8-Day Bhutan Druk Path Trek

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Taktsang Monastery, famously known as Tiger Nest Monastery, is located in Paro, Bhutan. The monastery is one of the most venerated places of pilgrimage in the Himalayan. The 35 km drive is through dense spruce and larch forests. On a clear day, there are spectacular views of Mt. Jumolhari, Jichu Drake and adjoining peaks to the North West, as well as the view of Haa and Paro valley.

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The start of the Druk Path Trek is at the historic Ta Dzong, the National Museum. We follow a farm road until our trail passes through pine forests. The trail is uphill all the way until Jela Dzong, a temple built as a war fortress in the olden days, overlooking the Paro Valley below. Rest early tonight in preparation for tomorrow's hike.

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Today’s trail looks like the setting of Stephen Spielberg’s Jurassic Park. With ancient firs wrapped in Spanish moss, the trek is challenging as you ascend and descend through forsts. A dinosaur or a Bhutanese yeti might surprise you around the bend. Or it may just be a yak, as you approach the next campsite next to a yak herder stop.

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Today the trek starts off with a climb, overlooking the rolling valleys below. Rhododendrons and other high altitude shrubs line the rocky trail which climbs up and down as you get closer to the lake. On a clear day, Jumolhari can be seen as you approach Jimilang Tsho. The campsite is right next to the lake and has stunning views across the mountains.

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The trail will take us through dwarf rhododendrons and junipers. We will first pass the lakes of Janatso and then, as we near Labana we will pass the Simkotha lake where there is a campsite. The view of the far ridge across the valley you have trekked will fill you with a sense of personal satisfaction and renew you with extra confidence in yourself. Labana is the last ascent of the day.

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On a clear day, we can see the Gangkhar Puensum, the highest peak in Bhutan. Descending from the pass over rocky steps, we will be greeted by the sight of Thimphu far below in the valley. From this point on, it’s all downhill. We will cross the finish line at the temple and meditation centre complex at Phajoding. Our transport will meet us just as we start emerging from the forest and drive to Paro.