The Laya Gasa Trek is one of Bhutan’s most rewarding trekking adventures, taking you through remote Himalayan landscapes, traditional highland villages, pristine alpine meadows, dramatic mountain passes, and the unique culture of the Layap people. This extraordinary journey combines breathtaking views of Mount Jomolhari, Jichu Drake, Gangchhenta, and other Himalayan giants with unforgettable encounters with nomadic communities, wildlife, and centuries-old traditions. The trek concludes with a relaxing soak in the famous Gasa Hot Springs before continuing through Punakha and Thimphu, offering a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation.
Highlights
- 1. Explore the Remote Highland Kingdom of Laya
- 2. Cross High Himalayan Passes and Spectacular Landscapes
- 3. Relax in the Famous Gasa Hot Springs
Arrive at Paro International Airport and begin your Bhutan adventure with visits to Paro Rinpung Dzong and the National Museum (Taa Dzong). Learn about Bhutan's rich history, culture, and traditions while enjoying panoramic views of the beautiful Paro Valley.
Overnight: Hotel in Paro
Embark on a memorable acclimatization hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger's Nest), Bhutan's most iconic landmark. Perched dramatically on a cliffside above Paro Valley, this sacred monastery is one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in the Himalayas.
Overnight: Hotel in Paro
Begin your trek following the Paro Chhu River through forests of pine, fir, and rhododendron. Cross wooden bridges and traverse beautiful valleys before reaching the campsite at Thangthangkha.
Trekking Time: 7–8 Hours
Overnight: Camp at Thangthangkha (3,610m)
Trek through alpine meadows, yak pastures, and traditional villages including Soe, Takethang, and Dangochang. Enjoy spectacular views of Mount Jomolhari as you arrive at Jangothang Base Camp.
Trekking Time: 5–6 Hours
Overnight: Camp at Jangothang (4,040m)
Spend the day acclimatizing while exploring nearby ridges, alpine lakes, and glacial landscapes. Excellent opportunities exist for wildlife observation and photography, including sightings of blue sheep.
Overnight: Camp at Jangothang
Cross Nyile La Pass (4,870m) and enjoy breathtaking views of Jomolhari, Jichu Drake, and Tsherim Gang. Descend to the historic settlement of Lingzhi and admire the dramatic Lingzhi Dzong overlooking the valley.
Trekking Time: 6–7 Hours
Overnight: Camp at Lingzhi
A relatively easy trekking day. Visit Lingzhi Dzong, explore traditional villages, and walk through beautiful landscapes before reaching Chebisa Village, famous for its stunning waterfall and traditional stone houses.
Trekking Time: 4–5 Hours
Overnight: Camp at Chebisa
Cross Gobu La Pass (4,410m) through expansive yak-grazing pastures. Keep watch for herds of blue sheep and enjoy magnificent mountain scenery throughout the day.
Trekking Time: 6–7 Hours
Overnight: Camp at Shomuthang
Ascend towards Jhari La Pass (4,750m) with spectacular views of Kang Bum, Gangchhenta (Great Tiger Mountain), Tserim Kang, and Jomolhari.
Pass through the Takin Sanctuary, where Bhutan's national animal is often seen during the summer months.
Trekking Time: 7–8 Hours
Overnight: Camp at Robluthang
Cross Sinche La Pass (5,005m), the highest point of the trek. Descend through glacial landscapes, moraines, and alpine valleys while enjoying close-up views of Gangchhenta.
Trekking Time: 7–8 Hours
Overnight: Camp at Limithang
Follow the winding valley trail to Laya, one of Bhutan's most remote highland villages. Along the way, enjoy views of Gangchhenta and Masagang.
Explore the village and discover the unique lifestyle of the Layap people.
Trekking Time: 4–5 Hours
Overnight: Camp at Laya
Enjoy a rest day in Laya. Interact with local residents, learn about their traditions, and experience one of Bhutan's most distinctive mountain cultures.
Overnight: Camp at Laya
Descend along the Mo Chhu River through dramatic landscapes featuring waterfalls, river gorges, and dense forests.
Trekking Time: 6–7 Hours
Overnight: Camp at Koina
Cross Bari La Pass (3,740m) before descending to Gasa. Relax in the famous Gasa Hot Springs, renowned throughout Bhutan for their therapeutic and healing properties.
Trekking Time: 6–7 Hours
Overnight: Gasa
Drive through changing landscapes from alpine highlands to the warm subtropical valleys of Punakha.
Visit the magnificent Punakha Dzong, one of Bhutan's most important historical and religious landmarks, located at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers.
Overnight: Punakha
Travel to Bhutan's capital city via Dochu La Pass, famous for its 108 chortens and spectacular Himalayan views.
Explore Thimphu's major attractions including Buddha Dordenma, Memorial Chorten, Centenary Farmers Market, and Simply Bhutan Museum.
Overnight: Thimphu
After breakfast, transfer to Paro International Airport for your departure flight. Depart Bhutan with unforgettable memories of the Himalayas, remote villages, and extraordinary cultural experiences.
- Fully serviced camping accommodation during the trek
- High-quality sleeping tents, sleeping bags, and insulated sleeping mats
- Dining tent, kitchen tent, toilet tent, and shower tent
- All meals during the trekking period
- Professional Trekking Expedition Leader and licensed trekking guide
- Experienced trekking chef and support crew
- Comprehensive group medical and first-aid kit
- All trekking permits and park entrance fees
- Horses and porters carrying up to 20 kg of personal equipment per trekker
- Complete camping and trekking logistics support
- International airfare
- Travel insurance
- Soft drinks, bottled beverages, and alcoholic drinks
- Personal snacks and refreshments
- Tips and gratuities for guides, trekking crew, horsemen, and drivers
- Personal trekking equipment not specified in the inclusions
- Laundry, internet, and telephone charges
- Expenses arising from flight delays, cancellations, weather conditions, or road closures
- Personal expenses of any nature
- Any service not specifically mentioned under "Tour Includes"
