Druk Path Trek – 13 Days

Trip Facts

Duration 13 Days
Group size 2-14 pax persons
Best Season Late February–June and September–December
Trip Mode Hotels & Resorts
Activity Tour
DIFFICULTY Moderate
LOCATION Bhutan
Start/End Kathmandu, Nepal

Overview

The Druk Path Trek is a moderate six-day journey between Paro and Thimphu (or vice versa). It is one of Bhutan’s most scenic and accessible trekking routes, crossing the mountain range that separates the two valleys. Although relatively easy, it includes two nights at high elevation. The trail passes through rhododendron forests and beautiful alpine lakes, with panoramic Himal

BEST SEASON

 SPRING DEPARTURES (BEST SEASON)

  1. 05 April – 17 April 2026  Best overall
  2. 12 April – 24 April 2026
  3. 19 April – 01 May 2026

 AUTUMN DEPARTURES (CLEAR SKIES)

  1. 04 October – 16 October 2026
  2. 11 October – 23 October 2026

 FLIGHT NOTE

  • Kathmandu → Paro flight on Day 3
  • Scheduled on Tuesday mornings (best reliability & visibility)

 RECOMMENDED SALES PRIORITY

  • Top seller: 05–17 April 2026
  • Second choice: 12–24 April 2026
  • Autumn flagship: 04–16 October 2026

 

Itinenary Note

Our representative will pick you up at Kathmandu International Airport and drive you to your hotel. Depending upon what time you arrive, you can enjoy a full day at leisure and go on a welcome dinner with the KEEP WALKING FAMILY.

Today you will venture on a guided walking tour of two UNESCO world heritage sites; the  Swayambhunath stupa, a.k.a the monkey temple, and the Kathmandu Durbar Square, locally known as Basantapur.

The Swayambhunath Stupa is one of the oldest in Nepal, and the stupa complex encompasses numerous shrines and monasteries. Basantapur is within walking distance from Swayambhunath  Stupa and houses numerous temples, the house of the living goddess, Kumari, Hanumandhoka Palace Museum, Tribhuvan Museum and many more attractions.

In the late afternoon/early evening, a KWN representative will brief you about the Tibet tour, preparation requirements.

Arrive in Paro by Druk Air, enjoying breathtaking views of Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga, and Bhutan’s sacred peaks — Chomolhari and Jitchu Drake. Upon arrival, your guide will receive you and transfer you to your hotel.
Overnight in Paro.

Accommodation Overnight in Paro

Drive northwest to Drukgyel Dzong (1646), a historic fortress built by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal to commemorate Bhutan’s victory over Tibetan invaders. On a clear day, enjoy views of Mount Chomolhari (7,329 m). On the return, visit a traditional Bhutanese farmhouse. After lunch, explore Kyichu Lhakhang, Bhutan’s oldest temple, and the National Museum (Ta Dzong), originally a watchtower for Rinpung Dzong (‘Fortress of the Heap of Jewels’).

Accommodation Overnight in Paro

The trek begins from Ta Dzong, gradually climbing to Jele La Pass (3,450 m). Enjoy stunning views of Paro Valley against snow-capped peaks. Visit Jele Lhakhang, housing a statue of Buddha Sakyamuni.

Accommodation Overnight Camp Below Jele La, near yak herders’ camp

After a steady climb through alpine forests and rhododendron groves, the trail opens to panoramic views of Chomolhari and other Himalayan peaks. Pass Jele Dzong, now a monastic institute.

Accommodation Overnight Camp Jangchulakha, near yak herders’ pasture

Follow a scenic ridge with views of Jichu Drake (6,989 m), the guardian peak of Paro. The campsite lies beside Jimilangtso Lake, known for its giant trout and tranquil surroundings.

Accommodation Overnight Camp By the lake

A gradual ascent leads to panoramic views of Gangkhar Puensum, Bhutan’s highest mountain, and other Himalayan peaks. Descend to Phajoding Cafeteria, once a key monastic retreat.

Accommodation Overnight Camp Phajoding

Descend leisurely to Thimphu, where your vehicle awaits. Transfer to the hotel for a refreshing shower and lunch. Afternoon free at leisure.

Accommodation Overnight in Thimphu

Explore Thimphu’s key attractions: National Library, Zorig Chusum Institute, Nunnery at Sangaygang, and Takin Reserve. After lunch, visit National Memorial Chorten, Simtokha Dzong, and Tashichho Dzong. In the evening, stroll through the Handicrafts Emporium.
Overnight in Thimphu.

Take a full-day excursion to Punakha, Bhutan’s former capital (77 km, approx. 3 hours). Visit Punakha Dzong, beautifully situated at the confluence of the Phochu and Mochu rivers. On the return, stop at Chimi Lhakhang (Fertility Temple), built by Lam Drukpa Kuenley — the “Divine Madman.”

Accommodation Overnight in Paro

After breakfast, transfer to Paro International Airport for your onward flight. Your guide will assist with departure formalities and bid you farewell.

Itinenary Note

This is a tentative itinerary, and some monuments may be closed on certain days. However, we will make every effort to ensure that most of the listed heritage sites are covered.

Fixed Departures

Start Finish Availability Price
Sunday 05/03/2026 Saturday 17/04/2026 Trip Status available Starting from $2750 Book Now
Sunday 12/04/2026 Saturday 26/04/2026 Trip Status available Starting from $2750 Book Now
Sunday 19/04/2026 Saturday 01/05/2026 Trip Status available Starting from $2750 Book Now
Sunday 04/10/2026 Saturday 16/10/2026 Trip Status available Starting from $2750 Book Now
Sunday 11/10/2026 Saturday 23/10/2026 Trip Status available Starting from $2750 Book Now

Cost Includes

  • 2 nights in Kathmandu hotel Tibet with BB and wel come dinner
  • Half day sightseeing in Kathmandu.
  • Kathmandu to bhutan airfare
  • All arrival and departure
  • Private guided tour
  • Visa processing and issuance of Bhutan visa clearance letter
  • Airport transfers in Bhutan (arrival & departure)
  • Daily meals (Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner) at designated restaurants or hotels
  • Twin-sharing accommodation in government-approved 3-star hotels as per government regulations. For a single room supplement of USD 30 applies
  • Services of a qualified and licensed English-speaking guide
  • An experienced driver
  • Comfortable tour vehicle (SUV/van/coach based on group size)
  • Entry fees & road permits
  • Government Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) – USD 100 per night
  • One-time, non-refundable visa application fee of USD 40 per person (mandatory immigration charge).
  • Assistance with flight ticket booking for the Bhutan sector, if required
  • Bottled mineral water in the vehicle

Cost Excludes

  • Meals at premium (4–5 star) restaurants outside the package
  • Hotel stays outside Bhutan (pre- or post-trip)
  • Personal expenses (laundry, telephone calls, shopping, etc.)
  • Travel insurance (guests must have their own, or it can be arranged on request)
  • Tips and gratuities for guide and driver (optional but appreciated)
  • Alcoholic beverages and special dietary items
  • Optional activities not listed in the itinerary (e.g., hot stone bath, cultural shows)

Equipment

Here is a list of what you might want to pack for the hike. Please take this as a starting point. You’ll need layers of warmer clothing during the winter. We provide a 75 liter duffel bag for you to use for the trek. It will be given to you during your pre-trip meeting in Kathmandu. The duffle bag is yours to keep. Also, you can rent sleeping bag and down jacket with us at the additional fee of USD 35 for each once you are in Kathmandu.

  General

  • All the ground transportation as per itinerary.
  • Welcome or fare well dinner in kathmandu.
  • 4 Seasons Sleeping Bag
  • Extra Batteries/Power Bank
  • Charger for Devices
  • Travel Adapter

  Body

  • Sun Hat or Scarf, Sunglasses, Headband
  • Light Balaclava or Warm Fleece Hat
  • Hiking Boots & Camp Shoes
  • Hiking pants & Fleece Pants
  • Wool Socks & Lightweight Inner Socks
  • Thermal Tops & T-Shirts
  • Gloves or Mittens

  Accessories

  • Headlamp & Water Bottles
  • First Aid Kit
  • Trekking Poles
  • Toiletries
  • Lip Balm & Earplugs
  • Water Purification Tablets
  • Dry Bags/Ziploc Bags

  Other Essentials

  • Passport
  • Extra copies of passport-sized photos
  • Towel with Personal Care Kit
  • Toilet paper (2 rolls)
  • Maps and Trail Guides
  • Camera with Extra Memory Cards
  • Wet Wipes/Baby Wipes

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