Tibet

Druk Path Trek Bhutan

Follow Bhutan’s ancient mountain trail from Paro to Thimphu, camping beside alpine lakes and crossing panoramic ridges beneath the high Himalaya.
Trip ID
HWB046
Duration
9 Day(s)
Difficulty
Demanding
Max altitude
4,090m
Group
1–12 Pax
From
US$ 1,950
Best season
Mar–Jun · Sep–Nov

Journey overview

The experience at a glance

The Druk Path Trek is one of Bhutan’s finest short Himalayan journeys, linking the historic valleys of Paro and Thimphu through alpine forests, open ridges and remote mountain lakes. Designed as a nine-day Bhutan holiday with five days on the trail, this itinerary combines a Bhutan trekking tour with the country’s essential cultural experiences. Before the trek begins, you explore Paro and hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery, an ideal introduction to Bhutan and a valuable acclimatization walk.

Starting near Paro, the trail climbs towards Jele Dzong and continues through rhododendron, fir and blue-pine forests to Jangchulakha. On clear days, high ridges reveal sweeping views of Mount Jomolhari, Jichu Drake and the surrounding Bhutan Himalaya. The route then reaches Jimilang Tsho and Simkotra Tsho, two peaceful high-altitude lakes surrounded by yak pastures and pristine wilderness. Four nights in tented camps create an authentic Bhutan camping trek experience, supported by a local trekking guide and camp crew.

Although the walking distances are moderate, the route reaches approximately 4,200 metres, making altitude and changing mountain weather important considerations. Most days involve three to six hours of hiking on undulating trails, so good fitness and preparation are recommended. This Paro to Thimphu trek is best enjoyed from March to June and September to November, when trail conditions are generally favourable.

After crossing the final ridge, the path descends through Phajoding to Thimphu. A guided exploration of Bhutan’s capital and a return to Paro complete the journey. Blending monasteries, alpine scenery, highland lakes and comfortable cultural sightseeing, the Druk Path Trek Bhutan itinerary is ideal for travellers seeking a short but immersive Himalayan adventure without committing to Bhutan’s longer and more strenuous trekking routes. It particularly suits active first-time visitors who want wilderness, cultural discovery and a fully supported high-altitude trek within one carefully paced holiday.

The field notes

A journey with rhythm

Private guiding, thoughtful pacing, and enough room to absorb each place rather than simply pass through it.

PrivateThoughtfulLocal

Time away
9 Day(s)
Travel rhythm
Immersive pace
Highest moment
4,090 m
Places to call home
3

Trip highlights

What makes this journey

  1. 01

    Complete the spectacular five-day Druk Path Trek from Paro to Thimphu.

  2. 02

    Hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery before beginning the trek.

  3. 03

    Camp beside remote alpine lakes, including Jimilang Tsho and Simkotra Tsho.

  4. 04

    Enjoy possible views of Mount Jomolhari, Jichu Drake and the Bhutan Himalaya.

  5. 05

    Combine wilderness trekking with guided cultural experiences in Paro and Thimphu.

Places covered

Destinations on this trip

The places this journey moves through, in the order they shape the experience.

  1. Paro

  2. Thimphu

  3. Tiger's Nest

  4. Druk Path Trail

Day by day

9 days

Walk the route one day at a time — meals, overnight stays, and the details that shape each stage.

Follow the path day by day

Private vehicle & English-speaking guide throughout · Paro

Trip essentials

What your journey covers

A clear split between what we arrange and what you budget yourself.

Included

8 items

  • Private transportation including airport transfers
  • Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) & Visa Fees
  • All necessary Bhutan travel/trekking permits
  • Licensed Bhutanese guide, trekking crew, and driver.
  • Horses/yaks for luggage transport, Camping equipment and trekking logistics.
  • Accommodation in cities and tented camps/lodges during the trek
  • Sightseeing and monastery entrance fees as per the itinerary
  • Meal plan: Full Board Basis (Breakfast Lunch and Dinner)

Not included

6 items

  • Insurance of any kind
  • Single Supplement
  • Sleeping bag for the trek and other personal trekking equipment
  • Flight fare to and from Paro
  • Additional costs due to natural calamities and unforeseen circumstances
  • Personal expenses such as drinks guide tips & etc.

Before you go

Frequently asked