The Bhutan Druk Path Trek is a magnificent journey that traverses through the heart of the Himalayas, offering an incredible blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty. With its combination of adventure, cultural immersion, and natural beauty, this eight-day trek is an excellent way to explore Bhutan's wilderness and experience its unique culture.

Starting from Paro, you will be led through enchanting valleys, quaint Bhutanese villages, and dense forests, all while enjoying the stunning views of the Himalayas that surround you. As you make your way along the Druk Path, you will be treated to breathtaking vistas of the Jhomolhari, Jichu Drake, and Gangkar Puensum peaks, among the highest and most revered mountains in Bhutan.

Along the trail, you will also have the opportunity to visit the picturesque Phajoding Monastery, where you can witness the daily routines of the monks and marvel at the intricate artwork and architecture of the monastery. Another highlight of the trek is the charming Jimilang Tsho Lake, a serene and refreshing oasis surrounded by beautiful scenery.

One of the most remarkable aspects of the trek is the high-altitude campsite near the base of Mount Jhomolhari, which boasts awe-inspiring views of the mountain and the valleys below. On clear nights, you can gaze up at the sky, filled with countless stars, making it a perfect place for stargazing.

Furthermore, the Druk Path Trek provides a remarkable chance to connect with Bhutan's unique culture by visiting traditional villages and interacting with locals. You will have the opportunity to try delectable Bhutanese cuisine and learn about the country's rich history and customs.

The trek concludes in Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant markets and explore the many notable landmarks, such as the National Memorial Chorten, the Buddha Dordenma Statue, and the Tashichho Dzong.

Overall, the Bhutan Druk Path Trek is an unforgettable expedition that combines adventure, cultural immersion, and natural beauty. With its breathtaking landscapes, high-altitude campsites, quaint villages, and hospitable locals, this trek is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that should not be missed.

Highlights

  • Trek through pristine forests and alpine meadows
  • Climb up to high mountain passes with stunning views of snow-capped peaks
  • Visit ancient temples and monasteries along the way, including the famous Taktsang Monastery (also known as the Tiger's Nest)
  • Encounter unique wildlife such as the Himalayan blue sheep and the national animal of Bhutan, the takin
  • Experience traditional Bhutanese hospitality by staying in local farmhouses and interacting with villagers
  • Learn about the unique culture and way of life of the Bhutanese people, including their customs, art, and religion
  • Enjoy panoramic views of the Paro and Thimphu valleys, as well as the surrounding Himalayan range
  • Challenge yourself physically and mentally by completing a multi-day trek in a remote and rugged mountain landscape
  • Get a glimpse of daily life in Bhutan's rural communities, including farming, herding, and traditional crafts
  • Immerse yourself in the natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere of Bhutan, known as the "Land of the Thunder Dragon" for its powerful spiritual energy.

Itinerary

Detail Itinerary Outline Itinerary

Day

Upon your arrival at Paro International Airport, you will be met by our representative who will transfer you to your hotel. 

Later in the day, you will embark on a journey of exploration, beginning with a visit to Ta Dzong, which was originally built as a watchtower and now houses the National Museum. The museum boasts an extensive collection of antique thangkha paintings, textiles, weapons and armor, household objects, and a rich assortment of natural and historic artifacts.

Next, you will walk down the trail to visit Rinpung Dzong, also known as the "fortress of the heap of jewels." This ancient fortress has a long and fascinating history, and its wooden galleries are lined with fine wall paintings depicting Buddhist lore.

  • Meals: BLD
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Place: Paro
  • Altitude: 2200

After breakfast, You will begin your day with a hike to one of Bhutan's most iconic landmarks - Tiger's Nest Monastery. Also known as Paro Taktsang, this stunning monastery is perched on a cliff at an altitude of 3,120 meters above sea level and is considered to be one of the most sacred sites in Bhutan. The hike takes around 2-3 hours each way, and offers breathtaking views of the Paro valley and the surrounding mountains. You will have ample time to explore the monastery complex, which comprises several temples and meditation halls, before descending back down to the base of the cliff.

Along the way , you will visit the Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan's oldest and most revered temples. The temple dates back to the 7th century and is said to have been built to subdue a demoness that was preventing the spread of Buddhism in the region. The temple complex comprises two temples, several stupas, and beautiful gardens that are filled with prayer flags and prayer wheels.

Later, you can also wander through the local markets and interact with the friendly locals.

  • Meals: BLD
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Place: Paro
  • Altitude: 2200

On day 3 of the Bhutan Druk Path Trek, you will leave Paro and start your trek towards Jangchulakha. The trek to Jangchulakha takes approximately 5-6 hours and follows a steep uphill trail through lush forests of rhododendron and oak trees.  Along the way, you will come across several traditional Bhutanese farmhouses and may have the opportunity to interact with the friendly locals. After a few hours of trekking, you will arrive at the Jele Dzong, a picturesque fortress that offers incredible views of the surrounding mountains. From here, the trail ascends gradually towards the Jangchulakha campsite, situated at an altitude of 3,780 meters. The campsite offers stunning views of the Mount Jhomolhari and the surrounding valleys, making it a perfect spot for some rest and relaxation after a day of trekking. You will spend the night in cozy tents, enjoying a warm meal and the tranquil beauty of the Bhutanese Himalayas.

  • Meals: BLD
  • Accommodation: Tent
  • Place: Jangchulakha
  • Altitude: 3780

After breakfast, we will start our trek toward Jimilangtasho Lake, which is situated at an altitude of 3,780 meters. The trail begins with a gentle climb through a forest of rhododendron and juniper trees, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. We will pass through yak herders' camps and come across the stunning Jele La Pass, located at an altitude of 3,490 meters, where we can enjoy stunning views of Jhomolhari and other snow-capped peaks. After a short break, we will descend towards Jimilangtasho Lake, surrounded by beautiful alpine flowers, which is one of the most picturesque lakes in Bhutan. We will set up our camp near the lake and spend the night stargazing under the clear sky, and those who are adventurous can take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters of the lake.

  • Meals: BLD
  • Accommodation: Tent
  • Place: Jimilangtasho
  • Altitude: 3780

Today, you will trek from Jimilangtasho to Labana, covering a distance of approximately 16 kilometers. The trek takes around 7-8 hours and involves a steep climb up to the Labana Pass.

The Labana Pass offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including the majestic Jhomolhari and Jichu Drake peaks. From the pass, the trail descends through rhododendron forests and meadows, and you may come across yaks grazing in the high-altitude pastures.

As you descend towards the campsite at Labana, you will pass through several streams and cross a wooden bridge, adding to the natural beauty of the trek. The Labana campsite offers spectacular views of the valley below, and on clear nights, you can witness a dazzling display of stars in the sky above.

  • Meals: BLD
  • Accommodation: Tent
  • Place: Labana
  • Altitude: 4210

On day 6, after breakfast at the Labana campsite, we will embark on a trekking journey towards Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. The trek covers a distance of approximately 12 kilometers and takes about 6 hours to complete.

The highlight of this trek is crossing the Phume La Pass, which is situated at an altitude of 4,210 meters. The pass offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and forests. From the pass, we will descend towards Thimphu, passing through beautiful meadows and traditional Bhutanese villages.

  • Meals: BLD
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Place: Thimpu
  • Altitude: 2334

The first visit is to the National Library, which holds an extensive collection of valuable Buddhist manuscripts. Next, the Painting School or Institute for Zorig Chusum is visited, where students undergo a rigorous six-year training program in 13 traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan. The Textile Museum is another interesting stop, offering insight into Bhutan's unique art form.

Simply Bhutan is a living museum and studio that provides a glimpse of the cultural heritage of the Bhutanese people. After lunch, a short 15 km drive takes you to Pangri Zampa, one of the oldest monasteries in Bhutan, built in the 16th century. Here, Buddhist students learn Lamaism and astrology based on Buddhist philosophy. Buddha Point or Kuensel Phodrang is another highlight, where you can admire the largest statue of Buddha in the country and take a stroll to get a panoramic view of the Thimphu valley.

The King's Memorial Chorten is another must-see landmark, where people circumambulate and spin prayer wheels while murmuring mantras. It was built in memory of Bhutan's third king and as a monument to world peace and prosperity. Finally, the Trashichhoedzong, an impressive fortress and monastery, is visited. It houses the Secretariat building, the throne room of the King, and various government offices. It is also the summer residence of the Chief Abbot and central monk body. 

  • Meals: BLD
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Place: Thimpu
  • Altitude: 2334

Today, you will drive back to Paro and  catch your flight back home.

What to Expect

  • Private transportation.
  • All kinds of travel permits and monastery entrance fees.
  • English-speaking guide.
  • Accommodation on a twin/ double room basis.
  • All types of meals: BLD
  • Bhutanese Government SDF USD 200 per person/night.
  • Bhutanese Visa fee.
  • Flight fare (Kathmandu-Paro-Kathmandu).
  • International flight ticket and travel insurance
  • Nepal visa fees
  • Gratuities
  • All other expenses of personal nature and not mentioned in the “Includes” section.

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