Druk Path Trek takes you on a thrilling trekking adventure across one of Bhutan's most famous trekking trails. The trail cuts through isolated monasteries, pristine forests, exposed ridges, mountain lakes, and green pastures. You will be camping at picturesque sites that offer panoramic views of Bhutan's highest mountains – Gangkhar Puensum, Jomolhari, Kula Kangri, and Jichu Drake.
The Druk Path foot trail was once the lifeline of Bhutanese living in Thimphu and Paro. Before roads were built, this was the only route connecting the two important cities. Now, this scenic trail is used by tourists, yak, and sheep herders.
Your trip begins with a memorable flight across the high Himalayan mountains. The landing at Paro International Airport, the only international airport in Bhutan, is bound to leave you breathless as the plane taxis down a narrow runway set in the middle of the mountains. Your Bhutanese guide will greet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel.
You spend the first two days in Paro exploring the city and taking an acclimatization hike. The hike to Taktsang Monastery or Tiger's Nest is an unforgettable experience. After a grueling ascent through a beautiful pine forest, you arrive at the Taktsang Monastery. Perched on the side of a rocky cliff this magnificent monastery is said to be the meditation retreat of Guru Rimpoche or Padmasambhava.
Your trek begins on the third day of your trip. To reach the trailhead you drive past Ta Dzong and National Museum and take a steep ascent on a rough jeep track. You start walking from the point where the road ends. The kitchen crew and a mule train will be waiting at the trailhead to carry the heavy loads.
The first day's trek ends at Jele Dzong, a small traditional fortress sitting on top of a hill. Sweeping views of Paro Valley and Mount Jomolhari will keep you inspired. The trail meanders past traditional farms, apple orchards, and forests of blue pine and fir. Breathe in the pure air and soak up the natural ambiance.
From the second day onwards you will be following a trail devoid of human habitation. The raw nature and magnificent views of the mountains are sure to melt away any stress you feel. Over the next two days, you will walk through an up and down trail to Jangchulakha, Jimilangtsho, Langrithang, and Tsaluna. En route, cross rhododendron and cedar forests, summer camps of yak herders, and glacial lakes. It gets colder in the higher reaches, so one should be dressed in appropriate clothes.
From Langrithang you descend to Tasluna and then walk down to the highway of Thimphu. After spending a night in Thimphu, you will be driven to Paro International Airport to catch your flight to your next destination.
The best seasons for the Druk Path Trek are spring and autumn. The weather remains pleasant during this time. As there is less precipitation and fog, the sky remains clear and you can enjoy clear views of the mountains. You need to have some hiking and trekking experience to do this trek. You also need to be physically fit and possess a high level of endurance, as this trek involves walking at elevations above 3500 meters.
This is a fully organized camping trek. An experienced trekking guide and kitchen crew will be trekking with you. They will provide nutritious meals and set up camp for the trekking group.
Druk Path Trek is one of the easiest and shortest Himalayan treks in Bhutan. If you want to experience the gorgeous Bhutanese mountains and forests on foot then this is the trip for you.
