DESCRIPTION
Immerse yourself in the ancient culture of Paro, Punakha and Thimphu on this 9 Day Druk Path trek, which navigates the stunning landscapes between Paro and Thimphu, journeying through mountain ridges, blue pine forests, dwarf rhododendrons, and pristine lakes. Known as Land of the Thunder Dragon, Bhutan has countless adventures waiting to be had with its diverse mountainous terrains and immersive cultural heritage. Learn about the Bhutanese history as you pass through dzongs, villages and lakhangs. The best times to embark on the Druk Path Trek are between March-June or September-November.
ITINERARY
DAY 1
Arrive Paro Airport
A representative will greet you on your arrival into Paro airport to escort you to your hotel. You can then tour the city in the afternoon. The National Museum of Bhutan is located in Ta Dzong, which is a watchtower built in the 17th century to defend Rinpung Dzong. Built in 1646, the Dzong calls the monastic body of Paro home, and also houses the offices of the Thrimpon (judge) and Dzongda (administrative head). Back at the hotel the lead guide will hold a pre-trek briefing. Overnight in Paro.
DAY 2
Excursion to Taktshang Lakhang
On the second day, you will tour Taktshang Lakhang, a world-famous monastery also known as the Tiger's Nest Monastery. The Taktshang monastery rests on the top of a cliff at 10,170 feet in elevation. The main temple, is one of the holiest sites for the locals, was built in 1692. The monastery is recognized as a sacred place of worship and Bhutanese people visit at least once, if not more. You then visit Kyichu Lhakhang, a temple that signified Buddhism in Bhutan in the 7th century. It is also one of the 108 temples built by Songtsen Gampo, a famous Tibetan king. From here, you will drive to Drukgyel Dzong, a beautiful ruined fortress. Overnight stay in Paro.
DAY 3
Paro To Jangchulakha
Your trek begins with a gradual climb to Jele Dzong, which is now in ruins. On a clear day, you can see the Paro valley flanked by snow-capped mountains. A Lhakhang dedicated to Buddha Sakyamuni is nestled here. Many women praying for fertility visit the monastery, where the presiding Lama hits them on the head with a phallus. After lunch, your trek continues with a 1.5-hour climb onto a ridge, offering beautiful views of the Himalayas. Total hike time will be 5-7 hours.
DAY 4
Jangchulakha to Lake Jimgelang Tsho
The trek continues along the ridge and offers panoramic mountain and valley views. There's a lot of ascending and descending on this trek. You climb up to the main ridge, before walking down as you cross the valley. Enjoy spectacular views of Jichu Drake along the way, before camping close to the Jimgelang Tsho lake, which is famous for its giant trout. Total hike time will be 6-7 hours.
DAY 5
Lake Jimgelang Tsho to Simkota
The day takes you through a series of ridges, where you will pass through forests, as you make your way to lake Janatsho. You'll have the chance to watch yak herder camps, showcasing how people live in the Bhutanese mountains. After your final climb, you will head straight to your Lake Simkota campsite. Hike time will be 4-6 hours.
DAY 6
Simkoto to Thimphu
Today is your final day of trekking where you begin with a brief ascent to the Phume La Pass which sits at 13,812 feet in elevation. From here, you will breathe in beautiful views of Mount Gangkar Puensum, the highest peak in Bhutan and the highest unclimbed mountain worldwide. You will make your way towards Thimphu passing through blue pine forests along the way. Once you arrive in Thimphu, you can enjoy a short tour of the city. Visit the King's Memorial Chorten, the memorial of Bhutan's third king, His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuk. You can also visit the Trashichhoe Dzong built in 1641, The Fortress of the Glorious Religion. This is also the seat of the government and religion. Overnight stay in a hotel in Thimphu. Hike time will be 6-7 hours.
DAY 7
Thimphu to Punakha
A tour of the National Library in Thimphu, which houses ancient Buddhist texts and manuscripts, along with modern books about Himalayan culture and religion. The Institute for Zorig Chusum, an arts and crafts school, teaches students 13 local arts and crafts techniques. The Textile Museum is a good way to learn more about Bhutan's weaving history. You can also learn about Bhutanese traditional life at the Simply Bhutan, a living museum. After lunch, you are driven to Punakha (3 hours). The road takes you through the Dochu-La Pass, which offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks. Overnight in Punakha.
DAY 8
Punakha to Paro
Before you head for Paro, you'll visit the Punakha Dzong, nestled where the Mo Chhu and Pho Chhu rivers meet. This is now the religious and administrative centre of the region and was built in 1637. Despite being damaged by fires and an earthquake, it has been fully restored. Your drive back to Paro will take approximately 5 hours, with a break at the Chimi Lakhang. This temple has been dedicated to Lama Drukpa Kuenley, the Divine Madman, a name he earned thanks to his extreme teaching methods. This temple is also known for its fertility, where women arrive to pray for children. Overnight in Paro.
DAY 9
Depart Paro Airport
Your guide will meet you at the hotel and transfer you to the airport where you will head to your next destination.
END OF SERVICES
INCLUDED
- 3 nights hotel accommodation in Paro and one night in Punakha
- Four season, 3 person ridge tents, double occupancy
- Private toilet during trek
- Ground transportation
- Entrance Fees and local taxes
- Bhutanese entry permit
- English speaking guides
- Meals during trip (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
EXCLUDED
- Airfare
- Personal gear and hiking equipment
- Snacks
- Tips
