Druk Path Trek is one of the most popular treks in Bhutan. It is a short and scenic trek with some great views, River, and beautiful lakes en route. Although it leads up to altitudes above 4,000 m, it is not too strenuous as walking distances between the camps are not too long. Besides the lakes, it is the Phadjoding monastery that is one of the highlights of this trek. Our 10 days itinerary includes Paro and Thimphu sightseeing as well. Thus, 10 days Druk Path Trek package could probably be the best option to explore Bhutan.
Day 01: Arrive Paro
Day 02: Paro sightseeing
Day 03: Paro - Jili dzong
Day 04: Jili Dzong – Jangchulakha
Day 05: Jangchulakha – Jimilang Tsho
Day 06: Jimilang Tsho – Simkotra Tsho
Day 07: Simkotra Tsho – Phajoding
Day 08: Phajodhing – Mothitang
Day 09: Thimphu sightseeing
Day 10: Thimphu – Paro Airport
Arrive Paro by Druk Air. During this flight, one will experience breathtaking views of Mt. Everest, Kanchen Junga and other Himalayan peaks, including sacred Chomolhari and Mt. Jichu Drake in Bhutan. On arrival at Paro our representative will receive you. Drive through Paro valley is enchanting. After lunch you will be taken to the Ta-dzong (museum). Overnight at hotel.
Drive the winding road Northwest up the Pa Chu to Drukgyal dzong, the ruined fort, which once defended this valley from Tibetan invasions. Mt. Chomolhari, the sacred summit, reaches skyward beyond the dzong. This can be viewed on a clear day. On the way back visit of typical Bhutanese farmhouse.
Excursion to Taktsang. Spend whole day hiking to Taktsang, the Tiger's Nest. This magical monastery clings to a vertical granite cliff 3,00 mtrs. above the valley. Legend says that Guru Padmasambhava flew here on the back of a tigress for the purpose of his journey. When the Guru finished his meditation, he instructed that the monastery to be built. Overnight in hotel.
Distance seven km, four to five hours, 1,090m ascent, camp altitude 3,480m. The first day is a long day as you have to climb more than 1,000m elevation. You start from the Ta Dzong (National Museum) in Paro. The trek follows a gravel road past a few farms for about 30 minutes and then climbs up a steep ridge before leading through blue pine and fir forests to Damche Gom. Once you reach the ridge below Jili Dzong you descend about 100m to the campsite below Jili Dzong.
Distance 10 km, four to five hours, 310m ascent, 50m descent, camp altitude 3,770m. You begin with a climb for about an hour and a half and then ascend gradually up. The trail takes you through thick alpine forest and dwarf rhododendron tress. You may see yaks and yak herders around your campsite.
Distance 11 km, four hours, 230m descent, 330m ascent, camp altitude – 3,870m.
The trail follows the ridge and on a clear day the view of the mountains and valley are beautiful. The campsite is close to the Jimilang Tsho Lake. The lake is known for its giant sized trout.
Distance 11 km, four hours, 820m ascent, 400 m descent, camp altitude 4,110m.
The trail takes you through dwarf rhododendron trees and Janetso Lake. You may come across some yak herder’s camps where you will have the opportunity to get a glimpse of a nomad’s life. The campsite is close to Simkotra Tsho Lake.
Distance 10 km, three to four hours, 130m ascent, 680m descent, camp altitude 3,750m.
The trek begins with a gradual climb. If the weather permits, you will have a spectacular view of Mount Gangkar Puensum, the highest mountain in Bhutan and other Himalayan peaks. From this pass, the trek takes you downhill to Phajodhing for a nights halt. The camp is above Phadjoding.
Distance four to five km, three hours, 1,130 m descent.
After passing Phadjoding monastery, the trek to Thimphu (Mothitang) is all the way downhill through a forested area of mostly blue pine. The walk, at a leisurely pace, takes about three hours.
Full day of sightseeing and shopping in Thimphu. Stroll around town; visit the Handicrafts Emporium. Visit the workshop where all the handicrafts are produced. Afternoon: visit Tashichhodzong and Memorial Chorten. Overnight at the hotel.
Drive to Paro Airport for onward flight.
