Druk Path Trek 5 Nights 6 Days
Druk Path Trek is one of the finest short treks in Bhutan. Leading through an ancient trading route, over high mountain passes, it connects the valleys of Paro and Thimpu. Trail passes through spectacular rhododendron forests, alpine yak pastures and beautiful lakes stocked with snowy mountain trouts.
The trek begins by walking up through apple orchards and pine forest past ruined Jele Dzong (fortress), which sits on a high grassy ridge with breath-taking views of Mount Jumolhari to the north.
In the next 4 days, we climb above the tree line and cross several passes, including the Phume La (4,210m). En route, we come across clear mountain lakes, number of yak herder’s camps and have splendid views of Himalaya along the Bhutan – Tibet border including Mount Jumolhari, Jitchu Drake and Gangkar Punsum. Our final descent through pine and juniper forests via Phadjoding monasteries would lead into Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan.
Day 01: Paro – Jele Dzong
Distance – 10 km, Time – 3-4 hours.
The trek is rather gradual up till a fortress in ruins (3,400 m). Campsite for the day is reached after crossing the 3,400m Jele la pass, arriving at Jele Dzong which is mostly in ruins.
Overnight Tented Campsite
Day 02: Jele Dzong – Jangchulakha/ Rawana
Distance – 10 km, Time – 3-4 hours.
The route climbs through thick alpine forests and rhododendrons to a saddle at 3,590m. Stunning views of Mount. Chomolhari(7,314m) and the surrounding mountains can be seen from the trail. The beautiful Monal pheasant can also be seen during the day. Campsite at 3,780m near yak herders’ camp.
Overnight Tented Campsite
Day 03: Jangchulakha/Rawana – Jimilang Tsho
Distance – 11 km, Time – 4-5 hours.
The trek follows the ridge to a saddle at 4,040m, then drops a bit and follows the ridge back to Jangchu la pass (4,180m). Camp is near Jimilang Tsho (Sand Ox Lake) known for its giant size trout. Also there are good views of Mount. Jichu Drake (6,989m), the peak representing the protective deity of Paro valley.
Overnight Tented Campsite.
Day 04: Jimilang Tsho – Simkota Tsho
Distance – 11 km, Time – 4-5 hours.
The trail traverses through dwarf rhododendron trees and Janetsho Lake and passes by yak herder camps. It is a short climb along the side of the ridge and then a short, steep descent to camp at 4,040m which is near Simkota Tsho Lake famous for its trout.
Overnight Tented Campsite.
Day 05: Simkota Tsho – Phajoding
Distance – 10 km, Time – 3- 4 hours.
The day begins with a gradual climb to a saddle at 4,180m crossing Phume la pass (4,210m) marked by prayer flags. If weather permits, there are enchanting views of Mount Gangkhar Puensum (7,541m) and other Himalayan peaks here. The trail then descends past Thujidrag Goemba, a meditation centre hanging on the side of a precipitous rock face, continuing further through juniper trees to the campsite near Phajoding Goemba (3,870m), an important pilgrimage site.
Overnight Tented Campsite.
Day 06: Phajoding – Thimphu
Distance – 5 km, Time- 3 hours.
Today’s trek is all downhill through forested areas of mostly blue pine. On completion of trek you are collected and transported by road to your overnight accommodation.
package includes:
- Bhutan visa fee
- Government royalty & taxes
- English speaking tour guide
- Tour vehicle and driver
- 3-star accommodation
- Daily 3 meals (B/L/D)
- Airport transfers
- Bottled water
- Entry fees to parks and monuments
Package do not include:
- Flights to and from Bhutan
- Personal expense/shopping
- Alcoholic Beverages
- 4 or 5 star accommodation (extra charges will apply)
- Travel insurance
- Tips for guide and driver
For Further Inquiry
Dragon Rider Travels
- Drentoen Lam, Thimphu
- BTN +975-17161177 or 77732405; Aus +61-451416691
- info@bhutandragon.com/ dragonridertravels@gmail.com