Overview
- Journey style
- Trekking
- Route
- Paro · Thimphu
- Flexibility
- Private and fully customisable
The Druk Path trek follows an ancient mule track that links the Thimphu and Paro valleys. The trek passes through forests of blue pine and offers breathtaking views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks. On this itinerary you camp a night beside the picturesque Jimilang Tsho lake; the extended variant continues past Simkota Tsho as well. The trail is known for its vibrant rhododendron forest, which blooms in May. The trek can also be shortened to three nights of camping.
For the full brief — the route day by day, honest difficulty, camp life and what it costs — read our Druk Path Trek guide.
Trekking is one of the ways to free oneself from the clutches of the daily routine and immerse in nature. This trek offer you with the opportunities to witness the following:
- The picturesque Paro and Thimphu valley
- The view of the Himalayan peaks from the trekking trails
- Camp in a yak pasture near the hillside
- Immersing with the Yak herders to gain insight into their way of life
- Walk through the forests of blue pine and juniper
While on trek the following are included
Highlights
- Seasons: Spring (Mar–May) & Autumn (Sep–Nov); winter possible in good conditions
- Camp site Fees
- Two person tents
- All meals (Veg/Non-Veg as per your preferences)
- Foam mattresses
- Eating utensils
- Dining & toilet tents
- Pack Ponies to transport equipment
Price includes
- A minimum of 3-star accommodation (4 & 5 stars can be upgraded at an additional fee)
- All meals / Tea & snacks
- All internal transport (excluding Domestic flights)
- Sightseeing with entrance fees
- An experienced English speaking tour leader
- Bottled water in the vehicle
- Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), government fees & visa fee
Price excludes
- Flights
- Travel & Health Insurance
- Additional personal expenses such as souvenirs, meals, snacks, alcohol, laundry, tips, and gratuities for the tour leader and staff.
- Sleeping bags, Walking stick & Water bottles during the trek
The Sustainable Development Fee, visa and permits are all included — see how the Bhutan visa & permits process works.
Day by day
Itinerary
Day 01 Arrival: Paro Sightseeing
Elevation: 2350m / 7710ft
Paro sightseeing
Attractions
- Paro Rinpung Dzong
- Ta Dzong (Paro National Museum)
- Kyichu Temple
- Explore in Paro Town
Overnight at the hotel in Paro
Day 02 Paro Taktsang Hike & acclimatization
Hiking Duration: Approx. 5 to 6 hrs roundtrip
Elevation: 3120m / 10236ft
Day Hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery (Approx. 5-6 hrs round trip)
The hike up to the Taktsang Monastery gives us the opportunity to acclimatize to the country’s altitude and prepares us for the trek the next day.
Attractions
- Hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery
- Explore at Paro Town
Overnight at the hotel in Paro
Day 03 Trek Starts - Paro (Damchona) to Jangchulakha via Jele Dzong
Trekking Distance: 13.5 km / approx. 6 hrs from Paro (Damchona) to Jangchulakha
Elevation: 3600m/ 11811ft
Begin with a one and a half hour climb and then ascend more gradually upwards.
Attractions:
- View of Jumolhari and other snowcapped peaks
- Yak herders around the campsite
Overnight in the camp
Day 04 Jangchulakha to Jimilangtsho
Walking Distance: 11 km, 5 hours (290m Ascent)
Elevation: 3870m/ 12696ft
The trail follows the ridge, and on a clear day the views of the mountains and valley are sensational.
Attractions:
- A great view of Jichu Drake (6,989m)
- The Jimilangtsho lake (camping site)
Overnight in the camp
Day 05 Jimilangtsho to Labana
Walking Duration: 14 km/ 6-7 hrs (270m Ascent)
Elevation: 4100m/ 13448ft
The day’s trek starts with an 8 km ascent, followed by a 6 km descent. On clear days, you may catch stunning views of Mt. Gangkar Puensum (7,570 m), Bhutan’s highest peak, and other Himalayan giants. Even in cloudy weather, the pristine lakes are a delight.
Tonight’s campsite is near a pond with a stone stupa left by previous trekkers, perfect for an
evening stroll.
Overnight campsite.
Day 06 Labana to Thimphu | Trek Ends
Trek Duration: 12 km/4-5 hrs
Trek Start point: Labana camp (4100 m)
After breakfast, we start off on our journey from Labana crossing the highest point in this trek, the Labana pass (4210m).
Along the trail, enjoy the bird’s eye view of the entire Thimphu valley. Crossing the monastery through a forest of Blue Pine, the trek ends at Thimphu (2300m); where at the road head, your vehicle will be waiting for you to transfer you to your hotel for a warm shower and a well-deserved rest.
Overnight at the hotel in Thimphu
Day 07 Thimphu Sightseeing
Elevation: 2350m / 7710ft
Thimphu Sightseeing
Attractions
- National Memorial Chorten
- Buddha Point
- Centenary farmer’s market
- Tashichho Dzong
- Bhutanese Authentic Local Crafts Bazaar
- Evening: Free to explore Thimphu Town
Overnight at the hotel in Thimphu
Day 08 Thimphu – Paro- Departure
Driving Duration: 47 km / 1 to 1.5 hrs
Elevation: 2350m / 7710ft
After an early breakfast, we drive on to Paro to catch the flight and bid you farewell.
Like the look of this itinerary? Every departure is customisable.
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In pictures
