9 Days Druk Path Trek

Welcome to Bhutan, the Land of the Thunder Dragon. Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, your guide will greet you at the terminal and escort you to your hotel. Take the day to rest and acclimatise to the altitude while enjoying the cool mountain air and stunning views of the Paro Valley.

Begin your day with a drive north of the valley to explore the historic ruins of Drukgyal Dzong, built in 1647 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal to commemorate Bhutan’s victory over Tibetan invaders. Though in ruins, the fortress stands as a proud reminder of Bhutan’s resilience. 

Continue to the base of Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest) for a scenic hike through pine forests adorned with prayer flags. From the cafeteria viewpoint, marvel at the monastery perched dramatically on a cliff 900 metres above the valley. After lunch, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most sacred temples dating back to the 7th century. Return to Paro for dinner and overnight stay.

After breakfast, drive to the National Museum (Ta Dzong) to meet your trekking crew and pack animals. The trek begins with a steady climb through blue pine forests and apple orchards. As you ascend, enjoy sweeping views of Paro Valley. The trail passes Kuenga Lhakhang, a small monastery, before continuing upwards to Jele Dzong, an ancient fortress atop the ridge. The dzong once served as a watchtower guarding the valley. Camp just below the pass near the dzong, surrounded by alpine scenery. Overnight at campsite.

Leave Jele Dzong and walk north along the ridge with beautiful views of the valleys below. The trail leads through forests of rhododendron and conifers, once damaged by bark beetles but now regenerating. The route ascends gently around a small peak, revealing glimpses of the Paro Valley behind you and the distant Dagala mountain range to the south. After about four hours of steady trekking, reach Tsokam, a quiet meadow surrounded by forest, where you’ll camp for the night.

Today’s trail follows a stunning ridge walk with panoramic views of snow-covered peaks to the north. The path is slightly longer but rewarding, offering endless mountain scenery. You’ll pass Labana, a small campsite, and see distant monasteries nestled at the far end of the valley. Continue climbing gently until the sparkling blue waters of Jimilang Tsho come into view. Legend says this sacred lake is home to a giant mystical trout. Camp overnight beside the lake under a sky filled with stars.

Begin your day walking around the lake’s western edge before ascending through rhododendron shrubs to higher ridges with stunning views of the Himalayas. The trail crosses several smaller alpine lakes, each surrounded by pristine wilderness. The air grows cooler and the landscape more rugged as you approach Simkotra Tsho, another high-altitude lake framed by rocky slopes and fluttering prayer flags. Camp near the lakeshore and enjoy a peaceful evening in the mountains.

The trail continues across rolling hills and minor ridges before the Thimphu Valley appears in the distance. On clear days, you can spot Mount Gangkar Puensum, Bhutan’s tallest peak. Gradually descend through forests of juniper and dwarf rhododendron to reach Phajoding Monastery, one of Bhutan’s most sacred meditation sites. From here, the path winds down through pine forest to the roadhead above the Motithang Takin Preserve, where your vehicle awaits. Drive into Thimphu, Bhutan’s charming capital city. Overnight at a hotel in Thimphu.

After days in the mountains, spend the day exploring Thimphu’s rich blend of tradition and modernity. Visit the Tashichhoe Dzong, the seat of government and monastic authority, and the National Memorial Chorten, where locals gather for daily prayers. Explore the Institute for Zorig Chusum (School of Arts and Crafts) to see artisans at work, and browse the Craft Bazaar for handmade souvenirs. In the evening, enjoy a leisurely stroll through the capital before returning to your hotel.

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before transferring to Paro International Airport for your departure. As you leave Bhutan, take with you memories of breathtaking landscapes, warm hospitality, and the quiet magic of the Druk Path Trek—a journey that truly captures the spirit of the Himalayas.