Druk Path Trek – Walk through the Soul of Bhutan

  • Duration 9
  • Destination Nepal
  • Trip Grade Medium
  • Starts at Bhutan
  • Ends at Bhutan
  • Meals
  • Accommodation
  • Max. Altitude
  • Activity
  • Group Type
  • Group Size 01-10
  • Best Season All Time
Highlights
  • cenic trek between Paro and Thimphu – through alpine forests, high ridges, and pristine mountain lakes
  • Visit ancient monasteries and historic dzongs – showcasing Bhutan’s rich Buddhist heritage
  • Immerse in Mahayana Buddhist culture – Bhutan is the world’s only Mahayana Buddhist kingdom
  • Unspoiled nature & biodiversity – thanks to centuries of isolation and deep respect for all sentient beings
  • Historical journey – learn about Guru Rinpoche, Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, and the Wangchuck monarchy
  • Panoramic Himalayan views – including possible glimpses of Mt. Gangkar Puensum, the world’s highest unclimbed peak

 

 

Druk Path Trek – Walk through the Soul of Bhutan Overview

The Druk Path Trek in Bhutan is a perfect blend of natural beauty, spiritual depth, and cultural richness. Nestled in the Eastern Himalayas, Bhutan remained isolated for centuries, preserving a unique identity shaped by Mahayana Buddhism and deep respect for nature. As the world’s only Mahayana Buddhist kingdom, Bhutan is home to stunning landscapes, sacred monasteries, and untouched wilderness.

The trek follows an ancient route between Paro and Thimphu, passing through high mountain ridges, blue pine forests, crystal-clear lakes, and traditional villages. Along the way, travelers can explore historic dzongs (fortresses), encounter local yak herders, and immerse themselves in Bhutan’s peaceful way of life.

This journey also offers insights into Bhutan’s fascinating history—from the arrival of Guru Rinpoche in the 8th century to the unification led by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in the 17th century, and the establishment of the Wangchuck monarchy in 1907. Today, Bhutan embraces modern democracy while staying true to its spiritual roots and ecological values.

Ideal for nature lovers and cultural explorers, the Druk Path Trek is a truly enriching Himalayan experience.

Day to Day Itinerary
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Your journey to Bhutan begins with a breathtaking flight into Paro, offering panoramic views of the Himalayan range and a thrilling descent into the serene valley. Upon arrival, you’re greeted by the kingdom’s first gift—fresh, crisp mountain air. After immigration and check-in at the hotel, begin your exploration with a visit to Ta Dzong, once a watchtower and now the National Museum, showcasing Bhutan’s rich cultural and historical heritage. Then, walk down to Rinpung Dzong, an impressive fortress known for its beautiful murals and deep-rooted Buddhist symbolism. Enjoy your first evening soaking in the peaceful atmosphere of Paro.

  • Hotel
  • Breakfast , Lunch and Dinner

After breakfast, set out on a memorable hike to the iconic Taktshang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), dramatically perched on a cliffside 900 meters above the Paro Valley. This sacred site, where Guru Rinpoche is believed to have meditated, is a spiritual highlight for all Bhutanese and visitors alike. In the afternoon, drive to the historic ruins of Drukgyel Dzong, once a strategic fortress that defended Bhutan against Tibetan invasions, with stunning views of Mount Chomolhari along the way. Conclude your day with a visit to Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most revered temples, marking the early arrival of Buddhism in the region. Overnight in Paro.

  • Hotel
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Today’s trek begins at Jangchulakha (3,780m) and follows a scenic ridge offering stunning views of the valleys and mountains, especially the towering Jichu Drake (6,989m) on clear days. The trail leads to Jimilangtsho (3,880m), where you’ll camp near the beautiful alpine lake, famous for its giant-sized trout and serene surroundings.

  • Hotel
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 4 to 5 Hours
  • 12 km

The trail today winds through dwarf rhododendron forests and passes the serene Janye Tsho lake, offering peaceful views along the way. You may encounter yak herders’ camps, providing a glimpse into their traditional way of life. The path continues over rocky terrain, with several ascents and descents, eventually leading to Simkota Lake before reaching the campsite at Labana.

  • Hotel
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 5 to 6 hours
  • 15 km

Starting from Labana Camp (4,130m) after breakfast, you’ll gradually ascend to the Labana Pass (4,210m), the highest point of your trek. Weather permitting, enjoy panoramic views of Mt. Gangkhar Punsum (7,541m), Bhutan’s highest peak, as well as Mt. Kanchan Jangkha and other majestic Himalayan summits. Below, the Thimphu Valley stretches out. The descent leads you through a Blue Pine forest, reaching Phajoding Monastery (3,870m), where you can explore this historic site. From there, continue downhill to Thimphu (2,320m). In the afternoon, visit Thimphu’s vibrant Weekend Market, a lively place to interact with locals. Evening at leisure and overnight in Thimphu.

  • Hotel
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 4 to 5 Hours
  • 12 mk

After breakfast, explore the vibrant Thimphu Valley, beginning with a visit to the National Library, home to priceless Buddhist manuscripts. Next, stop by the Institute for Zorig Chusum (Painting School), where students learn Bhutan’s 13 traditional arts. The Textile Museum offers a glimpse into Bhutan’s unique textile heritage, while Simply Bhutan presents the country’s cultural history through an immersive living museum experience. After lunch, take a short drive to Pangri Zampa, a 16th-century monastery that also serves as a monastic school for Buddhist students. Then, head to Buddha Point (Kuensel Phodrang) for stunning views of the valley and a chance to offer prayers at Bhutan’s largest Buddha statue. Continue to the King’s Memorial Chorten, a monument dedicated to world peace and Bhutan’s third king. Conclude the day with a visit to the Trashichhoedzong, the impressive fortress housing the King’s Secretariat and the summer residence of the Chief Abbot. Overnight in Thimphu.

  • Hotel
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 4 to 5 Hours
  • 12 km

After an early breakfast, drive through the scenic Dochula Pass (3,080m), marked by Bhutanese chortens and prayer flags, offering stunning views of the eastern Himalayan peaks on clear days. Continue to Punakha Dzong, a majestic fortress at the junction of two rivers, which served as Bhutan’s capital until 1955 and remains the winter residence of the monk body. Later, take an excursion to Chimi Lhakhang, the famous Temple of Fertility, located on a hillock in the valley. A short walk through rice fields and villages will take you to this sacred site, where couples often come to seek blessings for children. Afterward, drive back to Thimphu for an overnight stay.

  • Hotel
  • Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
  • 3 hours
  • 75 km

After an early breakfast, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your flight to your onward destination. Our representative will assist you with the exit formalities and bid you farewell. Please note that some of the monuments mentioned in the itinerary may be closed on specific days: the National Library in Thimphu is closed on Saturdays, Sundays, and Government holidays; the Textile Museum is closed on Government holidays and Sundays but is open on Saturdays from 9 AM to 4 PM; the Institute of Zorig Chusum (Arts & Crafts School) is closed on Sundays and Government holidays, and also closed during winter (from December to early March), with limited hours on Saturdays; and the Folk Heritage Museum is closed on Sundays and Government holidays.

Our team guides, porters and accompanying staff are locals with a broad knowledge about each and every location that we travel through.

Cost Includes

  • Private transportation By SUV Car/ Toyota Hiace / Coaster as per the group size.
  • Necessary travel permits
  • English speaking Bhutanese guide.
  • Accommodation on One Twin /Double room basis.
  • Sightseeing and monastery entrance fees as per the itinerary
  • Meal plan: Full Board Basis (B,L,D)
  • Bhutanese Govt SDF $100 per person/ per night
  • Bottle of drinking water while on tour.
  • Tented Camping while on the trek
  • Donkey and Porter in trekking
  • Cook and supporting staff while on the Trekking
  • Bhutan visa and Assistance

Cost Excludes

  • Flight ticket of any sector
  • Additional cost due to natural calamity and unforeseen circumstance
  • Personal expenses such as drink, guide tips & etc.
Departure Dates
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