TREKKING
Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek
12 DAYS
FROM $ 3,760
BEST SEASON
Apr, Sept – Oct
GRADE
Medium
MAX ELEVATION
4,720 m.
START-END POINT
Geynikha – Chamgang
DAGALA TREK
Trip Overview
As its name suggests, this trek leads you to the untouched glacial lakes of Dagala, offering unparalleled views of the majestic Himalayan range. Along the way, you’ll encounter the camps of the semi-nomadic Dagala people, providing a unique glimpse into their traditional way of life.
This trek combines natural beauty with cultural immersion. visit remote villages to connect with the locals, creating unforgettable experiences during your journey through Bhutan.
The adventure concludes with a visit to the secluded 18th-century Talakha Temple, perched above the Thimphu Valley with breathtaking panoramic views. This enriching trek promises a harmonious blend of Bhutan’s natural wonders, rich traditions, and serene spirituality.
This trek combines natural beauty with cultural immersion. visit remote villages to connect with the locals, creating unforgettable experiences during your journey through Bhutan.
The adventure concludes with a visit to the secluded 18th-century Talakha Temple, perched above the Thimphu Valley with breathtaking panoramic views. This enriching trek promises a harmonious blend of Bhutan’s natural wonders, rich traditions, and serene spirituality.
Trip Highlights
- Trek through pristine landscapes with breathtaking panoramic views of the majestic Himalayan peaks.
- Discover the serene beauty of the untouched Dagala Lakes, known for their crystal-clear waters and tranquil surroundings.
- Visit the camps of the semi-nomadic Dagala people, offering insight into their traditional lifestyle and way of life.
- Visit the Historic Talakha Temple: End your trek with a visit to the 18th-century Talakha Temple, which offers commanding views over the Thimphu Valley.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive Paro
Upon your arrival at Paro International Airport, a friendly representative from Wild Nature Quest will greet you and assist with your transfer to the hotel. After a brief rest and refreshment, your Bhutan adventure begins.
Paro Rinpung Dzong: Explore this iconic fortress and monastery, offering panoramic views of the Paro Valley.
Wooden Cantilever Bridge: Conclude with a gentle hike from the dzong to this historic bridge, rich in architectural and cultural significance.
If you arrive on a morning flight, enjoy an opportunity for cultural sightseeing:
National Museum: Visit the historic Ta Dzong, once a watchtower, now transformed into a museum that provides a fascinating introduction to Bhutan’s natural and cultural heritage.Paro Rinpung Dzong: Explore this iconic fortress and monastery, offering panoramic views of the Paro Valley.
Wooden Cantilever Bridge: Conclude with a gentle hike from the dzong to this historic bridge, rich in architectural and cultural significance.
Overnight : Paro
Day 2: Paro – Excursion to Takshang/Tiger’s Nest
Board on a full-day hike to the iconic Taktsang Monastery, famously known as the Tiger’s Nest, as part of your acclimatization journey. Perched dramatically on a sheer cliffside, 900 meters above the Paro Valley. The trek rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views of lush forests, vibrant landscapes, and the monastery’s remarkable architecture.
After your hike, unwind with a leisurely stroll through downtown Paro, where you can: Explore local markets and unique boutique shops. Relax in cozy cafés while savoring authentic Bhutanese snacks and beverages. Or engage yourself in the charm of daily life in this picturesque town.
For a deeper cultural experience, visit a traditional Bhutanese farmhouse. Enjoy the warm hospitality of a local family and gain an intimate glimpse into Bhutan’s rural lifestyle and customs.
After your hike, unwind with a leisurely stroll through downtown Paro, where you can: Explore local markets and unique boutique shops. Relax in cozy cafés while savoring authentic Bhutanese snacks and beverages. Or engage yourself in the charm of daily life in this picturesque town.
For a deeper cultural experience, visit a traditional Bhutanese farmhouse. Enjoy the warm hospitality of a local family and gain an intimate glimpse into Bhutan’s rural lifestyle and customs.
Overnight: Paro
Day 3: Paro – Genekha – Gur
After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, embark on a scenic one-hour drive to Genakha Village, the starting point of your trek.
As you leave the village behind, ascend through lush Alpine forests, enjoying the fresh mountain air and stunning surroundings. The trek will lead you to a prominent rock formation, offering breathtaking views of the valley below. Continue your hike for another two hours to reach your next campsite nestled in nature’s beauty.
As you leave the village behind, ascend through lush Alpine forests, enjoying the fresh mountain air and stunning surroundings. The trek will lead you to a prominent rock formation, offering breathtaking views of the valley below. Continue your hike for another two hours to reach your next campsite nestled in nature’s beauty.
Overnight: Hotel
Max Altitude: 3350 m.
Distance: 6 KM
Walk: 3 Hrs.
Day 4: Gur – Labatama
This section of the trek takes you across several ridges, offering panoramic views of rugged mountains, lively vegetation, and scenic landscapes. In spring, you’ll trek through fields of colorful wildflowers and wild asparagus.
The first pass, marked by impressive Cairns, provides a breathtaking view of the entire Dagala range, lush meadows, and yak herders’ camps. After a rest and lunch at one of the yak herder’s camps, continue your trek across the meadows, heading toward the next campsite for the evening.
The first pass, marked by impressive Cairns, provides a breathtaking view of the entire Dagala range, lush meadows, and yak herders’ camps. After a rest and lunch at one of the yak herder’s camps, continue your trek across the meadows, heading toward the next campsite for the evening.
Overnight: Tented Camp
Max Altitude: 4450 m.
Distance: 12 KM
Walk: 6 Hrs.
Day 5: Labatama – Halt
Today is a day to relax and explore the stunning surroundings of lakes and mountains. For those seeking adventure, there’s the option to climb Jomp Peak (5050m), where you can enjoy a rewarding lunch at the summit. The panoramic views from the peak are truly spectacular.
After soaking in the breathtaking scenery, return to the campsite in the evening to unwind and reflect on the day’s adventure.
After soaking in the breathtaking scenery, return to the campsite in the evening to unwind and reflect on the day’s adventure.
Overnight: Tented Camp
Max Altitude: 4450 m.
Day 6:Labatama – Panakha
On this leg of the trek, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of some of the highest peaks in the world, including Mt. Everest, Kanchenjunga, Jumolhari, Jichu Drakey, Tsrim Gang, Kangbum, Masagang, Tsendengang, and Gangchhentag. Be sure to ask your guide to identify these stunning mountains along the way.
This area is also home to the many high altitude birds including Himalayan Monal, often spotted during the trek. As you continue, you’ll pass through picturesque meadows, shrubs, and lakes before reaching the next campsite.
This area is also home to the many high altitude birds including Himalayan Monal, often spotted during the trek. As you continue, you’ll pass through picturesque meadows, shrubs, and lakes before reaching the next campsite.
Overnight: Tented Camp
Max Altitude: 4000 m.
Distance: 8 KM
Walk: 4 Hrs.
Day 7: Panakha – Talakha
Today’s trek takes you across several breathtaking passes, each offering more spectacular views than the last. During May and June, the mountains are adorned with blue poppies (Bhutan’s national flower) and other rare wildflowers, adding to the beauty of the landscape.
Take a break for lunch at the crossroads of Thimphu and Wangdue, before embarking on an hour of gradual uphill climbing. This will lead you to the final peak of the Dagala range, where you’ll be rewarded with an incredible panoramic view of Thimphu. The day ends with an hour-long descent to our final campsite, located above the serene Talakha Temple.
Take a break for lunch at the crossroads of Thimphu and Wangdue, before embarking on an hour of gradual uphill climbing. This will lead you to the final peak of the Dagala range, where you’ll be rewarded with an incredible panoramic view of Thimphu. The day ends with an hour-long descent to our final campsite, located above the serene Talakha Temple.
Overnight: Tented Camp
Max Altitude: 3080 m.
Distance: 8 KM
Walk: 4 Hrs.
Day 8: Talakha – Thimphu
As you trek through Alpine and mixed forests filled with bamboo thickets and wildflowers, you’ll soon arrive at the serene Talakha Temple and village. Take time to explore the temple, where you’ll be treated to a stunning, breathtaking view of Thimphu from this elevated vantage point. Afterward, emerge from the forest and reach the motorable road, where we’ll drive back to Thimphu to relax and unwind.
Overnight: Hotel
Max Altitude: 2300 m.
Distance: 2 KM
Walk: 1 Hrs.
Day 9: Thimphu
Morning: Begin your day with a scenic hike to the historic Cheri Monastery, a serene retreat surrounded by nature and a significant site for Bhutanese spirituality.
Afternoon: Dive into Bhutan’s rich traditions and artistry:Visit the Painting School (Zorig Chusum Institute), Bhutan’s premier center for learning traditional arts and crafts.Explore the Handmade Paper Factory, where you’ll witness the fascinating process of crafting traditional Bhutanese paper, known as Deh-sho.
Visit the towering Buddha Dordenma Statue, a symbol of peace and prosperity.Explore the Memorial Chorten, a revered stupa honoring Bhutan’s third king. Experience the vibrant local scene at Kaja Throm, a community marketplace.
In the evening, enjoy a leisurely stroll around Thimphu’s charming craft market, where you can shop for authentic Bhutanese handicrafts and souvenirs.
Afternoon: Dive into Bhutan’s rich traditions and artistry:Visit the Painting School (Zorig Chusum Institute), Bhutan’s premier center for learning traditional arts and crafts.Explore the Handmade Paper Factory, where you’ll witness the fascinating process of crafting traditional Bhutanese paper, known as Deh-sho.
Visit the towering Buddha Dordenma Statue, a symbol of peace and prosperity.Explore the Memorial Chorten, a revered stupa honoring Bhutan’s third king. Experience the vibrant local scene at Kaja Throm, a community marketplace.
In the evening, enjoy a leisurely stroll around Thimphu’s charming craft market, where you can shop for authentic Bhutanese handicrafts and souvenirs.
Overnight: Hotel
Day 10: Thimphu – Punakha
Morning: Drive to Punakha, with a refreshing stop at the breathtaking Dochula Pass (3,150m). Enjoy stunning panoramic views of the Bhutan Himalayas, and spend some time exploring and capturing photographs of the 108 Druk Wangyal Chortens, a site steeped in spiritual and historical significance.
Continue to Punakha and visit the iconic Punakha Dzong, built in 1637 at the confluence of the Po Chhu (Male River) and Mo Chhu (Female River). This architectural masterpiece served as Bhutan’s ancient capital and remains a symbol of the country’s cultural and religious heritage.
Take a short, scenic hike to Chimi Lhakhang (Temple of the Divine Madman). Nestled in a picturesque valley, this temple is dedicated to Lama Drukpa Kunley, Bhutan’s revered saint, known for his unconventional teachings.
Continue to Punakha and visit the iconic Punakha Dzong, built in 1637 at the confluence of the Po Chhu (Male River) and Mo Chhu (Female River). This architectural masterpiece served as Bhutan’s ancient capital and remains a symbol of the country’s cultural and religious heritage.
Take a short, scenic hike to Chimi Lhakhang (Temple of the Divine Madman). Nestled in a picturesque valley, this temple is dedicated to Lama Drukpa Kunley, Bhutan’s revered saint, known for his unconventional teachings.
Overnight: Hotel
Max Altitude: 3150 m.
Walk: 3 Hrs.
Day 11: Punakha – Paro
After breakfast, visit the newly reconstructed Wangdue Dzong, perched atop a hill. This historic fortress once controlled the important west-to-east and east-to-west passage routes in Bhutan, offering a glimpse into the country’s strategic history.
Explore the nearby Rinchengang Village, where you’ll experience the traditional way of life in Bhutan, providing a unique insight into the daily lives of local Bhutanese families Drive back to Paro, with a refreshing stop at Dochula Pass en route to enjoy the scenic views and refreshments.On your way, visit the Simtokha Dzong, the oldest dzong in Bhutan, built in 1629 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. This historic fortress now houses approximately 60 monks and offers a unique perspective on Bhutan’s religious heritage.
Evening: Continue your drive to Paro for the night.
Explore the nearby Rinchengang Village, where you’ll experience the traditional way of life in Bhutan, providing a unique insight into the daily lives of local Bhutanese families Drive back to Paro, with a refreshing stop at Dochula Pass en route to enjoy the scenic views and refreshments.On your way, visit the Simtokha Dzong, the oldest dzong in Bhutan, built in 1629 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. This historic fortress now houses approximately 60 monks and offers a unique perspective on Bhutan’s religious heritage.
Evening: Continue your drive to Paro for the night.
Overnight: Hotel
Walk: 4 ½ Hrs
Day 12: Paro – Departure
Transfer to Paro International Airport for your departure. Your guide and driver will accompany you to the airport, bidding you a warm farewell and wishing you a safe and pleasant journey. We look forward to welcoming you back to Bhutan in the future.
What to Expect
Trip Grade: Moderate
Ideal for those with some trekking experience, involving 5–7 hours of walking daily on varied terrain with moderate altitude (up to 4,000m).Bhutan’s trekking regions vary from lush valleys to high-altitude alpine landscapes, with popular routes like the Druk Path Trek, Snowman Trek, and Dagala Trek offering unique challenges and scenic diversity.
Expect stunning mountain views, pristine lakes, diverse flora and fauna, traditional villages, and remote monasteries, with possible encounters of Himalayan wildlife like blue sheep and yaks.
Campsites with tents and basic facilities are standard during treks. Meals are freshly prepared by the trekking crew. In some cases, homestays or guesthouses in villages may be an option.
Expert local guides lead the treks, ensuring safety and enriching the experience with insights about Bhutan’s culture, history, and natural beauty.
Offers a blend of traditional Bhutanese architecture and modern amenities. You can expect clean rooms, warm hospitality, and local cuisine.
Inclusion
What is Included?
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All internal taxes and charges (SDF)
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Accommodation on twin sharing basis
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All meals, tea, snack, and bottled water
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All travel with a licensed local birding guide
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All surface transfers by a private vehicle
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Camping equipment and haulage for camping and trekking tours
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All entry fees to monuments, Museum and National Parks
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Bhutan Visa Fee
What is not Included?
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Optional tours/excursions, personal & incidental expenses.
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Tips, laundry, phone calls, and bars.
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International and domestic airfare, and insurance.
Review
Henk ter Borg and Barbara Knigh – Netherland
We went with “Wild Nature Quest” (Bhutan Birding) to see the birds, and cultural sights, and trek in Bhutan. They are an A+ company! The owner, Mr. Norbu, worked with us to meticulously plan our 12-day trip. The company is locally owned & uses certified, local birds, cultural guides, & drivers. The driver’s skills are as important as the guide’s – given Bhutan’s sometimes challenging roads. The costs were exactly as stated. The tour was planned to give us the maximum number of days to acclimate to the altitude, before doing our trek.
Bhutan’s Bird Songs
Symphony of Bhutan’s Birds
This collection features 163 recordings capturing the diverse and enchanting bird songs of Bhutan’s rich natural landscapes.
Norbu
With the help of his birding friend Tom Stephenson, co author of The Warbler Guide, I have done extensive recording in Bhutan and has a very large library of local songs.