Dagala Trek
Duration
8 Days 7 Nights
Tour Type
Cultural | Trek
Difficulty
Moderate
Best Time
May- Mar | Sept -Nov
Discover one of Bhutan’s most spectacular and least-traveled trekking routes on this 7 Nights and 8 Days Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek. This unforgettable adventure combines cultural exploration with five days of trekking through Bhutan’s pristine alpine wilderness. Journey across high mountain passes exceeding 4,000 metres, explore dozens of crystal-clear glacial lakes, and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayan giants, including Mount Jomolhari, Jichu Drakey, and Gangkhar Puensum, the world’s highest unclimbed mountain. Along the trail, experience the unique lifestyle of nomadic yak herders before completing your adventure with a visit to Bhutan’s iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery.
Trip Highlights
- Explore the Spectacular Thousand Lakes Region
Trek through Bhutan’s breathtaking highlands, discovering pristine glacial lakes, alpine meadows, and untouched wilderness while enjoying one of the country’s most scenic trekking routes. - Witness Panoramic Himalayan Mountain Views
Cross high-altitude mountain passes above 4,000 metres and admire spectacular views of Mount Jomolhari, Jichu Drakey, Gangkhar Puensum, and the surrounding Himalayan range. - Experience Bhutan’s Culture & Mountain Heritage
Meet traditional nomadic yak herders, hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, and immerse yourself in Bhutan’s rich spiritual heritage and extraordinary natural beauty.
Day 01: Arrival at Paro International Airport
Welcome to Bhutan, the Land of the Thunder Dragon. Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, one of the world’s most spectacular mountain airports, you will be greeted by our representative. Enjoy the scenic drive into Paro Valley and transfer to your hotel.
After check-in, spend the rest of the day at leisure exploring the charming streets of Paro Town. Browse traditional handicraft shops, relax at local cafés, or simply soak in the peaceful atmosphere while preparing for your upcoming trekking adventure.
Overnight stay in Paro.
Day 02: Hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang)
After an early breakfast, begin your hike to the iconic Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest Monastery), Bhutan’s most sacred and recognizable landmark. Perched dramatically on a cliff approximately 900 metres above the Paro Valley, the monastery is believed to be the place where Guru Rinpoche flew on the back of a tigress and meditated, introducing Buddhism to Bhutan.
The hike takes approximately 5–6 hours round trip, passing through beautiful pine forests adorned with colourful prayer flags and offering spectacular views of the monastery and surrounding mountains.
Return to Paro in the afternoon and enjoy a well-deserved rest before your multi-day trek begins.
Overnight stay in Paro.
Day 03: Trek from Ta Dzong (2,487m) to Jela Dzong (3,400m)
Walking Time: 5–6 hours
After breakfast, drive to Genekha, the starting point of the Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek. The trail gradually climbs through terraced farmland before entering forests of oak, pine, and rhododendron.
As you gain altitude, the landscape opens into beautiful alpine meadows where grazing yaks are commonly seen during the summer months. Enjoy your first panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan mountains before reaching the campsite at Gur (3,290m).
Camp overnight at Gur.
Day 04: Trek from Gur (3,290m) to Labatama (4,300m)
Walking Time: 6–7 hours
Today’s trek ascends through spectacular alpine landscapes, crossing high mountain ridges with magnificent panoramic views of Bhutan’s snow-capped Himalayan peaks. Weather permitting, enjoy breathtaking vistas of Mount Jomolhari, Jichu Drakey, and Gangkhar Puensum.
After crossing the high passes, descend to the beautiful campsite at Labatama (4,300m), surrounded by pristine glacial lakes and dramatic mountain scenery.
Camp overnight at Labatama.
Day 05: Explore the Thousand Lakes around Labatama
Spend the day exploring the remarkable alpine region surrounding Labatama, home to numerous crystal-clear glacial lakes that give this trek its name. These pristine waters are rich in trout and surrounded by rugged mountain landscapes, making this one of Bhutan’s most picturesque trekking destinations.
You may also encounter nomadic yak herders who spend the summer months grazing their herds in these high-altitude pastures, offering a unique glimpse into Bhutan’s traditional mountain lifestyle.
Return to camp for another peaceful night beneath the Himalayan sky.
Camp overnight at Labatama.
Day 06: Trek from Labatama to Pangkha (4,000m)
Walking Time: 5–6 hours
Today’s route traverses several high mountain passes before descending into broad alpine valleys dotted with wildflowers, grazing yaks, and pristine streams. The trail continues through untouched wilderness, offering exceptional opportunities for photography and wildlife observation.
Arrive at the beautiful campsite at Pangkha (4,000m) surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery.
Camp overnight at Pangkha.
Day 07: Trek from Pangkha to Chamgang – Transfer to Thimphu
Walking Time: 7–8 hours
The final day of the trek gradually descends through forests of rhododendron, oak, and pine before reaching Chamgang, where your trekking adventure concludes.
Meet your vehicle and transfer to Thimphu, Bhutan’s vibrant capital city. After several days in the wilderness, enjoy a comfortable hotel stay and reflect on the incredible landscapes and unforgettable experiences of the Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek.
Overnight stay in Thimphu.
Day 08: Drive to Paro and Departure
At Aiming Bhutan Tours, we carefully design each journey to ensure a smooth, comfortable, and enriching travel experience across Bhutan’s stunning landscapes and cultural highlights. To help you plan with clarity, the section below outlines what is included in your tour package, along with items that are not covered. This transparent breakdown allows you to understand exactly what to expect and prepare for your journey with confidence.
Includes
- 3-star boutique hotel accommodation (twin-sharing)
- Full-service camping during trek (tents, crew, meals)
- All meals (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
- Licensed English-speaking guide
- All internal transport & airport transfers
- Bhutan visa & trekking permits
- Bottled drinking water
- Porter & pony support during trek
- Cultural experiences (archery, traditional attire)
Excludes
- International airfare
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses
- Alcoholic beverages
- Spa and wellness services
- Any services not mentioned
