Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek

Day 1: Arrival Paro

Accommodation: 3 stars rated hotel in Paro
Meals: lunch, dinner

Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, a T8 Untrodden Travels representative will be waiting outside the arrival terminal, holding a placard with your name on it. The representative will greet you in the traditional manner by offering a Trashi Khadar (greeting scarf), and will be your guide for the entire tour.

After lunch, you will embark on an exciting sightseeing tour around Paro, starting with a visit to the Ta Dzong Museum. This museum houses an impressive collection of religious relics, works of art, and handicrafts that offer a great introduction to Bhutan’s historical, cultural, and religious past. You will then visit the Rimpong Dzong, a majestic fortress-monastery that houses the famous painting of the great saint Milarepa. These dzongs are not only important religious centers but also serve as district administrative centers, which were once strategic forts. The tour is a great opportunity to explore Bhutan’s rich history and culture.

Day 2: Hike to Taktsang Monastery or Tiger’s Nest

Accommodation: 3 stars rated hotel in Paro
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner

After breakfast, embark on a hike to the famous Taktsang Monastery, also known as the Tiger’s Nest. This uphill trek takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours and leads you to a height of almost 1 kilometer above the Paro valley floor. For those who cannot hike, a horse ride can be arranged for transfer up to the cafeteria. The monastery, built on a sheer cliff face 900 meters above the valley floor, offers a breathtaking view. According to legend, Guru Rinpoche meditated here for three months, bringing the teachings of the Buddhist Dharma to Bhutan in the 8th century.

In the afternoon, visit the almost fully reconstructed Drukgyel Dzong, built by Shabdrung to commemorate his victory against invading Tibetans in 1644. Enjoy stunning views of Mount Jomolhari, which appears as a stunning backdrop. On the return drive to Paro, visit other sights in the valley.

Day 3: Paro – Genekha – Gur

7KM | 5-6 HOURS | 230M ASCENT | DESCENT 60M | CAMP ALT 3290M
Accommodation: Campsite
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner

Your day will commence with a 45-minute drive to the enchanting Genekha Village, where your trekking adventure begins. This village is renowned for its bountiful production of matsutake and chanterelle mushrooms. As you embark on the trek, you’ll traverse a mule path, meandering through terraced fields and coniferous forests adorned with alpine flora and teeming with vibrant birdlife.

Descend towards the river, and after approximately two hours of gradual uphill climb, you will arrive at a magnificent rock platform situated at an elevation of 3350m. This elevated vantage point provides a picturesque panorama of the valley, captivating your senses. Continuing your journey for another two hours, you will reach Gur, your designated campsite nestled at an altitude of 3,290m. This location is adorned with an abundance of captivating wildflowers, adding to the natural splendor of your surroundings.

Day 4: Gur – Labatama

12KM | 6 HOURS | 1010M ASCENT | CAMP ALT 4300M
Accommodation: Campsite
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner

As you traverse the rugged ridges during your trek, you’ll be captivated by the breathtaking beauty of the mountainous vegetation. Today’s journey takes you through a captivating landscape adorned with vibrant flowers, and during the spring season, you’ll be greeted by the sight of wild asparagus. The vast meadows surrounding you offer a refreshing atmosphere that revitalizes your mind and spirit.

Meandering along the trail, you’ll encounter babbling streams, and as you ascend gently through scattered birch trees and rhododendrons, you’ll eventually arrive at the Pagalabtsa pass (4250m), marked by towering cairns. From this vantage point, prepare to be awe-inspired by the spectacular vistas of Kanchenjunga, a majestic peak in Sikkim, as well as the magnificent Bhutanese Himalayan range that unfolds before your eyes.

Descending from the pass, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the entire Dagala range, sprawling meadows, and the cozy camps of yak herders. Pause for a delightful lunch at a nearby yak herder’s camp, immersing yourself in their way of life. Continuing your descent into the Labatama valley, you’ll gradually ascend through the serene surroundings, passing by yak herder huts along the way, until you reach the Utsho Lake (4300m). This pristine lake is home to an abundance of golden trouts, adding to its allure. Your campsite awaits, nestled harmoniously next to the shimmering lake, providing a tranquil setting for your restful evening.

Day 5: Labatama – Pankha

8KM | 5-6 HOURS | 220M ASCENT | 520M DESCENT | CAMP ALT 4000M
Accommodation: Campsite
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner

Prepare yourself for an adventure as you embark on an exploration of the captivating lakes that lie in close proximity. Among them are Relitsho, Hentsho, Setsho, and Jagetsho Lakes, each brimming with lively trouts. Your knowledgeable trekking leader will regale you with mystic tales and legends surrounding these enchanting bodies of water, adding an extra layer of intrigue to your journey.

Following your lake expedition, you’ll traverse along the western side of Dalatsho, making your way up to a majestic saddle positioned at an impressive altitude of 4520m. From this elevated vantage point, a breathtaking panorama of the prominent Himalayan peaks unfolds before your eyes. Marvel at the awe-inspiring sight of Everest in Nepal, Kanchenjunga in Sikkim, as well as the majestic Masangang, Tiger Mountain, Tsendagang, and Jichu Drake peaks in Bhutan.

As you continue your trek from the saddle, the path gracefully descends, guiding you past quaint yak herder huts until you reach the serene Doccha Chuu River. Following the river’s course for a stretch, you’ll maintain a higher position along the slope, eventually arriving at the tranquil destination known as Panka. Here, you’ll be greeted by the familiar presence of Himalayan monal pheasants, gracefully roaming the surroundings alongside yaks and horses. At an altitude of 4000m, you’ll set up camp in the picturesque Panka, immersing yourself in the serene ambiance of this remarkable location.

Day 6: Pankha – Thimphu

14KM | 8 HOURS | 180M ASCENT | 1540M DESCENT
Accommodation: Campsite
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner

Prepare yourself for an exhilarating day as you embark on a journey across a series of awe-inspiring mountain passes. Each pass you encounter will surpass the previous one in terms of grandeur. Along the trail, keep an eye out for various species of the captivating Blue Poppy, which blooms in abundance during June and July. Additionally, the melodious melodies of mountain birds will accompany you throughout your trek, adding a delightful symphony to your experience.

Midday brings a well-deserved lunch break at a strategic point where one trail leads to Talakha and another to Wangduephodrang. As you replenish your energy, immerse yourself in the breathtaking surroundings. Following lunch, embark on a gradual climb lasting approximately an hour, leading you to the final pass of the day, Tale La (4180m). From this lofty vantage point, you’ll be rewarded with superb views of the majestic Dagala range and the vibrant city of Thimphu.

Prepare for a lengthy descent through a verdant forest adorned with spruce, birch, juniper, and rhododendron trees. The path meanders gracefully as you make your way to Talakha Goempa, nestled at an altitude of 3080m. Immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere of this sacred site before commencing your hike downward, passing through a diverse tapestry of mixed vegetation, charming apple orchards, and a feeder road.

Finally, your journey leads you to the picturesque village of Chamgang, where your awaiting car stands ready to transfer you back to Thimphu. Reflect upon the awe-inspiring landscapes and unforgettable experiences as you bid farewell to the enchanting wilderness and return to the comforts of the city.

Day 7: Thimphu sightseeing

Accommodation: 3 stars rated hotel in Thimphu
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner

On this day, we continue our sightseeing in Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. Our first stop is the School for Arts and Crafts, where we can witness the traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan being taught to young students. Next, we will visit the National Library, which houses an impressive collection of Bhutanese scriptures dating back to the 8th century.

After that, we will visit the Traditional Paper Factory, where we can observe the ancient art of papermaking using traditional methods. Another interesting place to visit is the Folk Heritage Museum, which offers a fascinating insight into the lifestyle and culture of rural Bhutan. Here, we can see a replica of a medieval farmhouse and learn about the daily lives of Bhutanese people in the past.

If time allows, we can also visit the nursing pen for the Takin, Bhutan’s national animal, and Tashichhodzong, a fortress-like monastery that houses some ministries, His Majesty’s secretariat, and the central monk body.

For those interested in hiking, we can take a 45-minute hike to Tango and Cheri Monasteries, two of the oldest monasteries in the Thimphu region. Alternatively, if we are visiting on a weekend, we can explore the lively Thimphu Market.

In the evening, we will return to our hotel in Thimphu for dinner and a well-deserved rest.

Day 8: Thimphu – Paro

Accommodation: 3 stars rated hotel in Punakha
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner

Today’s journey starts with a drive over the Dochu-La Pass at an altitude of 3,100 meters. This scenic drive takes about three hours, during which one can enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks. On a clear day, the pass provides an incredible view of the snow-capped mountains. During the drive, you can catch a glimpse of the everyday life of Bhutanese people living in remote areas. The Dochu-La area is famous for its vast Rhododendron forests that bloom in late April/early May, covering the mountains in a riot of glorious spring colors.

Upon arrival in Punakha, the ancient capital of Bhutan, you will visit Punakha Dzong, also known as the “Palace of Great Happiness.” Built-in 1637 by the Shabdrung, the unifier of Bhutan, the dzong is located at the confluence of the Mo Chu and Pho Chu (Mother and Father Rivers). It serves as the winter headquarters of the Je Khenpo and hundreds of monks who move en masse from Thimphu to this warmer location. The three-story main temple of the Punakha Dzong is an awe-inspiring example of traditional Bhutanese architecture with four intricately embossed entrance pillars crafted from cypress and decorated in gold and silver. It was at this site in 1907 that Bhutan’s first king was crowned.

After lunch, you will enjoy a walk to Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the temple of the Drukpa Kuenly, who is revered as the Divine Madman. He earned this title by rebelling against orthodox Buddhism and promoting the idea that religion is an inner feeling and that one does not necessarily have to be an ordained monk to have a connection with spirituality. He is also considered a symbol of fertility, and many childless couples visit his temple for a blessing.

Day 9: Departure from Paro International Airport

Accommodation: NA
Meals: breakfast

After breakfast, proceed to Paro International Airport for your scheduled departure flight.