Druk Path Trek and Tiger Nest Hike
KinGyel Journey: Druk Path Trek and Tiger Nest Hike
Itenary: 06 Nights / 07 Days
Overview:
The Druk Path Trek is a scenic 4-day journey that begins at Dopshari (Ta Dzong) in Paro and concludes in Thimphu, or the route can be completed in reverse.
Linking the dry valleys of Paro with the forested highlands near Thimphu, this trek is considered one of Bhutan’s most iconic and frequently traveled routes. Attracting nearly 1,200 trekkers each year, it’s popular for its stunning mountain vistas, peaceful alpine lakes, and ancient monasteries. One of its biggest advantages is that you can start the trek close to where most visitors enter Bhutan, minimizing travel time to the trailhead.
Best Time to Visit:
- The trek is best undertaken between late February and May or September to December. However, do keep in mind: Snow may block higher trails in early spring and late autumn. Afternoon showers are common during April, May, and September.
- Be sure to pack appropriately for changing weather—expect warm days, chilly nights, and possible snow at higher elevations.
- Most trekkers complete the route in six days, but physically fit adventurers can shorten it to five days by merging the final two segments.Alternative 4-Day Druk Path Trek Itinerary
If you're looking for a shorter version of the trek, here's a 4-day itinerary:
- Day 1: Ta Dzong – Jela Dzong – Tshokam
- Day 2: Tshokam – Jangchublakha – Jimilangtsho
- Day 3: Jimilangtsho – Simkotra Tso – Labana
- Day 4: Labana – Phajoding – Motithang – Thimphu
Itenary Detail: 06 Nights / 07 Days Duration
Day 1: Starting from Ta Dzong (2,500m), you ascend about 1,000m to the campsite located just below Jela Dzong (3,500m). This historic dzong, believed to date back to the 15th century, houses a large temple with an impressive 4-meter statue of Buddha Sakyamuni.
Day 2: On this day, you'll trek to Jangchulakha (3,750m), with rewarding panoramic views of Mt. Jomolhari on clear days.
Day 3: Continue toward the beautiful Jimilang Tsho, also known as Sand Ox Lake, sitting at 3,870m. The day ends at your highest campsite above Simkotra Tso, at around 4,100m altitude, after passing the serene Janye Tsho.
Day 4: Your final trekking day involves a steady descent into Thimphu Valley, passing Phajoding Monastery and Thujidrag Gompa before reaching the capital.
Itenary Detail: 06 Nights / 07 Days Duration
Trek Details & Difficulty
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Maximum Altitude: 4,235 meters
- Average Walking Time: 5 hours per day
- Average Distance Covered: 11 km per day
-
This trek is ideal for those seeking a balanced experience of cultural heritage, high-altitude nature, and spiritual immersion in Bhutan’s wilderness.
