Talk To An Expert ( Prakash Lamsal )
Talk To An Expert ( Prakash Lamsal )
Druk Path Trek – A Scenic Himalayan Adventure in Bhutan
The Druk Path Trek is one of Bhutan’s most iconic and accessible treks, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural encounters, and panoramic Himalayan views. Stretching between the valleys of Paro and Thimphu, this moderate trek takes you through ancient trails once used by traders, now transformed into a peaceful route through pristine forests, alpine meadows, crystal-clear lakes, and traditional yak herder camps.
Ideal for both first-time trekkers and seasoned hikers, the Druk Path Trek is a fantastic introduction to high-altitude trekking in the Himalayas while immersing in Bhutan’s untouched natural landscapes and spiritual heritage.
Trek Duration: 5 to 6 days
Max Altitude: 4,210 meters (13,810 feet) at Labana Pass
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Start Point: Paro
End Point: Thimphu
Best Season: March to June and September to November
Accommodation: Camping (supported with crew and horses)
🌄 Stunning Mountain Views: Witness spectacular sights of Mount Gangkar Puensum – the world’s highest unclimbed mountain – and the Himalayan range.
🏞️ Scenic Alpine Landscapes: Hike through rhododendron forests, blue pine woods, and high-altitude yak pastures.
🏕️ Tranquil Mountain Lakes: Discover beautiful glacial lakes such as Jimilang Tsho and Simkotra Tsho, known for their serenity and local legends.
🏯 Cultural Encounters: Explore ancient monasteries like Jili Dzong, a 16th-century fortress with a sacred atmosphere and sweeping valley views.
🐂 Traditional Life: Meet Bhutanese yak herders and experience their simple yet rich mountain lifestyle.
📷 Photographer’s Paradise: Every day presents jaw-dropping landscapes perfect for capturing the essence of Bhutan.
Day 1: Paro – Jili Dzong (Trek starts)
A steady uphill climb through pine forests leads to Jili Dzong, offering great views of Paro Valley. Camp near the fortress.
Altitude: 3,480 m | Distance: 7 km | Duration: 4-5 hours
Day 2: Jili Dzong – Jangchulakha
Continue through dense rhododendron forests and alpine meadows with chances to see yaks and herders.
Altitude: 3,770 m | Distance: 10 km | Duration: 4-5 hours
Day 3: Jangchulakha – Jimilang Tsho
Trek along ridge lines with panoramic mountain views and camp by the beautiful Jimilang Tsho Lake.
Altitude: 3,880 m | Distance: 11 km | Duration: 5-6 hours
Day 4: Jimilang Tsho – Simkotra Tsho
A scenic day of hiking past smaller lakes and grazing areas. Camp near Simkotra Lake.
Altitude: 4,110 m | Distance: 11 km | Duration: 4-5 hours
Day 5: Simkotra Tsho – Phajoding – Thimphu (Trek ends)
Cross the high point of the trek at Labana Pass (4,210 m), then descend to the sacred Phajoding Monastery. Continue downhill to reach Thimphu.
Distance: 13 km | Duration: 6-7 hours
Day 6: Explore Thimphu or transfer to Paro for departure
The ideal seasons are spring (March to June) and autumn (September to November). These months offer clear skies, comfortable temperatures, and blooming wildflowers or vibrant autumn foliage. While winter treks are possible, cold temperatures and snow may block certain passes.
Adventure seekers looking for a moderate Himalayan trek
Cultural travelers interested in Bhutanese heritage and rural life
Nature lovers craving wild, unspoiled landscapes
Photographers, solo travelers, and small groups seeking peaceful trails
Unlike other Himalayan treks that can be physically intense or overcrowded, the Druk Path Trek is a less-trodden gem. It offers high rewards for moderate effort, with diverse terrains, cultural landmarks, and tranquil campsites. It’s perfect for those who want a short yet immersive trekking experience without extreme altitudes or long days of hiking.
A Bhutanese tour guide is mandatory; independent trekking is not allowed in Bhutan.
Pack warm clothing, especially for night temperatures that can drop below freezing.
Bring trekking poles, a water purifier, and a good camera – you’ll need all three.
Altitude sickness is rare due to gradual ascents, but stay hydrated and rest when needed.
Q: Is altitude sickness a concern?
A: The highest point is around 4,210 meters, which is manageable with proper acclimatization. It’s considered safe for most trekkers.
Q: Do I need to be very fit?
A: A basic fitness level and ability to walk 5–6 hours per day on moderate terrain are enough.
Q: What permits are required?
A: All treks must be booked through a registered Bhutanese tour operator, who will handle visa and trekking permits.
Q: Can I combine this trek with a Bhutan cultural tour?
A: Absolutely. Many travelers add sightseeing in Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha before or after the trek.
Whether you're planning a spiritual escape or a Himalayan adventure, the Druk Path Trek is a bucket-list experience that combines Bhutan’s raw natural beauty with its unique cultural charm. Contact a trusted Bhutan tour operator to customize your trekking itinerary and ensure a smooth, memorable journey through the Land of the Thunder Dragon.
Enjoy the popular trekking and tour packages in Nepal Himalayas. 2025.
Druk Path Trek – A Scenic Himalayan Adventure in Bhutan
The Druk Path Trek is one of Bhutan’s most iconic and accessible treks, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural encounters, and panoramic Himalayan views. Stretching between the valleys of Paro and Thimphu, this moderate trek takes you through ancient trails once used by traders, now transformed into a peaceful route through pristine forests, alpine meadows, crystal-clear lakes, and traditional yak herder camps.
Ideal for both first-time trekkers and seasoned hikers, the Druk Path Trek is a fantastic introduction to high-altitude trekking in the Himalayas while immersing in Bhutan’s untouched natural landscapes and spiritual heritage.
Trek Duration: 5 to 6 days
Max Altitude: 4,210 meters (13,810 feet) at Labana Pass
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Start Point: Paro
End Point: Thimphu
Best Season: March to June and September to November
Accommodation: Camping (supported with crew and horses)
🌄 Stunning Mountain Views: Witness spectacular sights of Mount Gangkar Puensum – the world’s highest unclimbed mountain – and the Himalayan range.
🏞️ Scenic Alpine Landscapes: Hike through rhododendron forests, blue pine woods, and high-altitude yak pastures.
🏕️ Tranquil Mountain Lakes: Discover beautiful glacial lakes such as Jimilang Tsho and Simkotra Tsho, known for their serenity and local legends.
🏯 Cultural Encounters: Explore ancient monasteries like Jili Dzong, a 16th-century fortress with a sacred atmosphere and sweeping valley views.
🐂 Traditional Life: Meet Bhutanese yak herders and experience their simple yet rich mountain lifestyle.
📷 Photographer’s Paradise: Every day presents jaw-dropping landscapes perfect for capturing the essence of Bhutan.
Day 1: Paro – Jili Dzong (Trek starts)
A steady uphill climb through pine forests leads to Jili Dzong, offering great views of Paro Valley. Camp near the fortress.
Altitude: 3,480 m | Distance: 7 km | Duration: 4-5 hours
Day 2: Jili Dzong – Jangchulakha
Continue through dense rhododendron forests and alpine meadows with chances to see yaks and herders.
Altitude: 3,770 m | Distance: 10 km | Duration: 4-5 hours
Day 3: Jangchulakha – Jimilang Tsho
Trek along ridge lines with panoramic mountain views and camp by the beautiful Jimilang Tsho Lake.
Altitude: 3,880 m | Distance: 11 km | Duration: 5-6 hours
Day 4: Jimilang Tsho – Simkotra Tsho
A scenic day of hiking past smaller lakes and grazing areas. Camp near Simkotra Lake.
Altitude: 4,110 m | Distance: 11 km | Duration: 4-5 hours
Day 5: Simkotra Tsho – Phajoding – Thimphu (Trek ends)
Cross the high point of the trek at Labana Pass (4,210 m), then descend to the sacred Phajoding Monastery. Continue downhill to reach Thimphu.
Distance: 13 km | Duration: 6-7 hours
Day 6: Explore Thimphu or transfer to Paro for departure
The ideal seasons are spring (March to June) and autumn (September to November). These months offer clear skies, comfortable temperatures, and blooming wildflowers or vibrant autumn foliage. While winter treks are possible, cold temperatures and snow may block certain passes.
Adventure seekers looking for a moderate Himalayan trek
Cultural travelers interested in Bhutanese heritage and rural life
Nature lovers craving wild, unspoiled landscapes
Photographers, solo travelers, and small groups seeking peaceful trails
Unlike other Himalayan treks that can be physically intense or overcrowded, the Druk Path Trek is a less-trodden gem. It offers high rewards for moderate effort, with diverse terrains, cultural landmarks, and tranquil campsites. It’s perfect for those who want a short yet immersive trekking experience without extreme altitudes or long days of hiking.
A Bhutanese tour guide is mandatory; independent trekking is not allowed in Bhutan.
Pack warm clothing, especially for night temperatures that can drop below freezing.
Bring trekking poles, a water purifier, and a good camera – you’ll need all three.
Altitude sickness is rare due to gradual ascents, but stay hydrated and rest when needed.
Q: Is altitude sickness a concern?
A: The highest point is around 4,210 meters, which is manageable with proper acclimatization. It’s considered safe for most trekkers.
Q: Do I need to be very fit?
A: A basic fitness level and ability to walk 5–6 hours per day on moderate terrain are enough.
Q: What permits are required?
A: All treks must be booked through a registered Bhutanese tour operator, who will handle visa and trekking permits.
Q: Can I combine this trek with a Bhutan cultural tour?
A: Absolutely. Many travelers add sightseeing in Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha before or after the trek.
Whether you're planning a spiritual escape or a Himalayan adventure, the Druk Path Trek is a bucket-list experience that combines Bhutan’s raw natural beauty with its unique cultural charm. Contact a trusted Bhutan tour operator to customize your trekking itinerary and ensure a smooth, memorable journey through the Land of the Thunder Dragon.
