Druk Path Trek
The classic high-country crossing from Paro to Thimphu, past remote lakes, ancient dzongs and wide Himalayan panoramas.
The Druk Path links Bhutan's two main valleys over the mountains between them. Five days of walking take you through blue pine and rhododendron forest, past yak herders' pastures and a string of high alpine lakes.
It is the ideal first Himalayan trek: never extreme, always beautiful, with a camp crew handling everything but the walking.
Highlights
- Jele Dzong on its ridge above Paro
- Camping beside Jimilang Tsho and Simkota Tsho
- Views to the high Himalaya on clear days
- Descending past Phajoding monastery into Thimphu
Day by day
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Day 1
Arrive in Paro
Meet your guide and trek crew; gear check and a gentle walk around town.
Paro valley · Photo: Doctor 17, CC BY-SA 4.0 -
Day 2
Acclimatisation: the Tiger's Nest
Hike to Paro Taktsang, the perfect warm-up for the days ahead.
Paro Taktsang · Photo: Gerd Eichmann, CC BY-SA 4.0 -
Day 3
Trek: Paro to Jele Dzong
Start near the National Museum and climb through blue pine to camp below Jele Dzong, at around 3,500 m.
National Museum of Bhutan · Photo: Bernard Gagnon, CC BY-SA 4.0 -
Day 4
Trek: Jele Dzong to Jangchulakha
Through rhododendron forest and yak pastures, with the Paro valley falling away behind you.
Paro valley · Photo: Christopher J. Fynn, CC BY-SA 4.0 -
Day 5
Trek: to Jimilang Tsho
Follow the ridge to camp beside Jimilang Tsho, a lake known for its large trout.
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Day 6
Trek: to Simkota Tsho
Pass Janetso lake and camp by Simkota Tsho, surrounded by open high country.
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Day 7
Trek: over the pass to Thimphu
Cross the trek's high point, at about 4,200 m, then make the long descent past Phajoding monastery into Thimphu. Hot stone bath tonight.
Tashichho Dzong · Photo: Vinayaraj, CC BY-SA 4.0 -
Day 8
Depart
Drive to Paro airport for your onward flight.
Paro International Airport · Photo: Vinayaraj, CC BY-SA 4.0
Included on this journey
More journeys
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The Snowman Trek
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Make it yours.
Tell us your dates and wishes, and we'll tailor this journey around you.
- Private & tailor-made
- Licensed by Bhutan’s Department of Tourism
- Every enquiry answered personally