Druk Path Trek –
9 days
Summary
The Druk Path is Bhutan’s most iconic short trekking route, weaving through high ridges, ancient temples, yak-grazing meadows, and pristine alpine lakes between Paro and Thimphu. This 8-day journey blends cultural discovery with Himalayan wilderness: from exploring Paro and hiking to the legendary Tiger’s Nest to crossing rhododendron forests, camping beside crystal-clear lakes, and finishing at the sacred monasteries above Thimphu. Ideal for travellers seeking a rewarding but accessible Himalayan adventure with breathtaking views, peaceful campsites, and deep cultural immersion.
- Private trek and tour with a licensed English-speaking guide
- All airport, hotel, and trek transfers in a private HiAce (or similar) for 4–6 pax
- Accommodation on twin sharing in Paro & Thimphu: 3-star hotels. During trek: fully serviced tented camps. (Single room supplement at $ 60)
- Meals: breakfast & dinner at hotels, lunch in local restaurants or packed on trek
- All trekking logistics:
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- Sleeping tents (2-person) with carpeted floor, mattress, pillow & tent light
- Dining tent with tables, chairs, crockery & lighting
- Kitchen tent with full kitchen set and staff
- Toilet tent and simple shower tent
- Hot water bags in camp (where needed)
- First aid box and basic medical kit on trek
- Sustainable development fee (SDF), currently USD 100 per person per night
- Bhutan visa fee (one-time USD 40)
- Entrance fees to monuments and museums
- Bottled drinking water during drive days and boiled/filtered water on trek
- Full support from trekking crew, including cook, assistants, and horse/pack animal handlers
- International flights
- Travel and medical insurance (mandatory for trekking)
- Personal expenses: alcoholic and soft drinks, snacks, laundry, phone/internet, spa, etc.
- Tips for guide, driver, and trekking staff
Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival in Paro
- Airport pick-up and transfer to hotel
- Check-in, rest, and acclimatization (2,280 m)
- Optional visit to Paro Dzong or local market
- Trek briefing and equipment check
- Dinner featuring Bhutanese cuisine
Overnight in Paro
Day 02: Paro – Tiger’s Nest Acclimatization Hike
Morning
- Drive to trailhead and hike to Tiger’s Nest (3,180 m) – 4–5 hours
- Tea house stop and monastery visit
Afternoon
- Lunch at the tea house or base
- Return hike and drive back to Paro
Evening
- Gear check and rest
Overnight in Paro
Day 03: Paro – Jele Dzong (Start of Trek)
- Short drive to Ta Dzong (National Museum)
- Begin trek through forests to Jele Dzong (3,400 m) – 4–5 hours
- Explore the small monastery and enjoy valley views
- Settle into camp and dinner
Overnight in camp at Jele Dzong
Day 04: Jele Dzong – Jangchulakha
- Gradual ascent through rhododendron forests (3,650 m) – 3–4 hours
- Picnic lunch on the trail
- Arrive at high-pasture camp with Himalayan views
- Dinner and stargazing
Overnight in camp at Jangchulakha
Day 05: Jangchulakha – Jimilangtsho
- Trek across meadows and ridges to Jimilangtsho Lake (3,870 m) – 4–5 hours
- Lunch by the lake and time to explore
- Camp beside the water, surrounded by mountain scenery
Overnight in camp at Jimilangtsho
Day 06: Jimilangtsho – Simkotra Tsho
- Trail ascends steadily through forests and rocky terrain – 4–5 hours
- Packed lunch en route
- Arrive at high-altitude lake Simkotra Tsho (4,110 m)
- Evening at camp with clear night skies
Overnight in camp at Simkotra Tsho
Day 07: Simkotra Tsho – Thimphu (End of Trek)
- Sunrise at the lake and start descent toward Thimphu – 5–6 hours
- Pass Phajodhing monastery and hermitage sites
- Reach Thimphu and transfer to hotel
- Free time or optional city stroll
Overnight in Thimphu
Day 08: Thimphu
- Visit The national Institute of Arts and Craft
- Buddha Point
- Tashi Chhodzong
- Visit Kaja Throm centennial Farmers market
- Celebration dinner
Overnight in Thimphu
Day 09: Thimphu – Paro Departure
- Drive to Paro Airport (1.5 hours)
- Departure according to your flight schedule
End of the Druk Path Trek
