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| ⏱ Duration | 13 Days |
|---|---|
| 🛫 Flight Route | Kathmandu → |
The Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek, also known as the “Hidden Jewel of Bhutan”, is a dream journey for those who crave untouched nature, shimmering lakes, and peace away from the crowds. This off-the-beaten-path adventure takes you through pristine alpine landscapes, yak pastures, and ancient villages, revealing a side of Bhutan few have ever seen.
Starting near Thimphu and ending in Paro, the trek follows the ridge of the Dagala Range, separating Thimphu Valley from the low hills to the south. On clear days, you can witness a breathtaking panorama that stretches across the peaks of Bhutan, Sikkim, and even Nepal, including the majestic Mt. Kanchenjunga (the world’s third-highest mountain).
Unlike other popular treks, Dagala Trek remains uncrowded, giving you a true sense of solitude and serenity. You’ll camp beside turquoise-tinted alpine lakes, walk through rhododendron forests, and pass nomadic herders grazing their yaks under endless Himalayan skies.
Though moderately challenging due to altitude, the trek doesn’t demand prior experience — just good physical fitness and a love for adventure.
Spring and autumn are considered the best season for the Dagala Thousand Lakes hiking trip. These seasons are known for the best weather and excellent views.
Spring (March to May):
The weather is dry, and skies are usually clear, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks. Rhododendron flowers bloom along the trail, creating vibrant landscapes. Spring also features one of the most significant cultural events—the Ura Festival, with sacred mask dances and rituals. Trekkers can interact with locals, witness traditional farming, and explore village life.
At Dream Bhutan, we specialize in crafting immersive journeys that blend nature, culture, and comfort. Our expert local guides bring Bhutan’s legends and landscapes to life while ensuring your trek is safe, comfortable, and truly unforgettable.
Book your Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek today and experience Bhutan’s untouched wilderness like never before!
The Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek is rated moderate to challenging. The trails can be steep in some parts, and the altitude reaches up to 4,500 meters. However, you don’t need prior trekking experience — just reasonable fitness and determination.
Regular walking, cardio, and light strength training for a few weeks before the trip will help you adapt easily.
Every foreign traveler must book through a registered Bhutanese tour operator. We handle all Bhutan travel permits, including the Trekking Permit, Route Permit, and Visa Approval Letter.
You only need to provide a scanned passport copy (valid for at least six months).
Hotels in Paro & Thimphu: Comfortable 3-star Bhutanese-style hotels with private bathrooms.
Bhutanese meals are healthy, warm, and freshly cooked. You’ll be served:
Breakfast: Toast, eggs, porridge, coffee/tea
Lunch: Rice, vegetables, chicken or beef curry
Dinner: Soup, rice/noodles, and local dishes
Clean boiled or filtered water will be provided throughout the trek.
All ground transportation, including airport transfers, hotel pick-ups, and trek start/end transfers, are done in private, comfortable vehicles with experienced local drivers.
The ideal months are March–May (spring) and September–November (autumn). During these months:
The weather is dry and clear.
Wildflowers and rhododendrons are in full bloom (spring).
Himalayan peaks are easily visible (autumn).
Here’s what you should bring:
Trekking boots and lightweight camp shoes
Warm jacket and thermals
Rain jacket and windproof layer
Trekking pants, gloves, and woolen hat
Sunglasses and sunscreen
Sleeping bag liner (optional)
Headlamp and spare batteries
Power bank or solar charger
Personal first aid kit and medicines
Travel insurance is mandatory for all trekkers in Bhutan. It must cover:
High-altitude trekking
Emergency medical evacuation
Trip cancellation or delays
We recommend insurance providers like World Nomads, Allianz, or SafetyWing that offer global trekking coverage.
The trek goes above 4,000 meters for several days, but proper pacing and gradual altitude gain minimize risks. Our guides monitor your health and ensure safe acclimatization.
We follow Leave No Trace principles to protect Bhutan’s natural beauty:
No littering or plastic waste
Camp only at designated spots
Respect local culture and wildlife
By trekking responsibly, you help keep Bhutan’s highlands pristine.
Meet our friendly representative at Paro Airport and transfer to your hotel. Enjoy views of Bhutanese, Indian, and Nepalese peaks during your flight. After check-in, relax and meet your trek leader for a briefing.
Overnight: Hotel in Paro
Explore Bhutan’s heritage starting with the National Museum, followed by a visit to Rinpung Dzong and the traditional Nemi Zam Bridge.
Overnight: Hotel in Paro
Drive to Bhutan’s capital, Thimphu, and visit King’s Memorial Chorten and Trashi Chhoe Dzong, the seat of the government and Chief Abbot.
Overnight: Hotel in Thimphu
Visit the Centenary Farmer’s Market, Textile Museum, and Tango Monastery, hiking through rhododendron forests. Return to Thimphu in the evening.
Overnight: Hotel in Thimphu
The trek begins from Simtokha Dzong, ascending through pine forests to reach Talekha Village.
Camp Overnight: Talekha
Hike through spruce and oak forests to Jelezela Pass (4,000m), with magnificent Thimphu Valley views. Continue to Japhuna Camp.
Camp Overnight: Japhuna
Trek across ridges, rhododendron forests, and small lakes before reaching Jaduna Camp.
Camp Overnight: Jaduna
Trek past Dungka Tso Lake and cross Jomigue Pass (4,460m). Descend to Labatama Yak Camp beside Yumtso Lake.
Camp Overnight: Labatama
Explore nearby alpine lakes or take a full-day hike to Aum Jomo Peak for incredible Himalayan views.
Camp Overnight: Labatama
Climb to Paglaptsa Pass (4,170m) and descend through oak and rhododendron forests to Genekha Village.
Camp Overnight: Genekha
Walk downhill to the road and drive back to Paro.
Overnight: Hotel in Paro
Hike to the legendary Tiger’s Nest Monastery (900m cliffside), visit Kyichu Lhakhang, and enjoy a traditional hot stone bath in the evening.
Overnight: Hotel in Paro
Your incredible Bhutan journey ends today. Our representative will escort you to the airport for your final departure.
Farewell and Tashi Delek!
It’s a moderately challenging trek. You’ll walk 4–6 hours a day, sometimes uphill, at altitudes of 3,000–4,500m. Good physical fitness is helpful but no technical climbing is required.
No, beginners can join as long as you’re healthy and comfortable walking for several hours daily.
Hotels in cities (Paro, Thimphu) and fully equipped camping during the trek — tents, dining setup, and kitchen crew are included.
The best months are March–May (spring) and September–November (autumn) when the weather is clear and flowers bloom.
Dream Bhutan arranges all necessary Bhutan travel permits, including trekking and cultural site permissions.
Do light cardio, walking, or jogging for at least 3–4 weeks before your trip to build endurance.
Portable toilets and washing facilities are arranged at campsites.
Charging is available in hotels, but not during camping days. Bring a power bank or solar charger.
Yes. All trekkers must have valid travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking and medical evacuation.
Because the Dagala region is dotted with countless alpine lakes — each reflecting the sky and mountains differently — giving the illusion of “a thousand lakes.”