The Druk Path Trek is one of the most popular treks in Bhutan, connecting the two major valleys of Paro and Thimphu. This classic trek takes you through pristine forests, past ancient monasteries, and alongside stunning high-altitude lakes teeming with giant trout.
The trail follows an ancient route used by traders and monks for centuries. Along the way, you'll encounter yak herders, visit sacred sites, and enjoy panoramic views of some of Bhutan's highest peaks including Mount Gangkar Puensum - the highest unclimbed mountain in the world.
Trek Details
Duration: 7 Days
Max Elevation: 4,200m
Difficulty: Medium
Best Season: March-June, September-November
Highlights
Jili Dzong Ruins
Jimgelang Tsho Lake (Giant Trout)
Phajoding Monastery
Views of Gangkar Puensum
Yak Herder Camps
Ancient Trade Route
The first day can be quite arduous as you climb more than 1,000m elevation. You start from the Ta Dzong (National Museum) in Paro. The trek follows a gravel road past a few farms then climbs through blue pine and rhododendron forests. We camp near the ruins of Jili Dzong.
The trail follows a ridge with stunning mountain and valley views. You'll traverse through dwarf rhododendron forests and open meadows. The campsite is close to Jimgelang Tsho Lake, known for its giant sized trout.
Today's trek takes you along the ridge with spectacular views. We pass several small lakes and may encounter yak herders. Camp by the shores of Jimilang Tsho, one of the most beautiful lakes on this route.
The trail takes you through dwarf rhododendron trees and past Janetso Lake. You may come across yak herder camps. We reach our highest camp at Simkotra Tsho.
The day begins with a gradual climb. Weather permitting, spectacular views of Mount Gangkar Puensum, the highest mountain in Bhutan. We descend to Phajoding, an important meditation site.
After visiting Phajoding monastery, the trek to Thimphu is downhill through blue pine forest. Transfer to hotel in Thimphu.
The Druk Path finishes at the BBS Telecommunication Tower, offering great views of Thimphu. Transfer to Paro airport for departure. Tashi Delek!
Included in Package
- Bhutan visa fee
- Government royalty & taxes
- Dedicated English speaking tour guide
- Dedicated tour vehicle and driver
- 3-star accommodation (twin sharing)
- Daily 3 meals (B/L/D)
- Airport transfers
- Bottled water
- Entry fees to parks and monuments
- Camping equipment
- Pack horses and horsemen
Not Included
- Personal expense/shopping
- Alcoholic beverages
- 4 or 5 star accommodation (extra charges apply)
- Travel insurance
- Tips for guide and driver
- Personal trekking gear
Essential clothing and equipment for your trekking adventure in Bhutan.
Headgear
- Warm beanie style hat – knitted or fleece
- Neck gaiter or scarf – useful for keeping dust out and as a warm layer
- Sun hat – preferably wide-brimmed for protection
- Sunglasses – high UV protection
- Headlamp (plus extra batteries)
Upper Body
- Thermal or fleece base layer (x1)
- Long sleeve shirt/t-shirt – light or medium weight, moisture wicking (x1)
- Short sleeved shirt/t-shirt – lightweight, moisture wicking (x2)
- Fleece or soft shell jacket (x1)
- Insulated jacket – down or primaloft
- Lightweight water/windproof hard shell outer jacket
- Gloves – lightweight, fleece or quick drying fabric
- Gloves or mittens – heavyweight, insulated, preferably water resistant
Legs
- Leggings – thermal or fleece base layer (x1)
- Trekking trousers – light or medium weight (x2) – convertible trousers work well
- Waterproof hard shell trousers – ski pants work fine (x1)
Feet
- Trekking boots – mid weight with good ankle support
- Training shoe or similar – to wear around camp
- Mid-weight trekking socks (x3 pairs)
- Breathable, high-wicking liner socks (x2 pairs)
- Thermal trekking socks for upper reaches of your trek (x1 pair)
Gear
- Small rucksack or daypack (30-40 litres) to carry water and personal items
- Waterproof duffle bag (approx 80-100 litres) – max weight 15kg including sleeping bag, carried by porter
- Sleeping bag (4 season or -10°C) and compression sack
- Insulated sleeping mat
- Trekking poles
- Water bottle or hydration bag – must be able to carry 1.5-2L of water
- Sunscreen high SPF
- Toiletries, including wet wipes and hand sanitiser
- Camera and spare batteries
- Plug adapter for charging devices in hotels
- Personal medication and first aid kit
- Personal snacks and energy bars – dried fruit and nuts are also a good source of energy
- Isotonic drink powder to mix with water – improves flavour and helps replace electrolytes
- Microfibre towel for wiping hands and face each day
- Ear plugs if you are a light sleeper
- Pee bottle – useful for late night toilet needs
- Dry bag (only required if your main duffle bag is not waterproof)
Ready for this adventure?
Book This Trek