• Small Group Guided Trips Small Group Guided Trips
11 Days

Druk Path Trek in Bhutan

USD $ 2,950
per person

Activities in this trip includes

Trip Code

TMG-BT002

Trip Grade

Moderate

Max. Elevation

4110mm

Group Size

12 max

Accommodation
& Meal Info

Comfort

Comfort (3-star): Mid-range accommodations with extra comforts. Ideal for trekkers at lodges/teahouses. Includes daily breakfast in Kathmandu. (AP= Accommodation with all three meals at trekking destination).

Highlights

  • Scenic Splendor: The Druk Path Trek unveils the most stunning landscapes, from picturesque pine forests to breathtaking mountain ridges, offering nature lovers and trekkers a visual feast.
  • Flora and Fauna Riches: As you traverse this terrain, the journey introduces you to a rich tapestry of diverse flora and fauna, a reflection of Bhutan’s pristine ecological diversity.
  • Cultural and Historical Gems: Along the way, you’ll discover ancient temples, monasteries, and Dzongs that tell the story of Bhutan’s vibrant cultural heritage, providing a glimpse into the kingdom’s profound spirituality and history.
  • Local Encounters: The trek allows you to immerse yourself in the local way of life, connecting with the friendly villagers, witnessing archery matches, and creating meaningful memories as you explore the heart of Bhutan’s countryside.

Trip Overview

The Druk Path Trek is not just a journey; it’s an immersion into the breathtaking beauty and unique natural landscapes of Bhutan. This 5-day adventure offers a succinct yet profoundly scenic exploration of the kingdom’s pristine wilderness, boasting some of the most captivating sights the region has to offer. As you embark on this trek, you’ll discover more than just panoramic views and high-altitude challenges. The itinerary is carefully designed to lead you through a mesmerizing tapestry of experiences. Commencing in Paro, near the National Museum, the trek takes you through a succession of landscapes that include enchanting pine forests and rugged mountain ridges. As you ascend to altitudes exceeding 4000 meters above sea level, you’ll be met with the surreal beauty of high-altitude glacial lakes, each reflecting the surrounding mountains like a mirror to the sky. The region’s flora, diverse and vibrant, paints a vivid tapestry as you traverse the mountain ridges, revealing the ecological richness of Bhutan’s wilderness. One of the crowning moments of the Druk Path Trek is the opportunity to gaze upon the majestic Himalayan mountain range, a sight that’s nothing short of awe-inspiring. These towering peaks, often veiled in mist, create a backdrop of unparalleled grandeur. This trek is a chance to capture the essence of the Himalayas, where nature and culture intertwine.

As you make your way from Paro to Thimphu, you’ll not only be traversing geographic landscapes but also cultural ones. Bhutan’s unique heritage is an integral part of the experience. You’ll have the chance to interact with the local communities, sharing smiles and stories along the way. The Druk Path Trek is more than a physical journey; it’s an opportunity to connect with the soul of Bhutan. It’s a chance to savor the sights, sounds, and scents of the kingdom’s untouched wilderness. It’s an adventure that promises to etch unforgettable memories in your heart as you tread the path from Paro to Motithang, Thimphu. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a nature enthusiast, this 5-day journey offers the best of Bhutan’s natural and cultural treasures, a once-in-a-lifetime experience to be cherished forever.

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Itinerary

  • Day 01: Arrival in Paro and Exploring | Altitude: 2200m
  • Day 02: Paro – Hiking to Tiger’s Nest (Taktsang) Monastery | 7km Hike | 4 Hours
  • Day 03: Paro – Jele Dzong (Druk Path Trek Commencement) | 10km Hike | 4-5 Hours | Altitude: 3560m
  • Day 04: Jele Dzong – Jangchulakha | 10km Hike | 3-4 Hours | Altitude: 3770m
  • Day 05: Jangchulakha – Jimilangtso | 11km Hike | 4 Hours | Altitude: 3870m
  • Day 06: Jimilangtso – Simkota | 11km Hike | 4 Hours | Altitude: 4110m
  • Day 07: Simkota – Phajoding – Thimphu (Druk Path Trek Conclusion) | 15km Hike | 6-7 Hours | Altitude: 2334m
  • Day 08: Exploring Thimphu | Altitude: 2334m
  • Day 09: Thimphu – Punakha Sightseeing | 76km Drive | 2 Hours | Altitude: 1242m
  • Day 10: Punakha – Wangdue Phodrang – Return to Thimphu | 90km Drive | 4 Hours | Altitude: 2334m
  • Day 11: Thimphu – Paro (Departure) | 54km Drive | 1 Hour

01

DAY

Arrival and Paro Exploration | Altitude: 2280m

Upon your arrival at Paro Airport, your guide and driver will warmly welcome you. You’ll be escorted to your hotel for check-in. In the afternoon, your exploration begins with a visit to Ta Dzong, an ancient watchtower transformed into the National Museum of Bhutan. Following that, a visit to Rinpung Dzong, constructed by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1646, provides insight into Bhutan’s history and culture. To conclude the day, you’ll experience the warmth of Bhutanese hospitality with a visit to a traditional Bhutanese farmhouse. Dinner and an overnight stay at your hotel await.

02

DAY

Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery

Your day commences with a hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, also known as Paro Taktsang. This spiritual journey takes approximately two hours and leads to the legendary monastery perched dramatically on a cliff. Legend has it that Guru Rinpoche, the tantric mystic, arrived here on the back of a flying tigress. In the afternoon, you’ll explore Drugyal Dzong, a fort built in 1647 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. You’ll also visit Kichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan, built in 659 A.D. Dinner and an overnight stay at your hotel complete the day.

03

DAY

Paro to Jele Dzong - The Commencement of Druk Path Trek | 10km Hike | 4-5 Hours | Altitude: 3560m

Your adventure takes a new turn today as you embark on the Druk Path Trek. The trek begins above the National Museum in Paro. You’ll hike for about three hours, reaching your campsite where you can enjoy a spectacular view of the Paro valley below. Dinner and an overnight stay at the camp await.

04

DAY

Jele Dzong to Jangchulakha

The trek kicks off with a short ascent, leading you through a lush alpine forest of rhododendrons. Dinner and an overnight stay at the camp, now situated at an altitude of 3770m, await.

05

DAY

Jangchulakha to Jimilangtso

This leg of your journey follows the ridge, offering awe-inspiring views of the surrounding mountains and valleys on clear days. Your campsite, Jimilangtso, is nestled near a serene lake. Dinner and an overnight stay at the camp, now at an altitude of 3870m, complete the day.

06

DAY

Jimilangtso to Simkota

The trail continues along the ridge, where the panoramic views of mountains and valleys continue to captivate. Your campsite, Simkota, is also located near a stunning lake. Dinner and an overnight stay at the camp, now at an altitude of 4110m, await.

07

DAY

Simkota to Thimphu - The Conclusion of the Druk Path Trek | 15km Hike | 6-7 Hours | Altitude: 2334m

Your journey descends from Simkota to Phajoding Monastery, from where you can gaze upon the Thimphu town in the valley below. This marks the end of the Druk Path Trek. After a hike of approximately 15km spanning 6-7 hours and reaching an altitude of 2334m, you’ll return to Thimphu for some well-deserved rest in your hotel. Dinner and an overnight stay at the hotel are included.

08

DAY

Thimphu Sightseeing | Altitude: 2334m

Your day in Thimphu begins with a visit to the National Memorial Chorten, built in honor of the third king, Late His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. The tallest statue of a sitting Buddha, standing at 51.5 meters, can be admired at Kuensel Phodrang. You’ll also visit Changangkha Lhakhang, the oldest temple in the Thimphu valley, and the Takin Preserve Center, home to the national animal of Bhutan. Another scenic viewpoint, Sangaygang, will be explored, offering stunning views of Thimphu city. Additionally, you’ll visit Dupthop Lhakhang, one of the few surviving nunneries in Bhutan. Lunch at the Simply Bhutan museum restaurant precedes your visit to the painting school, the School of 13 Arts and Crafts. The evening will be spent exploring the grand Tashichho Dzong, the Royal Secretariat, and the vibrant town for shopping and photography. Dinner and an overnight stay at your hotel will provide the perfect conclusion to the day.

09

DAY

Thimphu to Punakha | 76km Drive | Altitude: 1242m

The next morning, embark on a scenic drive to the beautiful Punakha Valley, covering a distance of 76km. Along the way, you’ll visit the Dochula Pass, situated at an altitude of 3140m, with its iconic 108 stupas and a panoramic view of the majestic Himalayas. If your visit coincides with the date, you can enjoy the annual Druk Wangyel Festival held here on 13th December. Your journey will also include a visit to Chimi Lhakhang, popularly known as the “Temple of Fertility” and built in 1499 to honor Lama Drukpa Kuenley, also known as “The Divine Madman.” Afternoon plans include a visit to Punakha Dzong, constructed in 1637 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal and serving as the winter residence of Je Khenpo, the Chief Abbot. In the evening, you’ll embark on a hike to the imperial Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Choling Monastery. The day ends with dinner and an overnight stay at your hotel.

10

DAY

Punakha to Thimphu | 90km Drive

In the morning, you’ll experience a unique walk across the longest suspension bridge in Bhutan, stretching 160m across the Pho Chu River. Drive to Thimphu via Wangdue Phodrang, where you can admire the Dzong built in 1638 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. In the afternoon, visit the Postal Museum, where you can even create personalized stamps. You’ll also witness an exciting archery match at Changlimithang Stadium. The evening is free for you to explore Thimphu, shop, and capture beautiful moments through photography. Dinner and an overnight stay at your hotel complete the day.

11

DAY

Departure

After breakfast, your journey through Bhutan comes to an end. Your guide and driver will take you to Paro Airport for your departure.

Trip Includes

Includes

Trip Cost Includes (On Tour):
  • All Meals [Breakfast /Lunch/Dinner and evening tea / coffee].
  • Accommodation [twin / double sharing basis]. Single room / tent supplement is extra.
  • All transportation within the country including airport transfers.
  • Sustainable development fee & government taxes.
  • Entrance fees for museums / monuments and festival visits.
  • Bhutan visa fee.
  • English speaking local guide.
  • Sightseeing.
  • Bottled water on tour.
Druk Path Trek Cost Includes:

Nature Recreation and Ecotourism Division (NRED) Nu.1000

  • One trekking guide.
  • Trekking cook.
  • Helpers.
  • Ponies and yaks.
  • Tents (Sleeping tent, mess tent, kitchen tent, toilet tent and shower tent etc.).
  • 3 meals a days + evening tea / coffee.
  • Mattresses and all other trekking accessories.

Note: For trekking, a load of 25 kg is allowed.

Excludes

  • Drukair / Bhutan Airlines fares.
  • Insurance premiums.
  • Payments for service provided on a personal basis.
  • Cost for any services not mentioned in the “Cost Include head”.
  • Cost incurred due to mishaps, strikes, political unrest etc.
  • Personal expenses such as laundry, soft drinks, camera charges, incidentals, portage, bellboy charges tips or any other services.

Making a difference

Leading the way in responsible tourism. We protect the environment, support local communities, and ensure a sustainable Himalayan future.

Planet

Travel Max Guide prioritizes environmental protection through eco-conscious practices to ensure the preservation of the Himalayas for future generations, drawing inspiration from the environmental commitment demonstrated by Western travelers during your treks.

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People

Travel Max Guide combines trekking and community support in the Himalayas. Join our mission, including orphan sponsorships and homestay/volunteer treks, and consider our CHILD SPONSORSHIP PROGRAM for underprivileged children.

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