• Duration 8 Days
  • Trip Grade Easy

    The easy grade is if you do not find any difficulties to trip. The trip reaches up to 3000 meters in altitude. The trails will not be rugged, and these types of trips are highly suitable for family trips. The trips are generally around one week.

  • Country Bhutan

The Druk Path trek is one of the incredible trekking programs in Bhutan. It is both adventurous and culturally immersive. On this 8-day trip, you will explore an old trade route between Paro and Thimphu and visit many centuries-old monuments.

Bhutan, the land of thunder dragon, is one of the most isolated nations on Earth. Located in the eastern Himalayan range between India and the People's Republic of China, Bhutan offers an exclusive journey that only privileged travelers get to experience.

The Druk Path trail passes through pristine landscapes and spectacular mountain terrain. Learn about Bhutan's history, ancient culture, and unique traditions. Visit many museums and historical sites in Paro and Thimphu.

While on the trail, cross Phume La Pass (4,210 m) and witness beautiful valleys, rivers, and lakes. Likewise, you will also get to see mountain views of Chomolhari (7,326 m), Jichu Drake (6,989 m), Mt. Gangkar Puensum (7,570 m), etc.

The intricate Bhutanese architecture, illustrations, relics, and craftsmanship add more edge to the trek. You will discover picturesque valleys and villages. Likewise, explore ancient dzongs, monasteries, and temples.

Is Druk Path trekking for you?

The Druk Path trek is not a very easy program. It involves four days of trekking from Paro to Thimphu. The trek is not very challenging but demands decent fitness. So, are you fit and can you walk 5 to 6 hours a day?

If your answer is yes then we highly recommend the Druk Path trek 8 days to you. It is one of the finest holiday packages in Bhutan that lets you experience everything this beautiful country has to offer.

Major attractions of Bhutan Druk Path trek

Paro

In Paro, you will visit the Ta Dzong, an old war watchtower with a huge collection of relics, art, postage stamps, and thangka paintings. Then, you will hike down to Rinpung Dzong, crossing a traditional bridge that offers a panoramic architectural view of the dzong.

Rinpung Dzong was built in 1646 by Bhutan's first spiritual and temporal ruler. Today, it is the monastic body of Paro, the district administrative head, and the judge of the Paro district.

Likewise, you will go on an excursion to Taktsang Lhakhang, also known as Tiger's Nest Monastery. The monastery is situated on a hilltop, and you have to hike for 2-3 hours to reach the way.

A few other places you will visit in Paro are Kyichu Lhakhang, built in the 7th century. Likewise, explore Drukgyel Dzong, a ruined fortress where Bhutanese warriors fought Tibetan invaders centuries ago.

Thimphu

In Thimphu, you will explore the King's Memorial Chorten, built by the third king of Bhutan, his majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuk. Likewise, you will visit Chhoe Dzong, the center of government and religious bodies.

It is also the seat of the monarch's throne and the seat of Je Khenpo, or Chief Abbot. Similarly, visit the National Library to see the vast collection of ancient Buddhist texts and manuscripts.

Then, explore Zorig Chusum, an Arts & Crafts School located nearby. This place offers insight into Bhutanese arts and crafts. From here, visit the Textile Museum, where you will see how Bhutanese textiles are made.

The Simply Bhutan Museum is another tourist site in Thimphu that you will be exploring.

During trekking

You will start trekking from Paro and ascend to Jele Dzong. Spend your first night at Jangchulakha. You will have an excellent view of Paro Valley and the Himalayan mountains on the way.

The trail passes through rhododendrons and alpine forests. After a few hours of ascending and descending, you reach Jimllang Tsho, where you will spend another night.

The trail further ascends to Phume La Pass and descends through lush juniper trees to your campsite near Phajoding monastery. Visit the monastery and descend from Phajoding to Thimphu the next day.

Highlights

  • An incredible trekking program in Bhutan for all ages of travelers
  • Explore an old trade route between Paro and Thimphu
  • Pass through pristine landscapes and spectacular mountain terrain
  • Learn about Bhutan's history, ancient culture, and unique traditions
  • Visit many dzongs, monasteries, museums, and local markets
  • Cross Phume La Pass and witness stunning views of lakes, rivers, valleys, villages, and Himalayan mountains
  • Explore Paro and Thimphu and get to know about the Bhutanese lifestyle
  • An adventurous and culturally enriching trip
Itinerary
Trip Plan
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Our team will welcome you upon your arrival at the Paro Airport in Bhutan. They will transfer you to your hotel in a private vehicle and quickly brief you on the day program. You can rest for an hour or two and later visit some tourist sites in Paro with your guide.

Explore Ta Dzong, which used to be a watchtower during wars. You can see a huge collection of relics, art, postage stamps, and thangka paintings here. From here, you can walk down a hillside to Rinpung Dzong, crossing a traditional bridge that offers a complete architectural picture of the dzong.

It was built by Bhutan's first spiritual and temporal ruler in 1646. This dzong houses the monastic body of Paro, the district administrative head, and the judge of the Paro district. After the tour, there will be a pre-trek briefing and a free evening.

  • Meals: Dinner
  • Accommodation: Hotel

You will spend the whole day visiting other tourist sites in Paro. Start early in the morning with an excursion to Taktsang Lhakhang, also known as Tiger's Nest Monastery. Drive to the starting point and hike to the monastery, which is situated on a hilltop.

The monastery's location and architecture are a marvel to gaze upon. While hiking, you can also see beautiful waterfalls. Upon reaching the monastery, explore it.

According to legend, Guru Rinpoche is believed to have traveled here on the back of a tigress and meditated there. After exploring the monastery, you will have lunch and rest.

Later, you will visit Kyichu Lhakhang, built in the 7th century. It is one of the 108 temples built in the Himalayas by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo. From here, you will drive to Drukgyel Dzong.

It is a ruined fortress where Bhutanese warriors fought Tibetan invaders centuries ago. On the way to this dzong, you can see the stunning view of sacred Chomolhari (7,326 m). The guide will drop you at the hotel after the tour ends.

  • Max Altitude: 3,100 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Duration: 5-6 hours

You will start trekking from today onwards. Follow a short climb to Jele Dzong. The view of Paro Valley from here is wonderful on a clear day. Likewise, once you go above the camp, you can see Jele Le Pass (3,540 m) and the ruins of Jele Dzong.

You will take a short lunch break and continue climbing to a ridge for one and a half hours. From the top, you can see stunning views of valleys on both sides and the Himalayas mountains to the north. The trail goes through rhododendrons and alpine forests.

  • Max Altitude: 3,770 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Camping
  • Duration: 6-7 hours
  • Distance: 18 km

Start the day with a delicious breakfast prepared by the crew. After that, pack up your things and get ready to continue trekking. Walk following a ridge. During trekking, you will see lovely mountains and views of valleys.

The trail frequently ascends and descends throughout the way. First, you climb the main ridge and descend to cross the other side of the valley. On the way, you can enjoy a wonderful view of Jichu Drake (6,989 m). Explore the Jimgllang Tsho (lake) before settling into your camp.

  • Max Altitude: 3,600 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Camping
  • Duration: 5-6 hours
  • Distance: 11 km

Leaving Jimllang Tsho, follow an uphill trail and gradually climb to Phume La Pass. It is the highest point of your trek. From the top of the pass, you can see breathtaking views of Mt. Gangkar Puensum (7,570 m). It is the highest peak in Bhutan and has not been climbed yet. Further, the trail descends through lush juniper trees to your campsite near Phajoding monastery.

  • Max Altitude: 3,500 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Camping
  • Duration: 5-6 hours
  • Distance: 9 km

Today is your last day of trekking. From Phajoding, the trail descends through blue pine forests. You will walk slowly, enjoying your last couple of hours in nature. Upon arriving in Thimphu, the guide will drop you off at the hotel.

You will have 2-3 hours to rest. Later, visit tourist sites in Thimphu with your guide. Explore the King's Memorial Chorten built by the third king of Bhutan, his majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuk.

Then, you will visit Trashi Chhoe Dzong, the center of government and religious bodies. It is also the seat of the monarch's throne and the seat of Je Khenpo, or Chief Abbot.

  • Max Altitude: 3,110 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Duration: 2-3 hours
  • Distance: 5 km

Start the day with a delicious breakfast and spend a full day exploring other remaining tourist sites in Thimphu. You will visit the National Library to see the vast collection of ancient Buddhist texts and manuscripts.

From here, you will visit the institute for Zorig Chusum, an Arts & Crafts School located nearby. This place offers insight into Bhutanese arts and crafts. After this place, visit the Textile Museum, where you will see how Bhutanese textiles are made.

Then, visit the Simply Bhutan museum, which showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Bhutanese people. After the tour ends, drive back to Paro and spend the evening window shopping.

  • Max Altitude: 3,110 m
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Duration: 1.5 hour
  • Distance: 50 km

On this day, you will fly back to your home. Your guide will drop you off at Paro International Airport.

  • Meals: Breakfast only
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Cost Details
Included
  • Transport by private vehicle
  • Government levy/taxes & visa fee
  • Government approved 3-star hotels (In Cities) with Breakfast, Lunch Dinner..
  • An English speaking guide
  • Bottled water in vehicle (Cities).
  • Permits, entrance fees, & sightseeing
  • Sleeping tents, sleeping mats & pillows (Trekking).
  • Dinning tents, kitchen tent & toilet tent. (Trekking).
  • Tables, chairs, utensils, hot water bags. (Trekking).
  • Trekking chef & assistants. (Trekking).
  • Horses to carry trek equipments. (Trekking).
  • Food supplies. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner. (Trekking).
Excluded
  • International Airfare.
  • Travel Insurance.
  • Laundry, Drinks & beverages, like bills of personal nature.
  • Tips.
  • Sleeping bag
Essential Information
  • For your convenience and to ensure a smooth trek, each traveler is limited to 15 kg. You can pack up to 10 kg in a duffel bag carried by the porter and 5 kg in a day pack carried by you. Tipping your crew is a customary practice. You can tip in US dollars or Bhutanese Ngultrum.
  • In Paro and Thimphu, you will stay overnight in nice tourist standard hotels where you can enjoy all the modern amenities. During trekking, the tent will be your primary accommodation.
  • We provide complete logistic support during the Druk Path trekking.
  • Travel insurance is necessary if you want to do this trek. You have to give us your insurance document before the trek starts, and it must cover helicopter evacuation.
  • Our package includes three meals a day throughout the trip. In cities, you can choose the food that suits your tastes. We will curate a personalized meal plan after talking to you during trekking.
  • Our Druk Path trek itinerary is customizable, so if you want to make any changes, feel free to contact us.
  • We highly recommend packing a power bank, snacks, journal/book, and all toiletries for the trek.
  • You will get the best Druk Path trek cost with Adventure Treks Nepal.

Druk Path trek packing

Pack the following things for this trek:

  • Comfortable trekking clothes
  • A few warm layering prices
  • Down jacket, fleece
  • Trekking boots
  • Comfortable shoes and a casual pair of footwear
  • Breathable underwear, socks
  • Gloves & scarf (depending upon the season you are traveling in)
  • Daypack
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Trekking pole
  • Duffel bag (we provide to use during the trek)
  • Toiletries (SPF, moisturizer, lip balm, toothbrush, wet tissues, etc.)
  • Necessary documents (passport, visa, passport-size photos, cash)
  • Camera, mobile, extra batteries, power bank, adapter
  • Snacks, journal/pen (optional), and other personal essentials
FAQs

The best times of the year to enjoy the Druk Path trekking are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These seasons offer clear skies and stable weather, which is necessary for the trek. The mild climate and vibrant landscapes make the trek fantastic.

Yes, you need a permit to do the Druk Path trek in Bhutan. As per Bhutan's regulations for travelers, you must travel with a local licensed Bhutanese tour operator. The tour operator will help you arrange your visa, necessary permits, and logistics for the trip.

The Druk Path trek is a moderate trek. So, it is suitable for beginner trekkers. However, reasonable fitness is required because you will walk 40+ kilometers during trekking. Not only that, but you will also gain elevation up to 4,200 meters. Previous trekking experience is not required, but altitude awareness is good.

No, foreigners are not allowed to trek or do any kind of travel activity independently in Bhutan. You have to join an organized trip with a local Bhutanese travel agency.

The Druk Path trek is moderately difficult. You will walk on rugged terrain that involves many ascends and descends. Likewise, the trek crosses a 4,000-meter mountain pass and involves camping. Trekkers have to be in good shape and health to complete the trek.

For most of the trekking period, you will travel above 3,000 meters. Therefore, there are risks of altitude sickness. The good news is that you will not gain more than 500 meters a day, allowing you to acclimate and avoid altitude sickness. Still, if you feel discomfort or uneasiness, inform your guide and get help.

No, you do not need to bring tents for the Druk Path trek. We will provide you with all logistic supplies, including tents, fuel, food, and a reliable team to support you during the trek.

We recommend getting trekking poles for the Druk Path trek for all ages of trekkers. Walking 5 to 6 hours a day is not easy for anyone on mountainous terrain. It puts lots of pressure on your knees and overall body. You do not need to tolerate this pressure at all. Trekking poles will make the trek much more manageable and help you maintain balance on steep, rocky tracks.

Mobile connectivity is limited along the Druk Path trek route. You may get a network in some sections of the trail, but it is not available everywhere. So, our guide is equipped with a satellite phone to stay in touch with us.

Yes, travel insurance is necessary for the trek. It should cover your helicopter evacuation and medical bills at least. You can also include other coverages such as loss/theft of personal belongings, international flight cancellation, etc.

Our Druk Path trek package covers the Bhutan visa, accommodation, three meals a day, the guide's expenses, transportation, and the company's service charge. All these services will be provided according to the itinerary.

You should carry Bhutanese currency for personal expenses during the trekking. Along the trail, you may come across small shops and locals selling food and drinks you want to purchase. Carry small notes. Even though you will not have many chances to buy things while trekking, we recommend budgeting up to USD 25 per day.

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