Druk Path Trekking
5 Days | 4 Nights
- Spring & Fall
- Bus | Suv
- 4200 mm
- Medium
The Druk Path Trek is a scenic and moderate trekking route connecting the valleys of Paro and Thimphu. The trail crosses beautiful mountain ridges, alpine forests, and remote highlands, offering breathtaking views of Himalayan peaks such as Mount Jomolhari and Mount Jichu Drake. Along the way, trekkers pass crystal-clear alpine lakes, traditional yak herder camps, and sacred mountain passes before descending to the historic Phajoding Monastery overlooking Thimphu.
- Trek through scenic mountain passes between Paro and Thimphu
- Visit crystal-clear high-altitude lakes including Jimilang Tsho and Simkota Tsho
- Enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Jomolhari, Mount Jichu Drake, and distant Himalayan peaks
- Walk through beautiful rhododendron forests and alpine landscapes
- Experience traditional yak herder camps in Bhutan’s remote highlands
- Cross scenic Himalayan passes such as Jangchu La and Phume La
- Visit the sacred Phajoding Monastery, overlooking Thimphu Valley
Trek through Bhutan’s untouched wilderness with rich birdlife including the Himalayan Monal pheasant
Day 1 – Paro to Jele Dzong
Distance: 8 km | Duration: 3 hours | Altitude: 3,400 m. Drive from Paro to the trailhead near Ozone Villa, passing the historic National Museum of Bhutan. The trek begins with a gradual ascent through pine forests toward Jele La Pass. As you gain altitude, enjoy scenic views of the Paro valley below. Arrive at Jele Dzong, a ruined fortress perched on a ridge offering spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Overnight: Tented Campsite
Day 2 – Jele Dzong to Jangchulakha
Distance: 10 km | Duration: 3–4 hours | Altitude: 3,780 m
The trail passes through dense alpine forests filled with rhododendrons and moss-covered trees. From a scenic saddle at 3,590 m, enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Jomolhari (7,314 m). Wildlife sightings may include the colorful Himalayan Monal pheasant. The campsite is located near traditional yak herders’ settlements.
Overnight: Tented Campsite
Day 3 – Jangchulakha to Jimilang Tsho
Distance: 11 km | Duration: 6–7 hours | Altitude: 3,870 m
Today’s trail follows a ridge leading to Jangchu La Pass (4,180 m), where colorful prayer flags mark the mountain pass. Descend toward Jimilang Tsho, also known as Sand Ox Lake, famous for its giant trout and peaceful alpine scenery. Along the way, enjoy excellent views of Mount Jichu Drake (6,989 m), considered the guardian deity mountain of the Paro region.
Overnight: Tented Campsite
Day 4 – Jimilang Tsho to Simkota Tsho
Distance: 11 km | Duration: 4 hours | Altitude: 4,040 m
The trail passes through rolling alpine meadows dotted with dwarf rhododendrons and yak herder camps. Along the route you will pass the beautiful Janetsho Lake before reaching Simkota Tsho, another stunning high-altitude lake surrounded by mountain scenery.
Overnight: Tented Campsite
Day 5 – Simkota Tsho to Thimphu via Phajoding
Distance: 10 km | Duration: 6–7 hours Begin the day with a gradual ascent to Phume La Pass (4,210 m), where prayer flags flutter across the ridge. On clear days, trekkers can enjoy distant views of Mount Gangkhar Puensum (7,541 m), the highest unclimbed mountain in the world. The trail descends past Thujidrag Goemba, a cliffside meditation retreat, and continues through forests of juniper and blue pine. Arrive at Phajoding Monastery, one of Bhutan’s most important pilgrimage sites overlooking Thimphu. Descend to the trailhead where you will be transferred by road to your hotel in Thimphu.
Overnight: Hotel
Package Includes
- Bhutan Tourist Visa processing and fee
- Licensed English-speaking trekking guide
- All trekking permits and park entry fees
- Tented camping accommodation during the trek
- Hotel accommodation before and after the trek
- All meals during the trek (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
- Trekking support team including cook and camp staff
- Horses or yaks for carrying trekking equipment
- Private transportation throughout the trip
- Government taxes and service charges
Package Excludes
- International airfare
- Travel insurance
- Personal trekking equipment
- Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks
- Tips for guide and trekking crew
- Personal expenses such as laundry and souvenirs
- Additional costs due to weather delays or unforeseen circumstances
Trek Difficulty: The Druk Path Trek is considered a moderate trek, suitable for travelers with reasonable fitness and some hiking experience.
Best Time to Trek: The best seasons are spring (April–June) when rhododendrons bloom and autumn (September–November) when the skies are clear and mountain views are spectacular.
Altitude Information: The trek reaches elevations of over 4,200 meters, so gradual acclimatization and hydration are important.
Trekking Accommodation: Accommodation during the trek is in tented camps, fully supported by an experienced trekking crew including cooks and support staff.
Travel Documents