DAGALA THOUSAND LAKES TREK

Day 1: Arrive in Paro – Paro Sightseeing
Upon arrival at Paro International Airport (2280 m), you’ll be warmly welcomed by your Bhutanese guide. After hotel check-in and some rest, begin your cultural immersion with visits to Paro Rinpung Dzong, a fortress-monastery of historical and spiritual significance, and the National Museum (Ta Dzong) showcasing Bhutanese heritage. Later, stop by Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan. Explore Paro town before retiring for the night. Overnight in Paro.

Day 2: Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang)
Today is reserved for acclimatization with a hike to the iconic Taktsang Monastery. The 7 km round-trip takes about 4 hours and rewards you with jaw-dropping views of the cliffside sanctuary, perched 900 meters above the valley floor. Learn the legend of Guru Rinpoche, who flew here on a tigress’ back. Enjoy lunch at the cafeteria viewpoint before descending. Evening at leisure. Overnight in Paro.

Day 3: Paro – Drive to Geynekha – Trek to Gur (Start of Dagala Trek)
After breakfast, drive 2 hours (47 km) to Geynekha, the trailhead of your trek. From here, hike through terraced fields and yak herder camps into lush forests of oaks and rhododendrons. A gentle climb brings you to Gur (3290 m), your first campsite set in a tranquil meadow surrounded by wildflowers. Hike duration: approx. 4 hours.

Day 4: Gur – Labatamba
Today’s trail offers spectacular scenery as you ascend alpine ridges with panoramic views of the rugged Dagala range. The trek covers 12 km in about 5 hours, with dramatic changes in vegetation and elevation. You’ll pass by several beautiful lakes before reaching Labatamba (4300 m), located near a series of sacred glacial lakes including Relitsho, Setsho, and Hentsho. Overnight in tents by the lakeside.

Day 5: Labatamba – Panka
After a lakeside morning, continue the trail that undulates across several ridges. This part of the trek is known for its high-altitude lakes, alpine meadows, and views of Himalayan giants like Jomolhari and Kanchenjunga (on clear days). After 6–7 hours of scenic hiking, reach Panka (4000 m), a yak herder camp nestled among wildflower-covered slopes. Overnight at Panka.

Day 6: Panka – Talakha
Today, you’ll hike about 8 km (6–7 hours) over several small passes, all below 4,300 m, with great views and a good chance to spot Himalayan monals and other mountain birds. Descend through rhododendron forests and pasturelands to the campsite at Talakha (3080 m), near a monastery with stunning views of Thimphu valley. Overnight at Talakha.

Day 7: Talakha – Chamgang – Drive to Thimphu (End of Trek)
From Talakha, descend through lush forests to Chamgang village (2334 m), completing the trek with a short 3-hour hike (6 km). Your vehicle will meet you here for a short drive to Thimphu. After hotel check-in, rest or stroll around the capital city at your leisure. Overnight in Thimphu.

Day 8: Thimphu Sightseeing
Explore the highlights of Thimphu, including the impressive Buddha Dordenma, National Memorial Chorten, and the Folk Heritage Museum. Visit the Textile Museum, Tashichho Dzong, and the Craft Bazaar to see Bhutanese art and handmade goods. Enjoy the balance of traditional and modern Bhutanese culture. Overnight in Thimphu.

Day 9: Day Excursion – Punakha Sightseeing – Return to Thimphu
Drive over the scenic Dochula Pass (3,100 m) with its 108 chortens and Himalayan vistas en route to Punakha. Visit the stunning Punakha Dzong, set at the confluence of two rivers, and take a short walk to the Suspension Bridge or the Chimi Lhakhang (Temple of Fertility). Return to Thimphu by evening. Overnight in Thimphu.

Day 10: Thimphu – Paro – Departure
After breakfast, drive to Paro (54 km, approx. 1 hour) for your outbound flight. Your journey in Bhutan ends with lasting memories of pristine nature, sacred monasteries, and the warm Bhutanese spirit.