This six-day trek takes you into an area adorned with a multitude of pristine, crystal clear lakes. As you walk amidst the shimmering lakes you’ll be treated to stunning views of the entire Himalayan mountain range and some of the world’s highest peaks including Mt. Everest, Jomolhari, Masang Gang, Jichu Drake, Gangche Ta and many more.
During the trek an entire day will be dedicated to visiting some of the more picturesque lakes, fishing and resting. The trail also takes you through several Bhutanese villages so you can get a good idea of traditional Bhutanese village life as you make your way back from the lakes.
While this is a somewhat strenuous trek, it is well worth the effort because of the tranquility and beauty of natural landscape that you will enjoy during the journey. The best time to embark on this trek is between April-June or September –October.
ITINERARY
Day 01: Geynekha – Gur: distance 7 km, time 5 hours
The trek starts from the beautiful Genekha village. The villages of this region produce famous matsutake and chantarelle mushrooms. Wander through terraced fields and coniferous vegetation then the true communion with the nature starts with alpine flora and plenty of birds. Begin the short descent down to the river crossing followed by two hours of gradual uphill climb until you reach the huge rock platform, which offers a picturesque view of the valley. After another two hours of trekking you will reach Gur (3,290m) amongst abundance of flowers where you camp for the night.
Overnight Tented Campsite.
Day 02: Gur – Labatama: distance 12 km, time 5 hours
Whilst trekking across the ridges one enjoys the beauty of the rugged mountain vegetation. The path winds through flowers and wild asparagus (in spring) and the meadows are refreshing and inspiring. The first pass symbolised by a huge cairn gives a spectacular view of Kanchenjunga (Sikkim) and most of the Bhutanese Himalayan peaks. Descending from the pass one will view the whole Dagala range, meadows and Yak herder’s camp. Once descended into the Labatama valley you ascend gradually through the valley passing some Yak herder huts till you reach Utsho Tsho. The campsite is right next to the lake, where plenty of golden trout flourish. (4300m).
Overnight Tented Campsite.
Day 03: Labatama
Enjoy a day at leisure relaxing and exploring Labatama valley. For the energetic choose from a range of day excursions to either Relitsho, Hentsho or Jametsho Lake. Camp at Labatama (4300m)
Overnight Tented Campsite.
Day 04: Labatama – Panka: distance 8 km, time 4-5 hours
The trail climbs along the western side of Dala Tsho up to a saddle at (4,520m) from where you have again a majestic view of the prominent Himalayan peaks such as Everest, Kanchenjunga, Masang Gang, Gangchhenta, Tsenda Gang and Jichu Drake. If you want an even better view you can climb to 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 Chuu. You follow the river for a while, staying higher up on the slope until you reach Panka. On this route Himalayan Monal Pheasants are a common sight. Camp at Panka (4,000m).
Overnight Tented Campsite.
Day 05: Panka – Tsheregang: distance 8 km, time 4-5 hours
This day entails the crossing of several passes, none of them affording a major climb, and often with an abundance of mountain birds. After crossing the last pass, Tale La (4180m) you start a long descent to Talikha Goempa. You will camp at Tsheregang (3080m) One also has a great view of Bhutan’s capital, Thimphu from here.
Overnight Tented Campsite.
Day 06: Tsheregang – Chamgang: distance 6 km, time 3 hours
From the monastery it is a short hike down to the feeder road with will lead you to the Village of Chamgang.
On completion of trek you will be met and transferred by road to your overnight accommodation.