Dagala Thousand Lakes Trekking

11 Days / 10 Nights

About Dagala Thousand Lakes Trekking

Dagala Treak starts from Gynekha (2800m) in Thimphu and ends at Chamgang with the highest point of the trail at 4300 meters above the sea level.As this teak takes you through a large number of beautiful high altitude lakes, it is often called the Thousand Lake Trek. This trek offers stunning views of some of the world’s highest Himalayan ranges including the Mount Everest in Nepal and Jumolhari, Jichu Drake, Massanggang and Tiger Mountain in Bhutan and many more.

The trails will also take you through bird rich areas, beautiful meadows, alpine forests, monasteries, Yak herder’s camps and several traditional Bhutanese villages. If you are fond of flowers spring will be the best time of the year to do this trek, as at the height of spring; towards the end of March, the whole valley comes to life with flaming red, white and pink rhododendron blossoms.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 01Paro Day

Once you arrive at the airport, your tour manager will drive you to your hotel. Once you are ready move to Ta Dzong, which was built as a watch tower and now is the National Museum. The walk down to the Paro Rinpung Dzong, the fortress is located in a commanding location overlooking the Paro valley. During the evening you can explore Paro town.

Overnight at Paro (Altitude 2,280m)

Day 02Paro Day Tour

Day 03Paro – Gur

In the morning drive to the beautiful Gynekha (2800m) valley to start the trek. The trek will take you through terraced fields and coniferous forests rich in alpine flora with plenty of birds. You will then descend till a river and the trail will steadily move uphill. On the way you will reach a huge rock platform (3350m), which offers scenic view of the valley. After two more hours of trekking you will arrive at your campsite Gur (3300m).

Overnight camp at Gur (Altitude 3,300m)

Day 04GUR – Lambatama

6 HOURS | 1010M ASCENT | CAMP ALT 4300M
Today’s trek will take you across the high ridges amidst flowers, large meadows and wild asparagus (during spring). The First mountain pass is marked by a huge cairn and offers a magnificent view of Mount Kanchenjunga (India) and some peaks of the Himalayas. While you are descending you will see the entire Dagala mountain range. Once you have arrived at Labatama valley continue walking through the valley passing yak herder’s huts till you reach Uthso Tsho lake.

Overnight camp, next to lake (Altitude 4,300m)

Day 05Labatama - Panka

Day 06Panka – Thimphu

Day 07Thimphu Day Tour

Today you will visit the Buddha Point, where you will find one of the biggest statues of the Buddha in the world. Then visit Simply Bhutan Museum, National Library, Institute of Zorig Chusum and the Textile Museum. In the afternoon visit the Memorial Chorten, this is one of the most important landmarks in the city. Later visit the Tashichho Dzong, the fortress which houses the office of the King.

Overnight at Thimphu (Altitude 2,320m).

Day 08Thimphu - Gangtey

In the morning drive to Dochula pass (3088m), which offers the view of the highest peak in country Gangkarpuensum (7494m). You will also find 108 stupas and Druk Wangyal Lhakhang at Dochula. Then drive to Gangtey, which is considered one of the most beautiful valleys in the country. In the afternoon visit Gangtey Monastery and explore the fascinating Phobjikha valley. Also visit the Black Necked Crane Information Center, which offers high spotting scopes to view the cranes.

Overnight at Gangtey (Altitude 3,000m).

Day 09Gangtey - Punakha

Day 10Punakha - Paro

Day 11Departure

FAQs

When is the best time to do the Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek?

The best time for trekking to Dagala Thousand Lakes is spring, from March to May, and autumn, from September to November. The scenery is ideal during spring with full-bloom rhododendrons, but during autumn, the weather is clear enough to give a fantastic view of the mountains.

What are the attractions of the Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek?

Stunning views of Himalayan peaks, including Mount Everest and Jumolhari Walking through meadows, forests, and alpine landscapes Camp beside pristine high-altitude lakes, including Uthso Tsho Explore traditional villages and yak herder camps Rare wildlife and seasonal flowers, especially blue poppy.

Is the Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek possible for beginners?

Indeed, the trek is available for beginners, and for those with experience, is beneficial due to the high altitudes and long hiking hours.

What gear should I carry in the pack for the Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek?

Trekking boots and layered clothing. A water-resistant backpack and trekking poles. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Personal medications and a first aid kit.