Introduction
Prepare to be enchanted by the mystical landscapes of Bhutan as you embark on the Druk Path Trek, an exhilarating 10-day journey through this Himalayan kingdom. Your adventure begins in Paro, where you’ll explore iconic landmarks like the mesmerizing Taktsang Monastery, perched on a cliff, and the historic Drugyel Dzong, all while immersing yourself in the rich Bhutanese culture. The trek itself takes you through dense alpine forests, dwarf rhododendron groves, and pristine lakes like Jimilangtso, known for its giant trout. With each day, you’ll ascend to breathtaking heights and witness awe-inspiring mountain vistas, including the legendary Gangkhar Punsum. As your journey comes to a close in Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital, you’ll delve into its vibrant culture, visiting monasteries, handicraft emporiums, and the famous Memorial Chorten. This trek is not just an adventure but an exploration of Bhutan’s soul, where nature and culture intertwine to create an unforgettable experience in the Land of the Thunder Dragon.
Day 01: Arrive Paro by Druk Air
Arrive Paro by Druk air, meet with our representative and transfer to Hotel. If time permits visit National Museum and Paro Dzong, evening walk around the Paro town. O/N Paro
Day 02: Paro – Sightseeing
Morning to hike to Taktsang, the Tiger’s Nest. This magical monastery clings to a vertical granite cliff 4000 ft. above the valley floor. Legend says that Guru Padmasambhava flew here on the back of a tigress – hence the name – to meditate. The tigress was actually his favorite consort, Yeshe Tsogyel, whom he transformed to a flying tigress for the purpose of this journey. The Guru finished his meditation; he instructed that a monastery be built. The hike to Taktsang Monastery takes about 4 hours. Have lunch at cafeteria and on the way back drive to Drugyel Dzong (a ruined fortress – 16 Kms away from the Paro Town). Although now in ruins, this Dzong is of historical importance. It was here that the Bhutanese finally defeated the Tibetans and drove them back. From here too the peak of Chomolhari “Mountain of the Goddess”, alt. 7329 m (24,029ft.) can be viewed on a clear day. On the way back, you visit a typical Bhutanese farmhouse. O/N Same
Day 03: Paro – Jele Dzong
Morning visit National Museum and later start your trek. This is a short trekking day. The trek trail is rather gradual till the camp and if the weather is clear, the Paro Valley can be seen with the snowcapped mountains behind the valley. Distance approx. 7 Kms. Alt. 2576m. O/N Camp
Day 04: Jele Dzong – Jangchulakha
You begin with about an hour and half climb and then ascend gradually up. The trail takes you through thick alpine forest and dwarf rhododendron tress. You may seek yaks and yak herders around your campsite. Distance – 10 Kms. Alt. 2879m.
Day 05: Jangchulakha – Jimilangtso
The trail follows the ridge and on a clear day the view of the mountains and valley is beautiful. The campsite is close to the Lake Jimilangtso. These lakes are known for their giant sized trout and if lucky you may enjoy a well-prepared lake trout for dinner. Distance – 11 Kms.
Day 06: Jimilangtso – Simkota/Labana
The trail takes you through dwarf rhododendron trees and lake of Janetso. You may come across some yak herder’s camps where you will have the opportunity to get a glimpse of a nomad’s life. The campsite is close to Simkota Lake and if you are lucky, you can do some trout fishing! Distance – 11 Km Alt – 3,485 m
Day 07: Labana/Simkota – Phajoding – Thimphu
The trek begins with a gradual climb. If the weather permits, you will have a spectacular view of Mount “Gangkhar Punsum”, the highest mountain in Bhutan as well other Himalayan mountain ranges from Dochula pass. From this pass, the trek takes you down hill to Phajoding overlooking view of Thimphu Valley.
Descend downhill through a forested area of mostly blue pine to Thimphu. The walk, at a leisurely pace, Back to hotel for a hot shower and delicious lunch. Distance – 16-18 Km, Altitude
Evening: Walking around the Thimphu city.
Day 08: Thimphu – Sightseeing
Visit the Memorial Chorten (a huge stupa) built in memory of the third King of Bhutan who reigned the Kingdom from 1952-1972
Visit the handicrafts emporium where Bhutanese textiles and other arts are displayed and can be purchased. Visit the school’s of painting and woodcraft where the traditional art and painting are kept alive and folk heritage museum and the National Library where ancient manuscripts are preserved.
Evening visit Tashichho Dzong, the main secretariat building where the office of the government ministries, the office of the King and the Throne Room, and the office and living quarters of the monk body and its Chief Abbot are housed.
Day 09: Thimphu – Excursion to Punakha/Wangdi – Paro
A days trip to Punakha and Wangdi Valley. Punakha is the former capital of Bhutan (77Km) from Thimphu and Wangdi is 16 Km away from Punakha. The Punakha Dzong houses the winter residence of the monastic body and its Chief Abbot. The massive fortress is situated between two rivers known as “Phochu Mochu” (Male Female River) The drive takes about three hours one way. Evening: Drive back to Thimphu for the night.
Day 10: Paro –Delhi.
Departure.