The Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek offered by Imperial Lotus Tours is a unique and picturesque journey that takes trekkers through some of the most stunning alpine lakes in Bhutan. The trek is perfect for those seeking a moderate-level trekking experience that combines natural beauty, cultural immersion, and adventure. The trek starts from the picturesque Genekha village, located on the outskirts of Thimphu, and takes trekkers through pristine forests of rhododendron and oak trees, offering spectacular views of the Himalayas. The highlight of the trek is the Dagala range, which is home to several high-altitude lakes, each with its own unique character and charm. With Imperial Lotus Tours, trekkers can also visit the iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery, which is one of the most popular and revered religious sites in Bhutan and is believed to have been built in the 17th century.
Imperial Lotus Tours provides experienced guides and high-quality camping equipment to ensure that trekkers have a safe and comfortable experience. The Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek is an exceptional way to explore the natural beauty and cultural richness of Bhutan and is suitable for trekkers of all levels. With Imperial Lotus Tours, trekkers can have a memorable and enriching experience that will leave a lasting impression. The tour operator also ensures that visitors have the opportunity to interact with the local communities, supporting sustainable tourism practices and contributing to the socio-economic development of the region. The Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek is a must-do for any nature lover looking for a unique and unforgettable experience in Bhutan.
Day 1. Arrival in Paro:
Welcome to Bhutan! On arrival at Paro International Airport, you will be greeted by your guide from Imperial Lotus Tours and transferred to your hotel. Take in the breathtaking views of the Himalayas, including Everest and other peaks, as you approach the airport. After lunch, visit the Ta Dzong, which houses the National Museum of Bhutan, and the Paro Rimpung Dzong, known as the “Heap of Jewels.” Overnight in Paro.
Day 2. Paro:
After breakfast, excursion to Taktshang Monastery. The primary Lhakhang was built surrounding Guru Rimpoche’s meditation cave in the 1684 by Gyaltse Tenzin Rabgay. This incredible monastery clings to the edge of a sheer rock cliff that plunges 900 meters into the valley below. Legend has it that Guru Padmasambhava flew here on the back of a tigress.
After lunch, visit the ruins of the Drukgyal Dzong. It was here that the Bhutanese finally defeated the invading Tibetans and drove them back. From here, the peak of Jumolhari ‘Mountain of the Goddess’ can be seen on a clear day (Alt. 7,329 m /24,029 ft.). Then visit the Kichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest and the most sacred shrine of Bhutan built in 8th century by the Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo. Over night in Hotel.
Day 3. Paro – Thimphu: (1 Hour)
After breakfast, drive to Thimphu (Capital). Visit the Sangaygang view point, from where the bird’s eye view of the Thimphu Valley can be seen. Visit the Takin Preserve Centre. Takin is the National animal of Bhutan. Then visit the Drupthob Lhakhang, one of the few surviving nunneries in Bhutan followed by the National Memorial Chorten (1974) built in honour of our late King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck.
After lunch, visit the National Library, stocked with ancient Buddhist manuscripts, and the Zorig Chusum (The School of Thirteen Arts). Then visit the Traditional Medicine Institute where medicines are prepared according to ancient practices and the Folk Heritage Museum. In the evening, visit the Tashichho Dzong, seat of the National Government and the Central Monastic Body, including the summer residence of the Je Khenpo (Chief Abbot of Bhutan).Over night in Hotel.
Day 4. Khoma – Geynikha: (14 Km, 4hrs)
Walk through terraced Paddy fields and coniferous forests to the settlement of Geynikha (2950 meters). The route then descends to a chorten that marks a camping place along side a stream at 2800 meters.
Day 5. Geynikha – Gur: (5Km, 4hrs.)
Crossing a suspension bridge, the trail heads west for a while, then climbs steeply towards the south to a rock platform and a crest at 3200 meters. A further walk of about two hours leads to a camp in a forest clearing at 3350 meters.
Day 6. Gur – Labatamba: (12 Km, 5hrs.)
Cross the pass at 4240 meters for a view of Spectacular Dagala village. Pass though several herders camps enroute to the foot of the broad Labatamba valley at 4300 meters near Utso Lake, where plenty of Golden Trout flourish. There are so many lakes in the vicinity. Camp near the lake.
Day 7. Labatamba – Panka: (8 Km, 4 hrs.)
The trail climbs along the western side of the lake to 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.
Day 8. Panka – Talakha: (8 km, 4 hrs)
The route leads north crossing a pass at 4000 meters, then climbs along the side of the ridge to a crest at 4270 meters. From here there is a view of the Dagala range and a view of Thimphu, far to the North. It is then a long descent through forests to the Goemba and village of Talakha (3083 meters).
Day 9. Talakha – Simtokha: (3 Km, 3 Hrs)
Walk downhill on a steep trail to Simtokha from where the Vehicle will pick you up and drive to Thimphu. After lunch, sightseeing in Thimphu includes: the National Library, which holds a vast collection of ancient Buddhist manuscripts followed by visit to Painting School, famous for carving and free hand art and National Institute of Traditional medicine. After lunch visit the Simtokha Dzong, the oldest Dzong in Bhutan built in 1627 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, which now houses a School and then visit National Memorial Chorten, a monument dedicated to the Third King of Bhutan. His Late Majesty King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. The inside paintings and statues provide a very rare insight into Buddhist Philosophy. Then visit Handicrafts Emporium to see the exquisite artistry of traditional crafts and textiles. Visit to TashichhoDzong (Fortress of the Glorious Religion), built in 1641 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal and reconstructed in 1961 by the Late King, His Majesty King Jigme Dorji Wang chuck, who is regarded as Father of Modern Bhutan. Evening free for shopping and leisure. Dinner and overnight at the hotel in Thimphu.
Day 10. Thimphu – Punakha – Wangduephodrang: (2 – 3 Hours)
After breakfast, drive to Punakha. Stop at Dochula pass to view the higher Himalayas, if the weather is clear. Visit the Chhimi Lhakhang on the way to Punakha. The Temple, also known as “The Temple of Fertility” was built by Lama Drukpa Kuenley, “The Devine Mad Man”.
After lunch, visit the Punakha Dzong, built in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. For many years until the time of the second king, it served as the seat of the Government. The Dzong was named Druk Pungthang Dechen Phodrang (Palace of Great Happiness). Punakha is still the winter residence of Je-Khenpo and King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck convened the first National Assembly here in 1952. Drive to Wangduephodrang. Visit a village and meet local people. Over night in Hotel.
Day 11. Wangduephodrang – Thimphu:
After breakfast, drive to Thimphu. After lunch, visit the Royal silver smiths and Bhutanese paper factory followed by shopping for souvenirs in the shops of Thimphu. Over night in Hotel.
Day 12. Departure:
Early morning drive to Paro Airport and farewell.
Included Services
Imperial Lotus Tours is delighted to offer you an exceptional journey through the enchanting kingdom of Bhutan. To ensure complete clarity about the services included in your tour package, please review the following terms and conditions regarding inclusions:
Note*
(Please note that the services mentioned above are exclusively included in your tour package. Any additional services, activities, personal expenses, or purchases (e.g. Airfare, Any expenses of personal nature such at laundry, table drinks, telephone calls etc.) not explicitly listed as included in this agreement will be at your own cost.)
Imperial Lotus Tours is committed to providing you with an enriching and seamless travel experience in Bhutan. We hope you enjoy your stay in this extraordinary kingdom and make unforgettable memories.
Imperial Lotus Tours offers a range of value-added options to enhance your travel experience in Bhutan.
1. Cultural Immersion:
Imperial Lotus Tours offers a range of cultural immersion experiences, including;
1. Traditional Bhutanese cooking classes.
2. Archery lessons.
3. Dance performances.
These activities provide a deeper understanding of Bhutanese culture and traditions, and are a great way to connect with the local people.
2. Wellness Activities:
Bhutan is known for its focus on wellness and mindfulness, and Imperial Lotus Tours offers a range of wellness activities to help you relax and rejuvenate. These include;
1. Yoga and meditation sessions.
2. Traditional hot stone baths.
3.spa treatments.
3. Adventure Activities:
Bhutan is a great destination for adventure activities, and Imperial Lotus Tours offers a range of options, including;
1. Trekking.
2. Mountain biking.
3. White-water rafting.
These activities provide an opportunity to explore Bhutan’s stunning natural beauty and challenge yourself physically.
4. Customized Itineraries:
Imperial Lotus Tours can customize your itinerary to suit your interests and preferences. Whether you want to focus on cultural experiences, wellness activities, adventure activities, or a combination of all three, Imperial Lotus Tours can create a personalized itinerary that meets your needs.
