DRUK PATH TREK 09DAYS (OPTIONAL:08DAYS)

Day 1: ARRIVAL IN PARO

Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, meet your guide and begin your journey through Bhutan’s cultural heartland. Visit the magnificent Rinpung Dzong, an architectural masterpiece overlooking the Paro Valley, followed by the historic National Museum of Bhutan, home to Bhutan’s finest collection of sacred art, traditional artifacts and centuries of history. Spend a relaxing evening soaking in the peaceful atmosphere of Paro.

Day 2: Tiger’s Nest

Embark on a memorable hike to the legendary Paro taktshang (Tiger’s Nest) Bhutan’s most iconic landmark dramatically perched on a sheer cliff 900 meters above the valley. The rewarding trek offers breathtaking scenery and a profound spiritual experience. After descending, enjoy leisure time exploring Paro’s charming local market.

Day 3: Trek begins: Ta Dzong to Jele Dzong

10 km | 4–5 hours | 1,003m ascent | 10m descent | Camp altitude: 3,480m Though the distance covered today is modest, the significant elevation gain calls for a slow, steady pace right from the start. After breakfast, you’ll drive to the trailhead near the National Museum above Paro, at 2,487m. From here, the trek begins with a gradual climb through apple orchards and the scattered smallholdings of Damchena village, before the trail enters cool pine forest. The day’s destination is Jele Dzong, perched at 3,490m on a long, whaleback ridge. Largely in ruins today, the dzong still houses a lhakhang with a statue of Buddha Sakyamuni, offering a quiet glimpse into its past significance. On clear days, the reward for the climb is unmistakable — sweeping views back over Paro town far below, paired with a striking outlook toward Mount Jomolhari (7,315m). The night is spent camped near the dzong at 3,480m.

Day 4: Jele Dzong to Jangchulakha

10 km | 4 hours | 300m ascent | Camp altitude: 3,780m The day starts with a gentle climb before dropping below the ridgeline, where the trail winds through dense alpine forest thick with rhododendron. Yak herders are often spotted grazing their animals in this area, and with some luck, the call of monal pheasants can be heard echoing through the trees. Along the way, striking views of Mount Jomolhari and other snow-capped peaks accompany the walk. The trail then climbs once more, bringing you to Jangchulakha (3,780m), a high pasture used by yak herders and framed by outstanding views across the Himalayan range. The camp for the night is set right in the pasture, tucked against the hillside.

Day 5: Jangchulakha to Jimilangtsho

11 km | 4–5 hours | 400m ascent | 300m descent | Camp altitude: 3,880m The trail continues along the ridgeline, weaving at times through stands of juniper and low-growing dwarf rhododendron. As the path unfolds, sensational views open up across the valleys of both Thimphu and Paro. After a climb followed by a steep drop, the trail brings you down to Jimilangtsho Lake (3,880m), well known among trekkers for the giant trout said to inhabit its waters. From the campsite near the lakeshore, clear days offer superb views of Jichu Drake (6,989m), the peak revered as the protective deity of Paro. The night is spent camped beside the tranquil waters of Jimilangtsho.

Day 6: Jimilangtsho to Simkota

11 km | 4 hours | 270m ascent | Camp altitude: 4110m The trail passes through low, wind-shaped rhododendron trees and skirts the edge of Janetsho Lake along the way. It’s a good stretch to spot yak herders’ camps, offering a small window into their traditional way of life up in these high pastures. From here, the path continues to wind and roll across the terrain, with magnificent Himalayan views opening up across the deep valleys below. After crossing one last spur, Simkota Tsho Lake (4,110m) comes into view in the basin below. The trail carries on a little further until reaching a yak pasture, where camp is set for the night.

Day 7: Simkota via Phajoding to Thimphu

14KM | 7 HOURS | 100M ASCENT | 1800M DESCENT Today you will begin with a gradual climb to a small saddle at 4150m from where you enjoy majestic view of Mount Gangkar Puensum and other himalayan peaks on clear weather. You will then descend to another small lake and then climb to the Phume La pass (4210m) which is adorned with beautiful prayer flags. From here, you will enjoy great view of Thimphu city far below. The trail slowly descends through junipers trees to a community hall near Phajoding (3870m). Walk way down hill to Thimphu through a forests of blue pine and juniper until you arrive the roadhead of Sangaygang on the outskirts of Thimphu valley.

Day 8: Thimphu City Tour

After the trek’s remote alpine landscapes, the final day offers a relaxed change of pace with a guided tour of Bhutan’s capital. Highlights typically include the towering Buddha Dordenma statue overlooking the valley, Tashichho Dzong — the fortress housing the King’s throne room and government offices — and the National Memorial Chorten, a peaceful site of daily devotion for locals. Depending on time, you might also visit the Folk Heritage Museum or browse the lively Centenary Farmers’ Market. It’s a gentle re-entry into city life, giving you a chance to unwind and take in Bhutanese culture before your onward journey.

Day 9: Departure

After breakfast, transfer to Paro International Airport for your onward flight. As your journey comes to an end, depart with cherished memories of sacred monasteries, pristine mountain trails, breathtaking Himalayan landscapes and the warm hospitality that makes Bhutan a destination unlike any other.