If you’ve ever thought of visiting Bhutan then the Druk Path Trek is something that will crown your trip to this remote Himalayan Kingdom. 

Country: Bhutan / Nepal
Mountain Area: Himalayas
Max Altitude: 4210m (13,812ft)
Duration: 15 days (5 days trekking)
Type: Walking / Trekking / Culture
More info: Mountain Kingdoms

Overview

Typically it is part of a longer stay and here we consider it an integral part of a two-week trip, which combines the five-day trek along this ancient mountain trail between Paro and Thimphu with the chance to experience the uniquely fascinating culture, people and places of the Thunder Dragon Kingdom.

The entry into Bhutan is from the capital of neighbouring Nepal, Kathmandu. First you will explore the Paro Valley including a hike up to reach Bhutan’s premier attraction, the famed Tiger’s Nest Monastery, perched seemingly impossibly on a steep cliffside an astonishing 600m above the valley floor.

Legs fully stretched you then begin your trek out of the Paro Valley on the Druk Path trail following a tremendously varied route through virgin forests, along ridges and visiting beautiful mountain lakes as well as isolated settlements. 

Descending into Thimphu you’ll have time for exploration of the sights of Bhutan’s main town, before driving eastward to visit the lush Punakha Valley, site of the celebrated Punakha Dzong.

The Best Bits.

  • Hike one of Bhutan’s oldest trails with unmatched views and scenery
  • Enjoy a visit to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, one of the cultural highlights of the kingdom.
  • Experience top quality camping whilst hiking as well appointed accommodation elsewhere.
  • Take the opportunity to also soak in the delights of Nepal with a full day in Kathmandu
 

Experience Level

This traditional mule path however is no gentle stroll, as each day you’ll be trekking at over 3,000 metres/10,000ft and have the 4,210m (13,812ft) Simkota La to cross before your final descent to Bhutan’s capital 'city,' Thimphu. Nights on the trail are spent under canvas with campsites in some special locations including beside a beautiful lake, near the temples of Phadjoding and in a yak herder’s camp.

Typical Itinerary

  • Day 1-3 - Fly to Kathmandu and then on to Paro. Visit Dzong Drakha, a cluster of temples overlooking Paro valley.
  • Day 4 - Visit the famous Tiger's Nest, Taktsang Monastery.
  • Day 5-8 - Trekking:  Splendid views of Mount Chomolhari and Mount Kangcheeta. Camping at Lake Jana Tsho.
  • Day 9 - Complete the trek in the morning and use the afternoon to explore Thimphu.
  • Day 10 - Onward drive to Punakha and a walk to Drukpa Kunley's temple and Chimi Lhakhang.
  • Day 11 - Sightseeing in Punakha Valley. Visit Punakha Dzong before returning to Paro.
  • Day 12 - Attend Paro Tsechu, one of Bhutan’s most important festivals.
  • Day 13-15 - Fly to Kathmandu via Paro Airport. Sightseeing and time at leisure.

For more information or to book this or many other adventures visit Mountain Kingdoms.