This extraordinary 13-day expedition combines a remarkable trek through Bhutan's legendary Dagala region, home to countless sacred lakes, with cultural exploration of the kingdom's most significant sites. This journey weaves through high-altitude landscapes where golden trout swim in crystal lakes and Himalayan peaks pierce the clouds.
Begin your journey with a spectacular mountain flight into Paro, where Himalayan giants pierce the clouds. Your afternoon introduces Bhutan's rich cultural heritage at the National Museum (Ta Dzong), housing precious religious relics and historical artifacts. Visit the commanding Rimpong Dzong to view the meditation master Milarepa's sacred paintings before exploring the ancient cantilever bridge, still serving the local community.
Undertake the legendary ascent to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger's Nest), climbing 900 meters above Paro Valley. This sacred site marks where Guru Rimpoche meditated for three months in the 8th century before manifesting as Guru Dorji Drolo alongside his tigress consort. The afternoon explores the restored Drukgyel Dzong, with Mount Jomolhari (7,314m) providing a majestic backdrop.
Drive to Genekha village (2,800m) to begin your trek. Cross the Wang Chu (Thimphu River) and ascend steadily through oak forests to a rocky rest point. Continue through birch and bamboo forests to reach your first camp at Gur (3,350m).
Ascend to the alpine zone through Gibze Kebze (3,710m), crossing rhododendron-covered hillsides to Pagalabsta La Pass (4,170m). Descend to the stone yak herder's hut at Wataching (4,100m), your home for the night.
Trek through rugged terrain into the broad Labatama valley, dotted with yak herder shelters. Camp near Utsho Lake (4,250m), famous for its golden trout. Optional climb to Jomo peak, passing Setsho Lake for views of Kanchenjunga and Chomolhari.
Cross the challenging Labajong La Pass (4,400m) with an optional detour to a magnificent viewpoint. Multiple camping options exist depending on water availability and season.
Early morning reveals breathtaking views of Himalayan giants - Kanchenjunga, Chomolhari, and Jichu Drake. Trek through rhododendron forests past Chole La Pass (4,100m) and Kiwi Chowa (4,030m). Climb Talakha Peak (4,300m) for panoramic views of Thimphu Valley before descending through mixed forest to the serene Talakha Monastery.
Complete your trek with an hour's descent to the road. Drive through apple orchards to Thimphu, visiting the National Memorial Chorten, 12th-century Changangkha Temple, and Zilukha Nunnery.
Dedicate the day to exploring Thimphu's cultural treasures:
Visit the School for Arts and Crafts where students master 13 traditional art forms
Explore the National Library's collection of ancient scriptures dating to the 8th century
Experience the Traditional Paper Factory
Tour the Folk Heritage Museum's medieval farmhouse replica
Optional visits to Tango and Cheri Monasteries (45-minute hike)
If visiting during a weekend, explore the vibrant Thimphu Market
Journey across the magnificent Dochu-La pass (3,100 meters), where 108 chortens stand among vast rhododendron forests blooming in spring. In Punakha, explore the majestic Punakha Dzong, "Palace of Great Happiness," built in 1637 at the confluence of Mo Chu and Pho Chu rivers. This architectural marvel, with its gold and silver-decorated cypress pillars, holds special significance as the site of Bhutan's first king's coronation in 1907. Afternoon walk to Chimi Lhakhang, temple of the Divine Madman, renowned for its fertility blessings.
Begin with a morning hike through rice fields to Khamsum Yueley Namgyal Chorten, built by Queen Ashi Tshering Yangdon Wangchuk. This architectural wonder houses sacred Nyingmapa tradition paintings. Enjoy a riverside picnic lunch before a pleasant walk through farmland back to Punakha Dzong. Return to Thimphu for shopping at handicraft and souvenir stores.
A leisurely day to either relax in Thimphu or return early to Paro for further exploration of its beautiful valley. This flexible day allows for last-minute shopping, photography, or additional sightseeing based on your interests.
Morning departure from Paro International Airport, carrying memories of sacred lakes, mountain passes, and Bhutanese hospitality.