Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek

Day 1: Arrival in Paro

Kuzuzangpo ! The Land of the Thunder Dragon welcomes you. Journey through the clouds to descend into Paro Valley, your gateway to the kingdom of Bhutan. Your guide and driver awaits with a white scarf of auspiciousness and guide you to your hotel in Paro. Stop by the National Museum and the Paro Rinpung Dzong which translates to fortress on a heap of jewels, en route to your hotel. Spend the evening strolling through the quaint town.

Day 2: Tiger’s Nest Hike and drive to Thimphu (54Kms/1.5 Hours)

Drive to the ruins of the Drugyel Dzong at dawn, from where you are greeted with a stunning view of the summit of Jomolhari mountain if the weather favors. Begin the hike to the infamous Tiger’s Nest- a landmark of Bhutan to acclimatize with the altitude. Enjoy a rejuvenating hot stone bath after the hike to relax the body and the mind. Enjoy a game of local archery. Drive to the capital of Bhutan and stop at Tachog Lhakhang en-route.

Overnight: Hotel in Thimphu

Day 3: Thimphu - Genekha – Gur (30Kms/45 Minutes)

7Kms| 5 Hours | 550M Ascent | 60M Descent | Camp Alt 3290M

The trekking adventure commences with a 45-minute drive to the stunning Genekha Village. This village is renowned for its production of matsutake and chanterelle mushrooms. Traverse through paths used by mules, passing through terraced fields and dense coniferous forests filled with alpine vegetation and a plethora of avian species. Subsequently, descend towards the river, and after approximately two hours of gradual uphill ascent, you will arrive at a massive rock platform situated at an elevation of 3350m. This vantage point offers a captivating view of the valley. Following an additional two hours of trekking, you will arrive at your campsite in Gur (3290m), surrounded by an abundance of vibrant wildflowers.

Day 4: Gur – Labatama With Spectacular View Of Kanchenjunga And Dagala Range

12Kms | 5-6 Hours | 1,220M Ascent | Descent 110M | Camp Alt 4,300M

As you traverse the mountain ridges, you will be captivated by the rugged and scenic vegetation that adorns the slopes. Today's trek will immerse you in a tapestry of blossoming flowers, vibrant wild asparagus (during spring), and expansive meadows, invigorating your senses. Meandering alongside babbling brooks, you will ascend gently amidst scattered birch trees and blooming rhododendrons until you reach the Pagalabtsa pass (4250m), marked by monumental stone piles. From this vantage point, you will be treated to breathtaking vistas of the majestic Kanchenjunga (Sikkim) and numerous Himalayan peaks of Bhutan. Upon descending from the pass, you will be greeted by the sprawling meadows of the entire Dagala range and the encampments of yak herders. Lunch will be enjoyed at a nearby yak herder's encampment. Further descending into the Labatama valley, you will gradually ascend while passing by the humble huts of yak herders until you reach the Utsho Lake (4300m), where golden trouts abound. Our campsite is conveniently located adjacent to the tranquil lake.

Overnight at Camp

Day 5: Labatama – Kheri Khewa

11km | 6-7 Hours | Ascent 436M | Descent 686M| Camp Alt

Embark on the ascent towards the elevated trail that winds its way around Serbho Tsho lake and several other lakes. Legend has it that there are 108 lakes (a sacred number) in this particular region. Eventually, you will reach a pass at an altitude of 4520m, and if you desire, you can extend your climb to reach the viewpoint of Jomo (Dagala) Peak (4716m). This peak is believed to be the dwelling place of Aum Jomo, the goddess of Dagala, who is said to favor young men while holding disdain for monks and women. On clear days, you may be fortunate enough to be rewarded with glimpses of the magnificent Jomolhari and Kanchenjunga peaks. From there, descend from the pass to the herder's campsite at approximately 4350m, and continue along the lower route near the flowing Dochcha Chhu stream. After descending from the pass and rejoining the lower route, you will continue your journey through scenic pastures. Finally, you will arrive at the Kheri Khewa campsite.

Overnight: Camp

Day 6: Kheri Khewa - Tshokam

10Km | 6-7 Hours |

Begin your day by embarking on another exhilarating hike through the enchanting terrain of Dagala. The distance to be covered today is moderate, allowing you to enjoy the journey without any rush. As we traverse the pass reaching an elevation of over 4200 meters, be prepared to be awe-inspired by the breathtaking views of the majestic mountain ranges. Eventually, we will make our descent, observing the shifting vegetation, until we arrive at Tshokam, aptly named "the dried lake," where we will spend our final night of the trek.

Day 7: Tshokam- Chamgang - Thimphu

8Kms | 4 Hours |

Prepare yourself for a demanding day ahead as you descend towards Chamgang. Once there, a vehicle will be ready and waiting for you, signifying the time to bid farewell to your dedicated team and trusty horses. A leisurely drive of approximately one hour awaits, offering you glimpses of Bhutan's inaugural dzong, erected by the nation's revered unifier, Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel. Upon arriving in Thimphu, take the opportunity to unwind and rejuvenate. Consider indulging in a soothing massage offered at select hotels. Spend the day at your leisure, engaging in restful activities or exploring other optional endeavors.

Overnight: Hotel in Thimphu

Day 8: Thimphu – Paro (65Kms/1hour)

The day is dedicated to exploring the popular sights in the capital of Bhutan, Drive to notable places such as the Buddha Dordhenma, The Post Office Museum and the National Institute of 13 Arts. Stop by a Thangkha painting center where young painters are being taught the techniques used by their elders. In the evening drive to Paro town with a street of typical Bhutanese traditional buildings or visit Namgay Artisanal Brewery and try out different flavors of Bhutanese beer.

Overnight at Hotel in Paro

Day 9: Departure

Bhutan Inbound Team will see you off to Paro International Airport and bid you farewell.