Druk Path Trek: A Journey Through Bhutan's Scenic Wilderness

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Trekking Itinerary

The Druk Path Trek is a captivating adventure that takes you through Bhutan's stunning landscapes, connecting the vibrant valleys of Paro and Thimphu. Over five days, you will traverse lush forests, high ridges, and serene lakes, visiting ancient dzongs and yak herders' pastures. With breathtaking views of the Himalayas, including Mount Jumolhari and Jichu Drake, this trek offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion. Ideal for trekkers seeking moderate challenge and profound serenity, the Druk Path Trek is an unforgettable experience in the heart of Bhutan.

Day 1

Paro to Jele Dzong via Damchena Village

Distance: 10KM
Duration: 4-5 Hours
Ascent: 1003M
Descent: 10M
Camp Altitude: 3480M
After enjoying a hearty breakfast, you'll start your adventure with a drive to the National Museum in Paro, located at an elevation of 2487 meters. From here, your trek begins, winding uphill through lush apple orchards, charming smallholdings in Damchena Village, and serene pine forests. Your destination for the day is Jele Dzong, perched at 3490 meters on a ridge shaped like a whale’s back. Although Jele Dzong is mostly in ruins, it houses a beautiful Lhakhang with a statue of Buddha Sakyamuni. On a clear day, you can take in breathtaking views of Paro town far below and the majestic Mount Jumolhari (7315m) in the distance. Tonight, you'll camp at an altitude of 3480 meters, acclimatizing to the higher elevation.

Day 2

Jele Dzong to Jangchulakha

Distance: 10KM
Duration: 4 Hours
Ascent: 300M
Camp Altitude: 3780M
The day's trek begins with a gradual ascent, followed by a descent below the ridgeline as you meander through thick alpine forests and vibrant rhododendron bushes. Keep an eye out for yak herders in the area. The trail offers spectacular views of Mount Jumolhari and other snow-capped peaks. You might even hear the calls of monal pheasants during the day. The uphill walk continues until you reach a yak herders’ pasture at Jangchulakha, situated at 3780 meters, offering outstanding views of the Himalayan range. Your camp for the night will be in a scenic yak pasture near the hillside.

Day 3

Jangchulakha to Jimilangtsho Lake

Distance: 11KM
Duration: 4-5 Hours
Ascent: 400M
Descent: 300M
Camp Altitude: 3880M
Today's trail follows a ridge and occasionally weaves through juniper trees and dwarf rhododendrons. The panoramic views of the mountain valleys of Thimphu and Paro are simply stunning. After an ascent and then a steep descent, you will arrive at the serene Jimilangtsho Lake, located at 3880 meters. This lake is renowned for its giant-sized trout. Near your camp, you’ll have great views of Jichu Drake (6989m), the peak representing the protective deity of Paro. You'll spend the night camping close to the lake, surrounded by the tranquility of nature.

Day 4

Jimilangtsho via Janetsho Lake to Simkota

Distance: 11KM
Duration: 4 Hours
Ascent: 270M
Camp Altitude: 4110M
The trail today takes you through dwarf rhododendron trees, bypassing the picturesque Janetsho Lake. Along the way, you may encounter yak herders' camps, giving you a glimpse into their unique way of life. The path winds and undulates, offering magnificent views of the Himalayas across deep valleys. After crossing a final spur, you will see Simkota Lake (4110m) below. You’ll continue your trek until you reach a yak pasture where you'll camp for the night, enjoying the serene high-altitude landscape.

Day 5

Simkota via Phajoding to Thimphu

Distance: 14KM
Duration: 7 Hours
Ascent: 100M
Descent: 1800M
Your final day of trekking begins with a gradual climb to a small saddle at 4150 meters, offering majestic views of Mount Gangkar Puensum and other Himalayan peaks in clear weather. You will then descend to another small lake before climbing to the Phume La Pass (4210m), adorned with beautiful prayer flags. From this vantage point, you'll enjoy a panoramic view of Thimphu city far below. The trail then slowly descends through juniper trees to a community hall near Phajoding (3870m). From here, you'll continue downhill through forests of blue pine and juniper until you reach the roadhead of Sangaygang on the outskirts of Thimphu Valley.