A bespoke trekking in bhutan adventure.
The Druk Path Trek – 9 Days is a classic short Himalayan trekking journey in Bhutan, connecting the historic Paro Valley with Thimphu, the country's capital. The journey combines cultural sightseeing in Paro and Thimphu with peaceful forest trails, alpine lakes, high mountain ridges, and remote Himalayan landscapes.
The trek begins after a full day of exploring Paro Valley and gradually climbs through pine and rhododendron forests toward Jele Dzong, continuing through Jangchulakha, Jimilang Tsho, Simkota Tsho, and Phajoding. The changing scenery, from forested hillsides to open high-altitude terrain, makes this one of Bhutan's most rewarding short trekking routes.
The Druk Path Trek reaches elevations above 4,000 meters and provides an authentic Himalayan trekking experience while remaining considerably shorter than Bhutan's longer high-altitude trekking routes. The trail includes beautiful alpine lakes, mountain viewpoints, historic sites, and quiet camping locations away from the main roads and towns.
The itinerary also allows time to experience Bhutan's cultural heritage before and after the trek. Travelers enjoy Paro sightseeing before beginning the trek, while the journey ends in Thimphu, followed by a dedicated day to explore the capital before departure.
As one of the classic routes of Trekking in Bhutan, the Druk Path Trek offers a balanced combination of Himalayan scenery, alpine landscapes, Bhutanese culture, and adventure. For practical information about preparation, equipment, accommodation, food, altitude, and trekking conditions, see our Bhutan Trekking Guide.
Short Itinerary
Day 01: Arrive in Paro (2,280 m) – Transfer to Hotel and Rest
Day 02: Full-Day Paro Valley Sightseeing and Trek Preparation
Day 03: Trek from Paro to Jele Dzong (3,480 m) – 10 km, 5–6 hrs
Day 04: Trek from Jele Dzong to Jangchulakha (3,770 m) – 10 km, 4–5 hrs
Day 05: Trek from Jangchulakha to Jimilang Tsho (3,870 m) – 11 km, 5 hrs
Day 06: Trek from Jimilang Tsho to Phajoding (3,650 m) via Simkota Tsho – 14 km, 6 hrs
Day 07: Trek from Phajoding to Thimphu (2,334 m) – Trek Ends
Day 08: Full-Day Thimphu Sightseeing and Cultural Exploration
Day 09: Transfer from Thimphu to Paro Airport – Departure from Bhutan
Trip Facts
Trip Name: Druk Path Trek – 9 Days
Destination: Bhutan
Duration: 9 Days / 8 Nights
Trip Type: Camping Trek with Cultural Sightseeing
Trek Grade: Moderate
Maximum Elevation: Approximately 4,210 m
Starting Point: Paro
Ending Point: Thimphu
Accommodation: 3-Star Standard Hotels in Paro and Thimphu; fully supported tented camps during the trek
Meals: Full Board — Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner throughout the Bhutan journey
Transportation: Private vehicle and trekking on foot
Best Seasons: March–May and September–November
Daily Walking: Approximately 4–6 hours
Major Highlights: Paro, Jele Dzong, Jangchulakha, Jimilang Tsho, Simkota Tsho, Phajoding, Himalayan mountain scenery, and Thimphu
Guide: Experienced, licensed Bhutanese trekking guide with professional trekking support staff
Trek Style: Fully Supported Camping Trek
Suitable For: Fit travelers, nature lovers, photographers, adventure seekers, and trekkers seeking a rewarding short Himalayan experience
Trekking Experience and Preparation
The Druk Path Trek offers a rewarding Himalayan trekking experience without requiring several weeks on the trail. The route includes steady ascents and descents, uneven mountain paths, and several hours of walking each day. The higher sections require a steady pace and good hydration as the trail reaches elevations above 4,000 meters.
The journey also gives travelers an opportunity to experience Bhutan beyond the trekking trail. A dedicated sightseeing day in Paro before the trek allows time to explore the valley and prepare for the mountain route, while a full day in Thimphu after completing the trek provides time to relax and discover Bhutan’s capital.
Travelers should prepare for changing temperatures, mountain weather, and overnight camping. Good trekking boots, warm and waterproof layers, a comfortable daypack, water bottles, sunglasses, sunscreen, personal medication, and a suitable sleeping bag are recommended. Weather can change quickly at higher elevations, so suitable protection from both cold and rain is important.
Good physical preparation will make the trek more comfortable and enjoyable. Regular walking, hiking, and endurance training before departure can help travelers become accustomed to several consecutive days of mountain walking. For detailed information about equipment, packing, altitude, accommodation, food, safety, and trekking conditions, see our Bhutan Trekking Guide.
Paro and Thimphu Sightseeing
The journey includes a dedicated day in Paro before the trek, providing time to explore the historic Paro Valley and experience Bhutanese culture and heritage. It also gives travelers a relaxed opportunity to prepare for the trekking days ahead.
After completing the trek, travelers continue to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital, where a full day is reserved for cultural and historical sightseeing. This arrangement provides a comfortable balance between mountain adventure and cultural exploration without rushing sightseeing into the trekking schedule.
Trekking Difficulty
The Druk Path Trek is generally considered moderate. The main challenges are the altitude, uneven mountain trails, and repeated uphill and downhill sections during the trekking days.
The route reaches elevations above 4,000 m, so a reasonable level of fitness and proper preparation are important. Previous trekking experience is helpful but not essential for fit travelers who are comfortable walking several hours a day in mountainous terrain.
Best Time for the Trek
The best seasons for the Druk Path Trek are generally spring and autumn, when weather conditions are usually more favorable and mountain visibility can be excellent.
Spring, from March to May, offers pleasant trekking conditions, with rhododendrons adding color to the forested sections of the trail. Autumn, from September to November, is particularly popular for clearer skies and good mountain views. The summer monsoon can bring rain, clouds, and wet trails, while winter may bring snow and freezing temperatures at higher elevations.
Accommodation and Food
Accommodation for the Druk Path Trek includes 3-star standard hotels in Paro and Thimphu, with fully supported tented camps during the trekking section. The trekking team manages the tents, camping equipment, kitchen, and dining arrangements throughout the mountain route.
Full Board meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, are included throughout the Bhutan journey. Meals are provided at the hotels and prepared by the trekking team during the camping section, with fresh and nourishing food provided throughout the trip. Vegetarian and other dietary requirements can be arranged in advance.
Responsible Trekking
The Druk Path passes through fragile mountain environments and areas of cultural importance. Travelers should avoid leaving waste on the trail, minimize unnecessary plastic use, and follow the guidance of the trekking team.
Respect for Bhutanese customs, Buddhist traditions, local communities, wildlife, and cultural sites is an important part of responsible trekking. Helping protect the natural and cultural environment ensures that the route remains enjoyable for future travelers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Druk Path Trek suitable for beginners?
The Druk Path Trek is considered moderate and can suit fit travelers with little previous trekking experience. However, travelers should be prepared for several hours of walking each day and changing conditions at higher elevations.
What is the highest elevation of the Druk Path Trek?
The route reaches approximately 4,210 m at its highest point. Because the trek enters high-altitude terrain, proper preparation and awareness of altitude are important.
Is the Druk Path Trek a camping trek?
Yes. The trekking section uses fully supported tented camps, while 3-star standard hotel accommodation is provided in Paro and Thimphu. The trekking team manages the camping, kitchen, and dining arrangements throughout the mountain section.
Are Paro and Thimphu sightseeing included?
Yes. The itinerary includes Paro sightseeing before the trek and a full day of Thimphu sightseeing after the trek. These cultural sightseeing days are included as part of the Bhutan journey, with transportation and applicable entrance fees arranged according to the itinerary.
Yes. The itinerary includes a full day of Paro Valley sightseeing before the trek and a full day of Thimphu sightseeing after the trek.
Are meals included during the trek?
Yes. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included during the trekking section. Breakfast is provided with hotel accommodation in Paro and Thimphu.
Can the Druk Path Trek be customized?
Yes. The itinerary can be adjusted according to travel dates, group size, trekking pace, accommodation preferences, and additional travel requirements, subject to local conditions and permit arrangements.
Plan Your Druk Path Trek
The Druk Path Trek – 9 Days combines a rewarding Himalayan trekking experience with the cultural heritage of Bhutan. From Paro Valley and forested mountain trails to alpine lakes, high ridges, Phajoding, and the cultural attractions of Thimphu, the journey offers a memorable introduction to trekking in Bhutan.
If you have different travel dates, group size, trekking experience, accommodation preferences, or additional sightseeing interests, the itinerary can be customized to suit your plans. Mountain King Treks can arrange permits, an experienced trekking guide, transportation, accommodation, camping services, meals, and sightseeing according to your requirements.
Contact Us
Mountain King Treks & Expedition Pvt. Ltd.
WhatsApp / Call: +977-9841566449
Email: info@mountainkingtrek.com
Contact us to discuss your preferred trekking dates, group size, experience level, accommodation, and travel arrangements.
Plan Your Trip
Tell us your preferred dates, group size, trekking experience, and travel requirements, and we will help arrange your Druk Path Trek according to your plans.
What makes this special.
- Explore the historic Paro Valley with a dedicated sightseeing day before the trek.
- Trek through beautiful pine and rhododendron forests between Paro and Thimphu.
- Enjoy spectacular Himalayan mountain scenery from the high sections of the route.
- Visit historic Jele Dzong, overlooking the Paro Valley.
- Experience the peaceful high-altitude landscapes around Jangchulakha.
- Discover the scenic alpine lakes of Jimilang Tsho and Simkota Tsho.
- Camp in remote mountain environments surrounded by Bhutan's natural beauty.
- Reach Phajoding before making the final descent toward Thimphu.
- Explore Thimphu's cultural and historical attractions after completing the trek.
- Experience a classic Paro-to-Thimphu trekking journey combining nature, culture, and Himalayan adventure.
Your itinerary.
Arrive at Paro International Airport, where you will be welcomed by our local representative and transferred by private vehicle to your hotel. The drive into Paro Valley offers your first views of Bhutan's peaceful mountain surroundings and traditional Bhutanese architecture.
As international flights can arrive later in the day, the first day is kept relaxed. Check in at the hotel, rest after your journey, and meet your trekking guide to receive an initial briefing about the upcoming trek.
Overnight: 3-Star Standard Hotel in Paro
Meals: Dinner
After breakfast, enjoy a full-day sightseeing tour of Paro Valley and discover some of its most important cultural and historical attractions. Visit traditional Bhutanese landmarks and enjoy the peaceful scenery of the valley while learning more about the country's heritage and way of life.
After sightseeing, return to the hotel and prepare for the trek. Your guide will check the necessary equipment and provide a briefing about the route, walking conditions, altitude, weather, and camping arrangements for the days ahead.
Overnight: 3-Star Standard Hotel in Paro
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
After breakfast, drive a short distance to the trailhead and begin the Druk Path Trek. The trail gradually climbs through beautiful pine and rhododendron forests, with occasional views back toward the Paro Valley as you gain elevation.
Continue along the forested mountain trail toward Jele Dzong, situated above the valley. After approximately 10 km of walking, arrive at the campsite and settle into your tent while enjoying the peaceful mountain surroundings.
Overnight: Tented Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
The trail continues through forested slopes and gradually enters higher mountain terrain. The walking is steady, with a mixture of ascents and gentler sections as you leave the surroundings of Jele Dzong behind.
After around 10 km and 4–5 hours of trekking, reach Jangchulakha, a beautiful high-altitude campsite surrounded by open mountain landscapes. Enjoy the quiet evening and rest in preparation for the following day's trek toward the alpine lakes.
Overnight: Tented Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Today's trail continues through the higher sections of the route, with mountain ridges and open landscapes replacing much of the lower forest. The gradual climb provides increasingly wide views across the surrounding Bhutanese mountains.
Continue toward Jimilang Tsho, one of the most beautiful alpine lakes along the route. After approximately 11 km of trekking, arrive at the campsite near the lake and enjoy the peaceful high-altitude surroundings.
Overnight: Tented Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
After breakfast, continue trekking through the high mountain landscape toward Simkota Tsho. The trail passes through open ridges and alpine terrain, with opportunities to enjoy panoramic views when weather conditions are clear.
From Simkota Tsho, continue toward Phajoding, gradually descending toward the campsite. After approximately 14 km and 6 hours of walking, reach Phajoding and settle into camp for your final night on the trekking trail.
Overnight: Tented Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Today is the final trekking day. From Phajoding, the trail descends through forested terrain toward Thimphu, gradually leaving the high mountain environment behind. The descent provides a welcome change of scenery after several days in the alpine zone.
After reaching Thimphu, your trek officially ends. Transfer to your hotel, enjoy a comfortable shower and rest after completing the Druk Path Trek. The evening is free to relax or take a short walk around the capital if time and energy permit.
Overnight: 3-Star Standard Hotel in Thimphu
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
After breakfast, enjoy a full-day sightseeing tour of Thimphu, Bhutan's capital. Explore important cultural and historical attractions and experience the distinctive architecture, traditions, and atmosphere of the country's main urban center.
The day provides a relaxed opportunity to discover Thimphu after completing the trek. Enjoy the city's cultural heritage and mountain setting before returning to your hotel for your final night in Bhutan.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Overnight: 3-Star Standard Hotel in Thimphu
After breakfast, transfer by private vehicle from Thimphu to Paro Airport according to your international flight schedule. The scenic drive through the Himalayan valleys provides a final opportunity to enjoy Bhutan's mountain landscapes.
Arrive at Paro International Airport in time for check-in and departure formalities. Your Druk Path Trek – 9 Days concludes with memorable experiences of Bhutan's mountains, culture, and traditional heritage.
Meals: Breakfast
Trip includes
- Airport transfers and private transportation as per itinerary.
- 3-star standard hotel accommodation in Paro and Thimphu.
- Fully supported tented camping during the trek.
- Full Board meals throughout the Bhutan journey.
- Experienced, licensed Bhutanese trekking guide, cooks, porters, and support staff.
- Necessary trekking and camping equipment, including tents, kitchen, and dining facilities.
- Paro and Thimphu sightseeing as per itinerary.
- Required Bhutan entry arrangements, permits, and sightseeing entrance fees.
- Government taxes and service charges for included services.
Not included
- International flights to and from Bhutan.
- Travel insurance, including high-altitude trekking and emergency evacuation coverage.
- Personal trekking clothing and equipment.
- Personal expenses, laundry, telephone calls, and beverages.
- Tips and gratuities for guides, staff, and drivers.
- Medical and emergency expenses not covered by insurance.
- 4-star or 5-star hotel upgrades, if requested.
- Any services not mentioned in the itinerary.
