One of Bhutan’s most popular short treks, the Druk Path connects Paro and Thimphu through stunning landscapes and historical sites. This moderate trek offers spectacular views of the Himalayas and visits to ancient temples.
Tour Name: Druk Path
Trek Duration: 6 Days / 5 Nights
Trek Distance: 50 km
Highest Altitude: 4,200 meters
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Destinations Covered: Paro, Jili Dzong, Jimilang Tsho, Phajoding, Thimphu
Paro International Airport (Google Map)
◦ Trek through forests of rhododendron and alpine meadows
◦ Visit ancient monasteries like Phajoding and Simkotra Tsho
◦ Panoramic views of Mt. Jomolhari and surrounding peaks
◦ Camping by high-altitude lakes
◦ Explore Thimphu and Paro before and after the trek
Activities:
▪ Arrive at Paro International Airport and receive a warm Bhutanese welcome.
▪ Visit the historic Rinpung Dzong, a fortress that offers stunning views of the valley.
▪ Explore the National Museum (Ta Dzong) for insights into Bhutan’s history and culture.
▪ Rest and prepare for the trek the next day.
◦ Overnight: Paro
◦ Trek Distance: 10 km
◦ Altitude: 3,480 meters
◦ Trek Duration: 4-5 hours
◦ Activities:
▪ Start your trek from Ta Dzong (National Museum), gradually ascending through forests of blue pine and rhododendrons.
▪ Arrive at Jili Dzong, a 16th-century fortress with a spectacular view of the Paro Valley.
▪ If time permits, visit the Lhakhang (temple) inside the dzong.
▪ Camp near the dzong under a starry sky.
◦ Overnight: Camp at Jili Dzong
◦ Trek Distance: 10 km
◦ Altitude: 3,770 meters
◦ Trek Duration: 4-5 hours
◦ Activities:
▪ Trek through dense forests of juniper, hemlock, and dwarf rhododendrons.
▪ You may spot yaks grazing along the trail, especially as you pass yak herders’ camps.
▪ Arrive at the campsite near Jangchulakha, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
◦ Overnight: Camp at Jangchulakha
◦ Trek Distance: 11 km
◦ Altitude: 3,870 meters
◦ Trek Duration: 4-5 hours
◦ Activities:
▪ Continue along the ridgeline, enjoying views of the majestic Himalayas on a clear day, including Mount Jomolhari.
▪ Descend to Jimilang Tsho, a beautiful alpine lake famous for its large trout.
▪ Set up camp near the lake, surrounded by a tranquil environment.
◦ Overnight: Camp at Jimilang Tsho
◦ Trek Distance: 10 km
◦ Altitude: 3,610 meters
◦ Trek Duration: 5-6 hours
◦ Activities:
▪ Hike past Janetso and several other smaller lakes, continuing your trek through scenic alpine terrain.
▪ Pass through dwarf rhododendron bushes and descend towards Phajoding, a sacred site with a monastery that offers views of Thimphu Valley.
▪ Camp near Phajoding Monastery.
◦ Overnight: Camp at Phajoding
◦ Trek Distance: 5 km
◦ Altitude: 2,350 meters
◦ Trek Duration: 3 hours
◦ Activities:
▪ Descend through blue pine forests towards Thimphu. The trek offers beautiful views of the valley below as you approach the capital city.
▪ Upon arrival in Thimphu, take a short rest and explore the city.
▪ Visit Tashichho Dzong or Buddha Dordenma for one last experience of Bhutan’s cultural highlights.
▪ Free evening to enjoy the local markets and atmosphere.
◦ Overnight: Thimphu
