Druk Path Trek

This is a short five day trek, which leads from Paro to Thimphu or vice versa, crossing the chain of mountains that separates the two valleys. Although the route is sparsely inhibited, there are wonderful lakes teeming with fish and the area is famous for its spectacular rhododendron forests, which bloom in May. In the clear weather of late autumn and winter there are great views of the Himalayas.

Day 1: Arrive Paro

Day 2: Paro (Excursion to Taktshang Goenpa)

Day 3: Paro-Jele Dzong (8km/4hrs): TREK BEGINS

Day 4: Jele Dzong-Jangchulakha (10km/4-5hrs)

Day 5: Jangchulakha-Jimilangtsho (11km/5hrs)

Day 6: Jimilangtsho-Simkota (11km/5hrs)

Day 7: Simkota-Phajoding (10km/4hrs)

Day 8: Phajoding-Thimphu (5km/3hrs): TREK ENDS

Day 9: Thimphu-Paro

Day 10: Departure

Day 1: Arrive Paro

Arrive Paro in the morning. Pm visit National Museum & Paro Dzong. Evening at leisure. Welcome dinner and overnight at hotel.

Day 2: Paro (Excursion to Taktshang Goenpa)

Day Excursion to Taktshang literally known as Tiger’s Nest. This is one of Bhutan’s most sacred places, and an important pilgrimage destination. Lunch at the cafeteria. Evening you will visit the Drukgyel Dzong which was built in 1649 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal to commemorate the victory of the Bhutanese armies over the Tibetan intruders. On route you will visit the 7th century Kyichu Lhakhang. Overnight at hotel.

Day 3: Paro-Jele Dzong (8km/4hrs): TREK BEGINS

The trek begins with a short climb up to Jele Dzong and the trail ascends gradually up to the camp. If the weather is clear Paro valley can be seen with snow-capped peaks in the backdrop. Above the camp is Jele-la Pass (3400m) and Jele Dzong mostly in ruins. There is a lhakhang (temple), which has the statue of Sakyamuni. Overnight at camp.

Day 4: Jele Dzong-Jangchulakha (10km/4-5hrs)

Trek begins with an hour and a half climb and then ascends more gradually. The trail takes you through thick alpine forests and rhododendrons. Enjoy fine views of Mt. Jhomolhari (7314m) and other snow capped peaks if the weather is clear, you may also hear some monal pheasants calling during the day. Overnight at camp.

Day 5: Jangchulakha-Jimilangtsho (11km/5hrs)

The trail follows the ridge, and on clear day the views of the mountains and valleys are gorgeous. You will enjoy a breathtaking view of Mt. Jichu Drake (6989m), the peak representing the protective deity of Paro. Camp is close to the Jimilangtsho lakes. Dinner and overnight at camp.

Day 6: Jimilangtsho-Simkota (11km/5hrs)

The trail takes you through dwarf rhododendron trees and passes the lake of Janetsho. Today you may come across some yak herders’ camps and get an idea of how these people live. Tonight’s camp is close to Simkota Lake. Dinner and overnight at camp.

Day 7: Simkota-Phajoding (10km/4hrs)

You day begins with a gradual climb, and if weather permits you will enjoy the majestic views of Mt. Gangkar Puensum, and other snow-capped peaks. The trail slowly descends through juniper trees to a campsite beside a community hall near Phajoding cafeteria. Dinner and overnight at camp.

Day 8: Phajoding-Thimphu (5km/3hrs): TREK ENDS

The trek to Thimphu is downhill all the way, passing through a forested area of mostly blue pine. Taking a leisurely pace, you will reach Thimphu in about 3 hours. Lunch in town. Afternoon you will visit the Textile Museum, Folk Heritage Museum and the Handicrafts Emporium. Dinner and overnight at hotel.

Day 9: Thimphu-Paro

Morning visit Memorial Choeten, Changangkha Lhakhang, Sangaygang viewpoint and Dupthob Lhakhang (Nunnery). Lunch in town. After lunch drive to Paro for your final night in the country. Evening at leisure. Farewell dinner and overnight at hotel.

Day 10: Departure

After breakfast you will drive to the Paro International Airport for your onward destination. Your YANA Expeditions Team will assist you with check in formalities and bid you farewell.