The classic Druk Path offers spectacular views of the Himalaya as you follow the ancient high route from Paro to Thimphu. The trek passes through a gorgeous natural landscape of blue pine forests, high ridges and pristine lakes. This trek also offers hikers stunning views of Mt. Gangkar Puensum, the highest unscaled peak in the world. Trekking days are short but the trail goes to a relatively high altitude ranging between 2400-4200m, making it moderately strenuous.
Duration
8 Days
Trek grade
Easy/Moderate
Avg. Walking Dist.
11 Km
Avg. Walking Time
5 Hours
Fly into Paro with Drukair or Bhutan Airlines. The flight provides during a clear weather the most fascinating view of Himalayan scenery. As the aircraft enters the Paro valley you will see the Paro Dzong overlooking Paro Chu with Ta Dzong above it. Your guide will receive you at Paro Airport and escort you to hotel. Later in the evening, you can visit Paro town. Overnight hotel in Paro.
5Km | 4-5 hours | 900m Ascent
After breakfast, hike to Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) Monastery, Bhutan’s most famous monastery, which stands at 3180m gives you acclimatization for the next day’s trek. According to the legend, it is believed that Guru Rimpoche, the 8th century Spiritual Master, flew to this location on the back of a tigress to meditate. Explore the Monastery and hike back to Paro. On the way, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan. Overnight hotel in Paro.
10Km | 4-5 hours | 913 Ascent | 80 Descent | Camp altitude 3480m
After breakfast in your hotel, you will drive to Ta Dzong (2487m), where you will meet your trekking staff and horses. The trek follows a gravel road past a few farms for about 30 minutes and then climbs up a steep ridge before leading through blue pine and fir forests to Damche Gom. Once you reach the ridge below Jili Dzong you descend about 80m to the campsite below the Dzong.
10Km | 3-4 hours | 290 Ascent | Camp altitude 3770m
Today’s trek begins with an hour and half steep climb and then ascends gradually up. The trail takes you through thick alpine forests and rhododendrons crossing the Jele La (3490m). You may see yak herders around your campsite. There are fascinating views of Jumolhari and other snow capped mountains and you can also hear some Monal peasants during the day.
11Km | 4 hours | 410m Ascent | 310 Descent | Camp altitude 3870m
The trail climbs steeply to the Jangchulakha (3770). On a clear day the views of the mountains and valleys are simply stunning. Descending from the pass, you arrive at your camp beside the Jimilangtsho Lakes, which are famous for their giant sized trouts. Also there are great views of 6,989m Jichu Drake, the peak representing the protective deity of Paro and Gangkar Puensum (7497m), Bhutan’s highest mountain. Overnight camp. Altitude 3870m.
11Km | 4 hours | 240m Ascent | Camp altitude 4110m
The trails climbs up from lower end of the lake and makes a traverse along the side of the ridge, then descends to a single stone shelter. Again ascend to a summit at 4050m overlooking Janetsho Lake. Today you may come across some yak herder’s camp where you will have the opportunity to get a glimpse of a nomad’s life. The campsite is close to Simkotra Tsho Lake.
14Km | 5 hours | 90m Ascent | 400m Descent
The day begins with a gradual climb. If the weather permits, you will have a spectacular view of Mount Gangkar Puensum, and other peaks. From this pass, the trek takes you downhill towards Phajodhing. From here, the trek is downhill through a forested area of mostly blue pine till you reach the road above the Takin Sanctuary. The driver will be waiting here to take you to hotel. Enjoy a nice shower and stroll freely in Thimphu town in the evening. Overnight hotel in Thimphu.
This morning, you will drive to Paro airport for your flight back home.
COST INCLUDES
COST EXCLUDES
INSURANCE
Package does not include insurance of any kinds, and that you are required to obtain separate coverage from your home country before your trip begins.
Copyright © Bhutan Travel Guru - All Rights Reserved.