The Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek
A Journey of Tranquility and Beauty
The Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek is a six-day adventure that immerses you in the heart of Bhutan’s stunning natural beauty. Here’s what awaits you:
- Crystal-Clear Lakes: Hike amidst a multitude of pristine lakes, their clear waters reflecting the majestic Himalayas.
- Panoramic Vistas: Witness breathtaking views of the entire Himalayan range, with a chance to glimpse iconic peaks like Mt. Everest, Jomolhari, and Masang Gang (weather permitting).
- Dedicated Lake Day: Spend a relaxing day exploring the most picturesque lakes, perfect for fishing and soaking in the scenery.
- Bhutanese Village Experience: Traverse through traditional Bhutanese villages, gaining a glimpse into their way of life.
- Strenuous Yet Rewarding: While physically demanding, the trek rewards you with unparalleled tranquility and breathtaking landscapes.
This trek offers a unique opportunity to combine the challenge of an adventure trek with the cultural immersion and stunning scenery that Bhutan is renowned for.
The best time to embark on this trek is:
Mid April
June
Early September
Begining November
- Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, you’ll be greeted by our friendly tour guide and transferred to your hotel in Paro.
- After a short rest and introduction, you can explore Paro town at your leisure or relax at the hotel, preparing for the adventure ahead.
- This morning, you’ll enjoy a scenic drive to the beautiful village of Gynekha in Thimphu District.
- Your trek begins with a short descent to the river, followed by a climb to a massive rock platform offering stunning panoramic views of the valley below.
- After another two hours of trekking, you’ll reach Gur, a peaceful Yak pasture nestled below the trail. Here, you’ll set up camp for the night, surrounded by stunning mountain scenery.
- Today’s trek takes you across high ridges, offering breathtaking views of the rugged Himalayan landscape and diverse mountain vegetation.
- The path winds through meadows adorned with colorful wildflowers and asparagus (during spring).
- You’ll conquer your first mountain pass marked by a large cairn, rewarded with spectacular views of Kanchenjunga (Sikkim) and numerous Bhutanese Himalayan peaks.
- As you descend the pass, the entire Dagala mountain range unfolds before you, including vast meadows and Yak herder camps.
- Your journey continues with a gradual climb through the Labatama valley, passing by Yak herder camps before reaching Utsho Lake. You’ll camp right next to the lake, surrounded by the tranquility of nature.
- Today is a dedicated day to explore the pristine beauty of the Labatama region. You have the option to visit any of the three nearby lakes: Reli Tsho, Hen Tsho, and Jama Tsho.
- These crystal-clear lakes offer fantastic opportunities for trout fishing, a popular activity in this area.
- Fishing Permits: If you’d like to try your hand at fishing, kindly request your tour operator to arrange the necessary permits beforehand.
- Alternatively, you can simply relax by the lake, soak in the breathtaking scenery, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
- The trail on this day climbs along the western side of Dala Tsho, leading to a saddle at an altitude of 4,520 meters.
- From this vantage point, you’ll be treated to a panoramic vista of the majestic Himalayan peaks, including Mt. Everest (Nepal), Mt. Kanchenjunga (Sikkim), Mt. Jomolhari, Mt. Jichu Drakey, Mt. Tsherim Gang, Mt. Khangbum, Mt. Masagang, Mt. Tsenden Gang, and Mt. Gangchen Ta.
- For an even more spectacular view, you can opt to climb a peak near the saddle at 4,720 meters (subject to your physical condition and guide’s recommendation).
- The descent continues, passing by Yak herder huts, until you reach Dochha Chhu River. You’ll follow the river for a while before ascending the slopes to reach Panka, with a few ascents and descents along the way. Here, you’ll set up camp for the night.
- Today’s trek involves crossing several passes, but none require a strenuous climb. Keep your eyes peeled for vibrant blue poppies (blooming from June to July) and diverse mountain birds while traversing this region.
- After conquering the final pass, Tale-La (4,180 meters), you’ll embark on a long descent towards Talakha Gompa.
- Camp will be set up right beside the monastery, allowing you to experience the early morning prayers of the monks and witness the stunning view of the Bhutanese capital, Thimphu.
- A short walk down from Talakha Monastery leads you to a feeder road that connects you to the village of Chamgang.
- Here, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in Thimphu, marking the successful completion of the Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek.
- Drive 30 minutes to Cheri Gonpa.
- Enjoy stunning scenery and beautiful gushing stream (Thimphu Chhu).
- Cross bridge and climb steeply for 30-45 minutes to the gompa.
- Rest at a Tibetan-style stupa two-thirds of the way up.
- Ascend to the gompa for lovely views.
- Enter Cheri courtyard (usually possible, temples not accessible).
- Visit Cheri Dorji Dhen, a monastery built in 1620 by Zhabdrung (Bhutan’s first ruler).
- See the Silver Chhorten inside the gompa (said to hold Zhabdrung’s ashes).
- Depart Thimphu and travel by road with scenic switchbacks to Dochula Pass.
- Enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayan Mountains (weather permitting).
- Admire the 108 stupas built by the Queen Mother.
- Hike for 30 minutes to the famous Chime Lhakhang before reaching your hotel.
- Drive 30 minutes to Kabje Sirigang.
- Embark on a 2-hour hike to Chorten Ningpo.
- Enjoy a scenic walk through villages, orange groves, and a temple linked to Drukpa Kuenley.
- Visit the temple, winter residence of the incarnated Desi Tenzin Rabgay.
- Take the Sinchula trek route for an hour to Tongchena village after visiting the temple.
- Hike for 45 minutes to the Fifth King’s Stupa, consecrated in 1999.
- Descend the hill, passing fields and houses, to reach a suspension bridge where your transport awaits.
- Visit Punakha Dzong, a former power base for the reincarnate rulers.
- See the remains of the original ruler, Ngwang Namgyal, in a room accessible only to the king and monastic head (restrictions apply).
- Take a scenic drive back to Paro, with opportunities for last-minute shopping or exploring.
- Visit Paro Valley and embark on a hike to Taktshang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest).
- Ascend 900 meters to the clifftop monastery, said to be Guru Rinpoche’s landing site while flying on a tiger’s back.
- Enjoy a scenic flight back home with views of Jhomolhari, Bhutan’s second-highest mountain.
Service Included
- Accommodation in a 3-star hotel with breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- English-speaking guide throughout the tour
- Luxury transportation with experienced driver and guide
- Bottled water
Services Not Included:​
- Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) and travel insurance
- Personal expenses such as phone calls, drinks, laundry, and monument fees