Druk Path Trek

The Druk Path crosses the ridge separating the Paro and Thimphu valleys, running about fifty kilometres in five days with camps at altitudes between roughly 3,500 and 4,200 metres, and it is the standard introduction to trekking in Bhutan because it is short, close to both towns and does not require a long approach. The route climbs through blue pine and rhododendron to open ridge, passing Jimilang Tsho, Simkotra Tsho and other lakes said to hold large trout, with the ruins of Jele Dzong on the first day and views north to the Himalayan border peaks in clear weather. Camps are set by the crew and yaks or ponies carry loads. Snow can close the ridge in early spring and late autumn.

What you actually see

• Ridge lakes - Jimilang Tsho and others strung along the route.
• Jele Dzong - the ruined fortress on the first day's climb.
• Border peaks - the Himalayan skyline north in clear weather.
• Rhododendron forest - flowering slopes in spring on the lower sections.

When to go

March to May and September to November. April brings rhododendrons; October and November give the clearest air. Snow can block the ridge in March and late November. Monsoon makes it wet and viewless.

Honest expectations

Camps sit above 3,500 metres and nights are cold, well below freezing in shoulder seasons. The first day climbs steeply from Paro and altitude is felt. Weather can remove the views entirely. All trekking is through a licensed operator with a crew, which sets the cost.

Nearby

Paro is the start; Thimphu is the finish.