Overview – Druk Path Trekking
Whenever one speaks of Bhutan, the first thing that comes to mind is the vast region of forests and green landscapes that reach out towards the horizon. The constitution of the country mandates that more than 60% of the country be forested always and as a result, we are left with unblemished wilderness and natural utopia. Some of them go by the name of Jigme Dorji National park and Royal Manas National Park. Due to the abundance of a natural enigma, the country is home to numerous treks and hikes that provide an insight into the Bhutanese way of life and brings man closer to nature. One of such treks is the Druk Path trek and people after completing this trek are left spellbound by what they have witnessed and are automatically converted into storytellers.
Highlights Of Druk Path Trek
The Druk path trek can be labelled as the most frequented treks in Bhutan and it is not much of a surprise as it offers so much more. This trek will take you through the iconic Dzongs (forts) that are engraved with hundreds of years of history, and into the gushing Paro river which oozes tranquillity. Lose yourself in the architectural awe of the Rinpung Dzong which stands out in the bland greenery as a symbol of vigour. From the Dzong, one can marvel at the faraway snowy mountains. The trek goes through the iconic Taktshang monastery, which is undoubtedly the best place to be in Bhutan. Perched on a cliff, it oozes serenity and provides travellers with an insight into the Bhutanese way of life. It is believed that Guru Rinpoche arrived at the cliff on the back of a tigress and meditated here. The climb to the monastery can be taxing but is worth the effort.
After the illustrious monasteries, the trek takes a turn towards the natural side. Walk along the forested hills where you’ll be warmly greeted by mules and locals. Take pictures with the children and before you know it, you arrive at Jele Dzong. A bit further lies the statue of Buddha Sakyamuni which is holy. As you walk on the elevated trail, the snowy trails give way to the Jimgelang Tsho lake which quietly rests in the high hills. Admire the beautiful picture of Jichu Drake mountain, which is a symbol of protection to the folks in Paro. Walk past yaks and herders to reach the Janathso lake and if you are up for it, do some fishing too! Find the courage to cross the Phume La Pass and later, take a rest near the Phajoding monastery. Arrive at the capital Thimpu and enjoy quality cuisines. The capital has numerous landmarks that are worth a visit. The final days of the trek involve driving to Punakha and after exploring the Punakha Dzong, we head to Paro which marks the end of this amazing 9-day ordeal.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival at the Paro Airport, Bhutan (2200m)
Day 2: Exploring the Taktshang Lhakhang (Tiger’s Nest) monastery (3110m)
Day 3: Trek from Paro to Jangchulakha (3770m)
Day 4: Trek from Jangchulakha to Lake Jimgelang Tsho (3870m)
Day 5: Trek from Lake Jimgelang Tsho to Simkota (4110m)
Day 6: Trek from Simkota to Thimpu (2350m)
Day 7: Travel from Thimphu to Punakha (1242m)
Day 8: Travel from Punakha to Paro (2200m)
Day 9: Departure from Bhutan via aeroplane