lunch at a local restaurant we’ll begin the scenic drive to Paro, around 4 ½ hours. En route there’s time for a short stop in Wangdue Phodrang to explore the local market and admire the ruins of Wangdue Phodrang Dzong. Overnight at local hotel, Paro.

• Day 11

  Fly Paro to Kathmandu.

  The flights usually depart early morning to Kathmandu, with, weather permitting, beautiful views over Bhutan’s mountains and past Kanchenjunga, Makalu and Everest. You’ll be met on arrival for the transfer to your hotel. The rest of your day is free to relax and do any last minute shopping or exploring. Optional guided sightseeing available on request. Overnight Kathmandu.

• Day 12

  Depart Kathmandu.

  This morning is free until time to check out and your transfer to the International Airport for your departure flight home or onward to your next destination.