1Arrival in Paro (2,280m/7,480ft)

Arriving in Paro, an enchanted hamlet tucked away in the middle of Bhutan’s rough landscape, marks the start of your Druk Path Trek adventure. To make sure you’re ready for the journey ahead, here is a thorough schedule for Day 1:

Arrival at Paro International Airport: As soon as you set foot at Bhutan’s sole international gateway, Paro International Airport, your journey officially begins. The airport itself provides an amazing entrée into the nation because it is surrounded by mountains. To ensure a seamless entry process, make sure all of your documentation—including your trek permits and visa—are in order.

Greetings from Your Tour Operator: When you get out of the airport, somebody from Amen Bhutan Tours and Treks or the tour operator of your choice will meet you. Asking any last-minute questions you may have about the journey and your time in Bhutan is a fantastic idea at this point.

Transfer to Your Hotel: A driver will take you to your Paro hotel. You can get your first look at Bhutan’s breathtaking scenery and traditional architecture during this short trip. Traveling along the valley, take in the sight of the placid Paro River, traditional dwellings, and dzongs (fortresses).

Acclimatization and Check-in: After settling into your lodging, take some time to relax and begin the process of adjusting to the higher altitude. At 2,280 meters (7,480 feet) above sea level, Paro is a high altitude for walking, so it’s important to give your body enough time to acclimate.

Slow Tour of Paro: You might be able to take your time exploring Paro, depending on when you arrive. A leisurely stroll through the town’s market or a visit to the Paro Rinpung Dzong might provide as a mild introduction to Bhutanese history and culture.

Dinner & Cultural Immersion: Have dinner, perhaps at your hotel, to experience traditional Bhutanese cuisine on your first evening there. You may sample Bhutanese cuisine with dishes like Ema Datshi, which is a stew made of cheese and chilies. Additionally, it’s an opportunity to socialize with residents and experience the kind hospitality of the nation.

Rest and journey Ready: Use the evening following supper to unwind and be ready both physically and psychologically for the upcoming journey. Make sure you have water, sunscreen, and a camera in your daypack so you can capture the breathtaking scenery.

Stay the night in Paro: You will spend your first night in Bhutan in a cozy hotel in Paro, giving you enough time to have a good night’s rest before starting your trekking experience the next day.

This comprehensive Day 1 schedule lays the groundwork for an amazing trekking adventure on the Druk Path Trek. This itinerary integrates pragmatic arrangements with preliminary cultural excursions to guarantee that you embark on your journey fully prepared, acclimated, and eager for what lies ahead.

Sightseeing and Acclimatization Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (3,180m/10,433ft) - 4 to 5 hours (5km) trek

On your second day in Bhutan, you will visit the sights and go on an acclimatization walk to the famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang Lhakhang), which is a necessary prelude to the Druk Path Trek. This is a comprehensive schedule for this thrilling day:

Breakfast at the Hotel: At your Paro hotel, begin the day with a full breakfast. Choose a combination of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates to provide you with long-lasting energy for the hike ahead.

Briefing & Preparation: Your guide will give you a rundown of the day’s events before to your departure. Wearing supportive trekking boots, appropriate hiking clothes, and a daypack filled with water, food, sunscreen, and a camera are all recommended.

Travel to Tiger’s Nest Monastery’s Base: Delight in a breathtaking journey from your hotel to the monastery’s base. Beautiful vistas of the Paro Valley and glimpses of rural Bhutanese life may be seen throughout the tour.

Beginning of the Hike: The trail to Tiger’s Nest begins at the base and winds up the mountain through lovely pine forests that are embellished with prayer flags and Spanish moss, adding to the serene atmosphere.

Tea shop Break: There is a tea shop halfway up the trail that offers an excellent view of the monastery. This is an excellent place to stop, rehydrate, and snap pictures of the monastery that looks like it’s poised on the edge of the cliff.

Final Ascent and Monastery Visit: The slope steepens beyond the tea house and leads to a set of stairs that lead to the monastery door. You will get the chance to tour the temples and caverns that comprise this revered location once you arrive at Tiger’s Nest. Your guide will go over the monastery’s background, significance, and reasons for being regarded as one of the most significant spiritual locations in all of Bhutan.

Lunch: You can have lunch at the tea house once you get back to the base, or on your way back down, depending on the time. It’s a chance to eat traditional Bhutanese food and think back on the event.

Return Hike Down: Although the hike down is typically shorter, exercise caution as there are some steep sections of the path. For extra assistance, use your hiking poles.

Return by Car to Paro: After arriving back at the base, you will be transported by car to your Paro hotel. Talk to your guide about any thoughts or inquiries you may have at this time.

Rest and Think: After a day filled with so much excitement, spend the evening relaxing. Reviewing your equipment for the upcoming Druk Path Trek will help you make sure everything is in order and that you’re as ready as possible.

Stay the night in Paro: In order to prepare for the upcoming hike, spend one more night at your Paro hotel relaxing and acclimating to the altitude.

Your body may acclimate to higher altitudes on this trip to Tiger’s Nest Monastery, which also immerses you in the spiritual essence of Bhutan and creates a contemplative atmosphere for the remainder of your Druk Path trekking experience.

Drive to Ta Dzong (2,487m/8,159ft) and trek to Jele Dzong (3400m) - 4 to 5 hours (10km) trek

On the third day of your Druk Path Trek, you go from the planning stage into the real hiking experience. The day starts with a picturesque drive to Paro’s Ta Dzong and ends with a hike to Jele Dzong. This portion of the tour takes you to a new level of experience by introducing you to Bhutan’s natural beauty and rich historical background. Here’s a thorough summary of the day:

Early Breakfast: Start the day off right at your Paro hotel with an early breakfast. To fuel the first part of your walk, choose a wholesome meal with a combination of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.

Travel to Ta Dzong: Take a quick drive to Ta Dzong, Bhutan’s National Museum, following breakfast. Perched above the medieval town of Paro, this ancient watchtower has been turned into a museum with spectacular views of the surrounding valley. The museum is home to an extensive collection of relics that provide light on Bhutanese history, culture, and art.

Beginning of the Trek to Jele Dzong: Your journey to Jele Dzong will begin at Ta Dzong. The first portion of the hike is a moderate ascent through pine woodlands. Ascending, notice the variety of plants and animals and take in the calm atmosphere.

Lunch Break: You may stop for lunch along the way, depending on how quickly you’re moving. This may be a lunch that your tour operator brought for you. It’s a chance to relax, stay hydrated, and take in Bhutan’s breathtaking scenery.

Arrival to Jele Dzong: The trip will take four to five hours, covering a distance of about ten kilometers. At 3,400 meters (11,154 ft) above sea level, Jele Dzong is a modest fortification with a temple and breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.

Look Around: Give Jele Dzong Some Time to See. Trekkers can see Bhutan’s architectural and spiritual legacy at the historically renowned dzong. It’s easy to ponder and be grateful for the journey so far in this peaceful setting.

Prepare your campsite: It will be close to Jele Dzong where you will spend the night. While your trekking team gets ready your lodging, help to set up camp or use this time to relax. Spending a night under the stars in the Bhutanese environment while camping close to the dzong is a peaceful experience.

Dinner: Savor a well-earned meal that your hiking crew has cooked. The purpose of meals on the journey is to familiarize trekkers to Bhutanese cuisine and to supply them with the energy they need to continue climbing.

Briefing for the Following Day: Your guide will give you a briefing on the schedule for the following day following dinner. This is an excellent opportunity for you to voice any issues you may have and ask questions.

Rest: Get a decent night’s sleep after completing your first trekking day. Some people find it difficult to fall asleep at higher elevations, so it’s critical to be warm and hydrated.

The third day of the Druk Path Trek has come to a conclusion. Not only are you at a physical peak when you relax at Jele Dzong, but you are also at the start of a journey into the core of Bhutan’s natural and cultural landscapes.

Trek from Jele Dzong (3,400m/11,154ft) to Jangchulakha (3,650m/11,975ft) - 3 to 4 hours (10km) trek

Traveling from Jele Dzong to Jangchulakha on the fourth day of your Druk Path Trek allows you to experience the unspoiled splendor of the Bhutanese Himalayas once more. Your relationship with nature is strengthened as you hike through more of Bhutan’s breathtaking landscapes on this section of the journey. This is what to anticipate:

Morning customs: Begin your day at Jele Dzong with a hot breakfast that your trekking group has cooked. As you refuel for the day’s hike, take in the peaceful morning vistas of the valley below.

Journey Starts: You’ll set off on your journey in the direction of Jangchulakha after breakfast. The trip takes three to four hours and covers roughly ten kilometers in total. The journey begins with a steady climb from Jele Dzong, providing beautiful vistas of the lowlands and snow-capped peaks.

Rhododendron Forests: One of the trek’s highlights is entering the verdant rhododendron forests as you go. Depending on the season, you may be able to see these forests in full bloom, which will brighten the surrounding area.

Altitude Gain: From 3,400 meters (11,154 feet) at Jele Dzong to 3,650 meters (11,975 feet) at Jangchulakha, there is a slight elevation gain along the journey. Even though this is a mild rise, you should still drink plenty of water and keep an eye out for any symptoms of altitude sickness.

Lunch on the Trail: Stop at a picturesque location along the path to have a packed lunch that your hiking group has brought. It’s a wonderful chance to relax, recharge, and enjoy the breathtaking surroundings.

Arrival at Jangchulakha: Even more wide views of the Himalayan environment await you as you arrive at Jangchulakha. Yak herders frequently use Jangchulakha’s picturesque campsite, which is nestled among highland grasslands, in the summer.

Setup of the Camp: Your group will make camp for the evening. You are welcome to help with setup or just spend time exploring the region and taking pictures of the expansive views or just taking in the peace and quiet of the high-altitude nature.

Evening Activities: Have dinner as a group after setting up tent. You may be able to spend some time stargazing after the meal because the pristine sky at this height provide a breathtaking, light-polluted vista of the stars.

Staying overnight at Jangchulakha: Camp in tents at Jangchulakha. You may sleep soundly with the tranquil backdrop of the mountains, readying yourself for the next day’s hike.

Getting Ready for Tomorrow: Make sure you’re ready for the next day before turning in for the evening. Restock your water bottles, inspect your equipment, and hear your guide’s briefing on the next steps.

Day 4 of the Druk Path Trek showcases Bhutan’s tranquil scenery and natural splendor. You become closer to nature and gain a deeper appreciation for the magnificent Himalayas that surround you when you camp under the sky at Jangchulakha.

Trek from Jangchulakha (3,650m/11,975ft) to Jimilangtsho (3,870m/12,696ft) - 4 to 5 hours (11km) trek:

You travel from Jangchulakha to Jimilangtsho on day five of your Druk Path Trek adventure. This day is full of breathtaking scenery and the peaceful serenity of Bhutan’s high-altitude settings. This is a comprehensive overview of everything you may expect from this day:

Have a Filling Breakfast First: At the Jangchulakha campground, start your day with a filling breakfast. The goal of the lunch is to give you the energy you need for the hike that day.

Start Your Trek: After breakfast, head for Jimilangtsho along the path. It usually takes 4 to 5 hours to do this section of the Druk Path Trek, which is around 11 kilometers long.

Gaining Elevation Through Diverse Terrain: The journey from Jangchulakha to Jimilangtsho is a steady ascent through a variety of terrains, such as alpine meadows and dense rhododendron woods. Each step of the way, the scenery changes and becomes more captivating.

Magnificent Mountain Views: As you ascend, look out for breathtaking views of the neighboring peaks. The magnificent Himalayas can be seen in the distance on clear days, providing breath-taking vistas that are characteristic of the Druk Path Trek.

Arrival at Jimilangtsho Lake: Reaching Jimilangtsho Lake, which is located at a height of 3,870 meters (12,696 ft), is the day’s highlight. This gorgeous high-altitude lake is well-known for its crystal-clear waters and the amazing peaks’ reflections in them.

Lunch by the Lake: Savor a meal while admiring the tranquility and scenic beauty of Jimilangtsho Lake. It’s the perfect place to unwind and refresh before carrying on with your journey.

Spend some time exploring the area surrounding Jimilangtsho Lake. The region is abundant in plants and animals, and from a safe distance, you may be able to see larger mammals or even high-altitude birds.

Set Up Camp: Jimilangtsho Lake will be the location of your overnight camping. Take part in the camp setup or relax while your trekking team gets your lodging ready for the night.

Evening at Leisure: Take in the peace and quiet of the lake and the surrounding area after supper. This altitude’s lack of light pollution makes it a great place to stargaze, providing a spectacular way to cap off the day.

Jimilangtsho Overnight: Camp beside Jimilangtsho Lake in tents. Sleeping under the stars is made possible by the place’s seclusion and tranquility, which offer a distinctive sensation of being in the forest.

Getting Ready for Tomorrow’s Walk: Before going to sleep, make sure you’re ready for the hike the following day. Check your equipment, restock your water supply, and talk with your guide about the route for the next day.

Day 5 offers a glimpse of the breathtaking scenery that adds so much magic to the Druk Path Trek. From the varied terrain you experience to the magnificent Jimilangtsho Lake at the end of the day, every second is filled with the deep tranquility and gentle beauty of Bhutan’s high-elevation nature.

Trek from Jimilangtsho (3,870m/12,696ft) to Simkotra Tsho (4110m/13,484ft) – 4 to 5 hours (11km) trek:

Day 06 of the Druk Path Trek unfolds another chapter of high-altitude trekking through Bhutan’s unmatched scenery, taking you from the tranquil banks of Jimilangtsho to the equally beautiful Simkotra Tsho. Along with testing your physical endurance, this section of the journey offers some of the most breathtaking views you will see the whole voyage. This is a comprehensive schedule for this thrilling day:

Morning in the Wilderness: Awaken to the serene splendor of Jimilangtsho Lake, bathed in the golden glow of the rising sun. To prepare yourself for the day ahead, savor a substantial breakfast cooked by your hiking crew.

Start the Trek: Head towards Simkotra Tsho after breakfast. The hike today is predicted to take four to five hours, covering a distance of around eleven kilometers. From Jimilangtsho, the trail ascends, presenting additional difficulties and viewpoints.

Climb Through Diverse Terrain: The route to Simkotra Tsho passes through a variety of environments, such as open meadows, rocky terrain, and dense woods of rhododendron. The trail’s diversity offers a vibrant picture of Bhutan’s breathtaking natural surroundings.

Views of the Mountains and Flora: As you ascend, pay attention to the breathtaking mountain panoramas that appear all around you. The walk provides an opportunity to view a variety of high-altitude flora that enlivens the rocky landscapes with color.

Lunch on the Trail: Take advantage of a midday snack while hiking with a packed lunch. This is a fantastic chance to relax, stay hydrated, and enjoy the amazing scenery. For the break, your guide will select a picturesque location so you may unwind and refresh.

Arrival at Simkotra Tsho: Simkotra Tsho, a stunning high-altitude lake at 4,110 meters (13,484 feet), is the destination where the day’s journey comes to an end. The rocky coastlines and steep hills that around the lake provide a striking backdrop for your campground.

After putting up your tent, spend some time exploring the lakeside region surrounding Simkotra Tsho. The secluded setting and unspoiled surroundings of the lake provide a contemplative and tranquil experience.

Evening at the campsite: Have dinner beside the lake with the other hikers. The nights spent at the high-altitude campsites are spent catching up with friends, telling tales of the previous day’s adventure, and taking in the tranquil beauty of your surroundings.

Possibility of Stargazing: Simkotra Tsho offers a fantastic spot for stargazing due to its beautiful skies and lack of light pollution. A wonderful way to round off the day is to gaze up at the night sky for a while.

At Simkotra Tsho, spend the night in your tent by the lake while the sound of the Himalayas lulls you to sleep. The isolated setting provides a distinctive wilderness encounter that fosters a close relationship with the natural world.

Get Ready for the Last Leg: Ahead of going to bed, get ready for the last section of your journey. Checking your gear and talking with your guide about the expedition the following day are ideal uses of this time.

Day 06 of the Druk Path Trek is a tribute to Bhutan’s untamed splendor and tranquil settings. Trekking from Jimilangtsho to Simkotra Tsho places you in the midst of the Himalayas and provides an exciting, demanding, and rewarding experience.

Trek from Simkotra Tsho (4,110m/13,484ft) to Thimphu via Phajodhing – 5 to 6 hours (14km) trek:

The seventh day of the Druk Path Trek is the last of your trekking adventure. It takes you via the tranquil Phajodhing and the breathtaking Simkotra Tsho to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. This day, in addition to being a strenuous journey, marks the change from the serene nature back to the busy city life while taking in the final breath-blowing views of the Himalayas. This is how the day goes down:

Simkotra Tsho dawn: Start your day early to witness Simkotra Tsho’s sunrise, which is a genuinely amazing sight as the first light of day bathes the high-altitude lake and surrounding peaks in light. As you get ready for the day, eat breakfast at the campsite.

Begin the descent: After breakfast, gather your belongings and set out on the journey to Thimphu. The hike today is around 14 kilometers long and takes five to six hours. Initially, the trail descends gently from Simkotra Tsho, providing a final opportunity to take in the unspoiled natural splendor of the surroundings.

Trek through Phajodhing: The trail passes through Phajodhing, which is home to a hermitage and a tranquil monastery tucked away in the highlands. This place offers the ideal fusion of natural beauty and spiritual tranquility, creating a contemplative atmosphere for thinking back on the voyage thus far.

Stop for lunch at a picturesque location along the trail. Here’s your chance to relax and refuel while taking in the views of the valley below and Thimphu city in the distance.

Last Descend to Thimphu: Keep going downhill into Thimphu, following a more recognizable track as you get closer to the city. The terrain shifts, bringing you from mixed forests to alpine meadows, signifying the conclusion of your high-altitude journey.

Arrival in Thimphu: As you approach the city’s periphery, the journey comes to an end. A car prepared by Amen Bhutan Tours and Treks or your tour operator will meet you here and take you to your city accommodation.

Check-in and Unwind: After settling into your lodging, give yourself some time to unwind and get ready. The trek’s primitive surroundings give way dramatically to the luxuries of contemporary lodging.

Explore Thimphu (Optional): You may choose to explore Thimphu based on your energy level and time of arrival. Numerous historical and cultural attractions can be found in the city, including as the National Memorial Chorten, the Tashichho Dzong, and the bustling local marketplaces.

Celebrate Your Success: After completing your Druk Path Trek, treat yourself to a celebration supper. It’s an opportunity to take stock of the trip, swap tales, and toast to success with your fellow hikers and guide.

Spend the night in a cozy guesthouse in Thimphu, enjoying some much-needed relaxation following your hike. It’s the ideal chance to get back into the swing of things in the city and take advantage of its advantages.

Planning for Additional Exploration or Departure: Make use of this time to make plans for additional exploration of Bhutan or to get ready to leave the country. There are lots of options in Thimphu for more exploration, leisure, and cultural immersion.

The seventh day of the Druk Path Trek leaves you feeling accomplished and full of wonderful experiences. You take with you the views, sounds, and learnings from one of Bhutan’s most treasured hiking trails as you make the shift from the secluded splendor of the Himalayas to the cultural diversity of Thimphu.

Drive from Thimphu to Paro and Departure

Day 8 marks the end of your Druk Path Trek expedition as you return to Paro, the starting point of your adventure, from Thimphu, the cultural center of Bhutan. This last day is spent reflecting, getting ready to go, and making your way home or to your next location. This is a thorough schedule on the day of your departure:

Breakfast in Thimphu: At your hotel in Thimphu, begin your day with a full breakfast. Now would be an excellent time to make sure everything you need for the trip back to Paro is packed and prepared.

Last-Minute Shopping and Exploration in Thimphu: If your departure timetable permits, allocate some morning time for any final-minute shopping or exploration in Thimphu. Take a leisurely stroll around town or stop by a local craft bazaar to pick up mementos.

Drive to Paro: Have your car picked up by Amen Bhutan Tours and Treks or another tour operator after you leave Thimphu. Depending on traffic and road conditions, the travel to Paro takes about 1.5 hours. Savor the picturesque drive that offers you a final look at the breathtaking scenery of Bhutan as it winds through the country’s winding roadways.

Lunch in Paro: You could have time for lunch in Paro, depending on the timing of your flights. This could be a chance to enjoy the flavors of Bhutanese food one final time, whether you go back to a favorite location or try something new.

Final-Minute Touring in Paro: If time allows, go in some final-minute touring in Paro. Take a leisurely stroll through the town and enjoy the peaceful ambiance, or visit the Paro Dzong.

Transfer to Paro International Airport: Your tour operator will see to it that you get to the airport in plenty of time so you can fly out. The Paro Airport has simple check-in processes, however to get past immigration and security, it’s best to arrive at least two hours before your departure.

Goodbye, Bhutan Consider your trip through Bhutan for a moment as you board your aircraft. An unforgettable experience, the Druk Path Trek leaves you with recollections of amazing scenery, fascinating cultural exchanges, and an adventurous spirit.

Departure & Continued Travel: As your plane takes off from Paro, you bid Bhutan farewell, bringing the spirit of the Himalayas and the warmth of the people of Bhutan with you. The relationships and experiences you make along the way enrich you whether you’re heading back home or on to something else.

Day 8 marks not only the end of your walk but also the return to normal life after exploring the amazing world of Bhutan. You’ll have returned home with a fresh spirit of adventure and a ton of tales to tell. Even after the Druk Path Trek is over, the experience and memories it left behind endure a lifetime.