Introduction
Embark on the Druk Path Trek: A Transcendent Journey through Bhutan’s Heart. Beginning at the iconic Paro Taktshang (Tiger’s Nest), this remarkable trek leads you through ancient Paro dzongs, unveiling the layers of Bhutan’s history. Moving onward, the path winds its way to the vibrant capital, Thimphu, and then towards the tranquil towns of Wangdue and Punakha. As you traverse this panoramic route, each step reveals the intricate tapestry of Bhutan’s landscapes and culture. Guided by Destiny Bhutan, this trek is not just a journey, but a profound exploration of the essence of the Land of the Thunder Dragon.
Day 01: Arrive Paro by Druk Air
Arrive Paro by Druk air, the only national carrier. The flight offers you beautiful view of mountains and landscapes. On arrival and after visa formalities our members will receive you. Afternoon / evening time at leisure visit Kyichu Lhakhang and some of Monastery in and around Paro town. Overnight Hotel.
Day 02: A day hike to Taktsang Monastery
Day hike to Taktsang monastery. Horses can be arranged with an extra US $ 5/- The hike which is all the way uphill takes about 2 /3 hours through villages and pine forests. The monastery, which clings to a huge granite cliff 800 meters from the Paro valley was devastated by fire in 1998 but the Royal Government, has taken immediate steps to restore the monastery to its original structure. It is believed that the great saint Padmasambhava came in the 7th century on a flying tigress and meditated in a cave for 3 months. The demons were subdued who were trying to stop the spread of Buddhism and converted the Paro valley into Buddhism. During the end of the 17th century a monastery was built on the spot where the saint meditated and it is a pilgrimage site for every Bhutanese to visit once in their lifetime. Stroll back to Resort.
Day 03: Drive to Drugyel Dzong and Trek to Shana Camp
Drive to Drugyel Dzong where the trek begins. The path goes upstream of the Pachu river through villages gradually ascending to 2800 meters at Shana camp. Walking time 5/6 hours.
Day 04: Trek from Shana to Soi Thanthangkha
Shana to Soi Thangthangkha. The trail again follows the Pachu River ascending through pine, oak and spruce forest. Lunch will be served near a wooden bridge. The camp is at an altitude of 3800 meters near a stone shelter. Walking time 7/8 hours.
Day 05: Trek from Soi to Jangothang
Soi to Jangothang. Climb slowly for a while till you reach an army camp. Then follow the river above tree line with stunning views of the surrounding peaks. Hot lunch will be served inside a Yak herders camp. A easy walk will reach you to Jangothang at an altitude of 4050 meters. The view of Chomolhari (7320 meters) and Jichu Drake (6900 meters) is superb. Both the mountains are still virgin peaks. Walking time 4/5 hours.
Day 06: A rest day at Jangothang
Soi to Jangothang. Climb slowly for a while till you reach an army camp. Then follow the river above tree Halt at Jangothang. Explore the surrounding areas like Tshophu lake, hike to base camp, visit Yakherders or simply relax.
Day 07: Trek from jangothang to Lingshi
Jangothang to Lingshi. The trail follows the stream for half hour and crosses the bridge to the right side. Climb up the ridge and enjoy stunning views of Chomolhari, Jichu Drake and Tshrim Khang mountains. Than walk through the wide-open valley sometimes coming across herds of blue sheep. The climb upto the Nyele la pass 4700 meters is not too difficult and the view is breathtaking. After the pass its a gradual descend and through the valley with beautiful views on all side. Nearing the camp you will see the Lingshi Dzong perched ontop of a hill with commanding view of the valley. Arrive camp at 4100 meters near a stone shelter. Walking time 6/7hours.
Day 08: Trek from Lingshi to Shodu
Lingshi to Shodu. Today is the most difficult day so start early. Begin walk opposite the dzong gradually through the valley until the stiff climb to Yale la pass at 4950 meters the highest point of the trip. The panoramic view of Mt.Chomolhari, Jichu Drake and Tshrim Gang is breathtaking. After the pass its a long descent to the camp at 3750 meters. Walking time 7/8 hours.
Day 09: Trek from Shodu to Barshong
Shodu to Barshong. The path follows the Thimphu river descending through rhododendron, Juniper and pine forests. The view of the cliff facing rocks and waterfalls are stunning. The trail gradually ascends after 3/4 hours to the ruins of Barshong Dzong reaching the camp at 3500 meters. Walking time 5/6 hours.
Day 10: Trek Barshong – Dolam kencho
Descend gradually to meet Wang chhu, passing through forests of Rhododendron, and then ascend once again onto pastureland. Camp in meadow. Atl: 3,628 m, dist: 11 km. 5to 6 hours. O/N Camp
Day 11: Dolam Kencho – Thimphu
Continue uphill through the forest to a small pass. The trial winds up and along the drainage. Wild animals may be seen. At Dodina, meet the transportation for drive to Thimphu. Dist: 14 km. 6 to 7 hours. O/N Hotel at Thimphu
Day 12: Thimphu – Punakha
Morning visit memorial chroten built in memory of 3rd King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck and later transfer to Punakha over the Dochula pass, (ht.10,000ft) from where one can see the beautiful view of eastern Himalayan range on the clear sunny day.
Visit Punakha Dzong, which is the winter home of Je Khenpo (the chief abode) the head of central Monastic body and also this place is the old capital of the country. You can walk around the Punakha valley to see the farmhouse and the Bhutan architecture. O/N Punakha
Day 13: Punakha – Thimphu
Morning visit Chimi Lhakhang “the Lhakhang of fertility” later visit to Wangdi dzong and later transfer to Thimphu on the way visit Simtokha Dzong. Afternoon complete sightseeing. O/N Thimphu.
Day 14: Thimphu – Paro
Today to Paro, if your visit falls on the weekend, visit to weekend vegetable market and after lunch transfer to Paro. At Paro visit National Museum and Paro Dzong. O/N Paro
Day 15: Transfer to airport for onward flight
