Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek

The Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek is a popular trekking route in Bhutan that features stunning Himalayan landscapes and high-altitude lakes. The trek takes 6-7 days to complete, and it covers mixed forests of oak, rhododendron, and juniper, high mountain passes, and numerous lakes like Relitsho and Hentsho. Along the way, trekkers can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including Jhomolhari and Kang Bum. The trek is a perfect combination of natural beauty and physical challenge.

Upon arrival at the Paro International Airport, you’ll be met by a representative and transferred to your hotel. You’ll have some time to relax and acclimatize to the altitude. In the afternoon, you’ll visit the National Museum, Paro Rinpung Dzong  which offers an insight into Bhutanese history and culture. Later, you can explore the nearby Paro town and its markets.

After breakfast, hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, also known as Paro Taktsang, which is located on a cliff at an altitude of 3,120 meters. The hike to the monastery is challenging but rewarding, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding valley. You’ll also explore the ruins of the Drukgyel Dzong, a fortress that was built in the 17th century to commemorate Bhutanese victory over Tibetan invaders.

On the first day of the Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek, you will embark on a scenic 45km drive from Thimphu to the trek’s starting point. The trail begins at the charming Genekha village (2800m) and winds through terraced fields and coniferous vegetation. A short descent will take you to the river, which you will cross before starting the ascent towards a massive rock platform at 3350m. From this vantage point, you will be treated to a picturesque view of the valley below. Continuing on for another two hours, you will arrive at Gur, surrounded by yak pastures and nestled at an altitude of 3290m. Here, you will set up camp and prepare for the adventures that lie ahead on your Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek.

As you traverse the ridges on your Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek, you will be mesmerized by the rugged mountain vegetation. The trail meanders through a colorful array of flowers and wild asparagus, especially in the springtime. The meadows are a refreshing sight and a source of inspiration. After climbing to the first pass, marked by a towering cairn, you will be rewarded with a spectacular view of Kanchenjunga (Sikkim) and many other peaks of the Bhutanese Himalayas. Upon descending into the Lamatama valley, you will gradually ascend through the valley, passing by some yak herder huts until you reach the stunning Utsho Lake, known for its golden trouts. Your campsite for the night will be set up right next to the lake at an altitude of 4100m. This serene location is sure to leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

After breakfast embark on a day excursion to the breathtaking Sertsho and Jagetsho lakes. The hike uphill to Sertsho Lake is both easy and interesting, offering stunning views along the way. After a short walk over a small ridge, you will descend to Jagetsho Lake, where you can take in the serene beauty of the surrounding landscape. If weather permits and there is no snow on the Jumo Mountain, you can even attempt to climb the Aum Jomo, a 5000m peak that provides spectacular panoramic views of the entire Dagala range. Return to your camp by dusk, feeling refreshed and rejuvenated, and get ready for the next day’s adventure.

As you trek along the western side of Dalatsho on this leg of the Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek, you will reach a saddle at 4520m that offers majestic views of the Himalayan peaks. From here, at an altitude of 4460m, you can feast your eyes on a breathtaking panorama that includes Everest (Nepal), Kanchenjunga (Sikkim), Jumolhari, Jitchu Drake, Tshering Gang, Khangbum, Masa Gang, Tshenda Gang, and Gangche Ta. If you wish to elevate your experience even further, you can opt to climb a peak close to the saddle that stands at an altitude of 4720m. After soaking in the stunning vistas, the path descends, passing by yak herder huts and leading to Docha Chu. As you follow the river for a while, the trail takes you higher up on the slope, with some ups and downs along the way, until you reach Pankha, located at 4000m. Here, you will set up camp for the night, ready to rest and rejuvenate for the next leg of your journey.

Get ready for an early start today as you embark on a thrilling journey of crossing several passes, each one more impressive than the last. Keep an eye out for different varieties of Blue Poppy (June-July) and mountain birds as you trek along. As you cross the last small ridge, you will gradually descend towards the main Junction pass, which crisscrosses each other for the trail towards Chamgang, Talekha, Ganekha, and Gaselo. From here, you’ll take a short descent on your right before taking a left horizontally for a few minutes towards Chamgang trail. This stretch will include traversing three to four small ridges before beginning a steep downhill hike that will lead you to Chamgang village. Finally, you’ll arrive at the motorable road where transport will be waiting to transfer you to Thimphu. 

After breakfast, explore the charming city of Thimphu. Visit the National Memorial Chorten, Buddha Dordenma statue, Changangkha and Lhakhang.

In the afternoon, you will visit the Folk Heritage Museum, Tashichho Dzong, a magnificent fortress that is the seat of the Bhutanese government and the summer residence of the Je Khenpo (Chief Abbot).

In morning your guide will bid you farewell journey at Paro Airport. Tashi Delek!