Druk Path Trek - Bhutan Omkara Tours and Travels

(2280 meters):

Upon arrival at Paro International Airport on our national carrier, Druk Air, you will be greeted by your Bhutanese escort from Omkara Tours & Travels. The flight offers a breathtaking introduction to the spectacular beauty of Bhutan, with clear weather providing magnificent views of the world’s highest peaks before descending into the lush green Paro valley.

After lunch, we will drive 16 km up the valley to visit the ruins of Drukgyal Dzong. Built in 1647 by the great Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the Dzong was originally constructed to commemorate Bhutan’s victories against Tibetan invasions. Unfortunately, it was destroyed by a fire and now stands as a poignant reminder of its historical significance. Explore the ancient ramparts and, on a clear day, enjoy an unforgettable view of Mt. Jhomolhari (7,314 m).

On our return journey, we will visit Kichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most sacred temples, built in 659 A.D. by the Tibetan King Srongsen Gampo.

Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel in Paro.

Today is a very special day as we embark on an excursion to the spectacular Taktsang Monastery, also known as Tiger’s Nest. After an early breakfast, we will take a short drive to Satsam Chorten. From there, the trail ascends through beautiful pine forests adorned with Spanish moss and occasional groves of fluttering prayer flags. We will pause for a rest and light refreshments at the Taktsang Jakhang (cafeteria), then continue walking until we reach the breathtaking Taktsang Monastery, seemingly within reach, clinging to the edge of a sheer rock cliff that plunges 900 meters into the valley below. The primary Lhakhang was built around Guru Rimpoche’s meditation cave in 1684 by the Penlop of Paro, Gyaltse Tenzin Rabgay.

Legend has it that Guru Padmasambhava, the tantric mystic who introduced Buddhism to Bhutan, arrived here on the back of a flying tiger, Dorji Drolo, said to be his favorite consort.

Lunch will be served in Paro town. After lunch, we will visit Ta Dzong, built in 1656 and renovated in 1968, which now houses the National Museum. Below the museum is Paro Rinpung Dzong, meaning “Heap of Jewels,” constructed in 1646 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, serving as the center of civil and religious authority in the valley.

Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel in Paro.

Camp Altitude: 3560m; Distance: 10 km; Walking Time: 4 – 5 hours; Ascent: 1090 meters

Today marks the beginning of our trek, starting from above the National Museum in Paro. We will ascend until we reach our campsite near the old Jele Dzong. If the weather permits, we may be treated to clear views of the Paro valley and the snow-capped mountains along the way.

If the caretaker is available, we can visit the Jele Dzong upon arrival at the campsite.

Camp Altitude: 3770m; Distance: 10 km; Walking Time: 3 – 4 hours; Ascent: 310 meters, Descent: 50 meters

Today’s trek begins with a short climb and then takes us through a dense alpine forest of rhododendrons. We will gradually ascend until we reach our campsite at Jangchulakha. Keep an eye out for yak herders around the campsite, adding to the picturesque mountain scenery.

Camp Altitude: 3870m; Distance: 11 km; Walking Time: 4 hours; Ascent: 330 meters, Descent: 230 meters

Today’s trek follows the ridge with stunning views of the mountains and valleys on clear days. Our campsite is situated near Lake Jimilangtso. These lakes are renowned for their giant-sized trout, and if we’re fortunate, we may enjoy well-prepared trout for dinner.

Camp Altitude: 4110 meters; Distance: 11 km; Walking Time: 4-5 hours; Ascent: 820 meters, Descent: 400 meters

Today’s trek leads through dwarf rhododendron forests, passing by the lake of Janetso. We will reach our overnight campsite at Simkota, situated at an altitude of 4110 meters.

(End of Trek: 2520 meters):

Distance: 15 km; Walking Time: 6 – 7 hours; Ascent: 130 meters, Descent: 1820 meters

From Simkota, we will begin our descent towards Phajoding Monastery. Along the way, we will enjoy views of Thimphu town in the valley below. After reaching Phajoding Monastery, we will have lunch.

In the afternoon, we will drive to visit several places in Thimphu:

• Traditional Medicine Institute, where ancient Bhutanese medical practices are preserved.
• Takin Preserve Center, home to Bhutan’s national animal, the Takin.
• Sangay Gang View Point, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
• The Largest Statue of Buddha, a prominent landmark in Thimphu.

Overnight stay at the hotel in Thimphu.

Today’s exploration begins with a visit to the National Memorial Chorten (1974), dedicated to the late King Jigme Dorji Wangchuk, followed by a visit to Dupthop Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s few remaining nunneries.

Next, we will proceed to the National Library, which houses a collection of ancient Buddhist manuscripts, and the Painting School, where the art of painting Thangkas (sacred Buddhist scrolls) is taught and preserved.

After lunch, we will visit the Handicrafts Emporium for a glimpse into Bhutanese traditional crafts, followed by some leisurely souvenir shopping in Thimphu’s shops.

In the evening, we will explore the majestic Tashichho Dzong, which serves as the seat of Bhutan’s national government and the Central Monastic Body. Here, we will also see the summer residence of the Je Khenpo (Chief Abbot of Bhutan).

Overnight stay at the hotel in Thimphu.

(72 km, 3 hours drive):

After breakfast, we will drive to Punakha via the Dochula Pass. If the weather permits, we will stop at Dochula Pass to admire the breathtaking views of the Higher Himalayas.

Upon reaching Punakha, we will have lunch.

After lunch, we will visit Punakha Dzong, built in 1637 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. Strategically located between the Pho Chu (Male River) and Mo Chu (Female River), this dzong served as the seat of the Government for many years. According to legend, Guru Rimpoche prophesied its construction, envisioning “a person named Namgyal will arrive at a hill that looks like an elephant.” Originally, a smaller structure named Dzong Chu housed a Buddha statue. Shabdrung instructed the architect, Zowe Palep, to sleep in front of the statue. During his sleep, Shabdrung took Palep in a dream to Zangtopelri, revealing Guru Rimpoche’s palace. Inspired by this vision, the architect designed the new Dzong, a design that was never put to paper, in keeping with tradition. Named Druk Pungthang Dechen Phodrang (Palace of Great Happiness), it now houses war materials captured during battles with Tibetans. Punakha remains the winter residence of the Je-Khenpo, and in 1952, King Jigme Dorji Wangchuk convened the first national Assembly here.

In the evening, we will visit Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the Temple of Fertility, built by Lama Drukpa Kuenley. Legend has it that he subdued demons with his “Magical Thunderbolt.”

Overnight stay at the hotel in Punakha.

After breakfast, we will drive back to Paro via Thimphu. We will have lunch in Thimphu. The afternoon will be free for shopping and leisure activities.

In the evening, we will drive to Paro.

Overnight stay at the hotel in Paro.

Early morning, drive to the airport and farewell.