Druk Path Trek with Culture Tour - 10 Days

Good to Know
  • Duration 10 Days
  • Trip Grade Moderate
  • Starts/Ends Bhutan to Bhutan
  • Group Size 2-10
  • Best Season March, April, May and September, October, November

Highlights

  • There is a scenic flight from Kathmandu, Nepal, to Paro, Bhutan, and vice versa.
  • Trek through the stunning landscape of beautiful Bhutan dotted with lush forests, marvelous alpine lakes, and several ancient monasteries.
  • Leave your footprint at the classic Paro to Thimphu route through the high mountain passes like Do Chu La Pass (3,100 m) and Janchu La Pass (4,180 m).
  • Visit Bhutan’s iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, Punakha Dzong, Jele Dzong, and several others while you also get to experience the authentic Bhutanese rural life showcasing impressive Dzong (fortress) architecture and Buddhist stupas.
  • Dynasty views of Bhuta’s largest peaks, including Jomolharu, Gangkar Puensum, and Jichu Drake Peak (6,989 m).
  • Experience the first-hand hospitality of the Bhutanese people, their gross national happiness philosophy, and many more.

Druk Path Trek with Culture Tour is one of the finest popular short treks in Bhutan, famed for its philosophy of Gross National Happiness, whose main target is the well-being of its people over economic growth. The short journey is through the ancient trading route of Bhutan, which is equally rich in stunning scenery, especially over high mountain passes connecting the valleys of Paro and Thimphu.

Usually beginning with a flight to Paro in Bhutan from the capital city of Nepal, Kathmandu, the trekking journey to Druk Path in Bhutan goes through the beautiful apple orchards dotted in between spectacular countryside, blue pine forests, high mountain ridges, and turquoise lakes of the Paro and Thimphu past several ruins nestled on high grassy ridges with jaw-dropping views of Mount Jumolhari to the north and Mount Gangkhar Puensum.

The around 55km Durk Path Trek trail passes by ancient dzongs (fortresses), remote monasteries, and traditional Bhutanese villages, providing a glimpse into Bhuta's rich spiritual and cultural heritage; hence, this package is also famous as the Druk Path Cultural Tour. For several days you will trek above 3,000 m, prone to altitude sickness; hence, it is also considered moderate difficulty that also involves traversing through high-altitude lakes such as Jimling Tsho and others adding mystical charm.

Thus, the Druk Path Trek with Culture Tour will be an ideal journey to Bhutan for those who want to take a trip into Bhutan without extreme altitude but be deeply able to immerse themselves into the spiritual, natural, and cultural quintessence that tucks away in the serenity of beauty and unique culture of the Himalayas to attain lifelong memories.

What is so unique about the Druk Path Trek with Culture Tour?

The Druk Path Trek following the major trade route to Tibet that connects Paro to Thimphu is an incredible class hike in Bhutan that only a few get to enjoy due to the extremely controlled tourism. Trekkers, visitors, and travelers can expect footpaths through lush, splendid alpine forests, yak herder settlements, high mountain passes, and camping beside mountain lakes that include a balanced amount of ascends and descends.

Experience the fabulous culture of Bhutan and authentic camping-style Himalayan voyage, unlike Nepal’s teahouse treks such as  Annapurna Base Camp, Everest Base Camp, and so on running through the uninhabited raw Himalayan wilderness with rare encounters of lodges of tea houses en route. I.e., there are many things that come together to make this Druk Path Trek a unique Himalayan expedition in Bhutan, some of which are as described:

Stunning Trails of Bhutan

The Druk Path offers a moderate trail with panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks, including Mount Jomolhari (7,314 m/23,996 ft), Gangkhar Puensum (7,570 m/24,836 ft), and Jichu Drake (6,989 m/22,936 ft), revered as the protective dirty of the valley of Paro, and Mount Masangang, Tsenndagang, and Terigang from Do Chu La Pass, approximately at an altitude of 3,100 m.

Throughout this cultural odyssey to Bhutan tracing the Druk Path, you will be in visible retreat of dense forests of pine and rhododendron, alpine lakes, and picturesque landscapes of meadows in the higher elevation as you traverse along ridges and valleys, eventually resting at campsites for the night.

Campsites are usually located far away from the hustle and bustle of daily life in the serene surroundings surrounded by nature and shimmering lakes, allowing undescribed mindfulness added much by the ancient monasteries and fortresses (dzongs), showcasing an astounding fusion of nature with spirituality.

Enhancing Cultural Immersion into Unique Bhutanese Appeal

Druk Path Trek with Culture Tour encompasses excursions to a number of ancient cultural, religious, and historical heritages that include Tiger's Nest Monastery (Taktsang), Punakha Dzong, iconic landmarks in Thimphu, and traditional villages that celebrate distinctive local festivals characterized by intricate murals, statues, and shrines, making Bhutan a must-visit destination for adventure, spirituality, and natural beauty.

Perched at an elevation of about 3,120 m/10,200 ft above sea level, also widely known as Paro Takstang or Taktsang Palphug Monastery, the Tiger’s Nest monastery is one of the highly treasured sacred sites with striking views of the surroundings. Built-in the 17th century, the Buhhdist Monastery is believed to be the origin spot of Vajrayana Himalayan Buddhism, one of thirteen Tiger’s Nest caves in Tibet where Padmasambhava practiced and taught Vajrayana; hence, it is dedicated to the Padmasambhava itself.

In the same way, as its name suggests, the ‘Palace of Great Happiness," Punakha Dzong serves as the administrative center of the district and is considered one of the most beautiful and important ancient castles in the country. It is the second largest and the oldest dzong in the country, built by Ngawang Namgyal at the juncture of the rivers Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu between the years 1627-38.

In addition to these, the Jele Dzong, Jangchulakha, Jimilangtsho, and others allow an insider insight into your visit to Druk Path in Bhutan, added much by the warming hospitality of Bhutanese offering in-depth knowledge about history, religion, and customs.

Authentic local experience

In Bhutan, it is a must for trekkers, visitors, and travelers from all over the world except citizens of India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives to obtain the necessary visa and hire local guides for visiting. The guides also provided by Adventure Himalayan Travels and Treks are professionals, authorized by the government itself, and well trained, which eases the journey.

As a carbon-negative country, local guides keep you up to date with some of the strict policies, customs, and other practices of the country so you leave a positive impact. They also bridge the language and cultural barrier between you and local Bhutanese, yak herders, and monks, ensuring a more authentic and hassle-free experience and knowledge of Bhutan's history, culture, and natural environment with an emphasis on Gross National Happiness.

The perfect blend of trekking and culture in the Himalayas

While most of the Himalayan treks are more about trekking for kilometers, achieving specific altitudes, or creating friendships along a physically challenging journey, this Druk Path Trek with Culture Tour manages to offer a good outdoor experience and an extreme cultural exploration, making it one holistic Bhutanese adventure. Even if the trek is of a shorter duration, you will not miss out on all that Bhutan can offer.

From ancient trade routes between Paro and Thimphu to pristine forests, meadows at higher altitudes, lakes, and cultural aspects like Paro Taktsang, centuries-old dzongs, local markets, and others in the grand watch of snow-capped peaks, this Druk Path Trek with Culture Tour blends it well while you get to unwind in remote monasteries and traditional villages away from the chaos but not without modern amenities.

A memorable adventure for all

The Druk Path Trek is easily accessible to many. Linked by the national highway to the lush valleys of Paro and Thimphu, the journey is suitable for a wide range of adventurers, be it beginners stepping into the Himalayas for the first time or experienced individuals in the high altitude seeking yet another pleasing holiday that is both cultural and naturally profound.

Though there are chances of encountering altitude sickness due to high altitude above 3,000 m above sea level, overall this 10-day trip to Bhutan Druk Path with Culture Tour, including 4-6 hours of walking each day after the beginning of the hike from the second day onwards, is family-friendly, where one can even include children and elderly members of the family.

However, it is important that they are physically fit enough to overcome some steep ascends and descends daily, which showcases respect for the nation’s cultural, spiritual, and religious values for all.

Why is the 10-day itinerary for Druk Path Trek with Culture Tour the best route?

At Adventure Himalayan Travels and Treks, we excel at crafting the itinerary based on our client's needs and preferences for all sorts of tours, trips, and expeditions you do with us, including trekking and culture tours to the Druk Path in Bhutan, and so is the 10-day itinerary.

Beginning with a thrilling flight admiring the beauty of one Himalayan country, Nepal, to another, Bhutan, the 10-day route provides a comprehensive trekking and cultural exploration through the mesmerizing Himalayan landscapes, tranquil lakes at higher altitudes, ancient dzongs, and other significant monuments of Bhutan.

The itinerary is crafted meticulously without overwhelming altitude challenges and complete discovery of Bhutan’s must-visit cultural and natural key highlights such as Tiger’s Nest Monastery, Punakha Dzong, Phajoding Monastery, Thimphu, and Paro Valley, increasing both adventure and cultural immersion with a well-rounded Bhutan experience in a manageable time schedule.

Just in 10 days, the itinerary grants you complete exposure to Buddhist culture, balanced adventure, diverse landscapes, wildlife, and natural beauty, which is ideal for travelers with limited time yet a fulfilling experience without a longer commitment to trekking and hiking.

Druk Path Trek with Culture Tour Cost for 2024/2025

While the cost of the Druk Path Trek with Culture Tour can vary significantly depending on the desired level of service, the size of your trekking group, and inclusions such as meals, accommodation, guides, permits, and others, Adventure Himalayan Travels and Treks offers a group discounted price.

Usually, our Druk Path Trekking with Culture Tour package cost covers expenses for most of the essential logistics, including permits, flights, food, accommodation, a local guide and their salary, day-to-day meals, and travel insurance. The price may fluctuate depending on the customization or luxury option, which for now is:

  • USD 3,535 for 2-3 pax
  • USD 3,475 for 4-6 pax
  • USD 3,375 for 7-10 pax

If your group consists of more than 10 people, contact us now for a special discounted price on any trip you take with us, including short treks such as the Langtang Valley Hike, the Ghorepani Poonhill Trek, and many more.

Itinerary
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Early in the morning, you will catch the flight to Paro from Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, across the awe-inspiring Himalayan peaks, including sacred Jumolhari and Jichu Drake, marking your arrival in Bhutan, where you will be greeted by Bhutan's representatives from Adventure Himalayan Travels and Treks, who will also transfer you to your hotel.

After lunch, your guide will provide you with a brief on your day-to-day itinerary in Bhutan, which also includes visits to Ta Dzong, the National Museum of Bhutan, Rinpung Dzong (also known as the Fort of Jewel), Drugyal Dzong (Bhutan Victory Fort), and Kichu Lakhang (a Buddhist site built in the 17th century) if the time permits.

  • AccommodationComfortable-Hotel
  • MealsBreakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Max. Altitude2,250m/7,382ft

The second day in Bhutan is allocated for acclimatization to Bhutan's serene air so that one can avoid getting altitude mountain sickness (AMS) in upcoming days above 3,000 m, considered the AMS-prone areas in the Himalayan Zone. Therefore, as a part of acclimatization, you will wake up early in the morning to hike to Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) monastery, the legend of being the mediation ground of Guru Rinpoche, the Buddhist spiritual leader.

There will be a lunch break halfway up on the mountain in the cafeteria to lastly return to Paro Valley for the night after an amazing exploration of the monastery perched on the edge of a steep cliff, around 900 m above sea level.

  • AccommodationComfortable-Hotel
  • MealsAll-Three-Meals
  • Max. Altitude3,180m

The day begins as usual with a delicious breakfast to officially begin trekking. The destination of the day is Jele Dzong with ruins and Lhakhang, featuring a statue of Buddha Sakyamuni.

To reach here, at first, it is a short drive to the National Museum, from where Jele Dzong is only approximately 3-4 hours walk, rewarding you with the fantastic sight of Paro Valley, snow-capped mountains on the backdrop, and serenity of the Dzong. The day ends at the campsite to stargaze and reminisce about the enriching exploration.

  • AccommodationStandard-Hotel
  • MealsBreakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Max. Altitude3,480m

It is an exciting morning that you can start with a visit to Jele Dzong to bid farewell and move forward to Jangchulakha at an altitude of 3,600 m above sea level, which is also the highest point of the entire journey to Druk Path that you reach after a couple of hours of trekking.

Yak herders may be seen near the campsite, along with Jumolhari and other snow-covered peaks, and the chirps of Monal Peasants contribute to the peaceful settings as the trail winds through deep alpine woods of rhododendrons that bridge the Jele La at 3,490 m.

  • AccommodationStandard-Hotel
  • MealsAll-Three-Meals
  • Max. Altitude3,770m

The trail of the day includes a short, steep climb to pass through Jangchulakha which is blessed with sensational views of Mount Jumolhari and other Himalayan ranges. The view is prominent while you go down through the Jimilangtsho Lake for lunch.

After lunch, the trail descends through the forests of fir, eventually leading to Jimilangtsho, nestled amidst Jichu Drake (6,989 m), treasured as the protective deity of Paro, and Ganskar Puensum (7,497 m), Bhutan’s highest mountain. 

  • AccommodationComfortable-Hotel
  • MealsBreakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Max. Altitude3,870m

The journey to Simkota takes place from the southern end of Jimilangtsho Lake along the rhododendron forests until you arrive at Jahnye Tsho. On the way, it will be blissful to pass by Phajoding Monastery and Thuijidrag Monastery and soak into the spiritually enriching ambiance as you climb toward Simkota.

While you are on the trail, you may come across a yak herder’s camp, which provides an insight into the daily life of Bhutanese people. The camp is located at Simkota, at an elevation of approximately 4,110m, where the day’s hike concludes.

  • AccommodationStandard-Hotel
  • MealsAll-Three-Meals
  • Max. Altitude4,110m

The trek starts at Simkota and gradually climbs; if the weather permits, you will get to relish the stunning sight of Mount Gangkar Punseum and others entering deep into the woodland of fir and rhododendrons following the stream that arrives at Phajoding Monastery (believed to be the sacred site of Guru Rinpoche from the 8th century) and Phajoding for lunch.

From Phajoding, the trek to Thimphu is mostly downhill, dominated by blue pine, and lasts for 3 hours until you arrive at Thimphu for the night.

  • AccommodationThree-Star-Hotel
  • MealsBreakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Max. Altitude4,110m

It will be enlightening to visit the King’s Memorial Chorten (built in respect of the third king of Bhutan), Nunnery Temple, the National Library housing ancient manuscripts, and the School of Arts and Crafts, along with the paper factory and incredible Tshichhodzong.

The journey to Punkha from Thimphu begins after lunch and stops at Dochula Pass (3,100 m) for a small tea break housing 108 chortens (stupas) with scenic views of rhododendrons, pine, and traditional villages where a rice field walk along the bank of the Punkaha River takes you to the Punkha village, marking the end of today's trek.

  • AccommodationComfortable-Lodge
  • MealsAll-Three-Meals
  • Max. Altitude2,350m

Since you are in Punkha, you will definitely not miss out on visiting the infamous Punakha Dzong situated in between the male and female rivers, shaped like an anchored ship, and then drive to Paro, which lasts for about 3-4 hours, covering 120km, that stops at Metshina village for an approximately 20-minute walk through the rice fields to Chimi Lhakhang, renowned as the temple of fertility dedicated to the Divine Madman, or Lama Drukpa Kuenley.

If you wish, you are free to visit Lama’s Wooden Phallus to receive blessings while the drive resumes through the Do Chu La Pass with top-notch Himalayan views. En route, you can also visit Druk Wangyal Monastery, the only of its kind in the country, which thereafter stops only at Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan, before making it to Paro for the night.

  • AccommodationThree-Star-Hotel
  • MealsBreakfast-Lunch-Dinner
  • Max. Altitude2,350m

The city of Paro is home to Bhutan’s only international airport and the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery that you visited at the beginning of the journey; hence, this day, you will board an early morning flight to Kathmandu, which is possible only through Druk Air from Bhutan.

Filled with unforgivable memories of Bhutan, it can be a bit overwhelming to bid farewell, while Nepal also welcomes you with the stunning Himalayas and its several trekking, hiking, and climbing routes to once-must-set adventure.

  • AccommodationComfortable-Lodge
  • MealsBreakfast

This itinerary is not suited for you? Plan your own trip.

What's Included
Includes
  • All meals, tea & snacks
  • Government approved A category hotels on twin sharing basis in city and camping during trekking
  • Roundtrip airport transfers and other transport as per itinerary
  • Experienced English speaking guides and local staff
  • All city tour
  • Government taxes, permits, sightseeing entrance fees for museums and monuments
  • Bhutan Visa fee
  • Porter and pack animals for the trekking
  • Trekking equipments like 2-men sleeping tents, dining tents, kitchen tents, toilet tents, and sleeping mats
Excludes
  • Airfare to/from Paro, Bhutan
  • Items of a personal nature (personal gear, telephone calls, beverages, internet , laundry etc.)
  • Trip cancellation and Medical/Evacuation Insurance
  • Tips for Staff/guide
Dates and Prices
Date PriceAvailability 
Start DateStarts: ThursdayDec 12, 2024End DateEnds: SaturdayDec 21, 2024PricePriceUS$3575StatusStatusAvailable
Start DateStarts: MondayDec 16, 2024End DateEnds: WednesdayDec 25, 2024PricePriceUS$3575StatusStatusAvailable
Start DateStarts: ThursdayDec 19, 2024End DateEnds: SaturdayDec 28, 2024PricePriceUS$3575StatusStatusAvailable
Start DateStarts: MondayDec 23, 2024End DateEnds: WednesdayJan 01, 2025PricePriceUS$3575StatusStatusAvailable
Start DateStarts: ThursdayDec 26, 2024End DateEnds: SaturdayJan 04, 2025PricePriceUS$3575StatusStatusAvailable
Start DateStarts: MondayDec 30, 2024End DateEnds: WednesdayJan 08, 2025PricePriceUS$3575StatusStatusAvailable
Useful Info

Can you go for the Druk Path with Culture Tour in summer and winter?

Yes, although trekkers, visitors, and travelers might have to be extra conscious with packing and preparing considering the potential encounter with heavy rain and slippery trails in summer and a cold environment in winter, especially at higher elevations usually filled with snow, the Druk Path Trek with Culture Tour is accessible in both summer and winter.

Both of these times of the year are taken as the off-tour seasons, hence offering more solitude, and usually, permits are also available in slightly more than peak travel time in Bhutan, i.e., spring (mid-March to mid-May) and autumn (mid-September to mid-November).

Food and accommodation during Druk Path Trekking

The mode of accommodation on the way to the cultural tour to Druk Path Trek differs from place to place. Such as in Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha, you will get to stay in comfortable hotels, lodges, or guest houses providing standard amenities; however, at higher altitudes, it changes into camps in the remote areas of Bhutan.

Usually, these hotels and guest houses also offer you daily meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, that generally consist of a mix of freshly prepared Bhutanese and international menus. Expect the dishes to include ample vegetables, rice, and lentils with some meat and dairy options, which are usually prearranged by tour operators, trekking agencies, and organizers on your behalf, such as Adventure Himalayan Travels and Treks, ensuring a comfortable experience in the pristine wilderness of Bhutan.

Is travel insurance a must to take while going on a trekking journey to Druk Path in Bhutan?

While it is not compulsory, insurance is highly recommended for Bhutan trekking—or, for that matter, the Druk Path Trek—in light of those freak accidents that may happen along the way up to the high-altitude area, which the travel insurance covers for unexpected incidents such as injuries, illness, or theft of luggage and goods.

This travel insurance also covers emergency evacuations, including air ambulances and helicopter rescues. It is also financial security for trip cancellations and delays and thus ensures peace of mind. It is, therefore, a good idea to purchase a comprehensive package from a local agent.

Permits and visa for Druk Path Trek and Cultural Tour

For the Druk Path Trek and Culture Tour, all foreign visitors (with a few exceptions) must possess Bhutan visas and trekking permits. Only authorized Bhutanese travel operators may arrange these visas and trekking permits; Adventure Himalayan Travels and Treks, for example, offers these services as part of their packages.

The permits allow you to visit the trails, campgrounds, cultural sites, and natural areas, and the visa permission is given upon complete payment for the tour, which includes a USD 200 daily sustainable development fee (SDF).

What to pack for Druk Path Trekking?

Packing is also a deciding factor on how the overall journey in the Himalayas is going to be, including the Druk Path. Therefore, it is important that you pack light without leaving out any essentials that may include:

  • Clothing: base layers, insulating layers, waterproof jackets and pants, trekking pants, warm hats and gloves, socks, sun hats, and glasses.
  • Shoes: trekking boots, camp shoes.
  • Camping gear: sleeping bag and mat.
  • Personal items: trekking poles, backpack, water bottles, headlamp, first aid kit, snacks/energy bars.
  • Other must-haves include sunscreen, lip balm, towels and toiletries, a camera or phone with a charger or power bank, and a passport.
Client Reviews
  • Druk Path Trek with Culture Tour - 10 Days

    rating

    Bhutan - One of the best trips away I have ever had

    May 2024 • Solo

    Adventure Himalayas set up and excellent tour for me in Central Bhutan, taking in Paro, Timpu and Punacka as the main bases. Had to bail out of the Druk Trek early on due to Altitude Sickness (it of course happens to us all at sometime!). My guide and driver along with the tour operator in Bhutan were able to however to provide me with a fantastic alternative package of lower level hikes in the forests lower down. The Guide and Driver I was supplied were first class. They both knew the area really well and explained well the inner workings of Budism. (Very confusing!). The Monstaries, Forts and Temples visited were amazing, particularly the art work. Nowhere was crowded with tourists and there were very few Westerners about (Most Tourists were from India) . The Hotels allocated to me were first class in terms of service and all in the centre of towns, which gave greater opportunity to experiance the local scene. All were also small and therefore easy to escape from. A fanatastic break. Well worth the heavy Tourist Tax (Once there Bhutan is very cheap for day to day expenses). The experiance delivered by the Tour Operator on the ground was first class. Scenery was amazing, particularly if you are into Mountains, Flora (the Rhododendrons were amazing) and Forna

    P
    Paul WUnited Kingdom,May 12, 2024
    TripAdvisor

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