Druk Path Trek is one of the finest short treks in Bhutan. Leading through an ancient trading route, over high mountain passes, it connects the valleys of Paro and Thimphu. Trail passes through spectacular rhododendron forests, alpine yak pastures and beautiful lakes stocked with snowy mountain trout.
The trek begins by walking up through apple orchards and pine forest past ruined Jele Dzong, a fortress which sits on a high grassy ridge with breath-taking views of Mt. Jumolhari to the north. In the next 4 days, the trek is above the tree line crossing several passes, including the Phume La at 4210m. En route, we come across clear mountain lakes, number of yak herder’s camps and splendid views of the Himalayas. Our final descent through pine and juniper forests via Phajoding monasteries lead into Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan.
ITINERARY
Day 1: Arrival Paro
Considered as one of the most spectacular flights, the flight to Paro crosses the Himalayan Mountains, affording grand views of the awesome peaks, including the sacred Jumolhari and Jichu Drake peaks in Bhutan.
On arrival you will be greeted by our Tour Representative and transferred to your hotel. Afternoon sightseeing entails a visit of the Paro Dzong, a fortress that was built in 1646 and now houses government offices and religious institutions. You can wrap up the day’s sightseeing with a tour of Kichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest and the most sacred temples in the country.
Overnight in Paro.
Day 2: Paro
Today we will be doing a preparatory acclimatization hike to Taktsang, the Tiger's Nest Monastery, Bhutan's most famous monastery at 3100m. Perched on the edge of a steep cliff, about 900 meters above the valley, legend has it that the 8th century Spiritual Master, Guru Rinpoche flew on the back of a tigress and meditated in a cave where Taktsang Monastery now stands.
You can spend the evening doing a leisurely stroll in the streets of Paro.
Overnight at Paro
THE START OF TREK
Day 3: Paro to Jele Dzong
Although today’s trekking day is short, we keep slow and steady pace as altitude gain is significant. After breakfast, you will drive to the road head at the National Museum above Paro from where you will start your trek. We will walk from the Museum heading up hill through apple orchards, smallholdings of Damchena village and pine forests.
Before hitting the campsite, there is an optional visit to Jele Dzong at 3,490m. Perched on a whaleback ridge, this 17th c fortress has been renovated and the statue of Buddha Sakyamuni reinstated in the main temple. On a clear day, the views of Paro town far below and Mt Jomolhari at7,314 m, are breathtaking.
Overnight camp at 3480 m.
Day 4: Jele Dzong to Jangchulakha
The trek begins with a gradual ascent and then a descent below the ridgeline through the trail of thick alpine forests and rhododendrons. There are fascinating views of Mt. Jhomolhari and other snowcapped mountains as you continue the uphill walk to reach a yak herders’ pasture at Jangchulakha at3,780 m. Today’s camp is in a yak pasture grounds near the hillside..
Overnight camp at 3,780 m
Day 5: Jangchulakha to Jimilangtsho Lake
The trail follows the ridge at times through juniper trees and dwarf rhododendrons. From the ridge, the views of the mountain valleys of Thimphu and Paro are sensational. After making an ascent and then a steep descent, we arrive at Jimilangtsho Lake at3, 880 m, which is famous for their giant sized trout. As you approach the camp, you can have great views of Mt. Jichu Drake, the peak representing the protective deity of Paro.
Overnight camp at 3,880 m.
Day 6: Jimilangtsho via Janetsho Lake to Simkota
The trail takes you through dwarf rhododendron trees and bypasses the lake of Janetsho. From here, the trail winds and undulates with magnificent view of the Himalaya across deep valleys. Simkotatsho Lake at 4,110 m can be seen below, after crossing one final spur. We continue our trek until we reach the yak pasture where we camp for tonight.
Overnight camp at 4,110 m.
Day 7: Simkota via Phajoding to Thimphu city
Today you will begin with a gradual climb to a small saddle at 4,150m from where you enjoy majestic view of Mount Gangkar Puensum and other himalayan peaks on clear weather. You will then descend to another small lake and then climb to the Phume La pass (4,210m) which is adorned with beautiful prayer flags. From here, you will enjoy great view of Thimphu city far below.
The trail slowly descends through junipers trees to a community hall near Phajoding (3,870m). Walk way downhiill to Thimphu through a forest of blue pine and juniper until you arrive the road head of Sangaygang on the outskirts of Thimphu valley.
Overnight at Thimphu
Day 8: Thimphu-Paro
Sightseeing in Thimphu encompass the visit of the Memorial Chorten, a huge stupa built in memory of the third king; the National Library, a repository of ancient manuscripts; and the Tashichho Dzong, the main secretariat building which houses the office of the King.
After sightseeing and lunch in Thimphu, it is a drive of about 2 hours to reach Paro.
Upon arrival at Paro, proceed to visit the Paro Dzong, the Taa Dzong, and the Kichu temple.
Overnight at Paro
Day 9: Departure
Your guide will pre check your flight timing and accordingly escort to to the airport and help you with your travel formalities, for the place of your destination
