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Trek this beautiful high ridge trail known as the Druk (or Dragon's) Path. For centuries the only “highway” between the two culturally significant valleys of Paro and Thimphu, it is even today a wonderful way to delve into the quiet heart of Bhutan. On any day (except the dead of winter when the trails are all closed by snow), you will likely encounter monks on their way to prayer, a few seminomadic yak herding families, and locals who still prefer to take the old route over the mountains. Expect to see ethereal mountain-top monasteries, jewel-like lakes and redolent slopes of pine and meadow. We begin at National Museum above Paro, then follow the trail upward, high above the valleys, until the snow peaks appear. The route descends to Phajoding through thick rhododendron forests and ends above a cluster of golden-spired temples above the Thimphu valley. And, yes, you can expect some tender muscles as you bed down in our comfortable trekking camps. But you can also count on a truly unforgettable experience amid one of the most remote and magnificent landscapes on earth.

We recommend combining this trek with our 2007 fall Featured Trip An October Himalayan Interlude, or with one of the other trips listed under our Travel Programs.

 GENERAL TREK STATS:
Maximum Elevations:
Upto 13,000ft max with general elevations between 8,000ft to 12,00ft; Note: general indications; exact elevations may vary.
Walking Time:
up to 5 or 6hrs daily
Note: general indications; exact times may vary according to individual fitness and endurance levels.
Bags and gear transported by mule or yak; meals and camp set-up by camp crew.

Our convenient Bangkok Extension includes free airport pickup and dropoff limousine service before and after your Bhutan trip, a boat trip along the scenic Chaophraya River, and a night at the nationally renowned Siam Niramit Theatre. Please see below for details.

EN ROUTE IN BANGKOK: Now by special arrangement, you may choose to be picked up and dropped off from the Bangkok Suvarnabhumi International Airport and experience the sedate flow of the city while staying at some of the most venerable addresses along the banks of the Chaophraya River. Your four-day sojourn includes highlights of Thai culture, a chance to study Thai cuisine, and a night at the nationally acclaimed Siam Niramit Theatre. For more information, please click here.

Day 1:Camp below beautiful Jele Dzong Monastery, approximately 11,000ft . Day 2: Ridge walk, with possible views of Jhomomulhari Peak (24,000ft) . Day 3: High ridge trail with views of Himalayan range west of Bhutan . Day 4: Hike up to nearly 13,000 feet, maximum trek elevation with possible views of Gangkhar Punsum, highest massifs in Bhutan Himalaya . Day 5: Steep downhill hike through a tranquil blue-pine forest to arrive in Thimphu, Bhutan's capital.

If this trip does not meet your needs please be sure to consult our Featured Trips and Trip Samples. You may also wish to contact us directly to arrange a customized Private Journey for you or your group. You may also like to view our Short Adventures pages.