Up and down the Druk Path

Itinerary

Itinerary:
Thimphu - Druk Path Trek - Paro
Duration:
9 days / 8 nights (flexible)
Price:
from £ 1,614.- per person (excluding flights)

Discover the best of Bhutan’s capital and the charming town of Paro whilst crossing through dramatic landscapes and mountains on the famous Druk Path trek. As soon as you set foot for the first time on Bhutanese soil, you’ll spot the colourful prayer flags fluttering in the wind among the brightly painted wooden houses. Explore the streets of the capital, trek through alpine forests past pristine lakes and hike to the famous Tiger’s Nest.

Days 1-2 – A taste of Thimphu

Today you’ll travel to your comfortable hotel in Thimphu, reputedly the only capital city without traffic lights. Home to an impressive Trashi Chhoe Dzong which hosts one of the most memorable festivals (tsechus) in the country, Thimphu is a wonderful introduction to the country. With numerous temples, unusual museums and a busy weekend market this town will win you over and keep you busy. Don’t forget to check out the world’s largest sitting Buddha perched atop a hill overlooking the capital – you wouldn’t want to miss the views!

Days 2-7 – Shimmering lakes & snowy peaks

This morning, it’s time to begin the famous Druk Path Trek. This moderate 6-day trek leads you along an ancient trading route, giving you a glimpse of Bhutan’s unspoilt landscape. You’ll cross Himalayan mountains and pass through sparsely populated areas with natural landscape of blue pine forests and pristine lakes teeming with fish.

The trek is fairly easy to undertake due to the distances between rest camps being fairly short, you’ll walk for around 3-5 hours per day and spend your nights sleeping in different camps along the way. The Druk Path is a high-altitude trek which boasts beautiful views with the opportunity to visit ancient dzongs, villages and monasteries. The trek can be done in as little as 3 days and as much as 6 days – either way it ends with you surrounded by sweeping hills and undulating valleys in the peaceful, charming town of Paro.

Days 7-9 – Winding trails to Tiger’s Nest

On arrival in the charming town of Paro, you’ll be taken to your Bhutanese hotel. You’ll have plenty of time to explore the town and perhaps try your hand at a spot of archery. After your first night, you’ll begin your hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery perched on the side of a 3000m cliff. A holy atmosphere pervades the area where only the creaking of prayer wheels and the occasional gust of wind can be heard.

Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end and today your Bhutan trip must draw to a close. You’ll be taken to the airport to catch your Druk Air flight. From here you can either connect onto your international flight back to the UK or extend your time in Asia.