Himalayan Trekking Adventures

10 Days

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A Spiritual and Scenic Escape in the Himalayas

The Dagala Lakes Trek, also known as the “Thousand Lakes Trek,” is one of Bhutan’s most scenic trekking experiences. Traversing high-altitude yak pastures, alpine meadows, and glacial lakes, this trek combines cultural immersion with breathtaking Himalayan landscapes. Along the route, trekkers witness spectacular views of Mount Jumolhari, Jichu Drake, Kanchenjunga (Sikkim), and the Dagala range.

The journey blends cultural sightseeing in Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha with six adventurous trekking days, offering an ideal balance of Bhutan’s natural beauty and rich traditions.

Best Seasons:

  • Spring (April – June): The rhododendrons are in full bloom, painting the trails in vibrant colors
  • Autumn (Sept – Nov): Offers crystal clear skies and the best mountain visibility.

Tour Highlights

  • Hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang), Bhutan’s most revered landmark.
  • Explore cultural gems like Paro Dzong, Ta Dzong, Punakha Dzong, and Memorial Chorten.
  • Scenic drive via Dochula Pass with panoramic Himalayan views.
  • Trek across pristine alpine lakes home to golden trout.
  • Camp in remote yak-herding valleys with spectacular starry skies.
  • Stunning views of Bhutanese peaks including Jumolhari, Jichu Drake, and Kanchenjunga.
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Itinerary

Upon arrival, you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel. After lunch, visit Ta Dzong (National Museum) and Paro Dzong, both rich in Bhutanese history and architecture. In the evening, explore Paro town or visit the local handicraft emporium. Dinner and overnight in Paro.

Begin the day with a hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, perched dramatically on a cliff 900m above the valley floor. The trail winds through pine forests with prayer flags fluttering in the breeze. Stop midway for refreshments before reaching the monastery. Return to Paro for dinner and overnight stay.

After breakfast, drive to Thimphu and visit National Memorial Chorten, one of the most visible landmarks in honour of the 3rd King of Bhutan. Then visit Giant Buddha Dordenma, one of the tallest bronze statues in the world. After lunch experience the national institutes of Art and Craft. Visit National Library and explore the Local craft bazar. Take a break in the lively market of the city before returning to the Hotel.

9KM | 5 HOURS | 550M ASCENT | CAMP ALT 3600M

You will drive from Thimphu to the starting point of the trek, Genekha. After crossing the river, you start climbing till you reach a huge rock platform at 3350m from where you have the beautiful view of the Genekha village. The trail is all through coniferous vegetation. After 2hrs ascent you reach Kepchen amid Yak pastures.

12KM | 6 HOURS | 1220M ASCENT | 110M DESCENT | CAMP ALT 4100M

While trekking across the ridges, enjoy the beauty of the mountain vegetation. The meadows are refreshing and inspiring. The first pass symbolizes by a huge cairn gives spectacular view of Kanchenjunga (in Sikkim) and Bhutanese Himalaya peaks. Once descend into the Labatama valley ascend gradually through the valley pass some Yak harder huts till you reach to the camp.

10KM | 5-6 HOURS | 260M ASCENT | 520M DESCENT | CAMP ALT 4000M

After breakfast at camp, we will follow the trail and hike uphill to Sertsho Lake and along the western side of the lake to a saddle at 4500 meters, where there are good mountain views. From the pass there is a steep descent to another lake at 4350 meters. A short distance beyond the lake leads to the valley and then to Panka at 4000 meters where we will camp for the night.

14KM | 6-7 HOURS | 180M ASCENT | 1540M DESCENT | CAMP ALT 3080M

Today is a good day of hiking and the route leads north crossing a pass at 4000 meters before climbing along the side of the ridge to a crest at 4270 meters offering fantastic views of the Dagala range and Thimphu, far to the North. It is then a long descent through forests to the Talakha temple. Your car will be waiting here to transfer you to the Hotel.

We will have time to explore the capital today and visit one of the largest Buddha bronze statues in the world. Plan on visiting the following local sites; The Memorial Chorten, Painting School, National Library, Takin Preserve Centre, and Tashichho Dzong. Dinner and leisure time at town. Overnight stay in Thimphu.

Drive across Dochula Pass (3100m), where—on clear days—the panoramic views of the eastern Himalayas are unforgettable. Continue to Punakha and visit Chimi Lhakhang (Temple of Fertility) and the spectacular Punakha Dzong, strategically set at the confluence of the Phochu and Mochhu rivers. Return to Thimphu for overnight.

After breakfast, drive to the airport and farewell.

Tour Inclusive and Exclusives

Inclusive

  • Sustainable Development Fee & visa fee
  • Transport by private vehicle
  • Government approved 3-star hotels
  • English speaking guide
  • Bottled water in vehicle
  • Permits, entrance fees, & sightseeing
  • Sleeping tents, sleeping mats & pillows
  • Dinning tents, kitchen tent & toilet tent
  • Tables, chairs, utensils, hot water bags
  • Trekking chef & assistants
  • Horses to carry trek equipments
  • Food supplies

Exclusive

  • International airfare to/from Bhutan.
  • Travel insurance (mandatory)
  • Personal trekking gear (sleeping bags, trekking boots, down jackets, etc.).
  • Alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, or personal snacks.
  • Tips for guides, cooks, and trekking staff (at your discretion).
  • Extra nights in hotels due to late arrival/early departure or unforeseen circumstances.
  • Any expenses arising from unexpected events such as flight delays, weather conditions, or medical emergencies.

Himalayan Trekking Adventures

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