Dagala Trek 2026

The Dagala Trek 2026, also called the Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek, is a 5-day trek covering a distance of 41 km in Bhutan. It offers stunning alpine lakes, serene landscapes and an immersive nature experience. Starting from Khoma (near Thimphu) and ending at Chamgang, most days are short and easy, with a few steep climbs. You can also complement your trek with Bhutanese culture by visiting Tiger’s Nest, the Statue of Buddha Dordenma, National Memorial Chorten, and Punakha Dzong.

Highlights of Dagala Trek

Important Landmarks: Explore Bhutan’s rich history through its grand dzongs, sacred monasteries, and ancient temples, which are architectural marvels and spiritual hubs.

Museums and government institutions: Visit Bhutan’s informative museums and government institutions to gain insights into the nation’s history, culture, and governance.

Cultural immersion: Dive deep into Bhutan’s rich heritage by participating in local customs and traditions offering a truly authentic experience of Bhutanese life.

Meet local people: Engage with Bhutanese locals, who are known for their warmth and hospitality, offering a glimpse into their daily lives and traditions.

Hiking adventures: Bhutan’s trails, from easy walks to challenging treks like the Dagala Trek, showcase pristine nature and iconic landmarks such as Tiger’s Nest.

Nature of the Trip | Private & Guided Tour in Bhutan

Dagala trek 2026
Dagala Trek

Trip Facts

• Best Season: March – May & Mid-September – Mid-December
• Duration: 05 days
• Distance: 41 kilometers
• Elevation: 4,300m
• Difficulty level: Moderately difficult

Itinerary Outline - 09 Nights/10 Days

Day 01. Arrival at Paro & sightseeing (Elevation: 2280m)
Day 02. Paro – Hike to the Tiger’s Nest (Elevation: 2280m | 7km | Hike: 4hrs.)
Day 03. Paro – Thimphu: Gyenekha – Gur [Start of Dagala trek in Bhutan] (Elevation: 3290m | 47km | Drive: 2hrs. | Hike: 4hrs)
Day 04. Gur – Labatamba (Elevation: 4300m | 12Km | Hike: 5hrs.)
Day 05. Labatamba – Panka (Elevation 4000m | 8km | Hike: 6-7hrs.)
Day 06. Panka – Talakha (Elevation: 3080m | 8km | Hike: 6-7hrs.)
Day 07. Talakha – Chamgang – Thimphu [End of Dagala trek in Bhutan] (Elevation: 2320m | 6Km | Hike: 3hrs.)
Day 08. Thimphu sightseeing (Elevation: 2320m)
Day 09. Thimphu – Punakha sightseeing – Thimphu (Elevation 1200m | 76Km | 2hrs.)
Day 10. Thimphu – Paro: Departure (Elevation 2280 | 54km | 1hr.)

Detailed Dagala Trek Itinerary

Day 01. Paro Sightseeing

Arrival to Paro – Bhutan

  • You will be received by our representative from Bhutan Mystical Tour at the airport and drive to your hotel.

  • Visit Rimpung Dzong (fortress) also known as “Heap of Jewel” built in the year of 1646 the Centre of administrative and religious authority in this valley.

  • Next, visit to Ta Dzong built in 1656 and renovated in 1968, an ancient watchtower, which now has been converted as the National Museum.

  • Overnight in Paro

Day 02. Paro: Hiking to Tiger’s Nest

Hike to Tiger’s Nest

  • Dedicate your second day to a delightful excursion to the Tiger’s Nest, also known as Taktsang Monastery. The journey typically begins in the town of Paro and the hike can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours, depending on one’s pace and physical condition.

    On returning to the base, a Bhutanese cuisine experience in the woods is a celebration of both food and nature. It offers a unique way to engage with Bhutan’s rich culinary traditions while surrounded by the tranquility and beauty of the natural world.

  • Later visit a to Kichu Lhakhang, the 7th century monastery in Bhutan. At the end of the day, stroll down in the Paro town.

  • Overnight in Paro

Day 03. Paro – Thimphu: Geynekha – Gur [Start of Dagala trek in Bhutan]

Dagala Trek 2026 Begins

  • The Dagala trek 2026 will begin today. In the morning, drive towards Thimphu. On the way, we stop to see Tamchog Monastery, built by Thangthong Gyalpo, the Iron Bridge Builder in the 1500.A.D. He built 108 bridges across Tibet and Bhutan, out of which 8 were built in Bhutan.

  • We drive further to Gyenekha. The road passes through the villages of Bama and Chizhi. We disembark at Gyenekha 

    Start: Gyenekha
    Walking Distance: 7 km
    Walking Time: 4 Hours
    Elevation: 3,290m
    End: Gur
    Overnight in Camp

Day 04. Gur – Labatamba

Start: Gur
Walking Distance: 12 km
Walking Time: 5 Hours
Elevation: 4,300m [Ascent: 1,040m/Descent: 110m]
Highlight of the day: Yak herder’s camp & cross Utso lake.
End: Labatamba
Overnight in Camp

Day 05. Labatamba – Panka

Dagala Trek (Mid-way)

Start: Labatamba
Walking Distance: 8 km
Walking Time: 6 – 7 Hours
Elevation: 4,000m [Ascent:260m/Descent: 520m]
End: Panka
Overnight at Camp

Day 06. Panka – Talakha

Start: Panka
Walking Distance: 8 km
Walking Time: 6 – 7 Hours
Elevation: 3,080m [Ascent: 180m/Descent: 1,100m]
Highlight of the day: View of Dagala range & pass-through the village of Talakha.
End: Talakha
Overnight at Camp

Day 07. Talakha – Chamgang – Thimphu [End of Dagala trek in Bhutan]

Dagala Trek 2026 Ends

Start: Talakha
Walking Distance: 6 km
Walking Time: 3 Hours
Elevation: 2,640m [Descent: 440m]
End: Chamgang

Our vehicle will pick you up and drive to Thimphu city.

Overnight at Thimphu

Day 08. Thimphu Sightseeing

Explore Thimphu

  • Today the day begins with a visit to kuensel Phodrang where sits a massive sized Statue of Buddha Dordenma. From this point you will be able to view the entire scene of the capital city.
  • Next, visit National Memorial Chorten, a monument dedicated to the Third King of Bhutan.
  • Later drive uphill to the National Zoo which where the Takins, Bhutan’s national animal is preserved.
  • While returning, you may visit to Dupthop Lhakhang which is known to be one of the few surviving nunneries in Bhutan.
  • Visit the National Library to see a vast collection of ancient texts and scriptures. The library is a treasure trove for those interested in Bhutanese history and culture.
  • A visit to the National institute for Zorig Choesum (13 traditional arts) the painting School is on your next list. Bhutanese tradition has been preserved through painting and sculptures. Thangkas, the sacred Buddhist religious scrolls are either painted or embroidered on a piece of high-quality fabrics.
  • Walk for a minute to Folk Heritage Museum which offers visitors the Bhutanese folk heritage and craftsmanship of Bhutan’s rural past.
  • Driving further to the city, visit National Postal Museum, which is worth a visit for you can get your own picture on Bhutanese stamp right then and there. Get a photo clicked then and there or give a photo of your dear ones and you will get personalized stamps in 5 minutes.
  • Shopping at Centenary Farmers Market if you’re there on a weekend, this bustling market is a great place to experience local life and shop for handicrafts, fresh produce, and souvenirs.
  • Overnight in Thimphu
Day 09. Thimphu – Punakha Sightseeing

Punakha Sightseeing

  • Take a scenic drive to Punakha. En route, stop at the Dochula Pass (3116m) for panoramic views of the magnificent range of the Higher Himalayas.
  • Visit Royal Botanical Park at Lamperi, located half hour drive towards Punakha/Wangdue valleys.
  • On reaching Punakha, take a short hike to Chimi Lhakhang, which was built by Lama Drukpa Kuenley also known as “The Divine Madman”, in the year 1499. The Temple is also known as “the Temple of Fertility”.
  • Explore Bhutan’s most beautiful fortress, the Punakha Dzong built in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal and is situated at the confluence of the Pho Chu (Male River) and the Mo Chu (Female River). War materials captured during the various battles with Tibetans are preserved here. Punakha served as a capital of Bhutan till the year of 1955.
  • In the evening, walk across the longest suspension bridge in Bhutan (160 m). The bridge is the longest of its kind and connects the two sides of the Pho chu river. You will get a great view of the river, valley, temple, and a good boost of adrenaline as well. Return to Thimphu in the evening.
  • Overnight in Thimphu
Day 10. Thimphu – Paro: Departure
  • Our guide will drop you at Paro international airport as per your flight schedule. Farewell for your onwards journey.

Inclusive Cost - Dagala Trek 2026

The cost for Dagala Trek listed below includes the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of US $100 per person per night and the Bhutan visa fee of US $40 per person. Please note that entrance fees for museums, monuments and festival visits are not included and must be paid directly at the respective sites.

US $ 3460 per person

  • Accommodation: twin/double sharing basis (single room supplement available at extra cost)
  • All meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner and evening tea/coffee
  • All transportation within Bhutan, including airport transfers
  • All Sightseeing tours
  • SDF and government taxes
  • Bhutan visa fee
  • English-speaking local guide
  • Bottled water
  • Entrance fees for museums and monuments
  • Flight fares [Drukair / Bhutan Airlines]
  • Insurance premiums
  • Expenses arising from accidents, labor disputes, civil disturbances or similar events
  • Individual expenses including laundry, beverages, camera fees, miscellaneous costs, luggage handling, bellboy tips, gratuities and other personal services.
  • NRED (Nature Recreation and Ecotourism Division) fee: Nu. 1000
  • A professional trekking guide
  • Trekking cook
  • Support staff (helpers)
  • Ponies and yaks for transporting equipment
  • Tents, including sleeping, mess, kitchen, toilet, and shower tents
  • Three meals daily, plus evening tea
  • Mattresses and all essential trekking gear
    Note: A maximum load of 25 kg per person is allowed for the trek.

Essentials for the Dagala Trek 2026

  • Comfortable Trekking Boots: Essential for the Dagala Trek 2026, sturdy, waterproof, and breathable boots with good ankle support help tackle Bhutan’s rugged trails.

  • Sleeping Bag: Lightweight, insulated sleeping bag keeps you warm during cold nights on the Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek.

  • Layered Clothing: Moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and waterproof outer layers to handle Bhutan’s unpredictable weather.

  • Durable Backpack: Spacious trekking backpack with adjustable straps, hip belt, and compartments for organized packing.

  • Hydration System: Water bladder or reusable bottle with a filter ensures you stay hydrated throughout the trek.

  • Trekking Poles: Lightweight, adjustable poles with shock-absorbing features provide stability and reduce joint strain.

  • Medicines / First Aid Kit: Essential supplies for minor injuries and any personal medications.

  • Portable Power Bank: Lightweight power bank to charge phones, cameras, and other devices while on the trek.

  • Sun Protection Gear: Wide-brimmed hat, UV-blocking sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen protect against high-altitude sun exposure.

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FAQs - Dagala Trek 2026

Best Seasons – Dagala Trek 2026

The best time is spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) for clear skies, pleasant temperatures, and stunning lake views.

The Dagala region is dotted with numerous high-altitude lakes, formed by melting glaciers and monsoon rains. The trekking trail winds past several of these scenic lakes, earning it the name Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek.

Difficulty Level – Dagala Trek

The Dagala Trek in Bhutan is moderately challenging and best suited for hikers with good fitness. The trail includes multiple climbs above 4,000 m and narrow, unmarked paths, adding to the adventure.

No, fishing is not allowed as the lakes are considered sacred.

During the Dagala Trek 2026, you’ll be supported by a professional guide, a cook, and a horseman to carry your luggage.

Bhutan Flights

Bhutan Mystical will book and ticket your flights to and from Paro with Drukair (Royal Bhutan Airlines) or Bhutan Airlines. As your tour operator, we will manage all aspects of your Paro flights, including notifying you of any changes to flight schedules. Since flight timings can change at short notice, we will keep you informed. For more information visit

Drukair 

Bhutan Airlines