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DRUK PATH TREK

It begins above Ta Dzong (at 2500m) and on the first day, you climb 1000m to your campsite just below Jela Dzong ( at 3,500m). The dzong dates back to the fifteenth century and the large Lhakhang has an impressive 4-meter tall statue of Sakyamuni Buddha.

On a clear day, there are stunning views of Jomolhari and other peaks from here. Your next day’s walk takes you to Jangchulakha where you camp at 22,300ft/3,750m.

The following day’s walk also promises a good view of Jomolhari and Jichu Drakye, ending up on the shores of a scintillating lake – Jimilang Tsho (Sand Ox Lake) at 12,694ft/3,870m. You then walk past Janye Tsho at the camp above Simkotra Tsho at the end of the day. This is your highest camping point at an altitude of 13,448ft/4,100m. The lastday of your trek are spent descending into Thimphu valley and visiting the Phajoding monastery and Thujidrag gompa.

Druk Path Trek Difficulty

  • The  difficulty level is medium.
  • Highest Altitude: 4235m
  • Average Walking Time: 5 Hours
  • Average Walking Distance: 11Km
Day 01: Explore Paro valley

Fly to Paro. After visa formalities at the Paro airport, your guide will meet you and drive you into town for lunch. 

After lunch you can visit the following historical places:

  • Paro Rinpung Dzong is literally translated as the Fortress on the heap of jewels. It is the administrative seat of Paro District and the annual Paro festival is held here.
  • Ta Dzong: It was built as a watchtower. It was converted into a national museum in 1968. You can witness the finest specimen of Bhutanese art, masterpieces of bronze statues and paintings.
  • In the evening you all can visit Namgay Artisanal Brewery and try out different flavors of beer manufactured there or you can stroll in Paro town.

Overnight: Hotel in Paro

The first day of the trek is a gradual climb from Dopshari, Paro at 2,300 meters above sea level till 3,450 meters at Jele Dzong. Camp the night at Jele Dzong and if the weather favors you can see Paro valley with Mt. Jumolhari (7,314 meters) and snow-capped mountains behind the valley.

Distance: 8 Kms

Walking Time: 5 Hours

Overnight: Camp at Jele Dzong (3,450 Meters).

  • The trek begins with a slow rise and then descends past the dense alpine and rhododendrons forests. You may come across nomads rearing their hefty mammals, yaks. The beautiful view of Mt Jomolhari is an evident sight to catch. After trekking uphill you will reach a yak herder’s pasture  at Jangchulakha (3,760 meters) with magnificent views of the Himalayan range . There are two camping options nearby : follow the lower trail to quickly reach often boggy camping stop at Tshokham(3780m), or take higher trail for 25minutes to yak herder’s camp at Rabana (3890m), surrounded by rhododendrons.

    Distance: 10 Kms

    Walking Time: 3-4 Hours

    Overnight: Campsite at Jangchulakha, Tshokham (3,780 Meters)

The trail goes along a ridge and through various vegetation types, including dwarf rhododendrons and juniper trees. The views of both Thimphu and Paro from the mountains are spectacular. After a steep descent, we reach the lake at Jimilangtsho (3,880 meters above sea level). The lake is known for its large trout and is located near the camp. The overnight camp is close to the lake.

Distance: 11 Kms

Walking Time: 5- 6 Hours

Overnight: Campsite at Jimilangtsho Lake (3,880 Meters)

The trail is a journey that treads across dwarf rhododendron trees and detours skirts the lake of Janetsho. The trek eventually leads to a camp of the local yak herders where you can discover the nomadic life in the mountains of Bhutan. The trail offers magnificent views of the Himalayas as it winds through deep valleys until the Simkota Tsho Lake (4,110 m) can be seen from below. After crossing one final spur, the trail continues to reach the pasture where we will stay for the night.

Distance: 11 Kms

Walking Time: 6 Hours

Overnight: Campsite at Simkota Tsho Lake (4,110 Meters)

The trail is good but there are a few minor climbs to small passes before you finally look down to Phajoding Monastery and Thimphu city. Monks frequently pass from here on their way to meditate at the sacred lake Jimilang Tsho. After almost 2 -3 hours of trek, we will reach the highest pass which stands at an altitude of 4,210 meters. There is a good view over the last part of the trek: a steep descent to the Phajoding monastery. From here the trail starts with the steep descending slowly through thick forest for another 2-3 hours until we reach the motor road. Bid farewell to the trekking team and then drive to the hotel in Thimphu passing the Royal Takin preserve where the National Animal of Bhutan can be seen.

Distance: 14-15 Kms

Walking Time: 7-8 Hours

Overnight: Hotel in Thimphu 

 

Drukpath Trek Ends…

Early in the morning drive to Kuenselphodrang where the world’s tallest Buddha Statue (169 feet) sits overlooking the Thimphu Valley. Enjoy the spectacular view of Thimphu city.

Hike to Taktsang Monastery: The Taktsang, popularly known as the “Tiger’s Nest” is perched on the cliff edge at a height of 900 m above the Paro valley. It is considered the signature spot for tourists visiting Bhutan. Capture the awe-inspiring view of the monastery.

Later we will try out a traditional hot stone bath which could be relaxing after a day’s hike. Try farmhouse dinner and play a hands-on game of archery.

Overnight: Hotel in Paro

Your Bhutan tour ends. Our guide and driver will drop you to the Airport and bid you farewell.

Package Inclusion

  • A Sustainable Tourism Royalty (SDF) to the Royal Government of Bhutan which goes towards the economic developmental works such as in the education, helath, road sectors, etc.,

  • Bhutan Visa

  • Accommodations in 3- star properties. (Can be upgraded to 4 & 5-star with additional Premium)

  • All Meals (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)

  • Certified English Speaking Bhutanese Guide.

  • All ground transportation

  • All internal taxes and charges including Entry Fees

  • Mineral Water while traveling

Package Exclusion

  • Airfare (Can be arranged with us)

  • Travel Insurance

  • Any Expenses of Personal Nature