Dagala Trek

Upon arrival in Paro, you are met and transferred to the hotel. Spend rest of the day visiting few sights, walking and strolling in Paro. Overnight in hotel.

Drive short distance to Thimphu (1hr), where we spend the morning visiting its attractions.  Then drive across spectacular Dochula pass to Punakha (3+hrs). Lunch could be planned at Dochula pass or in Thimphu. In the evening, visit Rinchingang village near Wangdue and Chimi Lhakhang temple near Lobesa.

The Punakha-Wangdue valley is situated at a lower elevation of approximately 1250 meters above sea level, giving it a subtropical climate characterized by warm summers and enjoyable winters. We’ll embark on a 45-minute uphill hike to explore the Khamsum Yuelley Chorten. Upon descending, we’ll pay a visit to the impressive Punakha Dzong, strategically positioned at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers. Later in the afternoon, we’ll drive to one of the villages perched high on the hills and commence a 2-3 hour scenic walk.

We will commence our journey back to Thimphu, passing through the Dochula Pass once more. This will grant us another remarkable chance to immerse ourselves in the awe-inspiring vistas of the grand Himalayan mountains. During our journey, we will make a stop at Lamperi Botanical Park for a brief walk.

The remainder of the day will be dedicated to taking leisurely strolls and exploring the sights in the capital, helping us acclimate and prepare for the upcoming trek

We will embark on a brief one-hour drive to the south of Thimphu, reaching the charming Gyenekha village. Our trek commences from this picturesque village, beginning with a gentle descent towards the river. Once across the river, the ascent begins and continues until you arrive at a sprawling rock platform, providing a picturesque view of the area below. Continuing onward for another two hours, we will arrive at Gur, an expanse of yak pastures situated just beneath the main trail.

 1,220m ascent, 110m descent, camp altitude 4,300m.
On the second day, the trail takes you across the high ridges from where you can truly appreciate the rugged beauty of your surroundings and the mountain vegetation. The path winds through refreshing meadows adorned with wild flowers and asparagus (in spring). The first mountain pass you cross is marked by a huge cairn and gives a spectacular view of Kanjenjunga (Sikkim in India) and 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 meadows and yak herder camps. Once you have descended into the Labatama valley you begin climbing gradually through the valley, passing several yak herder huts before you arrive at Uthso Tsho. The campsite is right next to the lake. Overnight in tents.

This day will be dedicated to relaxing and recuperating at Labatama. It is an ideal to take an excursion to any of three nearby lakes: Reli Tsho, Hen Tsho and Jama Tsho. There is an opportunity to engage in some trout fishing. Permits are required for fishing so you should let us know to make the necessary arrangements beforehand. Overnight in tents.

For those who are short on time, this day could be removed

The trail climbs along the western side of Dala Tsho up to a saddle at 4,520m. From here onwards you will have a fantastic view of the majestic Himalayan peaks all through the descent. The mountain peaks visible include Mt. Everest (Nepal), Mt. Kanchenjunga (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 can climb a peak close to the saddle with an altitude of 4,720m. From the saddle the path descends, passing some yak herder huts to Doccha Chhu. You follow the river for a while, but stay higher up on the slope to reach Panka with ascents and descents along the way. Overnight in tents.

This day entails the crossing of several passes but none of them require a major climb. Watch out for different varieties of blue poppy (June-July) and birds while in this area. After crossing the last pass, Tale La (4,180m) you start a long descent to Chamgang. However the new dirt road has come up quite a bit. If the road condition is good, you may only have to walk till the monastery saving few kilometers on foot. Meet your vehicle and drive to Paro, which takes about 2hrs. This evening we hope to visit Rinphung Dzong and others as per available time. Overnight in hotel at Paro.

Transfer to the trail head and hike to famous Taktsang or Tiger’s nest monastery. It takes around 2 hours to reach 1st viewpoint and further walk of 1 hr or more takes you to 2nd viewpoint. Following the flight of stairs down and across a chasm and with slight mount will arrive at Tiger Nest Monastery. Upon return visit the ruins of Drukgyel Dzong and other sights in Paro. In the evening stroll around Paro town with option for farewell dinner in a local restaurant. Overnight in hotel.

Transfer to Airport on time for your outbound journey. If your flight departs late, we can utilize the morning for more sightseeing in Paro valley.