9 Day Druk Path Trek
Tour Highlights
Tour fact
Max Elevation:4200m
Min Elevation:2400 m
No.of days:9 days
Grade: Moderate
Season:Mar,Apr,May,Jun,
Sep,Oct,Nov.
Accommodation
Plan:3 star hotel
Options: 4 or 5 star hotel
Day 1: Arrival in Paro
Welcome to Bhutan, the Land of the Thunder Dragon! As you touch down at Paro International Airport, your guide will be there to greet you with a warm welcome as you exit the arrival hall. Today, we’ll ease into the journey, allowing you to acclimatize to Bhutan’s altitude and take in the first glimpses of this beautiful Himalayan kingdom.
Day 2: Taktsang Monastery(Tiger's Nest) Hike
The hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest) at an elevation of 3,150 meters is one of the highlights of the tour and an excellent acclimatization exercise. While the hike may be challenging, it’s incredibly rewarding, offering breathtaking views along the way. The entire trip, including the visit to the monastery's temples, takes about 4 to 5 hours.
After enjoying a delicious local lunch, we will descend and head to Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest and most revered temples in Bhutan. In the evening, you’ll have time to explore Paro Town at your leisure, soaking in the local culture and preparing for the exciting trek ahead!
Day 3: Ta Dzong - Jele Dzong
Distance | 7 km |
Time | 4-5 hours |
Ascent | Ascent 1,090 m |
Camp Altitude | 3,480 m |
We begin our journey with a drive to Ta Dzong, where you will meet your trekking team, including the horsemen and pack animals. From here, our trek starts with a steady ascent, climbing 1,068 meters over approximately 4 hours. We’ll pass through beautiful blue pine forests, scattered farmhouses, and apple orchards in the Tsachhugang area. Along the way, we pass Kuenga Lhakhang (a temple), and enjoy sweeping views of Paro Valley with Jele Dzong visible in the distance.
The trail continues through a lush mixed alpine forest, featuring firs, pines, and hemlocks, until we reach Jele Dzong, a small castle-monastery guarding the path. Here, we’ll set up camp for the night, surrounded by serene mountain views.
Day 4:Jele Dzong - Tsokam
Distance | 10 km |
Time | 4-5 hours |
Ascent | Ascent 310 m, descent 50 m |
Camp Altitude | 3962 m |
In the morning, we will visit Jele Dzong, a historic fortress perched on a ridge. After exploring the dzong, we begin our trek, walking north along the ridge with stunning views of the surrounding landscape before entering the forest. As we ascend gradually, you’ll catch glimpses of Paro Valley below and, on clear days, the Dagala Range to the south.
After trekking for about 4 hours, we arrive at our campsite for the day at Tsokam, located at an elevation of 3,962 meters. Here, you can relax and take in the beautiful high-altitude surroundings.
Day 5: Tsokam - Jimilang Tsho
Distance | 11 km |
Time | 4 hours |
Ascent | Ascent 330 m |
Camp Altitude | 3,870 m |
Our trek begins with a gentle ascent to a small pass, followed by a two-hour descent, leading us to another pass with stunning views of Jomolhari Peak (7,315 m) and the expansive valley below. At a junction, we can choose between the upper and lower trails; the upper trail is recommended for its breathtaking scenery, while the lower trail offers a shorter route. Both paths lead us to Jimilang Tsho, where we'll set up camp by the serene shores of this beautiful lake at an elevation of 3,870 meters.
Day 6: Jimilang Tsho - Simkotra Tsho
Distance | 11 km |
Time | 4 hours |
Ascent | Ascent 820 m |
Camp Altitude | 4,110 m |
We begin our hike by ascending from the lake, heading northeast through rhododendron bushes. As we progress, the landscape opens up to offer stunning views. Our destination is Dungtsho Lake, a sacred site for the local people, nestled against a rock cliff. The trail leads us along a wide stone path, surrounded by vibrant rhododendron.
We continue trekking along the ridge, encountering some ups and downs, before finally reaching Simkotra Tsho, a serene lake where we will set up camp for the night. The peaceful surroundings make it an ideal spot to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the highlands.
Day 7: Simkotra tsho - Thimphu
Distance | 4-5 km |
Time | 7-8 hours |
Ascent | descent 1,130 m |
As we start our day at Simkotra Tsho, the gentle ascent to the pass marked by a white chorten provides an invigorating experience. The stunning panoramic views of Gangkhar Puensum, Bhutan's highest peak, to the east, alongside the picturesque Thimphu Valley below, make this moment truly memorable.
From the pass, we descend toward the sacred Phajoding Monastery, a revered site that holds significant cultural importance. The trek continues through dense forests, offering a peaceful atmosphere as we navigate the relatively easy trail. This descent lasts approximately 7-8 hours, allowing for ample time to take in the surrounding natural beauty and perhaps spot some local wildlife.
Upon reaching the road near the Takin Sanctuary, our driver will be waiting to greet us. We’ll then head to our hotel in Thimphu, Bhutan’s vibrant capital, where you can relax and reflect on the day's adventures. This transition from the serene mountains to the lively city provides a fascinating contrast, enriching your experience in Bhutan. Enjoy a leisurely evening, perhaps exploring the local cuisine or visiting nearby shops before settling in for the night.
Day 8: Thimphu - Paro
Our day begins with a visit to the serene and sacred site of Buddha Dordenma (Buddha Point) in Kuenselphodrang Nature Park, offering stunning views over Thimphu City. This monumental statue of Buddha Shakyamuni, one of the largest in the world, was completed in 2015 to radiate peace and happiness across the globe.
Next, we join local worshippers at the National Memorial Chorten, a revered stupa built in 1974 to honor Bhutan’s visionary Third King, Jigme Dorje Wangchuck, and a popular spot for circumambulation and socializing. Afterward, we visit the Textile Museum to explore Bhutan’s rich tradition of weaving, showcasing both ancient and contemporary examples of this intricate craft.
After lunch, we head back to Paro, stopping for a short walk to Tachog Lhakhang temple, crossing the Paro Chhu River on a unique iron chain bridge built by the famous Tibetan master, Tangtong Gyelpo, in the 15th century.
We conclude the day with a relaxing evening exploring Paro’s cafes, art and craft shops, and gathering for a special farewell dinner to celebrate the end of our journey.
Day 9: Departure from Paro
Today is your last morning in this mystical and memorable country of Bhutan. We will have breakfast and proceed to check in for your flight. We hope you have enjoyed your trip immensely and will bring your friends to Bhutan in the future.
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