Druk Path is short and moderate five day trek. The trail passes through ancient trading route is sparsely inhabited, spectacular rhododendron forests, alpine yak pastures and beautiful lakes. On a clear day, one can have a superb view of the highest peaks in Bhutan. Seasons: The ideal time for this trek – March to June and September to November
Day 01 : Arrive Paro
On arrival at Paro International Airport, the representative of Radhi Bhutan Tours will receive you and escort/drive to your hotel. Overnight at Paro, elevation 2280m
DAY 02: Paro-Sightseeing (10 KM/4 ½ hours)
Visits Drukgyel Dzong, a ruined fortress where Bhutanese warriors fought off Tibetan invaders in 17th century. The snowy dome of sacred Jhomolhari, “mountain goddess” (7314 m) can be seen in all her glory from the approach road to the Dzong on a clear day. Along the way, visit the Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the 108 temples built in the Himalayas by the Tibetan King in 7th century. The building of this temple marks the introduction of Buddhism in Bhutan. Later, visit Ta Dzong, originally built as a watchtower, which now houses Bhutan’s National Museum. The extensive collection includes antique thangkas paintings, textiles, weapons & armour, household objects and a rich assortment of natural and historic artifacts. Overnight at Paro.
DAY 03: Paro-Jele Dzong (Trekking) 8km, 3 hours
Today is a short trekking day but the altitude gain is significant. The journey starts with gradual ascends from the National Museum to Jele Dzong (3490m). On a clear day, one can have a superb view of the highest peaks in Bhutan and valley of Paro. Overnight camp at 3,480m.
Day 04 : Jele Dzong – Jangchulakha (10km/4 hours)
Begin with a one and a half hour climb and then ascend through thick alpine forests and rhododendrons. If the weather is right, you will see fascinating views of Jhomolhari (7326m) and other snow capped peaks. Camp at yak pasture near the hillside at 3,780m.
DAY 05: Jangchulakha-Jimilangtsho (11KM/5 hours)
The trail follows the ridge with beautiful views of mountain peaks including Jichu Drake (6,989m), the peak representing the protective deity of Paro. Our camp is close to the Jimilangtsho lakes, which are famous for their giant sized trout. Overnight camp at 3880m.
DAY 06: Jimilangtsho-Simkota (11km, 4 hours)
The trail takes you through dwarf rhododendron trees and passes by the lake of Janetsho. You will see magnificent views of the Himalayas and yak herders’ camps along the way. We camp overnight close to Simkota Lake at 4110m.
DAY 07: Simkota-Phajoding (9 km/4 hours)
Today begins with a gradual climb, and if the weather permits you will enjoy majestic views of Mt. Gangkar Puensum (7570m) and other Himalayan peaks. The trail slowly descends through juniper trees. From Phumelas pass (4210m), you will enjoy great view of Thimphu city. Campsite beside a community hall near Phajoding cafeteria. Overnight at camp at 4000m.
Day 08 : Phajodlng – Thimphu (5km, 3 hours)
The trek to Thimphu is downhill all the way, passing through a forested area of mostly blue pine. Taking a leisurely pace, you reach Thimphu in about 3 hours. Afternoon at leisure. Overnight at the hotel in Thimphu (2320m)
DAY 09: Thimphu-Sightseeing
Visits:
- National Memorial Chorten (Chorten means Stupa). The monument was built in 1974 in memory of the 3rd King of Bhutan.
- Folk Heritage Museum, Textile Museum and the Institute for Zorig Chusum (commonly known as the Painting School), where students undergo a 6-year training course in Bhutan’s 13 traditional arts and crafts.
- Handicrafts Emporium and local crafts shops known as Craft Bazar, which displays wide assortment of beautifully hand-woven textiles, crafted products, thangkas, masks, ceramics, slate and woodcarvings, jewellery, and other interesting items made from local materials by the local Artisans.
- Giant Buddha at Kuenselphodrang. This massive statue of Shakyamuni (51.5 meters), making it one of the largest statues of Bhutan in the world.
- Takin (national animal of Bhutan) preserve located in Motithang.
After 1700 hrs, visit Tashichhodzong, “the fortress of the glorious religion”. This is the center of government and religion, site of the monarch’s throne room and seat of the Je Khenpo or Chief Abbot. Later, depending on the interest of the group, short talk on the philosophy of Gross National Happiness in Bhutan can be arranged. Overnight at Thimphu.
DAY 10: Excursion to Punakha (85KM_one way)
Drive to Punakha via Dochula pass (3140m). On a clear day, one can have a superb view of the highest peaks in Bhutan. Visit Punakha Dzong situated at the junction of the Pho Chu and Mo Chu rivers. Built in the 17th century by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, this dzong has played important role in Bhutan’s history and Chimi Lhakhang, the Abode of the Divine Madman & Fertility. Overnight at Thimphu.
DAY 11: Paro-Fly Out
After breakfast, drive to Paro international airport for your onward flight.
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