Overview

The Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek is a spectacular high-altitude trek near Thimphu, Bhutan, perfect for international travelers seeking a combination of nature, adventure, and tranquility. This trek explores the Dagala mountain range, famous for its high-altitude alpine lakes, pristine meadows, and stunning panoramic views of the Himalayas.

Over 11 days, trekkers will traverse gentle yet occasionally steep trails through rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and yak pastures, witnessing musk deer, pheasants, and diverse birdlife. With moderate daily trekking distances, this trek is suitable for travelers looking for a short high-altitude adventure without extreme challenges, while still experiencing Bhutan’s untouched natural beauty and serene landscapes.

Tour Highlights - Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek

Explore over thousands of alpine lakes, many teeming with trout, in the Dagala Mountain Range.
Moderate trekking with daily walking distances of 4–12 km, ideal for first-time high-altitude trekkers.
Stunning views of the Thimphu and Wangdue valleys from high passes up to 4,500 meters.
Discover Bhutanese flora and fauna, including musk deer, rhododendrons, and pheasants.
Enjoy overnight camping in pristine mountain valleys with breathtaking surroundings.
Witness traditional Bhutanese culture in Thimphu and Paro, including monasteries, dzongs, and folk dances.
Opportunities for trout fishing in high-altitude lakes for adventure enthusiasts.
Comfortable transfers and guided tours with local Bhutanese experts for authentic insights.
Ideal for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and moderate trekking travelers.

Day 01 :

Kathmandu – Paro - Thimphu

Flight to Paro is breathtaking, with views of snowcapped peaks and the lush pristine valleys of Bhutan as you approach Paro. Your Bhutanese escort will greet you on arrival, and then drive you to Thimphu, the capital city. Overnight at Hotel.

Day 02 :

Sightseeing in Thimphu

Sightseeing at Memorial Chorten, National Library, Nuns Monastery, Changlimithang Monastery, Indegenous Hospital. Lunch at Druk Hotel. After lunch at leisure. At 5 P.M. you will visit the Tashichdzong (Thimphu Dzong). O/N at Druk Hotel.

Day 03 :

Thimphu- Genekha

After breakfast visit the Dupthop Lhakhang ( Monastery for the nuns), National Library, painting school and other places of interest in the valley. Continue your drive south of Thimphu to Genekha (2,950 m/ 9,823 ft.). Overnight at camp.

Day 04 :

Genekha – Gur, 5 Kms. 4 hours

Crossing a suspension bridge, the trail heads west for a while, then climbs steeply towards the south to a rock platform and a crest at 3,200m/10,656ft. A further walk of about two hours leads to a camp in a forest clearing at 3350m/11,155ft. Overnight at Camp.

Day 05 :

Gur – Labatamba, 12 Kms, 5 hours

A long stiff climb leads up the ridge and across meadows to a pass at 4,240m/14,119ft for a spectacular view of the whole Dagala range. This is now Yak country. You will pass several herders camps enroute to the foot of the broad Labatamba valley at 4,050m/13,486ft. The climb beside a stream to a camp at 4,300m/14,319ft near Utsho lake.

Day 06 :

Labatamba

Today we will walk to the numerous lakes in the vicinity and perhaps may do some trout fishing if you are equipped.

Day 07 :

Labatamba – Panka, 8 Kms, 4 hours

Climbing along the western side of the lake to a saddle at 4,500m/14,985ft, where there are good mountain views. If you want a better view you could scramble to the top of a 4,700m/15,651ft peak to the east. From the pass there is a steep descent to another lake at 4,350m/14,485ft. Finally you will arrive at Panka alt 4,000m/13,320ft. Overnight at Camp.

Day 08 :

Panka – Simtokha, 12 Kms, 6 hours - Thimphu

The route leads north crossing a pass at 4,000m/13,320ft, then climbs along the side of a ridge to a crest at 4,270m/14,219 ft. From here there is a view of Thimphu valley, far to the north. It is then a long descent through forests to the temple and village of Talakha (3,080m 10,256ft.) and to Simtokha. Your vehicle will take you to Thimphu from here. Overnight at hotel.

Day 09 :

Thimphu

In the morning you will witness the Folk and Mask Dance performed by the Royal Dance Academy. Lunch at Druk Hotel. After lunch at leisure. O/N at Druk Hotel.

Day 10 :

Sightseeing in Paro

After breakfast drive to Paro and visit the National Museum (Taa Dzong), Paro Rimpung Dzong, Kyichu Temple, and other places of interest. Overnight at hotel.

Day 11 :

Paro - Kathmandu

After breakfast, you are free as your own before your departure to Kathmandu.