Druk Path: Trails of the Thunder Dragon

Arrive in Paro by Druk Air or Bhutan Airlines, enjoying spectacular aerial views of the Himalayas, including Mt. Everest, Kanchenjunga, Chomolhari, and Jichu Drakey. Upon arrival, meet your Bhutan Travel Services representative and enjoy lunch before exploring Paro Valley.

Visit the National Museum, home to fascinating religious relics, artworks, and traditional handicrafts, followed by the historic Rinpung Paro Dzong, known for its impressive architecture and sacred paintings. Cross the traditional cantilevered wooden bridge leading into Paro town before returning to your hotel.

Overnight: Hotel/Resort in Paro.

After breakfast, drive about 10 km to the trailhead and begin a scenic hike to Taktsang Monastery, famously known as Tiger’s Nest. The approximately 2-hour uphill trail winds through peaceful pine forests. According to legend, Guru Rinpoche arrived here on the back of a tigress in the 8th century to spread Buddhist teachings in Bhutan. Perched dramatically on a cliffside above the valley, Taktsang is one of Bhutan’s most sacred landmarks.

In the afternoon, visit the ruins of Drukgyel Dzong, a historic 17th-century fortress built by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal to commemorate Bhutan’s victory over Tibetan invaders in 1644. Enjoy magnificent views of the sacred Mount Jomolhari (7,314 m) from the site.

On the return to Paro, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the 108 temples built by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo in the 7th century to spread Buddhism across the Himalayas.

Overnight: Hotel/Resort in Paro.

Distance: 8km

Estimated travel time: 6hrs
Descent: 1090m

This is a short trekking day starting with a climb to Jele Dzong. The trek trail ascends gradually up to the camp, and in winter, Paro valley can be seen surrounded by snowcapped mountains. Above the camp is Jele La (3400m) and Jele Dzong. There is also a Lhakhang containing a statue of Buddha Shakyamuni.Overnight at campsite (Altitude 3480m).

Distance: 10km
 Estimated time: 4hr
 Ascent :310m, descent: 50m
We begin with a 90-minute climb and then a more gradual ascent through thick alpine forests of rhododendrons with splendid views of Jomolhari and other snowcapped peaks. We may hear some pheasants calling during the day and see camps of yak herders around your campsite.Overnight at campsite (Altitude 3770m).

Distance: 11km
Estimated time: 4hrs
Ascent :330m, descent: 230m
The trail follows the ridge, which offers great views of Jichu Drake (6989m), the peak representing the protective deity of Paro. Camp is close to Jimilangtsho lakes, famous for their giant sized trout.Overnight at campsite (Altitude 3870m).

Distance: 15km
Walking time: 7hrs
Sleeping altitude: 3500m
The trail will take us through dwarf rhododendrons and junipers. We will also pass the lakes of Janatso and Simkotha. The view of the far ridge across the valley which you trekked will fill you with a sense of personal satisfaction and renew you with extra confidence in yourself. Tonight is going to be the coldest of all our camps.Overnight at campsite (Altitude 3500m).

Distance: 5km
Estimated time: 3hrs
Descent: 1130m

 
The trek to Thimphu is downhill all the way, passing through a forested area of mostly blue pine. At a leisure pace, you reach Thimphu in 3 hours. Afternoon, free time to go around.Overnight: hotel/resort in Thimphu.

You will begin your day early with a visit to National Memorial Chorten (stupa). It was built in 1974 in memory of the late King Jigme Dorji Wangchuk who passed away in 1972. It is one of the most visible religious structures in town and for daily worship of local people. Remember to walk around the Chorten at least once in clockwise to gain merit and good luck. From there we go to Folk Heritage Museum, which is housed in a restored three story traditional compressed mud and timber house. It showcases the traditional artifacts which were using from the past until now. Next stop is National Textile Museum, which has a striking collection of intricate textile weaves. The museum also displays major weaving techniques and styles of local dress and textile made by the Bhutanese women and men. From there we go to the Bhutanese Paper Factory that practices an art, which goes back to the 8th century. It is an important element in the preservation of Bhutan’s cultural heritage. You can view the paper making process and purchase gifts from their showroom. Towards the evening you visit Tashichhoe Dzong, which means the “fortress of glorious religion” and is the seat of government. It also houses the throne room of His Majesty and serves as the summer residence of Je Khenpo, the Chief Abbot of Bhutan. The King’s palace is located just below the Dzong.Evening drive to Paro for halt.Overnight: hotel/resort in Paro.

In the morning, after breakfast representative from Bhutan Travel Services will see you off at the Paro airport for your onward flight.