6 Days
Druk Path Trek
Follow one of Bhutan’s most beautiful short trekking routes through blue-pine forests, peaceful mountain camps, pristine alpine lakes and panoramic Himalayan landscapes.
ENQUIRE ABOUT THIS TREK →
Bhutan’s Classic Short Trek
The Druk Path Trek follows an ancient mountain trail connecting the valleys of Paro and Thimphu. Although relatively short, the route offers a remarkable variety of landscapes and rewarding high-altitude experiences.
Walk through forests of blue pine, fir and rhododendron before reaching open ridges surrounded by distant Himalayan peaks. Peaceful camps are established near mountain meadows and pristine alpine lakes.
The trail passes yak-herder camps, historic mountain sites and quiet wilderness before descending toward Bhutan’s capital, Thimphu.
Experiences Along the Trail
Discover alpine lakes, mountain camps, historic landmarks and spectacular scenery between Paro and Thimphu.
Ancient Mountain Trail
Follow the traditional highland route that once connected the valleys of Paro and Thimphu.
Jele Dzong
Visit the historic hilltop fortress and enjoy expansive views across Paro Valley and the surrounding mountains.
Rhododendron Forests
Walk through blue-pine, fir and rhododendron forests, particularly colourful during the spring season.
Alpine Lakes
Camp near peaceful mountain lakes including Jimilang Tsho and Simkotra Tsho.
Himalayan Views
On clear days, admire distant views of Mount Jomolhari and other snow-covered Himalayan peaks.
Mountain Camping
Experience quiet nights surrounded by pristine wilderness, fresh air and brilliant mountain skies.
Your Druk Path Journey
Open each day to view the trekking route, approximate walking duration and overnight destination.
DAY 01 Arrival in Paro and Acclimatisation Paro Valley • Approx. 2,250 m +
Arrive at Paro International Airport, where your Evara Travel guide will welcome you. Transfer to your hotel and spend the day acclimatising to Bhutan’s altitude.
Depending on your arrival time, enjoy a relaxed walk through Paro town or visit selected cultural landmarks.
- Airport reception and private transfer
- Trek briefing and equipment review
- Gentle acclimatisation activities
- Overnight in Paro
DAY 02 Paro to Jele Dzong Camp Approximately 4–5 hours trekking +
Drive to the trailhead above Paro and begin climbing through apple orchards and blue-pine forest. The trail gradually ascends toward the ridge near Jele Dzong.
On clear days, the campsite offers beautiful views across Paro Valley and toward the distant Himalayas.
- Approximate altitude: 3,480 m
- Gradual forest ascent
- Historic Jele Dzong
- Overnight at Jele Dzong camp
DAY 03 Jele Dzong to Jangchulakha Approximately 4–5 hours trekking +
Continue along a high ridge through forests of rhododendron and juniper. Clear weather may reveal sweeping views of Bhutan’s Himalayan mountain range.
The landscape gradually opens into yak-herding country before reaching the campsite at Jangchulakha.
- Approximate altitude: 3,770 m
- Rhododendron and juniper forests
- Possible encounters with yak herders
- Overnight at Jangchulakha camp
DAY 04 Jangchulakha to Jimilang Tsho Approximately 5–6 hours trekking +
Follow an undulating ridge with views of forested valleys and distant mountains. The trail includes gradual ascents and descents before reaching beautiful Jimilang Tsho.
The lake is surrounded by open mountain scenery and provides one of the trek’s most memorable campsites.
- Approximate altitude: 3,870 m
- Open ridgeline walking
- Views of remote mountain valleys
- Overnight near Jimilang Tsho
DAY 05 Jimilang Tsho to Simkotra Tsho Approximately 5–6 hours trekking +
Climb steadily from Jimilang Tsho and pass several smaller alpine lakes. The trail crosses open mountain terrain before descending toward Simkotra Tsho.
This is one of the trek’s higher sections and offers expansive mountain views in favourable weather.
- Highest trail sections around 4,210 m
- Several pristine alpine lakes
- High-altitude mountain scenery
- Overnight near Simkotra Tsho
DAY 06 Simkotra Tsho to Thimphu Approximately 6–7 hours trekking +
Complete the final section of the Druk Path by crossing the mountain ridge toward Phajoding. On clear days, enjoy impressive views over Thimphu.
Descend through forest toward the trail endpoint, where your private vehicle will be waiting for the transfer into Thimphu.
- Final mountain ridge crossing
- Views across Thimphu Valley
- Descent through Phajoding forest
- Private transfer to Thimphu
What Your Journey Includes
Your final itinerary and quotation will clearly confirm every included service, trekking arrangement and applicable government fee.
Included
- Selected hotel accommodation
- Full-service trekking camps
- Sleeping tent and basic camping equipment
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner
- Licensed Bhutanese trekking guide
- Dedicated trekking support team
- Camp cook and camp assistance
- Pack animals for camp equipment
- Private vehicle and professional driver
- Airport and trailhead transfers
- Listed sightseeing and activities
- Applicable monument entrance fees
- Drinking water during the journey
- Visa-processing assistance
- Evara Travel support
Not Included
- International flights
- Travel and emergency medical insurance
- Emergency evacuation expenses
- Personal trekking clothing and footwear
- Personal sleeping bag unless confirmed
- Trekking poles and personal equipment
- Alcoholic and bottled beverages
- Personal shopping and expenses
- Laundry and room services
- Tips for guides and trekking crew
- Optional activities
- Hotel or room upgrades
- Services not listed in the itinerary
Bhutan visa charges and the Sustainable Development Fee will be displayed separately in your confirmed quotation. Final inclusions may vary according to the selected package.
Preparing for the Druk Path Trek
Proper preparation will make your trekking experience safer, more comfortable and more enjoyable.
Fitness
A reasonable level of cardiovascular fitness is required. Prepare with regular walking, stair climbing and hiking several weeks before travelling.
Altitude
The trek reaches elevations above 4,000 metres. A gradual pace, proper hydration and acclimatisation are important.
Accommodation
Hotel nights are combined with supported tented camping. Camps are prepared by the trekking team before arrival.
Weather
Mountain weather can change quickly. Expect cold nights, sunshine, wind, rain or occasional snowfall.
Recommended Season
Spring and autumn generally provide favourable trekking conditions, clear views and comfortable temperatures.
Essential Equipment
Bring layered clothing, waterproof outerwear, trekking boots, gloves, a warm hat and personal medication.
Travellers should hold comprehensive insurance covering trekking at the itinerary’s maximum elevation, medical treatment and emergency evacuation.