Drukpath Trek

Upon your arrival at Paro Airport, our representative will warmly welcome you and escort you to your hotel in Paro. Enjoy a comfortable overnight stay at the hotel.

Begin your day with a scenic drive northwest through the Paro Valley to Drukgyel Dzong, an iconic fortress built in 1646 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal to celebrate his victory over Tibetan invaders. Although a fire in 1951 left the structure largely in ruins, its towering walls remain a testament to its historic grandeur. On clear days, the approach road offers breathtaking views of Mount Chomolhari.

Explore the nearby traditional village houses that cluster around the Dzong, providing a glimpse into local life. Next, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most sacred temples, steeped in history and spiritual significance.

In the afternoon, head to Ta Dzong, a former watchtower that now houses the National Museum, showcasing Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage. From there, take a leisurely walk down the hillside trail to Rinpung Dzong, also known as the "Fortress of the Heap of Jewels." This impressive structure offers a fascinating insight into Bhutanese architecture and history.

Conclude your day with an overnight stay at your hotel in Paro.

Distance: 8 km | Duration: 3 hours

Today’s trek is relatively short and begins with a gentle ascent toward Jele Dzong. The trail gradually climbs to the campsite, rewarding you with stunning views of the Paro Valley, framed by snowcapped peaks on clear days. Above the campsite lies the Jele-la Pass, standing at 3,400 meters, and Jele Dzong, a historical structure now mostly in ruins. Within the Dzong, you’ll find a lhakhang housing a serene statue of Buddha Sakyamuni.

Enjoy an overnight stay at the camp under the starry mountain skies.

Distance: 10 km | Duration: 3–4 hours

The day starts with a steady climb lasting about an hour and a half, followed by a gentler ascent. The trail meanders through dense alpine forests and vibrant rhododendron groves, offering a tranquil connection to nature. If the weather is favorable, you’ll be treated to magnificent views of Mount Jhomolhari and surrounding snowcapped peaks. Keep an ear out for the distinctive calls of monal pheasants echoing through the forest.

As you approach the campsite, you might spot yak herders tending to their livestock, providing a glimpse into their traditional way of life. Spend the night at the campsite, embraced by the serene mountain landscape. 

Distance: 11 km | Duration: 4 hours

Today's trek follows a scenic ridge, offering sensational views of the mountains and valleys on clear days. Along the way, you’ll be treated to a breathtaking sight of Jichu Drake (6,989m), the majestic peak revered as the protective deity of Paro.

Your campsite is set near the picturesque Jimilangtsho Lakes, renowned for their crystal-clear waters and giant-sized trout. Take in the tranquil beauty of this alpine setting as you settle in for an overnight stay at the camp.

Distance: 11 km | Duration: 4 hours

Today's trail winds through enchanting groves of dwarf rhododendron trees, offering a serene and scenic journey. Along the way, you’ll pass by Janetsho, a pristine alpine lake that adds to the day’s natural charm.

You may encounter yak herders at their camps, providing a fascinating glimpse into their traditional lifestyle in the highlands. The trek concludes near Simkota Lake, where you’ll camp overnight. If luck is on your side, you might even catch a trout from the lake to enjoy for dinner.

Distance: 10 km | Duration: 4 hours

The day begins with a gentle ascent, rewarding you with breathtaking views of Mount Gangkar Puensum—the world's highest unclimbed peak—and a panorama of other majestic peaks, weather permitting.

The trail then gradually descends through fragrant juniper forests, leading to a campsite near a community hall close to the Phajoding cafeteria. Depending on the weather, you will either camp outdoors or stay overnight at the cafeteria, soaking in the serene mountain atmosphere. 

Distance: 5 km | Duration: 3 hours

Today’s trek is an easy downhill journey, winding through a serene forest of blue pine trees. The gentle descent allows you to take your time and enjoy the tranquil surroundings before arriving in Thimphu in approximately three hours.

Spend the afternoon at your leisure, exploring the capital or simply relaxing. Overnight at a hotel in Thimphu.

After breakfast, embark on a full-day excursion to the stunning Punakha and Wangdue valleys. The journey begins with a scenic drive over the Dochu-la Pass (3,088m), where you'll be treated to some of the most captivating views of the Himalayan peaks on clear days.

In Punakha, visit the iconic Punakha Dzong, strategically located at the confluence of the Pho Chu and Mo Chu rivers. Built in the 17th century by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, this magnificent Dzong holds great historical and cultural significance for Bhutan.

Continue to Wangduephodrang to explore the 17th-century Wangduephodrang Dzong and wander through the vibrant local market, offering a glimpse into the region's unique traditions and crafts.

In the evening, drive back to Thimphu for an overnight stay at your hotel.

Spend a full day exploring Thimphu's rich cultural and historical landmarks, with visits to the following sites, as time allows:

• National Memorial Chorten: Built in honor of Bhutan’s third king, also known as the "Father of Modern Bhutan," this landmark also serves as a monument to world peace.
• Tashichhodzong: This impressive fortress-monastery houses several government ministries, the secretariat of His Majesty, and the central monk body, offering a glimpse into Bhutan’s administrative and monastic life.
• Handicrafts Emporium: Browse an extensive selection of intricately hand-woven textiles and traditional craft products at this government-run outlet or explore smaller handicraft shops scattered across town.
• National Library: Established in the 1960s to preserve Bhutan’s literary treasures, it houses a remarkable collection of ancient Buddhist texts and manuscripts.
• Institute for Zorig Chusum: Often referred to as the Painting School, this institute trains students in Bhutan’s 13 traditional arts and crafts, keeping the nation’s rich heritage alive.
• National Institute of Traditional Medicine: This facility dispenses herbal medicines derived from Bhutan’s abundant natural resources and serves as a training center for traditional medicine practitioners.

In the evening, drive to Paro for an overnight stay at your hotel.

After breakfast, embark on a hike to the iconic Taktsang Monastery, famously known as the Tiger’s Nest. The trek to the viewpoint takes approximately 1.5 hours, offering a breathtaking view of the monastery dramatically perched on the edge of a cliff. Pause for refreshments at the Viewpoint Cafeteria before continuing the ascent to the monastery itself, which takes about an hour.

Legend has it that in the 8th century, Guru Rinpoche flew to this site on the back of a tigress and meditated in a cave here for three months. The main temple of the monastery complex, dating back to 1692, is a sacred site for Buddhists. Though extensively damaged by a fire in 1998, Taktsang has been fully restored to its original magnificence.

After exploring the monastery, descend along the trail, stopping for lunch again at the Viewpoint Cafeteria, and continue downhill to the starting point.

Spend the evening relaxing at your resort in Paro and enjoy a comfortable overnight stay.

After early breakfast in the hotel, drive to the airport for flight to onward destination.