The Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek is a scenic and less-traveled trekking route in Bhutan, known for its stunning high-altitude lakes, panoramic views of the Himalayas, and untouched natural beauty. The trek typically lasts for 5-6 days, offering trekkers a chance to experience remote mountain landscapes, serene lakes, and spectacular views of peaks like Mount Everest, Jomolhari, and Kanchenjunga. Though called “Thousand Lakes,” the trek passes a series of alpine lakes, each more breathtaking than the last.
Day 1: Arrival in Paro – Transfer to Thimphu
Highlights:
Arrive at Paro International Airport, where you’ll be welcomed by your guide.
Drive to Thimphu (1.5 hours), the capital of Bhutan.
On the way, visit Tamchog Lhakhang, a 15th-century temple built by Thangtong Gyalpo, famous for his iron bridges.
Explore Thimphu in the evening: visit the Memorial Chorten, and stroll through Thimphu town.
Overnight: Thimphu
Day 2: Thimphu – Sightseeing & Preparation for the Trek
Highlights:
Spend the day exploring Thimphu’s main attractions and acclimatizing before the trek.
Visit Buddha Dordenma, one of the largest Buddha statues in the world, overlooking the valley.
Explore the National Institute for Zorig Chusum (School of Arts and Crafts).
Stop by the Folk Heritage Museum to learn about Bhutanese rural life.
In the afternoon, visit the Tashichho Dzong, Bhutan’s administrative and religious center.
Meet your trekking team and finalize preparations for the trek.
Overnight: Thimphu
Day 3: Thimphu to Genekha (Start of Trek) – Hike to Gur
Distance: 7 km (4.3 miles)
Time: 4-5 hours
Altitude: Genekha (2,800m) to Gur (3,290m)
Highlights:
Drive from Thimphu to Genekha Village (1.5-hour drive), the starting point of the trek.
Begin the trek through terraced farmlands and alpine forests of oak, pine, and rhododendron.
Gradually ascend to reach Gur, a beautiful meadow where you’ll set up camp.
Overnight: Camp at Gur
Day 4: Gur to Labatama
Distance: 12 km (7.5 miles)
Time: 5-6 hours
Altitude: 3,290m to 4,300m
Highlights:
Trek through alpine ridges and meadows, enjoying panoramic views of the Bhutanese highlands.
Pass yak herder camps and reach the high-altitude campsite at Labatama, surrounded by lakes.
Stunning views of the Dagala Mountain Range and surrounding landscapes.
Overnight: Camp at Labatama
Day 5: Rest Day at Labatama – Explore the Lakes
Highlights:
Spend the day exploring the lakes around Labatama.
Hike to Utsho Lake and Relitsho Lake, known for their clear waters and trout fishing.
Optional: A challenging hike to a nearby ridge for stunning views of peaks like Mount Everest, Jomolhari, and Kanchenjunga.
Return to camp and relax by the lakeside in the evening.
Overnight: Camp at Labatama
Day 6: Labatama to Panka
Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
Time: 5-6 hours
Altitude: 4,300m to 4,000m
Highlights:
Continue the trek across high ridges and several passes, with breathtaking views of Himalayan peaks.
Visit Dala Tsho Lake and enjoy the serene landscape.
The trail descends gradually to Panka, a meadow surrounded by mountains.
Spot Himalayan wildlife like pheasants and mountain goats along the way.
Overnight: Camp at Panka
Day 7: Panka to Talakha Monastery
Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
Time: 5-6 hours
Altitude: 4,000m to 3,080m
Highlights:
Hike through several mountain passes, including Jomigue Pass, with views of the distant Himalayas.
Descend through rhododendron forests and yak pastures to reach Talakha Monastery, perched on the hillside overlooking the Thimphu Valley.
Camp near the monastery and enjoy views of the city below.
Overnight: Camp at Talakha Monastery
Day 8: Talakha Monastery to Chamgang (End of Trek) – Transfer to Paro
Distance: 6 km (3.7 miles)
Time: 3 hours
Altitude: 3,080m to 2,650m
Highlights:
A final descent through alpine forests to the village of Chamgang, marking the end of the trek.
From Chamgang, drive to Paro (1.5-hour drive).
In Paro, visit the Rinpung Dzong and explore Paro town for shopping and sightseeing.
Overnight: Paro
Day 9: Departure from Paro
Highlights:
After breakfast, transfer to Paro International Airport for your departure.
Bid farewell to Bhutan with memories of the trek and the stunning lakes and mountains.
Best Time for the Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek:
Spring (March-May): The trail is adorned with blooming rhododendrons and other wildflowers.
Autumn (September-November): Clear skies and crisp weather make this the best time for panoramic mountain views.
Difficulty Level:
The Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek is considered moderate to challenging, with some high-altitude sections. It’s suitable for trekkers with a reasonable level of fitness.
What to Expect:
Alpine lakes, pristine wilderness, and panoramic Himalayan views.
Remote campsites, surrounded by untouched nature.
Encountering yak herders and glimpsing Bhutan’s rural lifestyle.
This complete itinerary offers a comprehensive exploration of the Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek, along with time to experience Bhutan’s cultural highlights in Thimphu and Paro.
