The Druk Path trek is Bhutan's most popular trek, a 5-day camping route over the mountains between Paro and Thimphu. This 9-day trip from Kathmandu passes the cliff-top Jili Dzong, crosses ridges above 4,200 m and camps beside the glacial lakes of Jimilang Tsho and Simkotra Tsho, with views of Jomolhari and Gangkar Puensum (7,570 m), the highest unclimbed mountain in the world.
The trip also includes the hike to Tiger's Nest (Paro Taktsang) and sightseeing in Paro and Thimphu. It is graded moderate and best from March–May and September–November. The Bhutan visa, Sustainable Development Fee, flights from Kathmandu, a licensed Bhutanese guide, a camping crew with cook, pack animals, hotels and all meals are included.
Quick answer: the Druk Path trek is a 5-day trek between Paro and Thimphu, reaching about 4,200 m, and is the most popular trek in Bhutan. This 9-day package from Kathmandu costs from US$2,890 per person, including flights, visa, Sustainable Development Fee, guide, camping crew and all meals, and is best in spring and autumn.
Bhutan allows foreign visitors only on guided tours with licensed operators. On the Druk Path you walk through blue pine and rhododendron forest, past yak herders' camps and remote lakes, and finish above Thimphu at Phajoding monastery. Nights are spent in a fully supported camp with sleeping tents, a dining tent and hot meals prepared by the crew.
| Trip fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 9 days from Kathmandu (5 days of trekking) |
| Route | Paro – Jili Dzong – Jimilang Tsho – Simkotra Tsho – Phajoding – Thimphu |
| Maximum altitude | About 4,200 m |
| Grade | Moderate |
| Accommodation | Hotels in Paro and Thimphu; camping on the trek |
| Documents | Bhutan visa and SDF (included) |
| Best time | March–May and September–November |
| Cost | From US$2,890 per person |
It is moderate, with 4–7 hours of walking a day and several nights above 3,700 m. The first day is a steep climb and the last day a long descent to Thimphu. Pack animals carry the gear, so you carry only a daypack.
Visitors pay a daily Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) set by the government of Bhutan to support conservation and public services. It is included in our price at the current rate. Indian citizens pay a lower fee; ask us for a quote.
You should be comfortable walking 5–7 hours a day at altitudes between 3,500 m and 4,200 m. Train with hill walks for two to three months.
The trek reaches about 4,200 m after the Tiger's Nest acclimatisation hike. Walk slowly, drink plenty of water and tell your guide about any symptoms.
Spring brings rhododendrons, autumn the clearest views. Nights in camp are cold, below freezing from October.
We arrange the Bhutan visa before travel and pay the SDF on your behalf. Send us a clear passport scan at least 30 days before departure.
Choose add-ons and quantities on the booking form.
More options, quoted on request:
Bhutan's most popular trek, a 5-day route between Paro and Thimphu over ridges and past alpine lakes.
5 days of trekking; this package is 9 days from Kathmandu.
Moderate, reaching about 4,200 m with 4–7 hours of walking a day.
From US$2,890 per person, including flights from Kathmandu, visa, SDF, guide, camping crew and all meals.
March–May and September–November.
Yes. Most nationalities need a Bhutan visa and must pay the SDF; we arrange both. Indian citizens need an entry permit.
No. Treks must be booked through a licensed operator with a guide.
Camping with a full crew; there are no teahouses on the route.
Jomolhari, Gangkar Puensum, Jichu Drake and other peaks on clear days.
Yes, as an acclimatisation hike before the trek.
A daily Sustainable Development Fee set by the government of Bhutan; it is included.
By a scenic flight from Kathmandu to Paro, about an hour.
