Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek
Trip Overview
The Dagala Trek, also known as the Thousand Lakes Trek, offers an unforgettable journey through Bhutan’s lesser-known highlands dotted with sacred lakes. Starting near Thimphu, the six-day trek winds through high-altitude meadows, yak herder camps, and ancient trails, with panoramic views of some of the Himalayas’ highest peaks including Mt. Everest, Kanchenjunga, and Jomolhari. The trek’s crown jewels are its series of glacial lakes, considered sacred by locals and shrouded in legends. With fewer trekkers and a sense of untouched wilderness, Dagala is perfect for those seeking spiritual solitude and pristine nature. The relatively moderate difficulty makes it accessible to seasoned hikers, and the rich biodiversity, including alpine flowers and rare birds, adds to the enchantment of the journey
At a Glance
US $2,280 per Person
📅 Duration: 9 days / 8 nights
👥 Group size : 2 person & above
🏔️ Trek grade Level : Moderate
📊 Average walking Time : 6-7 Hours
🚶 Best Seasons : Mar-June, Sep-Nov
🌄 Highest Elevation : 4,520 m
🛏️ Accommodation : Hotels
Tour Highlights
✅️ Trek through yak herder, high altitude lakes and spectacular mountain views.
✅️ Trek starts from Genekha and ends in Thimphu.
✅️ Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery.
✅️ Explore many lakes like Relitsho, Serthso, Hentsho, Jagetsho lake, etc.
✅️ Trek along ancient trails.
✅️ Cross high mountain pass over 4520m with fantastic views.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 : Paro
During the journey, one will experience breath-taking view of Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga and other famous Himalayan peaks including the sacred Jumolhari and Mount Jichu Drake in Bhutan. On arrival at Paro International Airport, you will be received by your guide and take you to the Hotel. Later in the afternoon you will visit Paro Dzong. It was built in 17th century and now houses government offices and religious institutions. Then you will visit Kichu Lhakhang, the oldest temple in the country built by the Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo in 8th century. Evening: Stroll through the town. Overnight hotel in Paro.
Day 2 : Acclimatization Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery
In the morning you will hike to Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) Monastery, which is Bhutan’s most famous monastery situated at 3180 meters. Guru Rinpoche (spiritual master) is said to have flown on the back of a tigress from Singye Dzong in Lhuntse to meditate in a cave where Taktsang Monastery now stands. The Moanstery is perched on the edge of a steep cliff, about 900 meters above Paro Valley. Lunch will be served at the Cafeteria. Explore the monastery and hike back to the valley in the afternoon. Overnight hotel in Paro.
Day 3 : Genekha – Gur (Trek start)
DISTANCE 7 KM | Time: 5-6hrs.| Ascent: 60m | Descent: 55m| Camp Altitude: 2580m
You will drive to your trek start point and then continue trailing along the river Geynitsang chhu and Dolunga chhu. You will start ascending through oak forests and might encounter some yak herder’s and woodcutters. At 3220m you will reach an exceptional lookout point. From here the climb is gentle moving towards the south going off the trail to Gur. You will camp among the yak pastures at 3290m.
Day 4 : Gur – Labatama
DISTANCE 12 KM | Time: 6hrs.| Ascent: 1010m | Camp Altitude: 3290m – 4300m
You will go back to the main trail and climb through blue pines. Later there is a change in vegetation and you will be walking through spruces, dead firs and larches. At 4250m you will reach the Pagalabtsa pass after crossing several streams and traversing through birches and rhododendrons. From the pass, you can see the whole Dagala range. Further into the trek you will climb along a stream to Labatama at 4300m and camp near the Utsho lake where golden trouts are in abundance.
Day 5 : Exporlarty Halt at Labatama
Today you will spend time exploring anyone of nearby lakes such as Relitsho, Hentsho, Setsho and Jagetsho lakes. The surrounding views are amazing. There is also an option to go take an excursion to the Jomo peak at 5050m. If you do not wish to go on excursions you can spend your day just relaxing.
Day 6 : Labatama – Panka
DISTANCE 8 KM | Time: 5-6hrs.| Ascent: 220m | Descent: 520m| Camp Altitude: 4300m – 4000m
Follow the trail along the Dajatsho lake till 4520m and enjoy the exotic views of Everest, Kanchenjunga, Masangang, Tiger Mountain, Tsendagang and Jichu Drake. Then the trail descends towards yak herder’s and dropping further to Dochha Chhu at 4200m. Finally you will cross over three ridges and reach Panka. You will camp here at an altitude of 4000m.
Day 7 : Panka – Chamgang – Thimphu (Trek Ends)
DISTANCE 14 KM | Time: 8hrs.| Ascent: 180m | Descent: 1540m
You will start trekking to Talakha and pass Tale La at 4180m where you can spot the beautiful Dagala range and Thimphu in the faraway north. Descend through mixed forest of spruce, birch, juniper, rhododendron and bamboo. Finally at 3080m you will reach Talakha. Then you will descend further towards the village of Chamgang where your vehicle will be waiting to drive you to Thimphu.
Day 8 : Thimphu
Today after breakfast you will will visit the King’s Memorial Chorten (built in memory of the third King of Bhutan); visit Buddha statue, and is presumed to be the largest Bronze statue in the world. The three storied high throne of the statue will consists of temples on each floor, visit Post office were you can personalize your stamp, nunnery temple, Textile Museum, Traditional Paper Factory, the majestic Tashichhodzong. Overnight hotel in Thimphu.
Day 9 : Thimphu – Paro Depart
After your breakfast, you will be driven to the airport for departure. Our representative will bid you goodbye.
Cost Includes
✓ Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)
✓ VISA Fee
✓ Accommodation
✓ All meals
✓ Transport
✓ All internal taxes & charges
✓ Licensed Bhutanese Tour Guide
Cost Excludes
✗ Flight tickets
✗ Insurance
✗ Drinks and Beverages
✗ Tips
✗ Internet and Phone bills
✗ Other bills of personal nature
Insurance
Note: Package does not include insurance of any kind.
You are required to obtain separate coverage from your home country before your trip begins.
Essential Things to Pack For Traveling Adventure
When heading out on a trek, the goal is to travel light and smart. Overpacking can slow you down, so focus on what truly matters for comfort and safety. A well-organized pack means quicker mornings and more time to relax with your favourite warm drink while soaking in the sunrise.