• Bestseller Bestseller
10 Days

Dagala Trek in Bhutan

USD $ 2,525
per person

Activities in this trip includes

Trip Code

TMG-BT001

Trip Grade

Moderate

"Moderate" trips are tailored for travelers with a reasonable level of fitness and some prior experience. These adventures offer a balanced mix of activity, featuring longer hikes with moderate elevation gain, extended city tours with plenty of walking, or wildlife safaris that require some endurance. They are suitable for a wide range of participants seeking an enjoyable challenge.

Max. Elevation

4,300mm

Group Size

12 max

Accommodation
& Meal Info

Comfort

Comfort (3-star): Mid-range accommodations with extra comforts. Ideal for trekkers at lodges/teahouses. Includes daily breakfast in Kathmandu. (AP= Accommodation with all three meals at trekking destination).

Highlights

  1. Scenic Mountains and High-Altitude Lakes: The trek unfolds against a backdrop of awe-inspiring Himalayan mountains, with the opportunity to witness clear views of Mt. Kanchenjunga in India on bright winter and spring days. You’ll explore high-altitude glacial lakes, each with its unique charm, creating an atmosphere of tranquility and natural beauty that’s truly unforgettable.
  2. Meet Local People: Experience the warmth and hospitality of the Bhutanese people as you traverse through pristine villages. Interact with locals, gaining insight into their traditional way of life. Bhutan’s rich culture and traditions are deeply ingrained in its society, and meeting the locals is an enriching cultural exchange.
  3. Ancient Monasteries and Temples: Bhutan is known for its ancient monasteries and temples, each with its unique history and spiritual significance. Along the trek, you’ll have the chance to visit these sacred sites, immersing yourself in the spiritual essence of the region. It’s an opportunity to appreciate Bhutan’s Buddhist heritage.
  4. Majestic Dzongs (Forts): Bhutan’s Dzongs, or forts, are architectural marvels with a rich historical and cultural background. As part of the trek, you’ll have the privilege of exploring these majestic structures. They stand as testaments to Bhutan’s heritage, offering a glimpse into the country’s past and its enduring traditions.

Trip overview

The Dagala Trek, a five-day expedition through the heart of Bhutan, offers a mesmerizing journey through pristine landscapes, high-altitude glacial lakes, and the majestic Himalayas. This trek is not just a walk; it’s a profound experience that unveils the mystical allure of the Land of the Thunder Dragon. The adventure begins near Thimphu, the capital city, in the serene village of Khoma and concludes in Chamgang, Thimphu, creating a circular route that allows you to witness the diverse and captivating landscapes of this enchanting country. The trek is known for its moderate difficulty level, making it accessible to both seasoned trekkers and those new to the experience. Most trekking days are relatively easy and short, offering ample opportunities to immerse yourself in Bhutan’s natural beauty. However, there are some challenging sections, including long steep climbs that will test your endurance and reward you with incredible views.

The highest point on the Dagala Trek reaches a breathtaking 4,300 meters, allowing you to gaze upon the snow-capped peaks of Mt. Kanchenjunga in neighboring India on clear winter and spring days. It’s a sight that will stay with you forever, a memory to cherish.

Covering a total distance of 41 kilometers, this trek takes you through a diverse range of ecosystems, from dense forests teeming with rhododendron blooms to high-altitude meadows that seem like something out of a fairytale. Along the way, you’ll encounter the serene beauty of numerous glacial lakes, each with its unique charm and significance in Bhutanese folklore.

The best times to embark on this unforgettable journey are from March to May and from mid-September to mid-December. During these periods, Bhutan enjoys the most favorable weather conditions, with clear skies, comfortable temperatures, and blooming wildflowers decorating your path.

The Dagala Trek is not just a physical adventure; it’s a spiritual and cultural immersion. Bhutan is known for its deeply-rooted Buddhist traditions and unique way of life, and on this trek, you’ll have opportunities to interact with the warm and friendly locals. You’ll visit remote monasteries, experience traditional Bhutanese hospitality, and gain insights into the rich cultural tapestry that defines this Himalayan kingdom.

In conclusion, the Dagala Trek is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that allows you to explore the natural beauty, cultural richness, and spiritual depth of Bhutan. It’s a journey that will leave you with a profound sense of wonder and a deeper connection to this mystical land and its people. Don’t miss the chance to embark on this incredible odyssey into the heart of Bhutan, where every step is a discovery and every moment is a memory to be cherished for a lifetime.

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Itinerary

Day 01. Arrive Paro and sightseeing | Altitude: 2280 meters.
Day 02. Paro – Hike to the Tiger’s nest monastery | 7 km | Hike: 4 hours.
Day 03. Paro – Geynekha – Gur (start – Dagala trek in Bhutan) | 47 km | Drive: 2 Hours | Hike: 4 hours | Altitude: 3290 m.
Day 04. Gur – Labatamba | 12 Km | Hike: 5 hours | Altitude: 4300 m.
Day 05. Labatamba – Panka | 8 km | Hike: 6-7 hours | Altitude: 4000 m.
Day 06. Panka – Talakha | 8 km | Hike: 6-7 hours | Altitude: 3080 m.
Day 07. Talakha – Chamgang – Thimphu (End of Dagala trek Bhutan) | 6 Km | Hike: 3 hours | Altitude: 2334 m.
Day 08. Thimphu sightseeing | Altitude 2334 m.
Day 09. Thimphu – Punakha sightseeing – Thimphu | 76 Km | Drive: 2 1/2 hours.
Day 10. Paro – Departure | 54 km | Drive: 1 hour.

01

DAY

Arrive Paro and sightseeing

Upon your arrival at Paro Airport, your guide will be there to warmly welcome you. You will be transferred to your hotel, where you can rest and refresh. In the afternoon, you’ll start your exploration of Bhutan with a visit to the Ta Dzong, originally built in 1656 and now serving as the National Museum of Bhutan. Following this, you’ll proceed to the historic Rinpung Dzong, a structure dating back to 1646, built by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. To immerse yourself in Bhutanese culture, the evening will include a visit to a local farm house. You’ll conclude the day with a delightful dinner and overnight stay at your hotel.

Destination:

Paro

Accommodation:

Hotel

Altitude:

2280m

02

DAY

Paro – Hike to the Tiger’s nest monastery | 7 km | Hike: 4 hours.

The day begins with a drive to Satsam Chorten, followed by a 2-hour hike to the iconic Paro Taktsang Monastery, also known as the Tiger’s Nest. Legend has it that Guru Rinpoche flew to this location on the back of a tigress, Dorji Drolo. In the afternoon, you’ll visit Drugyal Dzong, constructed in 1647 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, and Kichu Lhakhang, an ancient temple built in 659 A.D. by Tibetan King Srongtsen Gampo. An evening exploration of Paro town will offer you insights into the local lifestyle. Dinner and another overnight stay at your hotel will round off your day.

Destination:

Paro

Accommodation:

Hotel

03

DAY

Paro to Gur via Geynekha

After breakfast, you’ll embark on a 1.5-hour drive to Geynekha, with an opportunity to visit Tamchog Monastery, dating back to the 15th century. Continuing further, you’ll reach Genekha and begin your hike from Gyenekha, passing through Tsochekha village. Following lunch, you’ll hike to Gur, crossing a suspension bridge through an oak forest known for its mushrooms. The night will be spent in a camp at an altitude of 3290 meters.

Destination:

Gur

Accommodation:

Camp

Altitude:

3290m

04

DAY

Gur to Labatamba

Today’s trek involves crossing a pass at 4240 meters, providing stunning views of the Dagala village. Along the way, you’ll pass by several herders’ camps before reaching the broad Labatamba valley at 4300 meters, near Utso Lake. The area is renowned for its numerous lakes, and you’ll camp near one of them at an altitude of 4300 meters. Dinner and a night in your camp will complete the day’s journey.

Destination:

Labatamba

Accommodation:

Camp

Altitude:

4300m

05

DAY

Labatamba to Panka

The trail climbs along the western side of the lake at 4500 meters, offering impressive mountain vistas. Descending steeply from the pass, you’ll reach another lake at 4350 meters. A short distance beyond, you’ll enter a valley leading to Panka, situated at an altitude of 4000 meters. Dinner and an overnight stay will be in your camp.

Destination:

Panka

Accommodation:

Camp

Altitude:

4000m

06

DAY

Panka to Talakha

The route leads northward, crossing a pass at 4000 meters. As you climb along the ridge to a crest at 4270 meters, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the Dagala range and Thimphu in the distance. The descent takes you through forests to the Goemba and village of Talakha, located at 3080 meters. The day concludes with dinner and an overnight stay in your camp.

Destination:

Talakha

Accommodation:

Camp

Altitude:

3080m

07

DAY

Talakha to Thimphu (End of Dagala Trek)

The day begins with a steep downhill trail to Chamgang, situated at 2640 meters, where a vehicle will pick you up. This marks the end of your Dagala trek, and you’ll be driven back to Thimphu. After lunch, you can relax at your hotel and, in the evening, visit the Tashichho Dzong, the seat of the national government and central monastic body. Dinner and an overnight stay at your hotel will cap off the day.

Destination:

Thimpu

Accommodation:

Hotel

08

DAY

Explore Thimphu

In the morning, explore Thimphu’s cultural and historical treasures, including the Memorial Chorten, Kuensel Phodrang with the world’s tallest sitting Buddha statue, Changangkha Lhakhang, the Takin Preserve Center, Sangay Gang View Point, and Dupthop Lhakhang. Lunch at Simply Bhutan Museum will provide cultural insights, and in the afternoon, visit the School of 13 Arts and Crafts. In the evening, you can witness an archery match at Changlimithang before returning to your hotel for dinner and another comfortable night.

Destination:

Thimpu

Accommodation:

Hotel

09

DAY

Thimphu to Punakha and Back to Thimphu

Today, you’ll embark on a scenic drive to Punakha, Bhutan’s ancient capital until the reign of the second king. Along the way, you’ll visit the Dochula Pass, known for its well-arranged 108 stupas. At Punakha, you’ll explore Chimi Lhakhang, known as the Temple of Fertility, and Punakha Dzong, a magnificent structure built in 1637. In the evening, you’ll return to Thimphu, where you’ll enjoy dinner and stay overnight in your hotel.

Destination:

Thimphu

Accommodation:

Hotel

10

DAY

Departure

After breakfast, you’ll be driven to Paro Airport for your departure, marking the conclusion of your memorable Dagala trek Bhutan tour.

Destination:

Paro

Trip Includes

Includes

  • All meals [Breakfast /Lunch/Dinner and evening tea].
  • Accommodation [twin / double sharing basis]. Single room supplement is extra.
  • All transportation within the country including airport transfers.
  • Sustainable development fee (SDF).
  • Bhutan visa fee.
  • English speaking local guide.
  • Sightseeing.
  • Bottled water.
  • Nature Recreation and Ecotourism Division (NRED) Nu.1000
  • One guide.
  •  Cook.
  •  Helpers.
  • Ponies and yaks.
  • Tents (sleeping tent, mess tent, kitchen tent, toilet tent and shower tent).
  • 3 meals a days + evening tea.
  • Mattresses and all other trekking accessories.

Note: For trekking a load of 25 kg is allowed.

Excludes

  • Entrance fees for museums and monuments.
  • Drukair / Bhutan Airlines fares.
  • Insurance premiums.
  • Payments for service provided on a personal basis.
  • Cost for any services not mentioned in the “Cost include head”.
  • Cost incurred due to mishaps, strikes, political unrest etc.
  • Personal expenses such as laundry, soft drinks, camera charges, incidentals, portage, bellboy charges tips or any other services.

Making a difference

Leading the way in responsible tourism. We protect the environment, support local communities, and ensure a sustainable Himalayan future.

Planet

Travel Max Guide prioritizes environmental protection through eco-conscious practices to ensure the preservation of the Himalayas for future generations, drawing inspiration from the environmental commitment demonstrated by Western travelers during your trips.

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People

Travel Max Guide combines trekking and community support in the Himalayas. Join our mission, including orphan sponsorships and homestay/volunteer treks, and consider our CHILD SPONSORSHIP PROGRAM for underprivileged children.

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Customized to your schedule,
Designed for your comfort.

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