The Ancient Druk Path trek

An 11-Day High-Altitude Trek Through Bhutan's Sacred Mountains

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This extraordinary 11-day journey combines high-altitude trekking along Bhutan's historic Druk Path with cultural exploration of ancient monasteries and fortresses. The trek traverses stunning mountain landscapes between Paro and Thimphu, reaching elevations offering panoramic views of Bhutan's most sacred peaks.

Day One - Gateway to the Mountain Kingdom

Begin your journey with a spectacular mountain flight into Paro, where Himalayan giants pierce the clouds. Your afternoon introduces Bhutan's rich cultural heritage at the National Museum (Ta Dzong), housing precious religious relics and historical artifacts. Visit the commanding Rimpong Dzong to view the meditation master Milarepa's sacred paintings before exploring the ancient cantilever bridge, still serving the local community.

Day Two - Ascent to Tiger's Nest

Undertake the legendary hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger's Nest), climbing 900 meters above the valley floor. This sacred site marks where Guru Rimpoche meditated for three months in the 8th century before manifesting as Guru Dorji Drolo to subdue valley demons. The afternoon takes you to the restored Drukgyel Dzong, with the sacred Mount Jomolhari (7,314m) providing a majestic backdrop.

Day Three - Trek Begins: Paro to Jele Dzong (8km, 4-5 hours, 1,090m ascent)


Begin your trek with a challenging climb to Jele Dzong (3,480m). The trail offers spectacular views of Paro Valley and snow-capped peaks on clear days. Explore Jele Dzong's sacred lhakhang, housing a statue of Buddha Shakyamuni.

Day Four - Jele Dzong to Jangchulakha (10km, 3-4 hours, 310m ascent, 50m descent)

Traverse thick alpine rhododendron forests to reach 3,770m elevation. Weather permitting, enjoy views of Mount Chomolhari and other Himalayan peaks. The trail often reveals signs of yak herders and native pheasants.

Day Five - Jangchulakha to Jimilangtsho (11km, 4 hours, 230m descent, 330m ascent)

Follow the mountain ridge to 3,870m, with panoramic views of Jichu Drake (6,989m), Paro's protective deity. Camp near the sacred Jimilangtsho lakes, famous for their giant trout.

Day Six - Jimilangtsho to Simkota (11km, 4 hours, 820m ascent, 400m descent)

Trek through dwarf rhododendron forests past Lake Janeetsho. Encounter traditional yak herder camps before reaching Simkota Lake, where lucky trekkers might catch fresh trout for dinner.

Day Seven - Simkota to Phajoding (10km, 4 hours, 130m ascent, 680m descent)

Climb to Phume La (4,080m) for magnificent views of Mount Gangkar Puensum, Bhutan's highest peak. Descend through juniper forests to camp at Phajoding (3,610m).

Day Eight - Phajoding to Thimphu (5km, 3 hours)

Complete your trek with a gentle descent through blue pine forests to Thimphu, Bhutan's capital.

Day Nine - Sacred Valleys of Punakha

Drive across Dochu-La Pass (3,100m), where 108 chortens stand sentinel among blooming rhododendrons. Explore Punakha Dzong, the ancient capital's crown jewel, positioned at the confluence of the Mother and Father Rivers. Visit Chimi Lhakhang, temple of the Divine Madman, whose unconventional teachings challenged Buddhist orthodoxy.

Day Ten - Thimphu to Paro

Explore Thimphu's cultural treasures: the National Memorial Chorten, 12th-century Changangkha Temple, Drubthob monastery's Zilukha nunnery, and the School of Arts and Crafts where students master 13 traditional art forms. Visit the National Library, Folk Heritage Museum, and the national animal, the Takin, before returning to Paro.

Day Eleven - Farewell to Bhutan

Conclude your journey with a morning departure from Paro.