Druk Path Trek is a classic and popular trek in Bhutan. This trek route linked between the two valleys of Paro and Thimphu in the western region of Bhutan. This trek is perfect for those trekkers who are looking for scenic and picture square trekking in Bhutan. This trek is moderate which is relatively easier than the Jomolhari trek where the elevation of the trek range between 2,400 m to 4,235 m.
In this trek, you will hike to Tiger Nest for acclimatization before starting your Druk Path trek. On the route of this trek, there are mysterious temples, ancient fortresses, quaint villages, and crystal lakes that can see and observe very closely. When you reach higher altitude you will hike over a scenic ridge viewing the stunning mountainous landscape. Mount Gangkar Puensum (White peak of Three brothers) will see in the distance all along the route. The best season to do this trek from March to May and October to early November.
If this package doesn’t meet your choice of the trek and want to do on a different itinerary please Customize your Trip. HWW’s travel advisor will assist you to create your Trek according to your time availability and interest.
Paro Arrival & Driving to Thimphu
Landing to Paro will offer you one of the best views of the Himalayas including Everest. On your arrival at Paro International Airport, you will assistance by Himalayan Wander Walkers's representative. Our Guide and driver will help you to arrange your luggage in the vehicle and drive to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. On the way you will visit three different sites; Tamchog Lhakhang which is built by Thang Thong Gyalpo of Tibet, Memorial Chorten, and Kuenselcholing View Point. In the evening relax for the day and stroll around Thimphu city.
Overnight accommodation is set with AP Plan.
Acclimatization Trek to Tiger’s Nest (B, L, D)
Today after your breakfast we will drive toward Paro and we will hike to the most important landmark of Bhutan. Your guide and driver will receive you from your hotel and drive to the hiking point. The hike will be about 5 hours both way up and down. Those who are difficulty with walking can hire a horse to ease your hike. Taktsang or Tiger Nest was beautifully lying on the edge of the rocky mountain which was burned by fire in 1998 and restored later. This is also a popular pilgrimage site of Guru Rinpoche (Tantric Master). In the evening we will be preparing for a trek.
Overnight accommodation is set with AP Plan.
Trek from Paro (2,470 m) to Jili Dzong (3,400 m)
Hiking Distance: 7 Kilometers
Walking hours: 4-5 hours
Ascent: 1003 meters
Descent: 100 Meters
Today is the first day of the trek and you will trek slowly. After your breakfast, you will drive to Ta Dzong (National Museum, 2470 m) and start the trek from there. Then the trail ascends abruptly, leading us to a steep ridge before going through the blue pine and fir forests to Damche Gom. Once you reach the ridge below Jili Dzong you descend about 100m to the campsite below the Dzong.
Overnight accommodation at tented camp. (Meal: B, L & D)
Trek from Jili Dzong (3,400 m) to Jangchhu Lakha (3,770 m)
Hiking Distance: 10 Kilometers
Walking hours: 4-5 hours
Ascent: 300 meters
Descent: 50 Meters
Today you will continue to hike up through thick alpine forests and rhododendron flowers. On the way, you will see the overlooking view of Paro valley and Bemang Rong valley. Then descend down to yak pasture from where you will see the snow-capped mountains including Jomolhari. The campsite will be just next to Pastureland.
Overnight accommodation at tented camp. (Meal: B, L & D)
Trek from Jangchhu Lakha (3,770 m) to Jimilang Tsho (3,870 m)
Hiking Distance: 11 Kilometers
Walking hours: 4-5 hours
Ascent: 400 meters
Descent: 300 Meters
Today there are many short ups and downs trails. From the Jangchulakha you will take the horse route ascending to the viewpoint where the praying flags are offered. After half an hour hiking on the meadow from the viewpoint, you will reach Langye Ja la pass at 4070 meters elevation. The panoramic views of Himalayas will be much better than the previous viewpoint. Then you will trek down to the Jimilang Tsho (lake). This lake is popular for trout. On the way down you will enjoy the view of mount Jichu Drake (Protector of Paro).
Overnight accommodation at tented camp. (Meal: B, L & D)
Trek from Jimilang Tsho (3,870 m) to Simkota Tsho (4,180 m)
Hiking Distance: 11 Kilometers
Walking hours: 4 hours
Ascent: 270 meters
Descent: 400 Meters
Today the trail descends toward Simikota lake through a rhododendron forest and Jane Tsho hiking on the ridges. There are yak herder’s camps next to the beautiful lake where one can experience nomadic life at a high altitude. From there the trail goes up for a while and then drops down to the Simikota Tsho for overnight.
Overnight accommodation at tented camp. (Meal: B, L & D)
Trek from Simkotra Tsho (4,180 m) to Phajoding (3,640 m) Thimphu
Hiking Distance: 14 Kilometers
Walking hours: 7 hours
Ascent: 100 meters
Descent: 1800 Meters
Today you will begin with a gradual climb to a small saddle at 4,150m from where you enjoy the majestic view of Mount Gangkar Puensum and other Himalayan peaks on clear weather. You will then descend to another small lake and then climb to the Phume La pass (4,210m) which is adorned with beautiful prayer flags. From here, you will enjoy a great view of Thimphu city far below. The trail slowly descends through juniper trees to a community hall near Phajodhing (3,870m). Walkway downhill to Thimphu through forests of blue pine and juniper until you reach the road head of Sangaygang on the outskirts of Thimphu valley.
Overnight accommodation is set with AP Plan.
Travel from Thimphu to Punakha
As a normal day, your trip starts after breakfast. Our guide and driver will assist to check out your hotel and drive to Punakha. which is about 5 hours. On the way, you will stop at Dochula Pass (3140m). This point is perfect for panoramic views of the eastern Himalayas by enjoying the cup of tea at the tea shops. Druk Wangyal Chotens add more colors to this scenic place where the 108 stupas are built to honor the Bhutanese soldiers who lose their lives in the 2003 war with Indian rebels. In the afternoon you will hike to Chimi Lhakhang (Temple of fertility). It was built by the Divine Madman who is originally known for Lama Drukpa Kunley in 1499. The hike is about 30 minutes en route to the rice field. On the route, you will find wooden phalluses hanging in local houses and paintings on the wall of the house. This site is especially popular for the childless couple who come to pray for a child. Then drive to Punakha Dzong. Punakha Dzong is located between the Pho Chu and Mo Chu rivers. It is the second-largest Dzong of Bhutan and built-in remarkable structure.
Overnight accommodation is set with AP Plan.
Travel from Punakha to Paro
Today you will reroute to Punakha and will visit the handmade paper factory in Thimphu where you will see Bhutanese traditional paper-making procedures which were originated in the 8th century. It is one of the well-preserved cultures of Bhutan. After that you will explore the vegetable market where you will wander around the stalls, selling local fruit and vegetables. It will provide you a glimpse of local life and you may be surprised with the people buying a bag of chili. Then drive to Paro and you will visit the National museum and Rimpung Dzong. Every year there held a Tsechu festival in this monastery. Rimpung fortress adds beauty to the Paro town.
Overnight accommodation is set with AP Plan.
Final Departure from Paro
Our team is saying goodbye as your journey to Bhutan comes to an end today. If you have more time you can do some shopping or sightseeing. Approximately 2 hours before your scheduled flight guide from Himalayan Wander walkers will take you to the airport. On your way home you'll have plenty of time to plan your next adventure in the wonderful countries of Bhutan, Nepal, and Tibet.
*AP (American plan) = Meal includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
* The Price given here is per person based on a minimum of 2 pax. The price will be cheaper with an increase in the number of people.
* If you are flying from Nepal then let us know we can help you to book your flight to Bhutan.
* Single Room Supplement is an extra charge.
Equipment
What to Bring for Trek?
Although trekking gear is available in Bhutan you are advised to bring your own gear.
Other equipment
Useful Information
CHECKLISTS
In Bhutan, all trekking supplies - camping equipment, kitchen implements, food - are all carried by pack animals. Porters are rather unusual in Bhutan with loads usually carted by horses or, in higher regions, yaks. All trekkers are accompanied by a guide, a cook, and usually at least one horseman or yak herder. With the surest footing; they lead trekking groups across the passes. The horseman and cook will usually run ahead during a trekking day. They will have prepared a packed lunch for hikers and will go on to the night’s resting place to set up camp.
They set up tents, cook dinner, and ready the area for arriving trekkers. When trekkers reach the campsite they are greeted with a hot cup of tea and biscuits in the dining tent. After six hours in the mountains, no drink will ever taste sweeter. For dinner, the cook will usually prepare a buffet of dishes that are as welcome as they are delicious.
DRESS CODE FOR VISITING FORTRESSES, MONASTERIES, AND TEMPLES IN BHUTAN
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