Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek
9 days · from US$3300 per person — all-inclusive: guide, transport, accommodation, meals, visa and SDF.
A scenic trek passing numerous crystal clear alpine lakes with panoramic views of the entire Himalayan range, including Everest and Kanchenjunga on clear days.
Highlights: Alpine Lakes · Trout Fishing · Himalayan Panorama · Wildflowers
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival
Arrive in Paro. Transfer to Thimphu (1 hour drive). Rest and acclimatization. Evening trek briefing and gear check. Overnight: Hotel in Thimphu (2,320m)
Day 2: Thimphu to Gur
Short drive to Gur trailhead. Begin trekking uphill through blue pine and rhododendron forests. Gradual climb to Gur camp (3,290m). First night camping. Trekking: 4-5 hours, +970m elevation gain Overnight: Camp at Gur
Day 3: Gur to Labatama
Climb through alpine forests emerging into high-altitude meadows. The landscape opens dramatically. Reach Labatama (4,300m), situated in the heart of the Dagala Thousand Lakes region. Despite the name, there aren't literally a thousand lakes, but dozens of crystal-clear alpine lakes dot the area. Camp beside one of the main lakes with spectacular mountain views. On clear days, see the entire Himalayan range including distant Everest and Kanchenjunga. Trekking: 5-6 hours, +1,010m elevation gain Overnight: Camp at Labatama
Day 4: Lake Exploration
Rest and exploration day. Hike around the lake region discovering hidden lakes, each with unique character. The lakes support populations of giant trout (fishing requires permits but is possible). The turquoise waters reflect surrounding peaks creating stunning photography. Wildflower meadows (June-August) explode with color - edelweiss, primulas, poppies, and countless alpine species. Optional: Climb nearby ridges for even better Himalayan panoramas. Some claim you can see seven countries on perfectly clear days (Bhutan, Tibet, India, Nepal, Bangladesh, China, Myanmar). Relaxing day in pristi
Day 5: Labatama to Panka
Trek past more alpine lakes to Panka camp (4,000m). The route traverses high ridges with constant mountain views. Pass yak herder camps. Watch for Blue Sheep, Himalayan Marmots, and birds including Himalayan Monals and Blood Pheasants. Trekking: 5-6 hours, -300m elevation change Overnight: Camp at Panka
Day 6: Panka to Talakha
Trek through rhododendron forests (spectacular in bloom April-May) descending gradually toward Thimphu valley. Reach Talakha Monastery (3,080m), perched on a ridge overlooking Thimphu. The monastery offers stunning valley views. Trekking: 5-6 hours, -920m descent Overnight: Camp at Talakha
Day 7: Talakha to Thimphu
Final trekking morning. Descend to Thimphu valley through forests on well-worn pilgrimage trails. Reach Thimphu by midday. Transfer to hotel for hot showers. Afternoon free to explore the capital or relax. Evening celebration dinner. Trekking: 3-4 hours, -760m descent Overnight: Hotel in Thimphu
Day 8: Tiger's Nest Hike
Drive to Paro (1 hour). Hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger's Nest), Bhutan's most famous landmark. The 4-5 hour hike yields spectacular views. Visit the temples where Guru Rinpoche meditated. Farewell dinner in Paro. Overnight: Paro
Day 9: Departure
Transfer to Paro airport for departure. You've experienced one of Bhutan's most scenic treks - pristine alpine lakes, spectacular Himalayan panoramas, and remote wilderness. The thousand lakes region remains one of the kingdom's hidden gems. Tashi Delek!