Duration
7 Nights | 8 Days
Difficulty
Moderate to Strenuous
Maximum Altitude
4700 meters
Best Seasons
Mid-March to Mid-June, October & November
Overview
The Dur Hot Springs Trek is a rewarding but challenging journey through Wangchuck Centennial Park, featuring pristine forests, alpine passes, diverse flora and fauna, and the spectacular Dur Tshachu hot springs. Ascending to heights above 4,700 m, this route requires solid physical conditioning but offers an unforgettable Himalayan experience. Ideal for seasoned trekkers, it is best undertaken in spring or autumn for optimal weather and visibility.
The region hosts seven hot springs, with temperatures ranging from 38°C to 52°C. The route also offers opportunities to encounter rare wildlife including Snow Leopards, Bhutan Takin, Musk Deer, Blue Sheep, Tibetan Wolves, and Himalayan Black Bears.
The trek is strenuous, especially the 8-day/7-night version. For those seeking a more moderate pace, extending the trek to 9 days is recommended.
Best seasons: March–April and September–October
Day-by-Day Highlights
Distance: 18 km | Time: 7 hours | Altitude: 3,120 m
The trek begins at Dur village (3,100 m), following the Yoleng Chhu, a trout-rich river. The trail ascends gradually through forested terrain.
Overnight: Tented campsite
Distance: 12 km | Time: 5 hours | Altitude: 3,160 m
Trek through dense forests of spruce, hemlock, cypress, juniper, and maple.
Overnight: Tented campsite
Distance: 15 km | Time: 6–7 hours | Altitude: 3,780 m
Continue through similar vegetation. As you approach camp, the forest thins and you arrive above the tree line.
Overnight: Tented campsite
Distance: 17 km | Time: 7 hours
Ascend steadily to Juli La Pass (4,700 m) for spectacular mountain views (weather permitting). Descend to a lake at 4,220 m, then ascend again to Gokthong La (4,640 m) before a steep descent to the campsite at 3,590 m. Wildlife sightings may include musk deer, blue sheep, and Himalayan black bears.
Overnight: Tented campsite
Enjoy a relaxing day soaking in the natural hot springs or exploring the surroundings on foot.
Overnight: Tented campsite
Distance: 18 km | Time: 8 hours | Ascent: 1,530 m | Descent: 1,340 m
Retrace the route from Day 4 in reverse. This is one of the most physically demanding days of the trek.
Overnight: Tented campsite
Distance: 27 km | Time: 9 hours | Descent: 660 m
A long descent through alpine and mixed forests back to Gorsum.
Overnight: Tented campsite
Distance: 18 km | Time: 6 hours | Descent: 380 m
Complete the final stretch of the trek. You will be met at Dur and transferred to your overnight accommodation.
Overnight: Hotel in Bumthang
Additional Activities
- Archery or Khuru (traditional dart) lesson/demonstration
- Cooking class
- Hot stone bath
- Farmhouse/homestays – OVERNIGHT OR VISIT
- Cultural Program
- Picnic Lunch
- Cycling / Motorcycle rides
- National dress/costume trial
- Gala Dinner And Cocktails
- Private guest lectures on Buddhism and Gross National Happiness.
- Private Yoga Sessions
- Helicopter Rides
- Smoke Offering / Flag Hoisting / Organizing Private Religious Rituals / Spiritual Cleansing Ceremony / Butter Lamp Offering
- School Visits