Trekking in Bhutan - Druk Path Trek

This short 5-day Druk Path trek goes from Paro valley to Thimphu (or vice versa), crossing a chain of mountains that separates the two valleys. Although there are v very few villages to see, there are wonderful lakes teeming with fish at 4000 meters (13,000 feet) and spectacular rhododendron forests that bloom in May. In clear weather there are magnificent views of the high Himalayan peaks.The Druk Path trek can be done in all seasons, but the best times are from October to November and March to May. Bhutan's best short trek. Although this is a short trek, it still goes to high altitude at an elevation of 4210 meters / 13,808 ft., making it moderately strenuous. This trek with panoramic views of northern Himalayan ranges and sacred lakes with beautiful scenic views of lush green valleys is a paradise for natural lover. Beginning from Paro Valley and entering into Thimphu valley, this trek also offers visits to the monuments of these two valleys.

Duration: Maximum - 11 Days
All the treks of Bhutan (Neighboring State of India) is connected by 'Air' with Delhi.
Best time to Visit: March, April, May, September, October & November.

ITINERARY

Day 01: Fly From Delhi To Kathmandu - Paro

  • Flight to Paro is breathtaking, with views of snowcapped peaks and the lush pristine valleys of Bhutan as you approach Paro. Your Bhutanese escort will greet you on arrival, and then drive to the Hotel.

  • Day 02: Sightseeing in Paro

  • After breakfast visit, Drukgyal Dzong, Satsam Chorten, Kyichu Temple, National Museum (Ta Dzong) and other places of interest. Overnight at hotel.
  • Day 03: DOPSHARI -JILI DZONG, 10 Kms, 5 hours

  • Start with a short walk to Jili Dzong, which you can see atop a ridge above Paro. From Dobshari the trail crosses a brook and makes a long gradual climb to a wooded crest. It's then a gentle walk along the ridge to campsite in a Yak pasture at 3,450m/11,488ft.

  • Day 04: Jili Dzong - Jangchup Lakha, 10 Kms, 3-4 hours

  • After crossing the pass the route stays below the ridge, climbing through thick alpine forest and rhododendron to a saddle at 3,590m/11,954ft. The trail goes from one side of the ridge to the other, following it north to a Yak herders camp at Jangchu Lakha, 3,780m/12,587ft. Overnight at Camp.

  • Day 05: Jangchup Lakha - Jimilang Tsho, 11 Kms, 4 hours

  • The trail follows the ridge for about one and half-hours to a saddle at 4040m/13,453ft, then drops a bit and follows the ridge back to Jangchu La at 4,180m/13,919ft. Descend to a camp at 3,880m/12,920ft, close to the large Jimilangtsho Lake (Sand Ox Lake), Overnight at Camp.

  • Day 06: Jimilangtsho - Simkota Tsho, 11 Kms, 4 hours

  • The trail climbs through dwarf rhododendron to the lake of Janye Tsho, another yak herder's camp. It's a short climb along the side of the ridge and then a short, steep descent to camp at 4040/13,453ft. close to Simkota Tsho, where there is another chance to fish for trout. Overnight at Camp.
  • Day 07 : Simkota - Phajoding-Thimphu, 15 Kms, 5/6 hrs

  • Day of seventh a long, arduous walk awaits you. Start before the sun is up. Climb up, switch backing to the top of the ridge in front. A tough ascent on the mountainside for an hour from the ridge top takes you to the moraThe day begins with a gradual climb to a saddle at 4,180m/13,919ft. A short descent leads past another small lake, then the trail climbs to Phume La 4,210m/14,019ft, where you are greeted by array of prayer flags. During clear weather if you look straight ahead you will see the views of Gangkar Puensum (the highest unclimbed peak in the world) and other Himalayan peaks here. Below you will see the view of entire Thimphu valley the capital city. The route then descends pass Thujidrag temple, a retreat center that hangs on the side of a precipitous rock face. The descent continues through juniper trees until you arrive at Thimphu (2500m/8200ft). Overnight at hotel.

  • Day 08 : Sightseeing in Thimphu

  • The day begins with visits to the National Memorial Chorten, Dupthop Lhakhang ( Monastery for the nuns), National Library, painting school, Indigenous Hospital and other places of interest. Overnight at hotel.
  • Day 09 : Thimphu – Punkha Dzong

  • 3 hour drive to Punkha across the Dochula Pass. Light refreshment will be served at Dochula Cafe. Lunch at Hotel Zantopelri. After lunch visit the Punkha Dzong. O/N at Hotel Zantopelri
  • Day 10 : Punkha Dzong – Thimphu

  • In the morning drive 3 hour to Gantay Gompa. Pack lunch will be served. After lunch drive back to Thimphu. O/N at Druk Hotel.
  • Day 11 : Thimphu - Paro – Kathmandu

  • Early morning drive to Paro for departure to Kathmandu and transfer to Hotel.
  • Important Facts of Druk Path Trek

    Duration : Maximum - 11 Days
    Trek Grade: - Easy to Moderate.
    Maximum Altitude: - 4000m/13100ft.
    Maximum Camp Altitude: - 3800m/12500ft.
    Availability: - Group Tours are available. Private treks are available on request.