Bhutan, Druk Path Trek
This is an eight day trek leading from Paro to Thimphu or vice
versa crossing the chain of mountains that separate these two valleys.
Although the route is sparsely populated, there are wonderful lakes
teeming with fish and the area is famous for its spectacular rhododendron
forests, which bloom in May. In the clear weather of late autumn
and winter there are great views of the Himalayas.
Season: The ideal time for this trek is March to middle of June
and September to November.
Day 1: Arrive Paro
Druk Airways flight to Bhutan is one of the most spectacular in
the entire Himalayas. Whether flying along the Himalayan range from
Kathmandu or over the foothills from Kolkatta, each flight is a
mesmerizing aeronautical feat and offers an exciting descent into
the Kingdom.
On arrival at Paro airport, following immigration and custom formalities,
you will be received by our representative and then transfer to
the hotel.
In the evening take a stroll around the town's main street. Overnight
at the hotel in Paro.
Day 2: Paro – Jele Dzong (8 km, 3 hours)
Morning in Paro sightseeing and visiting Ta Dzong (National Museum)
and then walk down the trail to visit Rinpung Dzong.
Today is a short trekking day. The trek trail is rather gradual
up till the camp and if the weather is clear the Paro valley can
be seen with snow-capped mountains behind. Above the camp is Jele
la (3,400m) and Jele Dzong that is mostly in ruins. Overnight camp.
Day 3: Jele Dzong – Jangchulakha (10km, 4 hours)
The trek begins with an hour and half climb and then ascends gradually
up. The trail takes you through thick alpine forests and rhododendrons.
You may see yak herders around your campsite. There are fascinating
views of Chomolhari and other snow capped peaks and you can also
hear some Monal Pheasants during the day.
Day 4: Jangchulakha – Jimilangtsho (11km, 4 hours)
The trail follows the ridge and on a clear day the views of the
mountains and valley are sensational. Camp is close to lakes of
Jimilangtsho. These lakes are famous for their giant sized trouts.
Also there are great views of Mt. Jichu Drake (6,989m), the peak
representing the protective deity of Paro. Overnight camp.
Day 5: Jimilangtsho – Simkota (11 km, 4 hours)
The trail takes you through dwarf rhododendron trees and bypasses
the lake of Jaetsho. Today you may come across some yak herders
camp and get an idea how these people live. Camp is close to Simkota
lake and if you are lucky you can catch lake trouts for dinner.
Overnight camp.
Day 6: Simkota – Phajoding (10 km, 4 hours)
Today you begin with a gradual climb and if the weather permits,
you will enjoy a majestic view of Mount Gangkar Puensum and also
the other peaks, The trail slowly descends through juniper trees
to a campsite beside a community hall near Phajoding cafeteria.
Overnight in cafeteria or camp.
Day 7: Phajoding – Thimphu (5 km, 3 hours)
The trek to Thimphu is all the way downhill through a forested area
of mostly blue pine. Taking a leisurely pace you reach Thimphu in
about 3 hours. Afternoon sightseeing in Thimphu visiting Memorial
Chorten, Trashichhodzong and Handicrafts Emporium. Overnight at
the hotel in Thimphu.
Day 8: Thimphu – Paro Airport
Early morning transfer to Paro airport for onward flight.
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