Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek

The Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek is a high-altitude trekking experience that combines natural grandeur, cultural charm, and serene solitude. Tucked between the valleys of Thimphu and Paro, this less-traveled route reveals a surreal world of glacial lakes, ridges with panoramic views, and untouched wilderness—all within just six days.

Named for the many pristine lakes scattered across the landscape, this trek rewards adventurers with unmatched views of Bhutan’s sacred peaks, including Mount Jomolhari, Jichu Drake, Masagang, and even distant glimpses of Kanchenjunga and Mount Everest on clear days.

If you seek Himalayan serenity without the crowds, Dagala is your hidden gem.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Paro – The Cultural Prelude
Your Bhutan journey begins as you descend into Paro’s stunning valley. You’ll be warmly welcomed with a traditional scarf before transferring to Thimphu, Bhutan’s serene capital.

• Visit Memorial Chorten and Buddha Dordenma, the world’s largest sitting Buddha.
• Briefing and final preparations for your trek.

Overnight: Hotel in Thimphu | Altitude: 2,320 m

Day 2: Thimphu to Gur – Trek Begins
Drive from Thimphu to Gynekha Village, the trailhead of your adventure. Begin with a gradual climb through terraced fields and forests, ascending to a high open meadow.

• Reach Gur campsite surrounded by rhododendron trees.
• Soak in your first night under Bhutan’s starlit skies.

Overnight: Tented Camp in Gur | Trek Duration: 4–5 hrs | Altitude: 3,290 m

Day 3: Gur to Labatama – Into the Realm of Lakes
Today’s trail takes you across ridges and yak herder camps with breathtaking views.

• Stop at Pag Labtsa Pass (4,250 m) for panoramic mountain vistas.
• Descend to Labatama Valley, home to sacred lakes like Utsho Tsho and Relitsho.
• Camp beside the shimmering lakes fed by glacial springs.

Overnight: Tented Camp near Labatama | Trek Duration: 5–6 hrs | Altitude: 4,300 m

Day 4: Rest Day – Explore the Thousand Lakes
Enjoy a rest day at altitude, with optional hikes to nearby lakes:

• Utsho Tsho is revered by locals and surrounded by dramatic cliffs.
• Relitsho, Setsho, and Hentsho are each uniquely beautiful.
• Marvel at wildflowers, birds, and possibly the Himalayan monal.

Use this day to relax, acclimatize, and absorb the stillness of Bhutan’s sacred waters.

Overnight: Tented Camp in Labatama

Day 5: Labatama to Panka – Ridges and Vistas
Climb to Dagatshaa Pass (4,520 m)—the highest point of your trek. The views from here are unforgettable:

• See Jomolhari, Kangchenjunga, and even Mount Everest on a clear day.
• Continue along mountain ridges, descending into the high pastures of Panka.
• You may encounter semi-nomadic yak herders and mountain goats along the way.

Overnight: Tented Camp in Panka | Trek Duration: 6 hrs | Altitude: 4,000 m

Day 6: Panka to Chamgang – Exit the Mountains
Your final day of trekking follows a gentle descent along flower-filled meadows and pine forests.

• Cross several small passes, each with its own view and charm.
• End your trek at Chamgang, where your driver awaits.
• Drive to Thimphu or Paro for your onward journey.

Overnight: Hotel in Paro or Thimphu | Trek Duration: 5 hrs