Dagana Trek, nestled in Bhutan’s remote regions, where nature, culture, and history weave into an unforgettable adventure. Following an ancient Thimphu-Dagana trade route, the Dagana Trek immerses trekkers in centuries-old heritage while traversing well-paved trails through rugged terrain and pristine forests. Along the way, untouched landscapes unfold, not only showcasing abundant wildlife but also agricultural terraces reflecting traditional lifestyles. As you explore further, isolated villages reveal authentic Bhutanese rural life, where time-honored customs thrive. Meanwhile, hiking at a relaxed pace lets travelers absorb serene beauty, engage with hospitable communities, and witness breathtaking mountain vistas. With every step, the journey deepens—whether through panoramic views of snow-capped peaks or encounters with local traditions. Ultimately, the Dagana Trek blends adventure, history, and cultural immersion, leaving lasting memories and a profound appreciation for Bhutan’s unspoiled charm.
DAY 01: ARRIVAL PARO 2250 m
Upon arrival at Paro airport, you will be greeted by your local tour guide and transferred to your hotel for a brief rest. Afterward, embark on a half-day cultural sightseeing tour of Paro Valley. First, visit the Paro Rinpung Dzong, perched on a hilltop offering a stunning view of the valley. Next, explore the Ta Dzong, a former watchtower now housing Bhutan’s National Museum, which showcases religious and ancient artifacts. Finally, visit the Dumtse Lhakhang, a unique chorten-style temple located just outside Paro town. To conclude the day, enjoy your first evening in the serene surroundings of Paro.
DAY 02: TIGER’S NEST HIKE 2950 m 04 km 04 hr
Begin your day early for the iconic hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery, a must-visit pilgrimage site in the Himalayas. The hike, lasting 3-4 hours, takes you through lush forests to the monastery, which clings to the cliffside. According to legend, Guru Padmasambhava flew to the site on a tigress in the 8th century, meditating for three months to subdue evil spirits. Following this spiritual journey, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan, dating back to the 7th century. As the day winds down, enjoy a peaceful evening reflecting on the day’s spiritual and physical highlights.
DAY 03: PARO, GENEKHA, GUR
After breakfast, leave your hotel and drive along the expressway towards Thimphu. Passing through Chuzom, continue along a farm road to Genekha. From here, a short downhill drive leads you to a river where your trekking team awaits. The trek itself, just 7 km long, takes 2-3 hours and leads through thick forests of pine, fir, and rhododendrons. Eventually, you’ll reach the campsite at Gur, known for its winter yak pastures and surrounded by wildflowers and towering trees. To cap off the day, soak in the peacefulness of nature as you settle in for the night.
DAY 04: GUR-LABATAMBA 4300 m 12 km 07 hr
Today’s trek begins with an uphill climb through fir, spruce, birch, and rhododendron forests towards the Pagalaptsa pass (4250 m). From the pass, the trail leads through an open meadow with a gentle slope, providing breathtaking views of the rugged mountain vegetation. As you trek further, spot several yaks and herders’ stone houses in the valley. By the time you arrive at the campsite near Utsho Lake, you’ll be ready to relax after a challenging but rewarding day.
DAY 05: LABATAMBA-TSIBSABA 3870 m 06 hr
Leaving the campsite, you’ll cross a small stream and ascend gradually to a cliff. On clear days, you may spot the impressive Kangchenjunga in the distance. Next, continue to Langtsho Lake (Ox Lake), then climb to Lawagu Pass (4200m), where you can enjoy spectacular views of Mount Jomolhari. As you descend to open pastureland, pass yak herders' camps before reaching your campsite next to an old Daga Penlop guesthouse. In the evening, reflect on the day’s scenic beauty.
DAY 06: TSIBSABA-WANGRAPANG 2900 m 06 hr
Today’s trek starts with a descent through dense rhododendron, fir, spruce, and blue pine forests. Although the path is well maintained, it may become muddy in certain areas. Along the way, encounter yaks and horses belonging to Dagala’s nomadic people. As you continue downhill, the landscape shifts to broadleaved forest, eventually leading to an open meadow campsite. To end the day, enjoy the peaceful surroundings and valley views.
DAY 07: WANGRAPANG-KUNGA 2100 m 05 hr
Your trek continues downhill through a broadleaved forest, with opportunities to observe birds and wildlife. After crossing a small stream, ascend a steep hill for an hour before reaching your campsite. Despite its short length, the journey offers ample time to appreciate the forest’s biodiversity. By nightfall, relax in the remote, tranquil setting.
DAY 08: KUNGA-DAGANA 1790 m 07 hr
Today’s trek begins with a short climb through dense jungle rich in birds and wildlife. After several hours, follow a water pipeline to Dagana, emerging at a roadhead. Finally, transfer to the 17th-century Dagana Dzong to explore its historical significance. As the trek concludes, thank your crew for their support.
DAY 09: DAGANA – THIMPHU
After breakfast, drive toward Thimphu. En route, stop at Punakha Dzong, a fortress built in 1637. Later, hike to Chemi Lhakhang, a temple linked to Bhutan’s first king. Afterward, continue to Thimphu for an evening of exploration and rest.
DAY 10: THIMPHU-PARO
Begin your day with a tour of Thimphu’s highlights: the Buddha Dordenma Statue, National Memorial Chorten, and Changangkha Lhakhang. Following your exploration, drive back to Paro. Conclude your trip with a serene evening in the valley.
DAY 11: HOTEL-AIRPORT
After a leisurely breakfast, transfer to Paro Airport. Before departure, bid farewell to your guide and driver. As you reflect on your journey, cherish the memories of Bhutan’s untouched beauty and culture.
THE QUOTED BHUTAN TOUR COST INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING
Your Bhutan tour package comprehensively covers the following services and amenities:
Firstly, the rate includes all three meals, featuring both local and continental healthy cuisine.
Additionally, accommodation in three-star hotels on a twin/double sharing basis is provided.
Moreover, you’ll enjoy air-conditioned, tourist-standard transportation throughout your journey.
Furthermore, a licensed English-speaking guide will accompany you on all sightseeing tours.
The package also provides extensive, flexible itineraries tailored to your preferences.
Importantly, the Bhutan Government royalty fees of $100 per person per night are included.
Additionally, all entry fees, museum charges, and historical attraction costs are covered.
All applicable taxes, including BST (10%) and service charge (10%), are part of the rate.
Lastly, the one-time visa fee ($40) and airport arrival and departure transfers in Bhutan are included.
INCLUSIVE TREK AND CAMPING
For trekking and camping adventures, the following are included:
Your package features dining tents, toilet tents, twin-sharing sleeping tents, mattresses, and essential camping equipment.
A basic first aid kit is also provided for safety during treks.
Additionally, local drinks, including wine, are included to enhance your experience.
Moreover, a dedicated support team (guide, cook, assistants) ensures a smooth trek.
Furthermore, ponies and yaks (with handlers) are available for transport during the trek.
COMPLEMENTARY SERVICES
To further enrich your journey, the following complimentary services are offered:
Upon arrival, refreshments will be provided to welcome you.
Each day, you’ll receive a bottle of mineral water.
On departure, a small farewell gift will be presented as a token of appreciation.
For groups exceeding seven members, a cultural program and a traditional farewell dinner at a local farmhouse are included.
THE QUOTED BHUTAN TOUR COST DOES NOT INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING
Please note that the following are not covered:
Firstly, incoming/outgoing Bhutan airfares and airport taxes are excluded.
Additionally, drinks (alcoholic/non-alcoholic) beyond specified inclusions are not covered.
Guides speaking languages other than English incur extra charges.
Expenses of a personal nature, such as tipping, laundry, phone calls, or medical costs, are your responsibility.
Moreover, extra costs due to unforeseen events (e.g., natural disruptions) are not included.
Services outside Bhutan or bank transfer fees ($45) are excluded.
Lastly, tipping for guides, drivers, etc., is at your discretion.
The Dagana Trek offers diverse topography, featuring lush valleys, dense forests, alpine meadows, and dramatic ridges, making it an exceptional experience for trekking enthusiasts; the route includes steep ascents through oak, rhododendron, and pine forests, leading to panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, traditional villages, serene pastures, waterfalls, and cultural landmarks.
Trail markers include wooden signboards and natural landmarks, along with direction indicators like stone cairns and flags at key junctions, guide trekkers seamlessly through the paths, ensuring clarity and safety in navigation while blending with the natural environment, providing both functionality and charm to the trekking experience.
Freshwater streams along the route provide drinking water. However, purification is essential; while food stops are unavailable en route, arrangements will be made in advance by your local host, ensuring proper hydration and nourishment throughout the trek in remote areas where self-sufficiency is key to a successful journey.
Risk zones include steep descents near the Sunkosh River and potential leech encounters in forested areas during the monsoon season; there are no designated first aid points on the trail, so trekkers should carry a personal first aid kit, while also remaining cautious of occasional wildlife sightings like wild boars and monkeys.
GROUP ABOVE 03 MEMBERS
Before embarking on this Dagana trek, it is essential to dedicate time to proper preparation and training to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, as the challenging terrain, remote locations, and demanding physical requirements of the journey necessitate excellent fitness, stamina, and mental resilience; this includes engaging in cardio exercises, strength training, and hiking practice, as well as researching the route, packing appropriate gear, and acclimatizing to high altitudes, which will not only enhance your capability to handle the trek’s rigors but also allow you to fully appreciate the breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable moments this extraordinary adventure has.
This trek is best suited for seasoned adventurers with prior walking experience and fitness preparation, as it demands stamina, endurance, and readiness for challenging ascents, descents, and long walking days; it is not recommended for children or the elderly, ensuring participants are fully equipped to embrace the physical demands while enjoying every moment of this thrilling journey; taking a fitness class beforehand will enhance your ability to tackle the rugged terrain with confidence and make the most of the trek’s breathtaking landscapes, allowing you to savor an unforgettable adventure tailored for those ready to push their limits and explore nature's best.
The higher your trek takes you, the more crucial – and often costlier – your gear becomes. However, every investment will feel worthwhile when you're standing at the summit.
Here’s a checklist of essential items to prepare for high-altitude trekking.
High-altitude hiking and mountaineering offer unmatched thrills and unforgettable rewards. With proper gear and preparation, you can safely explore breathtaking landscapes and achieve incredible milestones.
Altitude sickness, including Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), can develop at elevations above 8,200 feet (2,500 meters) due to reduced oxygen levels. This condition can be life-threatening and is the leading cause of medical evacuations in the Himalayas.
AMS is the most common and frequently affects trekkers who ascend too rapidly without adequate acclimatization. Fortunately, proper preparation, gradual altitude training, and acclimatization can significantly reduce the risk of severe altitude illnesses, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable trekking experience.
Our every tour and travel package is crafted to immerse you in local cultures, offering you the chance to engage with communities as you explore. Whether staying in a local farmhouse, visiting farms, or trekking through remote areas, our packages always include community involvement and unique experiences. We take you beyond the typical tourist sites, guiding you through hidden gems off the beaten path—places not found in guidebooks and missed by most tourists. Our goal is to provide travelers with an interactive, authentic experience, fostering respect for local customs and traditions.
Every area we visit holds great importance to us, and trekkers can truly appreciate and enjoy the effort invested in showcasing Bhutan's pristine landscapes. Let us collectively support the conservation of Bhutan’s natural environment by respecting, preserving, and refraining from polluting these treasured spaces, as our conscious actions contribute significantly to safeguarding the delicate balance of this unique ecosystem. By practicing sustainable tourism and protecting these threatened natural wonders, we ensure that the unmatched beauty and cultural richness of this small kingdom are preserved for future generations to admire, cherish, and be inspired by.
Our expert cook ensures your trek is fueled with fresh, organic, and healthy ingredients sourced from local markets, crafting a delightful blend of local and continental dishes to keep you energized; breakfast features options like toast, juice, coffee, tea, cereal, fresh fruits, pancakes, eggs, and fried bacon or sausage, while lunch is often a packed hot meal for convenience; dinner offers a variety of freshly available grilled meats, fish, chicken, pork, beef, and optional vegetables, with occasional treats of local or regional specialties, delivering a culinary experience that satisfies your appetite and enhances the joy of your trekking adventure.
Whether you’re embarking on a trek or simply visiting Bhutan, obtaining travel insurance is mandatory, as Born Explorer cannot control or take responsibility for unforeseen events such as natural disasters or other incidents that could impact your trip; holding comprehensive travel insurance is essential to cover all intended activities, including health emergencies, lost belongings, and any other related issues beyond our control, ensuring peace of mind and protection throughout your journey, as this vital safeguard allows you to focus on enjoying Bhutan’s breathtaking landscapes and unique cultural experiences while being prepared for any unexpected challenges that may arise.
Your trek will be guided by a highly experienced senior trekking guide with extensive knowledge of the route, terrain, and essential details, ensuring your journey is safe, well-organized, and enjoyable; their expertise encompasses not only navigating the path but also addressing any challenges, providing valuable tips, and sharing insights about the region’s natural beauty, culture, and environment, which greatly enhances your trekking experience; with their support, you’ll have access to guidance on acclimatization, equipment, and local customs, allowing you to focus on the adventure while feeling confident and well-prepared throughout the journey, making your trek truly memorable and enriching.
Enhance your travel experience by upgrading your stay at luxurious hotels that offer unparalleled comfort and world-class amenities, ensuring a memorable and relaxing retreat.
Alternatively, immerse yourself in the heart of local culture by spending time with the locals at their homestays, where you can experience their everyday life, traditions, and warm hospitality. This unique opportunity allows you to bond with the community, savor authentic home-cooked meals, and gain deeper insights into their customs. Whether indulging in luxury or embracing local living, both options promise enriching experiences that will make your journey truly unforgettable.
We offers the ultimate and most reliable escape to Bhutan, providing an unbeatable experience through stunning landscapes and thrilling exploration. Trust us to deliver an unforgettable journey.
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