Top Destination You’ll Visit During Bhutan Druk Path Trek
This trek takes you through some of Bhutan's most stunning destinations, starting with Thimphu, the capital, known for its cultural landmarks. Moving on, you'll pass through Phajoding Monastery, which offers beautiful views of the valley, and Jili Dzong, a historic fortress with panoramic mountain vistas. Along the trek, you'll also explore the serene Jimilang Tsho Lake, surrounded by alpine meadows and breathtaking views of the sacred Jomolhari Mountain. The trek ends in Paro, where the iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery clings to a cliffside, offering the journey a dramatic and spiritual conclusion.
Ta Dzong
The National Museum of Bhutan, located in Ta Dzong, was originally built as a watchtower for Paro Dzong around 1649 to protect it from invading Tibetan armies. Today, it serves as the kingdom's premier museum. The building's unique cylindrical shape is unique.
Langye Ja La and Jimilang Tsho
Langye Ja La, also known as the Ox Hump Pass due to its unique shape, sits at an altitude of around 4,070 meters above sea level. It overlooks the famous “Sand Ox Lake” of Jimilang Tsho. According to legend, the lake was named after a massive bull that emerged from its waters to help a nomadic family increase their herd, who grazed their cows along the lake’s shore.
Janye Tsho and Simkotra Tsho
Janye Tsho, 3,956 meters, is a high-altitude lake you'll visit on the trek. It is nestled in a forest of rhododendrons and pine trees. Similarly, Simkotra Tsho sits 4,110 meters above sea level, close to the ruins of a Dzong that dates back nearly 600 years.
Thujidrak Goemba and Phajoding Goemba
The two monasteries of Thujidrak and Phajoding are key highlights of the trek. Thujidrak Goemba, located at 3,950 meters, is perched on a steep rock cliff and was once an ancient meditation site above Phajoding Village. Phajoding Goemba currently serves as a major meditation retreat with numerous small caves scattered across the hillside.
An Unparalleled Culture Immersion in the Magical Kingdom
Bhutan is known for its diverse culture, lifestyle, language, and distinctive belief systems. The age-old tradition has been passed down for generations. Its essence still lives in arts like dance and music, which play a central role in ceremonies and festivals across the country. As the country's history is marked by numerous religious landmarks, the influence is still visible in everyday life. During the trek, you will encounter monasteries, stupas, main walls, and prayer wheels. These experiences provide a strong and vibrant atmosphere of religious faith and teachings.
Cultural Norms of Bhutan: Do’s and Don’ts
Bhutan is a rapidly modernizing country, gaining recognition as a leader in sustainability, yet it remains mindful of external influences on its culture and traditions. Deeply rooted in Buddhism, Bhutan values happiness over material possessions, and its people are known for their warmth and hospitality. While visitors are welcomed with open arms, travelers need to respect the country's customs and conduct themselves in a manner that aligns with local sensitivities. Understanding these cultural norms will ensure a positive and respectful experience while visiting this secluded Himalayan kingdom.
What to do
- When seated on the floor, always sit cross-legged.
- Use an open upward palm or motion toward something with your chin to refer to something.
- When giving or accepting an object, use both hands or your right hand—never your left hand.
- Bring a gift when visiting someone.
- Avoid discussing politically sensitive issues, especially regarding the Bhutanese government.
- When spinning a prayer wheel, do so clockwise, in line with the sun's movement across the sky.
- Always pass prayer stones with the right side of your body facing the sacred object.
- Remove hats and footwear when visiting temples.
- Always ask for permission before photographing anyone.
- Engage with local children in fun, humorous ways rather than giving gifts or sweets.
What not to do
- Stretching your legs out in front of you is considered bad manners.
- Pointing a finger when showing something or referring to someone, especially a religious item, is rude.
- Avoid joking about the Bhutanese royals, clergy, or authorities.
- Bhutanese are polite and do not negotiate aggressively, so attempting to bargain may delay decisions or dialogue.
- Bhutanese are casual about punctuality, so don’t be upset if they stretch the time.
- Flip-flops or sandals are prohibited in office or formal settings.
- Bhutanese are reserved; when meeting someone or interacting with superiors, standing with shoulders back, chin up, head high, or making direct eye contact is impolite.
- Climbing the sacred peaks of Bhutan’s Himalayas is forbidden.
Participate in Local Tradition and Cultural Heritage
Bhutanese culture is deeply rooted in Buddhism, strongly emphasizing peace, spirituality, and harmony with nature. The country values happiness over material wealth and is known for its rich arts, music, and dance traditions, which play an integral role in religious ceremonies and festivals. Bhutanese people are warm, humble, and polite, deeply respecting their heritage, including ancient monasteries, sacred sites, and customs that foster a strong sense of community and reverence for the natural world. We highly encourage you to get involved with the local people and participate in their way of life, activities, and festivals.
Here are some things you must do on the Druk Path Trek in Bhutan:
- Visit local monasteries
- Practice archery
- Ride pony in local events
- Meditate in local gompa and shrines
- Engage in spiritual practices with monks
What is the Accommodation Like in Bhutan Druk Path Trek
You will stay at hotels, teahouses, lodges, and homestays while traveling to Bhutan. These establishments offer essential facilities for resting after a day of hiking. While the amenities are modest, they provide an authentic Bhutanese experience, often set in scenic locations. You will be provided a room on a twin-sharing basis; if you would like a single room, please get in touch with us. Please remember that most of these accommodations feature a private bathroom and hot water shower. However, these facilities might not be available depending on the establishment and remoteness of the area. For more comfort and services, higher-end options are available in Thimphu and Paro, the starting and ending points of the trek.
Experience Authentic Bhutanese Cuisine
The food and beverages provided will mainly be traditional Bhutani dishes. Some popular meals include Ema datshi, Phaksha paa, Jasha maru, Kewa Datshi, and Bhutanese red rice. These items are made from rice, cheese, tomatoes, maize, buckwheat, lamb, pork, beef, yak meat etc. You can also try local beverages such as Suja or butter tea and Ara and Chang, an alcoholic drink. These food and beverages are nutritious and energizing, designed to fuel trekkers for long days of hiking. In larger towns like Thimphu and Paro, more variety and options are available, including international cuisine for those seeking a change.
Altitude Gain During the Bhutan Druk Path Trek
The journey takes you through diverse terrain, ranging from subtropical forests to alpine meadows, with varying altitudes. The trek starts at around 2,300 meters in Paro and reaches a maximum altitude of 4,200 meters at Phume La Pass, crossing several mountain passes. The terrain can be challenging, with steep ascents and descents, rocky paths, and occasional snow at higher elevations. You will ascend and descend 800m to 1000m daily during the trek, depending on your pace. The change in altitude may cause mild effects on your body, including altitude sickness. Therefore, proper rest and acclimatization are necessary for a safe and enjoyable experience.
Altitude sickness and the importance of acclimatization
Altitude sickness occurs when you gain maximum elevation in a short period. The symptoms include headache, dizziness, nausea, insomnia, fatigue, and shortness of breath. Acclimatization is crucial to avoid the illness as the trek reaches altitudes over 4,000 meters. It's important to gradually gain altitude, allowing your body time to adjust to lower oxygen levels. Trekking slowly, staying hydrated, consuming carbohydrates, drinking ginger tea and garlic soup, avoiding alcohol, and resting are key strategies to avoid altitude sickness. Rest days at higher altitudes during the trek can help your body adjust, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable journey.
Physical fitness required for the trek
A fit and healthy body is essential for completing the journey. The trek involves long days of hiking on varied terrain, including steep ascents and descents at high altitudes. To prepare, engaging in cardiovascular activities like hiking, jogging, brisk walking, cycling, and strength training for your legs and core muscles is essential. We advise you to indulge in stamina and flexibility-enhancing workouts like swimming, weight lifting, stretches, and yoga. Also, don't forget to consume nutrients and mineral-rich food and drinks to replenish and recharge your body. Being in good physical shape will improve endurance, reduce fatigue, and make the challenging terrain more manageable, ensuring you can fully enjoy the trek.
Trekking gear and clothing
Trekking gear is essential because it ensures comfort, safety, and protection during the Bhutan Druk Path Trek. A proper set of footwear, backpacks, and clothing will help you manage the challenges of varying terrain and weather conditions. Clothing made from moisture-wicking, breathable materials regulates body temperature and prevents chafing. High-quality gear also minimizes the risk of injury and fatigue, allowing for a more enjoyable and successful trek. Here is a basic list of what you must have for the trek.
- Upper body: Baseball cap, headlamp, scarf, balaclava, glacier glasses, ear muffs, and neck warmer.
- Torso: Light thermal tops, t-shirts, fleece jackets or pullovers, waterproof shell jackets, and undergarments
- Lower Body: Hiking shorts, soft shell pants, trekking pants, and trousers.
- Hands: Knitted gloves, insulated gloves, and hand warmer.
- Feet: Socks, shoes or sneakers, waterproof hiking/trekking boots, hiking gaiters, sandals (optional).
- Medicines and First Aid Kits: Diamox, waterproof band-aids, anti-infection ointments, and personal medication.
- Other Essentials: Passport and extra passport photos, airline ticket and its copy, durable wallet/pouch, lip balm, sunscreen, and toiletry kit.
Note: If you are confused about the packing list, contact us. This will allow us to suggest the essential items for the trek depending on the season and your preferences.
