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Druk Path Trek

From $4,500/pp

Created by

From $4,500/pp

Bhutan

Trip Length

11 days

Availability

February - June, September - December
Created by

Druk Path Trek

The Druk Path Trek is a moderate, six-day trek. This popular trek offers beautiful views as you cross the chain of mountains that separate the Paro and Thimphu valleys. This route is also famous for its spectacular rhododendron forests and wonderful high altitude lakes teeming with fish. There will be a number of temples and dzongs to visit on the way, and in the clear weather of late autumn and winter there are great views of the Himalayas. As well as being able to visit the sites of Paro and Thimphu before and after the trek, you may also enjoy a day excursion to the Punakha valley, to visit the imposing Punakha Dzong.

Description

The Druk Path Trek is a moderate, six-day trek. This popular trek offers beautiful views as you cross the chain of mountains that separate the Paro and Thimphu valleys. This route is also famous for its spectacular rhododendron forests and wonderful high altitude lakes teeming with fish. There will be a number of temples and dzongs to visit on the way, and in the clear weather of late autumn and winter there are great views of the Himalayas. As well as being able to visit the sites of Paro and Thimphu before and after the trek, you may also enjoy a day excursion to the Punakha valley, to visit the imposing Punakha Dzong.

Itinerary

Day 1

ARRIVE PARO

The flight to Paro is one of the most spectacular mountain flights in the world, with a constantly changing panorama of some of the highest mountains on earth. Our Bhutan Druk Adventure representative will meet you at Paro airport.

After lunch, enjoy some afternoon sightseeing around Paro, including a visit to the National Museum, Ta Dzong. This museum houses many religious relics, works of art and handicrafts, offering a great orientation into Bhutan’s historical and cultural past. Next, visit the Rimpong Dzong to see the painting of the great saint Milarepa, considered as the master of meditation by the Bhutanese and believed to have attained enlightenment in a lifetime.

Dzong’s are large monasteries and district administrative centres, which were once strategic forts. Afterwards, walk to the beautiful cantilever wooden bridge still in use.

Accommodation

Hotel in Paro

Day 2

PARO

After breakfast, hike to the Taktsang Monastery. The trail is broad and the walk will take approximately 2 hours. As you make your way uphill, the trail takes you high above the Paro valley. The view of Taktsang Monastery is a spectacular sight. It was built on a sheer cliff face 900 metres above the valley floor.

According to legend, great Guru Rimpoche and his consort, mediated in a cave here for three months when he brought the teachings of the Buddhist Dharma to Bhutan in the 8th Century. After meditation, they manifested themselves in the forms of Guru Dorji Drolo and a tigress to subdue demons in the valley below. Nearby there is a teahouse where you can stop for lunch.

In the afternoon drive to the almost fully reconstructed Drukgyel Dzong. The original monument (destroyed by fire in 1951) was built by Shabdrung, to commemorate his victory against invading Tibetans in 1644. In fine weather, the towering peak of the sacred Mount Jomolhari (7314m) appears as a stunning backdrop. On the return drive to Paro, visit other sights in Paro valley.

Experience the spectacular views from Taktsang Monastery before exploring Paro a little more

Accommodation

Hotel in Paro

Day 3

PARO – JELE DZONG

8km, 4-5 hours. 1090m ascent

Today is a short trekking day. The journey starts with a climb up to Jele Dzong. The trek trail ascends gradually up to the camp, and if the weather is clear, Paro valley can be seen surrounded by snow capped mountains. Above the camp is Jele La (3400m) and Jele Dzong. There is also a Lhakhang containing a statue of Buddha Shakyamuni. Altitude 3480m

A gradual ascent today, with spectacular snow-capped mountain views

Accommodation

Campsite

Day 4

JELE DZONG – JANGCHULAKHA

10km, 3 – 4hours. 310m ascent, 50m descent

Begin with a one and a half hour climb and then ascend more gradually. The trail takes us through thick alpine forests of rhododendrons. We will have fine views of Mt. Chomolhari and other snow capped peaks if the weather is right. We may hear some pheasants calling during the day. You may also see yak herders around your campsite.
Altitude 3770m.

A gradual ascent today, with spectacular snow-capped mountain views

Accommodation

Campsite

Day 5

JANGCHULAKHA – JIMILANGTSHO

11km, 4 hours. 230m descent, 330m ascent

The trail follows the ridge, and when the weather is clear views of the mountains and valley are sensational. We will enjoy great views of Jichu Drake (6989m), the peak representing the protective deity of Paro. Our camp is close to Jimilangtsho lakes, famous for their giant sized trout.
Altitude 3870m.

View excellent sights of Jichu Drake, the peak representing the protective deity of Paro

Accommodation

Campsite

Day 6

JIMILANGTSHO – SIMKOTA

11km, 4 hours. 820m ascent, 400m descent

The trail takes us through dwarf rhododendron trees and passes by the lake of Janeetsho. Today we may come across some yak herder’s camps and get an idea of how these local people live. We will set up camp close to Simkota Lake. If you are lucky you can catch a lake trout for your dinner!

Accommodation

Campsite

Day 7

SIMKOTA – PHAJODING

10km, 4 hours. 130m ascent, 680m descent

Today begins with a gradual climb and if the weather permits you will enjoy majestic views of Mt.Gangkar Puensum, the highest peak in Bhutan. You may also view a host of other peaks from Phume La (4080m). The trail slowly descends through juniper trees to a campsite. Altitude 3610m.

Relish in breathtaking views of Mt.Gangkar Puensum, the highest peak in Bhutan

Accommodation

Campsite

Day 8

PHAJODING – THIMPHU

5km, 3 hours

The trek to Thimphu is downhill all the way, passing through a forested area of mostly blue pine. Taking this at a leisurely pace, you reach Thimphu in about 3 hours. You will have the afternoon to relax and recharge.

Accommodation

Hotel in Thimphu

Day 9

THIMPHU

(Day excursion to Punakha) After breakfast, drive over the Dochu-La Pass (3100 m), which on a clear day, offers an incredible view of Himalayan peaks before descending into balmy Punakha valley (about 3 hrs total driving time).

The drive through the countryside affords a glimpse of everyday life in this most remote areas of the Himalayan kingdoms. In the Dochu-La area there are vast Rhododendron forests that bloom in late April/early May covering the mountains in a glorious spring colour.

Punakha was the ancient capital of Bhutan. On arrival, visit Punakha Dzong, built in 1637, by the Shabdrung, the ‘Unifier of Bhutan’ as predicted by the great Guru Rimpoche (Padmasambhava). It is situated at the confluence of the Mo Chu and Pho Chu Rivers and is the winter headquarters of the Je Khenpo. Hundreds of monks move en masse from Thimphu to this warmer location. The three story main temple of the Punakha Dzong is a breathtaking example of traditional architecture, with four intricately embossed entrance pillars crafted from cypress and decorated in gold and silver.

After lunch, enjoy a walk to Chimi Lhakhang, temple of the Drukpa Kuenly, who is also known as the Divine Madman. He inherited the Divine Madman title for revolting against the orthodox Buddhism in his time. He taught the people that religion is an inner feeling and it’s not necessary that one should be an ordained monk. He is also considered a symbol of fertility and most childless couples go to his temple for blessing. Return to Thimphu.

View the breathtaking main temple of the Punakha Dzong, an example of traditional architecture

Accommodation

Hotel in Thimphu

Day 10

THIMPHU – PARO

Enjoy sightseeing in Thimphu! Beginning with a visit to the National Memorial Chorten; depicting the Buddhist faith in the form of paintings and statues. This temple was first initiated by the Third King as a protection from the negative elements of modernization. The Royal Queen Mother completed it as a memorial stupa for the third King, who passed away in the year 1972.

Other highlights include the 12th Century Changangkha Temple, Drubthob monastery housing the Zilukha nunnery, the School for Arts and Crafts where the students are taught to master the 13 types of Bhutanese art, the National Library housing a collection of Bhutanese scriptures dating back to the 8th century, and a fascinating replica of a medieval farmhouse at the Folk Heritage Museum.

If there is time, you may also visit the nursing pen for the Takin, the national animal of Bhutan and Tashichhodzong. In the early evening depart for Paro.

A fun-filled and informative day exploring the sites of Thimphu

Accommodation

Hotel in Paro

Day 11

DEPART PARO

Enjoy your last hearty breakfast at the hotel, before the drive to the airport for your flight to your onward destination.

Tashi Delek!

We hope that you leave with an appreciation and fascination with Bhutan culture and history

What's Included

Ground Transport

All touring and transfers throughout your journey, as per itinerary.

  • Including an experienced driver and a superior air-conditioned vehicle.

Meals

All Meals, as per itinerary.

  • Cook and camp hand who will take care of camp chores and provide your wholesome meals.

Insurance

PLEASE NOTE:

  • It is mandatory for all visitors to Bhutan to hold a valid and comprehensive travel insurance policy that includes cancellation and emergency evacuation cover.
  • Many travel insurance companies no longer offer cover for trekking, rafting or other adventure activities. Please ensure your policy covers all the activities you will undertake on your journey.

Visas

  • Bhutan Tourist visa, which will be process by us at $40

High Season

Please note: The price listed is based on our Low Season Rates, please get in touch for travel during our High Season

Accommodation

All Accommodation in carefully selected, highest standard government approved hotels, guesthouses and campsites. As per itinerary

Flights

All International/Domestic Flights

Guide/Leader

A qualified and licensed, English-speaking guide throughout your trip.

  • Services of horsemen who will look after the yaks and ponies that transport luggage and camp gear.

Trek Dates

All of our Bhutan tours and treks are private, customisable journeys for independent travel on dates of your choosing, subject to the trek taking place during the trekking season as identified in the itinerary overview above. We can easily customise your Bhutan tour and trek to spend more time in the places, doing the activities that YOU are interested in.

Created by
Rinzin Dorji

I was born in the central region of Bhutan, where the culture and the history are vibrant and the land is beautiful. I grew up hearing the stories of the places around me, from no other than my father, who is a Tourist Guide too.

I began my career as a tour guide after working with my father in his tour company. This enabled me to expand my knowledge and explore the world, making me appreciate the beauty of my country. For more than a decade now, I have spent my good years working as a tour guide, mountain biker, and photographer with various tour operators in Bhutan.

It was an incredible experience meeting tourists from every corner of the world, as well as gaining my own experience travelling to several places. I love to travel and have been to many parts of Asia.I believe people should travel to gain new experiences in life. It gives you the chance to enjoy the local living style, taking photos with like-minded people, or simply to indulge yourself in a well deserved luxury holiday.

I enjoy every tour as a new and unique experience. Basic knowledge of flora & fauna identification, bird watching, and textiles, as well as a sound knowledge of religious sites and adventure travel in Bhutan. This turns every journey into something new, something fascinating.

I am very happy to welcome you to my country, to show you its wonders and help you get in touch with its beauty. I am seeing my dream of a travel agency that truly connects Bhutan to people from all over the world, come true.

It’s my pleasure to turn your wishes into reality!

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Rinzin Dorji can customise and book any and all elements of this trip for you


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