Druk Path Trek - 6 Days/ 5 nights

Druk Path Trek

Introduction:

This is a relatively short, moderate grade trek leading from Paro valley to Thimphu valley, or vice versa, & crossing the chain of mountains that separates the two valleys. The route passes through sparsely populated places. One of the interesting features of this trek is the presence of beautiful lakes enroute teeming with fish. Also this area is particularly famous for spectacular rhododendron forests which run riot in the month of May. The best time for this trek is April – May and October – November.

Please remember you must add at least 3 additional nights in Bhutan to complete this trek. Two nights prior to commencement of trek (minimum duration required for acclimitisation purposes) & one night post trek before your departure from Bhutan.

OR CALL THE BHUTAN TRAVEL EXPERTS ON
AUS toll free, James – 0412 416 111, Nicola – 0413 598 669

Detailed Trek Itinerary

Day 01: Druk Path Trek

Paro – Jele Dzong (distance – 8 km, time – 3 hours).

The trek route today is a gradual ascent until reaching Jele Dzong fortress in ruins (3,400 m), via crossing the Jele La (pass).

All meals and filtered water included on the trek.

Overnight Tented Campsite

Day 02: Druk Path Trek

Jele Dzong – Jangchulakha, distance – 10 km, time – 3 / 4 hours.

The route climbs through thick alpine forests and rhododendrons to a saddle at 3,590m. Stunning views of Mt.Chomolhari (7,314m) and the surrounding mountains can be seen from the trail. The beautiful Monal pheasant can also be seen during the day. Campsite at 3,780m near a yak herders’ camp.

Overnight Tented Campsite

Day 03: Druk Path Trek

Jangchulakha – Jimilang Tsho, distance – 11 km, time – 4 hours.

The trek follows the ridge to a saddle at 4,040m, then drops down before following the ridge back to Jangchu la pass (4,180m). Camp is near Jimilang Tsho (Sand Ox Lake) known for its giant size trout. Also there are good views of Mt. Jichu Drake (6,989m), the peak representing the protective deity of the Paro valley.

Overnight Tented Campsite.

Day 04: Druk Path Trek

Jimilang Tsho – Simkota Tsho, distance – 11 km, time – 4 hours.

The trail traverses through dwarf rhododendron trees and Janetsho Lake and passes by yak herder camps. It is a short climb along the side of the ridge and then a short, steep descent to camp at 4,040m which is near Simkota Tsho Lake famous for its trout.

Overnight Tented Campsite.

Day 05: Druk Path Trek

Simkota Tsho – Phajoding, distance – 10 km, time – 3 / 4 hours.

The day begins with a gradual climb to a saddle at 4,180m, crossing Phume la pass (4,210m) marked by prayer flags. If weather permits, there are enchanting views of Mt. Gangkhar Puensum (7,541m) and other Himalayan peaks from here. The trail then descends past Thujidrag Goemba, a meditation centre hanging on the side of a precipitous rock face, continuing further through juniper trees to the campsite near Phajoding Goemba (3,870m), an important pilgrimage site.

Overnight Tented Campsite.

Day 06: Druk Path Trek

Phajoding – Thimphu, distance – 5 km, time 2- 3 hours.

Today’s trek is all downhill through forested areas of mostly blue pine.

On completion of trek you are collected and transported by road to your overnight accommodation.

PLEASE NOTE: From 2023 it is possible to combine Day 5 and Day 6 and reduce the trek to 4 nights duration. This is due to an improvement in the trek trail conditions.