Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek- This six day trek in Bhutan will take you to an area that is adorned with a multitude of pristine, crystal clear Himalayan lakes. As you trek amidst the shimmering lakes, you will also be treated to stunning views of the entire Himalayan mountain range and some of the world’s highest peaks such as Mt. Everest, Jomolhari, Masang Gang, Jichu Drake, Gangche Ta, and many more.

During the Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek in Bhutan, an entire day will be spent dedicated to visiting some of the best picturesque lakes and also for resting. The trail of the trek also takes you through several small villages of Bhutan where you can visit the locals and get a good idea of the traditional village life of Bhutan as you trek your way back from the lakes.

While the Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek in Bhutan is a somewhat strenuous trek, it is well worth the effort because of the tranquility and the beauty of natural landscapes that you will encounter during the journey of the trek. The best time to embark on this trek is between April-June or September–October.

Itinerary:

Day 1: Gynekha – Gur

Distance 7 km | Time 5 hours | Ascent 550 m | Descent 210m | Camp Altitude 3,290m

The Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek starts at the beautiful Gynekha village and begins with a short descent down to the river. After crossing the river you will start climbing until you reach a huge rock platform from where you will get to see a picturesque view of the valley down below. After two more hours, you will reach Gur, an area full of yak pastures which is located just below the main trail of the trek.

Day 2: Gur – Labatama

Distance 12 km | Time 5 hours | Ascent 1,220 m, descent 110m | Camp Altitude 4,300m

On the second day, the trail of the Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek will take you across high mountain ridges from where you can truly appreciate the rugged beauty of your surroundings as well as the sprawling mountain vegetation. The path of the trek winds through refreshing meadows adorned with wildflowers and asparagus (in the spring). The first mountain pass that you will cross is marked by a huge cairn and gives a spectacular view of Mt. Khangchendzonga (the 3rd highest peak located in the state of Sikkim) as well as a number of the Bhutanese Himalayan peaks. As you descend the pass you will be able to see the entirety of the Dagala mountain range including some pretty meadows and yak herder camps. Once you descend down to the Labatama valley you will once again begin climbing through the valley, where you will pass several yak herder huts before you arrive at Uthso Tsho. The campsite is right next to the lake.

Day 3: Labatama

This day will be dedicated to relaxing and recuperating at Labatama. If you feel energetic, it is a good idea to take an excursion to any of the three lakes nearby, namely Reli Tsho, Hen Tsho, and Jama Tsho. Trekkers are encouraged to take the opportunity to engage in some trout fishing as the location is ideal. Permits are required for fishing so if interested, you should request your tour operator to make the necessary arrangements beforehand.

Day 4: Labatama – Panka

Distance 8 km | Time 6-7 hours | Ascent 260 m, descent 520m | Camp Altitude 4,000m

On this day of the Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek, you will climb along the western side of Dala Tsho up to a saddle at 4,520m. Here onwards you will get to experience one of the best views of the majestic Himalayan peaks all through the descent. The mountain peaks visible include Mt. Everest (Nepal), Mt. Khangchendzonga (Sikkim), Mt. Jomolhari, Mt. Jichu Drake, Mt. Tshering Gang, Mt. Khangbum, Mt. Masang Gang, Mt. Tsende Gang, and Mt. Gangche Ta. If you want an even better view, you may climb a peak close to the saddle which is at an altitude of 4,720m. From the saddle, the path descends, passing some yak herder huts to Docha Chhu. You will follow the river for a while, but stay higher up on the slope to reach Panka with ascents and descents along the way.

Day 5: Panka – Talakha

Distance 8 km | Time 5-6 hours | Ascent 180 m, descent 110m | Camp Altitude 3,080m

This day of the Dagala Thousand Lakes trek marks the crossing of several mountain passes but none of them require a rigorous major climb. You should keep your eyes open for opportunities to catch different varieties of blue poppy (June-July) and mountain birds while you are in this area. After crossing the last pass, Tale La (4,180m) you will start a long descent to Talakha Gompa. You will camp beside the monastery and will be woken up to the early morning prayers of the monks there. From here you will be treated to a great view of Bhutan’s capital city, Thimphu.

Day 6: Talakha – Chamgang

Distance 6 km | Time 3 hours | Ascent 440m

From the monastery, it’s a short walk down to the feeder road, which will lead you to the village of Chamgang.

Facts

Max elevation: 4720 m

Min elevation: 2250 m

Difficulty: Medium

Season: April, May, June, September, October

No. of days: 6 days