In the Bhutanese language of Dzongkha, the country is known as Druk Yul, which means 'the land of the thunder dragon'. The elusive dragon has been a symbol of the country since 1200 AD when a monastery was set up called the Druk (dragon) by a religious sect, the Drukphas. Today, the dragon is synonymous with the country and even appears on the country's flag as a symbol of purity.

The dragon is certainly well-revered in Bhutan and during the 2007 mock elections all the four parties standing had the name "The Druk Colour Party". With the dragon so well regarded it is not surprising that Bhutan named its prettiest path after the Druk. This ancient Bhutan trekking route links the two main cultural centres of Paro and Thimpu.

Most Bhutan trekking groups begin in the historic town of Paro nestled in a beautiful mountain valley. The picturesque town has many sacred sites, with Drukgyzel Dzong one of the most magnificent. This monastery fortress was built in the 16th century and commemorates the victory over the invading Tibetan forces. Taking its name from the eponymous Bhutanese dragon, the fortress lies in ruins today, yet is still a fascinating place to spend an afternoon. One of the key features of the fortress is a false entrance which served to lure any unwelcome invaders into an enclosed courtyard area.

On the outskirts of Paro, Bhutan trekking groups usually include a visit to Taksang Monastery; Bhutan's most famous attraction. The building is perched precariously on the edge of a 1,200 metre cliff and certainly makes for an impressive sight - especially when you set eyes on it for the very first time. According to local legend, the monastery marks the spot where the founder of Buddhism in Bhutan, Guru Rinpoche, landed on the back of a mythical flying tiger before meditating for several months.

Sadly you won't find any flying tigers on your modern-day Bhutan trekking trip, so the only way to reach the top of the monastery is via a 2-3 hour uphill hike. However, the scenery from the top is well worth this journey and most people choose to stop at the cafe, located approximately 90 minutes into the walk, for tea and refreshments.

As legend has it, once Guru Rinpoche completed his retreat at Taksang he continued with his search for enlightenment at the nearby monastery of Drakhapo. This monastery, which again takes its name from the thunder dragon of Bhutanese lore, is perched on the edge of a cliff to the left of the Shaba school complex. The Guru spent two months practising meditation at this centre and during his stay hid many treasures in the surrounding cliffs. These cliffs are covered in numerous hand and foot prints, which some say belong to the Guru himself. The site also contains a full body print of Vajrayogini; a deity commonly associated with Tibetan Buddhism and often depicted as a red female Buddha.

Paro certainly has enough attractions to keep you occupied before continuing your Bhutan trekking towards Thimpu. Along the scenic Drak path you'll encounter even more of these beautiful monasteries and ancient fortresses - just make sure you keep your eyes peeled for any of those elusive thunder dragons.

Jude Limburn Turner is the Marketing Manager for Mountain Kingdoms, an adventure tour company who run Bhutan Trekking holidays. They now offer treks and tours worldwide, including destinations in North and South America, Europe, Africa, and Central and South East Asia http://www.mountainkingdoms.com.