The Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek is a stunning trekking route located in the eastern part of Bhutan, offering a mesmerizing experience for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. The trek spans through lush forests, alpine meadows, and rugged mountain terrains, with views of snow-capped peaks and pristine lakes along the way. The journey takes trekkers to over 4,000 meters, with a series of beautiful alpine lakes nestled in remote valleys. It provides a chance to explore Bhutan's unique flora, fauna, and vibrant culture. The trek is moderately challenging and typically takes around 7 days to complete. It offers an excellent opportunity to immerse in Bhutan’s serene landscape, remote villages, and spiritual heritage. The Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek is perfect for those seeking a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path adventure.
Overview
Tour Highlights:
- Stunning Mountain Views – Enjoy panoramic vistas of snow-capped peaks, including Mt. Gangkar Puensum, Bhutan’s highest peak.
- Alpine Lakes Exploration – Trek through pristine landscapes to discover the serene Dagala lakes nestled in the mountains.
- Paro Taktsang – Hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery.
- Thimphu Cultural Exploration – Visit Tashichho Dzong and experience Bhutanese culture.
- Punakha Dzong – Discover the majestic fortress at the confluence of two rivers.
- Cultural Sites in Paro – Explore Rinpung Dzong and the National Museum.
Tour Plan
Day 1: Arrive Paro International Airport by Druk Air
- After landing at Paro, check in to your hotel.
- Get blessings at the oldest temple Kichu lhakhang, built in 629 AD by a Tibetan king.
- Visit Paro Ta Dzong, an ancient watch tower turned into one of the best museums of Asia.
- Rinpung Dzong “fortress of the heap of jewels.”
- In evening, time at your leisure. Walk around Paro’s peaceful town.
- Overnight Paro. (Alt; 2320m).
Day 2: Excursion to Mystical Taktsang – Acclimatization day!
- After a wholesome breakfast, hike up the forested path to Taktsang Monastery, also known as Tiger’s Nest, Bhutan’s most famous, spiritual and scenic icon ( 4 – 5 hrs round trip ) .
- Lunch at the hillside cafe with close Tiger’s Nest view.
- Evening at your leisure.
- Overnight Paro.
DAY 3 – Paro to Genekha village (1 hour drive)/trek begins- Genekha to Gur
- Distance: ~7 km (~5 hours)
- Start Elevation: ~550m | Campsite: ~3,700m
- Overnight at campsite
Day 4: Tshokam to Jigmelangtsho
- Trek through alpine landscapes with stunning views
- Distance: ~13 km (~7-8 hours)
- Campsite Elevation: ~3,900m
- Overnight at Jigmelangtsho campsite
Day 5: Jigmelangtsho to Labana
- Trek past high-altitude lakes with breathtaking scenery
- Distance: ~10 km (~4-6 hours)
- High Pass: ~4,200m | Campsite Elevation: ~4,100m
- Overnight at Labana campsite
Day 6: Labana to Motithang, Thimphu
- Cross Labana Pass (4,200m) before descending towards Thimphu
- End trek at Motithang, Thimphu (~4-6 hours)
- Relax and enjoy a well-deserved hot shower
- Overnight in Thimphu( Alt;2320m)
Day 7: Thimphu Cultural Tour.
- Drive to Sangay-gang where the national animal of Bhutan, the Takin, is found in captivity.
- Visit Buddha Dordenma Statue, which offers a spectacular view of Thimphu city. The giant Buddha-statue overlooking Thimphu is one of the biggest in the world.
- Circumambulate around Memorial Chorten (huge stupa). This is the favorite spot for the locals of all age to chant mantras, prostrate, pray and practice their devotion.
- The Tashichhoe Dzong, the main secretariat building, the office of the King and Throne room and also the house of the State Monastic Body.
- In the evening walking tour, in Thimphu city
- Overnight Thimphu
Day 8: Discovering Punakha & Wangdue
- Stop by Dochula pass (3100m) amidst snowcapped mountains to enjoy the enstern himalayan mountain ranges if the weather is clear.
- As you arrive Wangdue, hike along the Metshina village to Chimi lhakhang, a solitary “fertility temple” where a childless couple who comes to pray is usually blessed with a child. (1.5hr hike)
- Visit the Punakha Dzong, "Palace of the Great Happiness". This beautiful fortress lies between two rivers, the Pochu and Mochu, male and female river.
- Walk on the 200m suspension bridge above Phochu river to Gidagom village.
- In evening, time at your leisure.
- Overnight Punakha & Wangdue (Alt; 1240m)
Day 9: Getaway to Paro Detour
- After breakfast hike in the cool morning to Khamsum Yulley Namgyel Chorten (1hour). The stupa stands proudly above the Punakha valley, offering a beautiful view of the countryside and hills below. The Queen Mother built it to keep away bad spirits and promote peace and harmony for It showcases the best of Bhutanese architecture
- En route stop at Lamperi Botanical Garden. Lamperi Botanical Garden is a breathtaking 125 acres botanical garden with 46 species of rhododendron flower.
- In evening, leisurely stroll around Paro town and shop for souvenir. Interact with the friendly locals.
- Overnight Paro (Alt; 2280m)
Day 10: Depart from Paro International Airport by Druk Air
- Our representative will bid you farewell at the airport. TashiDelek!
Included
- Visa Fee
- Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)
- Accommodation in 3-star hotels (before and after the trek)
- Camping equipment (tents- sleeping ,kitchen,shower, toilet, mattress, etc.)
- All meals during the trek
- Experienced trekking guide and support crew (cook, helpers, horsemen)
- Horses/ponies to carry luggage and trekking gear
- All necessary trekking permits
- Boiled drinking water during the trek
- First-aid kit for emergencies
- All applicable taxes and service charges
Excluded
- International airfare to/from Bhutan
- Travel Insurance
- Personal trekking gear (hiking boots, warm clothing, backpack, etc.)
- Alcoholic and specialty beverages
- Tips for guides, cooks, and horsemen
- Additional expenses due to unforeseen events (weather, flight cancellations, etc.)
Good to know
- More than 45 days before the tour: Free cancellation
- Within 30 days: 35% of the total cost
- Within 21 days: 50% of the total cost
- No-show in Bhutan: 100% of the total cost
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