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Druk Path Trek, Bhutan - Bhutan Druk Path Trek, Bhutan
Druk Path Trek, Bhutan  | Lachlan Gardiner
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Druk Path Trek, Bhutan - Bhutan Druk Path Trek, Bhutan
Druk Path Trek, Bhutan  | Lachlan Gardiner
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Druk Path Trek, Bhutan  | Lachlan Gardiner
Paro Dzong, Bhutan - Bhutan Druk Path Trek, Bhutan
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Bhutan Druk Path Trek

Trek the Druk Trail between Thimpu and Paro

Bhutan
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 29 reviews

11 Days from

$6190 USD

Trip Code: BDK
View dates to Book
Essential Information

Extra trip options & supplements

*Prices listed are per person

Hotel only Single Supplement
$100 USD
Tent only Single Supplement
$150 USD
Single Supplement
$310 USD
Duration
  • 11 Days
Activities
  • 5 day Trek
Accommodation
  • 6 nights Hotel
  • 4 nights Wilderness Camping
Meals
  • 10 Dinners
  • 10 Lunches
  • 10 Breakfasts
Difficulty Grading  
4 / 10

Introductory to Moderate

Carbon Footprint  

111kg of CO2-e PP per day

Trekking along the Druk Path Trip highlights

  • Trek the scenic Druk Path in full expedition style, camping each night in pristine alpine wilderness
  • Hike to the Legendary Tiger’s Nest Monastery
  • Visit the National Institute for Zorig Chusum, where young Bhutanese artists master 13 traditional arts including painting, carving, and weaving.
  • Explore Paro and Thimphu with visits to dzongs, museums, and local markets
  • Walk through yak herder settlements and alpine passes draped in colourful prayer flag, rhododendron forests and by tranquil high-altitude lakes
  • Take in views of snow-capped Jomolhari (7,326m) and the peaks of the Bhutan-Tibet border

Overview

Step into the mystical heart of Bhutan, a spiritual frontier beyond the familiar Himalaya, on this fully guided trek along the ancient Druk Path. Once the principal trading and pilgrimage route between the valleys of Paro and Thimphu, this high altitude trail follows sacred ridgelines through rhododendron forests, yak pastures and alpine meadows, revealing sweeping views of Jomolhari (7,326m / 24,035ft) and the peaks that line the Bhutan Tibet border.

Led by experienced Bhutanese guides and supported by a dedicated local crew, you will journey between spectacular wilderness camps set in remote panoramic locations where freshly prepared meals and warm hospitality await each evening. With all camping equipment provided, including a down jacket, quality sleeping bag and insulated mat, you can focus entirely on the adventure ahead.

From the iconic ascent to Taktsang, known as the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, to serene sacred lakes, hidden dzongs and meaningful encounters with Bhutan’s enduring traditions, this guided Druk Path trek offers a rare opportunity to connect with one of the world’s most carefully preserved mountain cultures, supported by decades of Himalayan expertise from World Expeditions.

Itinerary

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Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, you will be met by a World Expeditions representative and transferred to your hotel. After time to settle in, you begin your introduction to Bhutan with a visit to Ta Dzong, a former watchtower that now houses the National Museum. You then explore Paro Rinpung Dzong, a fortress-monastery known for its traditional architecture and role as both a religious and administrative centre. The day concludes with a short walk to the cantilevered wooden bridge over the Paro Chhu before returning to your hotel for a pre-trip briefing. Accommodation: Hotel in Paro

Meals: L,D

This morning you drive to the trailhead for Taktsang Monastery, Bhutan’s most iconic spiritual site, set dramatically on a sheer cliff high above the Paro Valley. You hike through pine, oak and rhododendron forest, gaining views across the gorge as the monastery comes into view, seemingly suspended against the rock face. The trail continues via a viewpoint and a series of stone steps to reach the monastery complex, where you have time to explore its temples and cliffside setting. After descending to the valley, you may visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples, before returning to your hotel. Accommodation: Hotel in Paro Ascent: 510 m / 1,673 ft Descent: 510 m / 1,673 ft

Meals: B,L,D

This morning you visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most sacred temples dating back to the 7th century. After lunch, you drive approximately 1.5 hours to the trailhead near Damchen village in the foothills of the Himalaya. From here, you begin your trek, climbing steadily through blue pine and silver birch forest to reach Jele La Pass (3,580m / 11,745ft), with views across the Paro Valley. A short walk along the ridge brings you to Jele Dzong, where your camp is set in an alpine meadow below the monastery. Accommodation: Wilderness camping Ascent: 594m / 1,949ft Descent: 0m / 0ft

Meals: B,L,D

Today you continue trekking along a forested ridgeline above the Paro Valley, following a trail through conifer and rhododendron forest. As you gradually gain elevation, views open to the north towards the snow-capped peak of Chomolhari (7,314m / 23,996ft) on clear days. The trail undulates through forest and open clearings, passing seasonal yak herder camps that reflect the high mountain lifestyle of the region. You arrive at Jangchulakha, where your campsite is set on an open pasture with views across the valleys between Paro and Thimphu. Accommodation: Wilderness camping Ascent: 554m / 1,818ft Descent: 252m / 827ft

Meals: B,L,D

Today you continue through alpine landscapes, beginning with a steady ascent through conifer forest and dwarf rhododendron. The trail leads to Jangchu La Pass (4,190m / 13,747ft), where views extend across rolling valleys and distant Himalayan peaks on clear days. From the pass, you descend steeply to Jimilangtsho Lake (3,830m / 12,565ft), a high-altitude lake associated with local legend. Your camp is set beside the lake, surrounded by alpine ridgelines and open mountain scenery. Accommodation: Wilderness camping Ascent: 569m / 1,867ft Descent: 578m / 1,896ft

Meals: B,L,D

Today you follow a well-defined trail through high-altitude terrain, climbing steadily among dwarf rhododendron and open alpine landscapes. Along the way, you pass Janeytsho Lake and Simkotra Lake, set beneath rugged peaks. As you gain elevation, you may encounter yak herder camps in this remote region. From a high saddle at 4,180m / 13,714ft, you descend gradually to Labana (4,130m / 13,550ft), where your camp is set between mountain passes. Accommodation: Wilderness camping Ascent: 643m / 2,110ft Descent: 374m / 1,227ft

Meals: B,L,D

Today you begin with a steady climb towards Pumo La Pass (4,200m / 13,780ft), the highest point of the trek, passing yak herder settlements and alpine landscapes. From the pass, views extend across the Thimphu Valley before you descend to Phajoding Goemba (3,650m / 11,975ft), a historic monastery set among forest and mountain ridges. After visiting the monastery, you continue on a steep descent through mixed forest to Motithang on the outskirts of Thimphu. From here, you transfer by vehicle to your hotel, marking the end of your trek. Accommodation: Hotel in Thimphu Ascent: 141m / 463ft Descent: 1,465m / 4,806ft

Meals: B,L,D

This morning you explore Thimphu, visiting the Textile Museum and the Memorial Chorten to gain insight into Bhutan’s cultural and spiritual life. After lunch, you drive towards Punakha, ascending to Dochula Pass (3,000m / 10,000ft), where 108 stupas mark the high point of the road. From the pass, the route descends into the warmer Punakha Valley, where you visit Chimi Lhakhang, a temple associated with Bhutanese folklore. You then continue to Punakha and transfer to your hotel. Accommodation: Hotel in Punakha

Meals: B,L,D

This morning you hike through rice paddies and farmland to Khamsum Yulley Namgyel Chorten, set on a hilltop above the Punakha Valley. From the temple, views extend across the valley and the Mo Chhu River below. In the afternoon, you visit Punakha Dzong, located at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers, known for its architecture and cultural significance. If time permits, you walk across a suspension bridge before returning to your hotel. Accommodation: Hotel in Punakha

Meals: B,L,D

This morning you depart Punakha and drive west, crossing Dochula Pass (3,000m / 10,000ft) with views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks on clear days. Continuing to Thimphu, you visit Buddha Dordenma and the National Institute for Zorig Chusum to gain insight into Bhutan’s cultural traditions. After lunch, you drive on to Paro (2,200m / 7,218ft), following the Paro Chhu valley. The day concludes with time to relax before a farewell dinner. Accommodation: Hotel in Paro or traditional Bhutanese farmhouse

Meals: B,L,D

After breakfast, you are transferred to Paro International Airport for your onward flight. Your trip concludes in Paro.

Meals: B

Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.

Ready to start your adventure?

7 scheduled departures between 13 Sep 2026 and 19 Sep 2027.

  • Departs 13 Sep 2026 – ends 23 Sep 2026 (11 days)
  • Departs 20 Sep 2026 – ends 30 Sep 2026 (11 days)
  • Departs 21 Nov 2026 – ends 1 Dec 2026 (11 days)
  • Departs 10 Mar 2027 – ends 20 Mar 2027 (11 days)
  • Departs 28 Mar 2027 – ends 7 Apr 2027 (11 days)
  • Departs 12 Sep 2027 – ends 22 Sep 2027 (11 days)
  • … and 1 more departures.
View dates to Book

What's included?

Included

  • All meals during the trek: 10 breakfasts, 10 lunches and 10 dinners
  • The use of a World Expeditions trek pack including a quality sleeping bag, down or fibre fill jacket and insulated mat (valued at over US$500)
  • Bhutan Government visa and sustainability fees
  • All park entrance fees and trekking permits
  • Good quality accommodation in Paro and Thimphu
  • Accommodation in fully serviced wilderness campsites
  • Private vehicle transportation
  • Airport transfers if arriving on Day 1 and Day 11
  • Expert English speaking local guide
  • Animals to carry up to 20kg of personal equipment
  • All group camping equipment
  • Sightseeing and entrance fees as listed
  • Pre-departure information guide
  • Souvenir World Expeditions kit bag

Not included

  • International flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Meals not listed as included
  • Personal expenses such as laundry, etc.
  • Bottled water, aerated and alcoholic drinks
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Reviews (29)

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Wonderful time in Bhutan

Stunning mountainous scenery and fascinating cultural place to visit. We were lucky enough to be in Paro for their annual Festival.

Our Druk Path trek was challenging at times but made comfortable and safe by our fabulous guide Lhab and his attentive crew. The food is excellent. The other travelers in our group were so much fun .

We travelled on for another 6 days to central Bhutan with our excellent guide Singye and Driver Tanjin and would highly recommend exploring this part of Bhutan

Caryll|NSW, Australia
22 Apr 2026
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The Druk Path with our guide Lhab was wonderful, and we were also lucky enough to see the Paro Festival during our trip. This was a great combination of hiking and Bhutan cultural experiences and all of it was great.

Jennifer|NSW, Australia
17 Apr 2026
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Great way to get a feel for a beautiful country

Evan|NSW, Australia
14 Apr 2026
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We recently returned from the Druk Path adventure in stunning Bhutan. It was my first time travelling with WE as for decades, I've organised all my own independent travel. For Bhutan, this simply wasn't an option, particularly given the itinerary included a multi-day high altitude trek, and we weren't disappointed. From the moment our Bhutanese host and guide met us at the airport to the final farewell, everything was well organised and paced, and nothing was too much trouble. The trek itself was well supported, and our experience attending the famed annual Paro Teschu and magnificent Punakha Zhong either side of the trek were highlights. Recommended!

Sarah|NSW, Australia
14 Apr 2026
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The Bhutan Druk Trek was a once in a lifetime chance to experience an amazing ancient Buddhist culture and walk through bio- diverse subtropical and alpine landscapes.

Philippe|QLD, Australia
3 Apr 2026
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We had an absolutely amazing time in Bhutan. The people, the food, the sights and the natural beauty exceeded our expectations. Our guide, driver and trek crew were outstanding. Bhutan is a special place and we plan to visit again.

Carol|British Columbia, Canada
7 Oct 2025
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We enjoyed Bhutan and the guide and staff did everything they possibly could for us despite the rain.

Geoffrey|NSW, Australia
6 Oct 2025
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Trip was well organised once we arrived in Bhutan and local guide and support were outstanding. However, weather was awful and this impacted on enjoyment of trip.

Robert|NSW, Australia
1 Oct 2025
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I loved Bhutan! Its scenery, culture, awe-inspiring monasteries and temples, and lovely welcoming people all added to the experience. Our guide, Sonam, was awesome - very knowledgeable, intelligent, caring and fun. The camp equipment, jacket and sleeping bags were first class and the trek crew were very professional and totally committed to our comfort and enjoyment. The food was delicious and healthy. We added an extra three nights onto the end of the trek to travel to Punakha and the Phobjikha Valley, and are very glad we did. It gave us an opportunity to see the amazing Punakha Dzong and some different parts of the country.

Lenore|NSW Australia
9 Apr 2025

Responsible Travel

Extra trip info

Food - Bhutan Treks | Lachlan Gardiner

Meals are an important part of the trekking experience in Bhutan and often become one of the highlights of the journey. Even while camping in remote mountain areas, our trekking crew prepares fresh, varied meals that many travellers say rival restaurant quality.

Breakfasts typically include fruit, muesli, toast and eggs to fuel the day ahead. Lunch and dinner feature a range of satisfying dishes such as chicken or lamb curries alongside fresh vegetarian meals served with rice and bread, providing the energy needed for long days on the trail.

Mealtimes are also a chance to relax and connect with your fellow trekkers and crew, sharing stories from the day while enjoying a hearty meal. Many travellers remark afterwards that the quality and variety of food in Bhutan’s remote mountains is one of the most pleasant surprises of the trek.

Dietary requirements can usually be catered for on request – please speak with our team for more information.

Use of essential equipment is included in your trip cost | Tim Charody

If you don’t trek regularly, investing in specialised gear for a single adventure can be expensive. Quality equipment designed for high altitude and cold conditions is essential, yet we see many trekkers in Nepal with gear that might look suitable, but will not be effective in many Himalayan conditions.

To save you hassle, and money, we provide the use of a World Expeditions Trek Pack including a quality sleeping bag, down or fibre-fill jacket and a cosy fleece sleeping bag liner. At our Eco-Comfort Camps we even supply an extra blanket. You receive your Trek Pack at the start of your trip, use it throughout your trek, and can pack it into your World Expeditions souvenir kit bag when travelling on the trail.

Just as importantly, it supports your safety and comfort. Staying warm at night and getting proper rest (along with good food) are critical to maintaining energy and enjoying your trek in the Himalaya.

  • Enjoy freshly prepared meals each day, unlimited boiled water and warm hospitality even in the most remote camps, all carried and set up by our trusted team.
  • Delivering immersive travel experiences since 1975 – with deep expertise in Bhutan and the greater Himalaya.
  • Feel secure with experienced wilderness guides, trained in first aid and equipped with expedition medical kit.
  • Save money and hassle with our included Trek Pack, complete with quality down jacket, sleeping bag, insulated mat and more, plus receive a souvenir World Expeditions kit bag to take home.

Guaranteeing A Great Bhutan Trip

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