The Dur Hot Spring Trek is one of Bhutan’s most remote and rewarding treks, tucked deep in the Bumthang region. It’s considered among the most challenging treks in the country, with the route partially overlapping the famous Snowman Trek and winding between 3,000m and 4,700m in altitude. The starting point is Dur village, roughly a five-kilometer drive from Toktu Zampa, and the trail is known for numerous steep ascents and descents. Most itineraries run 5–9 trekking days (17 days if bundled with cultural touring), rewarding trekkers with a soak in Bhutan’s most revered hot springs at the journey’s end.
4,7o0 m
18–20 km per day
6–9 hours
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Welcome to Bhutan, the Land of the Thunder Dragon! Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, one of Asia’s most scenic airports, our representative will warmly receive you and provide a brief orientation about your journey. If flights are booked through us, we will try our best to arrange suitable seats for breathtaking Himalayan views during the flight. Later, explore Paro town and enjoy your first glimpse of Bhutanese culture. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel in Paro.
Today’s scenic drive takes you through the heart of Bhutan. Crossing Dochula Pass (3,100 m), you’ll enjoy spectacular Himalayan views on clear days. Continue through Wangdue Phodrang and Trongsa, home to Bhutan’s largest dzong, before crossing Yotong La Pass (3,425 m) and descending into Bumthang Valley. The journey offers dramatic landscapes, forests of blue pine and fir, traditional villages, and numerous photo opportunities.
Spend the day exploring Bhutan’s spiritual heartland. Visit the ancient Jambay Lhakhang, and Kurjey Lhakhang, each rich in history and Buddhist tradition. In the afternoon, meet your trekking crew for a detailed briefing. Check your equipment, pack your duffel bags, and prepare for the adventure ahead.
After a short drive to Dur Village, the trek begins along a well-defined trail following the Chamkhar Chu River. The route passes cultivated fields, traditional farmhouses, and dense forests of blue pine and oak. Gentle ascents and river crossings make this an enjoyable first trekking day. The peaceful campsite at Gaytsa is surrounded by forest and offers a perfect introduction to Bhutan’s pristine wilderness.
Today’s trail gradually climbs through beautiful mixed forests of fir, spruce, hemlock, and rhododendron. Crystal-clear mountain streams accompany much of the route, while colourful birds and occasional wildlife sightings add to the experience. As elevation increases, the scenery becomes increasingly alpine before reaching the open meadow campsite at Gomthang.
Continue ascending through pristine alpine forests before emerging into wide yak-grazing meadows surrounded by rugged mountain peaks. During spring, rhododendrons bloom in brilliant colours, while autumn offers crystal-clear mountain views. The peaceful campsite at Tshochenchen provides magnificent panoramas and cool mountain air.
The trail descends steadily through untouched forests following the course of the Chamkhar Chu River. The soothing sound of flowing water accompanies your walk as you approach the famous Dur Hot Spring. Upon arrival, relax in the naturally heated mineral pools, long believed by locals to possess therapeutic properties for tired muscles and aching joints.
Today is dedicated entirely to relaxation. Enjoy multiple soaks in the hot springs, explore nearby forest trails, observe native birdlife, or simply appreciate the tranquillity of this remote Himalayan setting. This rest day provides an excellent opportunity to recover while immersing yourself in nature.
Leaving the hot springs behind, begin the return journey with a gradual climb back toward Tshochenchen. Although uphill, the trail rewards trekkers with peaceful forests, alpine flowers, and magnificent mountain scenery. Keep an eye out for Himalayan pheasants and yak herds grazing in the high pastures.
Retrace the scenic route through alpine meadows and dense conifer forests. Gentle descents and panoramic viewpoints make this one of the most enjoyable trekking days, offering numerous opportunities for photography.
Descend through peaceful forests rich in moss, ferns, and rhododendrons while following crystal-clear mountain streams. The trail winds through quiet woodland where wildlife such as barking deer, Himalayan squirrels, and colourful birds are occasionally seen.
Complete the final stage of the trek by returning to Dur Village. After meeting your vehicle, drive back to Bumthang where a comfortable hotel, warm shower, and delicious Bhutanese dinner await after several rewarding days in the wilderness.
Travel west through scenic mountain landscapes to the beautiful Phobjikha Valley. Visit Gangtey Monastery, one of Bhutan’s most important Nyingma monasteries, and enjoy a gentle walk through the valley, famous as the winter habitat of the endangered Black-necked Crane.
Drive to Bhutan’s capital city, Thimphu. Along the way, stop at scenic viewpoints and traditional villages. Upon arrival, spend the evening exploring Vegetable market, handicraft shops, and the vibrant streets of Bhutan’s only capital city.
Visit the towering Buddha Dordenma Statue, Memorial Chorten, Folk Heritage Museum, Motithang Takin Preserve, and the National Textile Museum. Learn about Bhutan’s unique culture, architecture, and traditions while enjoying a relaxed day in the capital.
Return to Paro and undertake Bhutan’s most iconic hike to Taktsang Monastery, famously known as Tiger’s Nest. The trail climbs steadily through fragrant pine forests adorned with colourful prayer flags before reaching the spectacular monastery dramatically perched on a sheer cliff face. The breathtaking views and spiritual atmosphere provide a memorable conclusion to your Bhutan adventure.
After breakfast, transfer to Paro International Airport for your onward flight. As you depart Bhutan, take with you unforgettable memories of remote mountain landscapes, peaceful forests, rejuvenating hot springs, rich Buddhist culture, and the warm hospitality of the Bhutanese people.
Dur Hot Spring (Dur Tshachu) is located in Bumthang District in central Bhutan, deep within a forested valley near Dur village.
The trek is generally considered easy to moderate, making it suitable for most visitors with a reasonable level of fitness.
Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offer pleasant weather and ideal trekking conditions
Yes. Families can visit, but children should be supervised, especially during the trek and while using the hot spring pools.
Bring comfortable trekking shoes, a swimsuit, towel, warm clothing, drinking water, snacks, and personal toiletries for a comfortable visit
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