Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek (13 Days)
The Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek passes by picturesque lakes, alpine meadows, abundant wildlife, and numerous yak herder camps, all set against the backdrop of magnificent mountainous landscapes. The centrepiece of this communion with nature is time spent exploring the high-altitude lakes, renowned for their trout and steeped in mystical history. It is a moderate trek with mostly short trekking days, although there are a few steep climbs. This trek is ideal for those eager to experience Bhutan's diverse flora and fauna while glimpsing the local nomadic lifestyle. It also includes tours of the fascinating sites in Thimphu and Paro.
Season: April – September and October.
Itinerary Overview
- DAY 1: Arrive Paro
- DAY 2: Paro
- DAY 3: Paro – Gur (4-5 hours)
- DAY 4: Gur – Wataching (5 hours)
- DAY 5: Wataching – Labatama (4-5 hours)
- DAY 6: Labatama – Panka (5-6 hours)
- DAY 7: Panka – Talakha Monastery (5-6 hours)
- DAY 8: Talakha Monastery – Thimphu
- DAY 9: Thimphu
- DAY 10: Thimphu – Punakha
- DAY 11: Punakha – Thimphu
- DAY 12: Thimphu – Paro
- DAY 13: Depart Paro
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 | Arrive Paro
The flight to Paro is one of the most spectacular mountain flights in the world. Upon arrival, our Bhutan Travel Bureau representative will greet you at the airport. After lunch, visit Ta Dzong Museum and Rimpung Dzong. Overnight at your hotel in Paro.
Day 2 | Paro
Embark on a hike to Taktsang Monastery, famously known as Tiger’s Nest. The steep yet rewarding hike offers breathtaking views. In the afternoon, visit Drukgyel Dzong and explore Paro Valley. Overnight at your hotel in Paro.
Day 3 | Paro – Gur (4-5 hours)
Drive to Genekha to begin the trek. Ascend through oak forests to reach the meadow at Gur. Camp overnight.
Day 4 | Gur – Wataching (5 hours)
Climb steadily into alpine terrain and cross the Pagalabsta La Pass for splendid views. Camp at Wataching.
Day 5 | Wataching – Labatama (4-5 hours)
Follow ridges into rugged landscapes, reaching a dramatic campsite near Utsho Lake. Explore the surroundings in the afternoon.
Day 6 | Labatama – Panka (5-6 hours)
Cross Labajong La Pass and descend into Panka. Camp overnight.
Day 7 | Panka – Talakha Monastery (5-6 hours)
Pass through rhododendron forests and cross Chole La Pass. Reach Talakha Monastery, where you camp for the night.
Day 8 | Talakha Monastery – Thimphu
Descend to the road and drive to Thimphu. Enjoy sightseeing in the capital city. Overnight at your hotel in Thimphu.
Day 9 | Thimphu
Explore Thimphu’s attractions, including the National Memorial Chorten and the Folk Heritage Museum. Overnight at your hotel in Thimphu.
Day 10 | Thimphu – Punakha
Drive to Punakha via Dochu-La Pass, visit Punakha Dzong and Chimi Lhakhang. Overnight at your hotel in Punakha.
Day 11 | Punakha – Thimphu
Visit Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten and enjoy a leisurely riverside walk. Return to Thimphu for the night.
Day 12 | Thimphu – Paro
Spend a relaxing day in Thimphu before returning to Paro. Overnight at your hotel in Paro.
Day 13 | Depart Paro
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your departure flight. Tashi Delek!