Druk Path Trek
A classic high-altitude trek linking Paro's peaks to Thimphu's valleys
Overview
A balanced blend of Himalayan trekking and Bhutanese culture. After arrival and acclimatization in Paro, set out on the classic Druk Path Trek: hike from Jele Dzong along high ridgelines to Jangchulakha and on to the alpine lakes of Jimilangtsho, with sweeping views (weather permitting) of Jomolhari and the Paro–Thimphu valleys. Trek with licensed guide, crew, pack animals, and hot meals. Conclude in Thimphu with a well-deserved rejuvenation day, then take a scenic day trip to Punakha to visit the riverside dzong before returning to Paro for departure. Ideal for active travelers seeking a moderate multi-day trek plus cultural highlights.
Trip Highlights
- Four-day ridgeline trek past the alpine lakes of Jimilangtsho and Janetsho
- Camping with licensed guide, crew, pack animals and hot meals
- Distant views of Jomolhari on clear days
- A rejuvenation day in Thimphu with an optional hot-stone bath
- Riverside Punakha Dzong on the way back to Paro
What's Included
- Room with breakfast, lunch and dinner (MAP plan)
- Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) and visa fees
- Private vehicle transportation throughout
- Experienced guide and trekking staff
- All monument, museum and park entrance fees and permits
What's Excluded
- Travel insurance
- International and domestic flights
Free itinerary customization — no booking commitment.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arrival in Paro
Arrive at Paro International Airport for a khadar welcome and private transfer to a luxury hotel in Paro. After check-in, enjoy welcome tea and an orientation briefing, followed by a gentle acclimatization stroll and a chef-curated Bhutanese tasting menu for dinner. Overnight: Luxury hotel in Paro.
Meals: Dinner
Paro
An easy day to settle in with a slow breakfast and a gentle town or riverside stroll, plus an optional light outing to the National Museum (Ta Dzong) or Kyichu Lhakhang. In the afternoon, a full trek briefing covers the route, altitude notes and safety, alongside a gear and pack check ahead of an early night. Overnight: Luxury hotel in Paro.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Paro → Jele Dzong
A short drive to the trailhead near the National Museum begins the Druk Path Trek: a steady forested climb through blue pine, oak and rhododendron up to the alpine meadows near Jele Dzong (~3,400–3,500 m), with Jomolhari visible in the distance on clear days. Camp near Jele Dzong for a warm dinner and stargazing. Trek stats: ~8–10 km, 4–6 hours, ~1,000–1,200 m elevation gain.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Jele Dzong → Jangchulakha
A ridge-line walk of about 10–12 km and 4–6 hours through rhododendron and dwarf juniper, passing yak herder huts and open meadows, with glimpses of Jomolhari and Jichu Drakye on clear days. Camp at Jangchulakha, a wind-exposed ridge (~3,780–3,900 m).
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Jangchulakha → Jimilangtsho
A rolling ridge walk of about 10–11 km and 5–6 hours with big-sky panoramas and yak pastures, descending to camp beside the serene Jimilang Tsho ('Sand Ox Lake', ~3,800–3,900 m) — a sacred lake with no swimming, washing or fishing.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Jimilangtsho → Thimphu
An early start traversing past Janetsho and Simkotra Tsho (~4,050–4,110 m) and over Phume La (~4,210 m), followed by a long descent to Phajoding Monastery (~3,650 m) and down through blue pine forest to the Motithang/Buddha Dordenma trailhead — about 18–22 km and 8–10 hours in total. Overnight: Hotel in Thimphu.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Thimphu
A slow morning with a leisurely breakfast, followed by a traditional hot-stone bath or herbal steam with an optional massage, gentle stretching or an easy riverside walk. The afternoon is free for laundry, repacking, or browsing the Craft Bazaar for souvenirs. Overnight: Hotel in Thimphu.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Thimphu → Punakha → Paro
Early drive to Punakha via Dochu La (3,100 m), about 2.5–3 hours, to visit Punakha Dzong at the Pho Chhu–Mo Chhu confluence, the Punakha Suspension Bridge, and an optional hike to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten. After a riverside lunch, return to Paro via Dochu La for a final evening at leisure. Overnight: Paro.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Paro
Transfer to Paro International Airport for departure.
Meals: Breakfast
