Druk Path Trek - 12 Days - Mountain Highest Peaks Hiking and Trekking Adventures

(Exploring Bhutan’s Scenic Wonders – 12-Day Journey)

The Druk Path Trek is another popular trekking route in Bhutan, renowned for its scenic beauty and cultural significance. This trek takes you through the pristine wilderness of Bhutan while allowing you to immerse yourself in the country’s rich culture and history.

The Druk Path Trek typically starts from Paro, just like the Chomolhari Trek, and covers a distance of approximately 60-70 kilometers (37-43 miles). The trek usually takes around 12 days to complete, making it a shorter alternative to the Chomolhari Trek.

The route passes through high mountain passes, dense rhododendron forests, and picturesque alpine lakes, offering trekkers a diverse range of landscapes.

Itinerary

Day 1 - Arrival in Paro

Upon your arrival at Paro International Airport, a breathtaking panorama of the Himalayan peaks, including the revered Chomolhari and Jichu Drake, will greet you. Transfer to Hotel Gangtey Palace and after a brief rest, embark on a Paro sightseeing tour. Visit the National Museum, housed in the Ta-Dzong, and explore the historic Paro Rinchen Pong Dzong.

Day 2 - Taktsang Hike and Paro Sightseeing

Begin early with a hike to the iconic Taktsang Monastery, perched on a precipitous rocky ledge. After the hike, visit Kichu Monastery, one of Bhutan’s oldest.

Day 3 - 4 - Full Days at the Paro Festival

Immerse yourself in the vibrant festivities of the Paro festival.

Day 5 - Start the Druk Path Trek - Paro to Jangchulakha

Commence the Druk Path Trek with a trek from Paro to Jangchulakha, passing through dense alpine forests and encountering yak herders.

Day 6 - Jangchulakha to Jimilangtso

The trail offers stunning ridge views, leading to Lake Jimilangtso, known for its giant trout.

Day 7 - Jimilangtso to Simkota

Trek through dwarf rhododendron forests and the Janetso lake area, catching glimpses of yak herders’ camps.

Day 8 - Simkota to Phajoding to Thimphu

Descend from Dochula pass, witnessing panoramic mountain vistas. Arrive in Thimphu after passing Phajoding Cafeteria.

Day 9 - Thimphu Sightseeing

Explore Thimphu’s cultural highlights, including Tashichho Dzong, handicrafts emporium, painting schools, Memorial Chorten, National Library, and Simtokha Dzong.

Day 10 - More of Thimphu's Sights

Visit Sangyegang viewpoint, the Takin sanctuary, Changgangkha Monastery, Folk Heritage Museum, and the National Textile Museum.

Day 11 - Thimphu to Punakha and Wangdi Phodrang

Drive to Punakha, stop at Dochula pass for Himalayan vistas, visit Punakha Dzong and Khamsum Yule Monastery. Then explore Wangdi Phodrang and return to Paro.

Day 12 - Departure from Paro

Bid farewell to Bhutan as you depart from Paro International Airport, carrying memories of a remarkable journey. Embark on this 12-day exploration of Bhutan’s cultural riches, natural beauty, and spiritual wonders through the Druk Path Trek and beyond.

Cost Includes

Eleven nights of accommodation in quality twin-sharing hotels in Bhutan, adhering to local Bhutanese standards, and selecting high-quality properties.
A full-board meal plan providing three meals daily.
Comprehensive ground transportation, encompassing both arrival and departure.
The services of an English-speaking local tour guide who will accompany you throughout the trip.
Payment of royalty and government taxes.
Provision of riding ponies and pack animals for treks.
Entrance fees to temples and monasteries included in the itinerary.

Cost does not Include

Visa fees: US$20 per person and Bhutan Tourism Development Fee (TDF) US$10 per person, payable directly upon arrival at Paro Airport Immigration.
International airfares.
Personal travel and medical insurance.
Expenses related to alcoholic and soft beverages, telephone usage, laundry services, and tips.
Festival surcharge of US$30 per night per person, calculated based on the number of nights spent at the festival.
Charges incurred due to delays arising from situations beyond our control, such as adverse weather, natural disasters, civil unrest, and emergency rescue expenses.

Druk Path Trek – 12 Days