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17 Nights Laya Gasa Trek with Royal Highland festival
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18 Days
Offered in: English
Overview
The Laya-Gasa Trek is one of the most scenic treks in Bhutan, offering amazing views of some of the most pristine and unspoiled landscapes in Bhutan. This trek begins in Paro and takes you through gorgeous alpine meadows and through Jigme Singye National Park and offer awe-inspiring views of Mt. Jomolhari, Jichu Drake and Tsherimgang.
Along the trail you’ll be able to spot indigenous animals such as blue sheep and Takins, the national animal of Bhutan. You’ll travel through remote mountain villages inhabited by Layaps (people of Laya), a distinct segment of the Bhutanese society with unique culture, traditions and appearance. The trek also offers a day of relaxation at the famous Gasa hot springs that is sure to rejuvenate you.
This is one of the more difficult treks offered in Bhutan due to the high altitudes and steep ascents and descents along the path. The best seasons to complete this challenge are in April-June and Mid-September-Mid-November.
What's Included
- English-speaking Guide
- All transfers
- All necessary permit fees
- Visa Fees ($40 per person)
- All trekking equipment and haulage
- Bhutan Tourism Royalty/Levy
- Airfare
- All personal expenses like laundry, telephone,shopping expenses
- Travel Insurance
Meeting And Pickup
Meeting point
Your tour leader will be waiting for you at the airport with your names on placard.
Start time
08:00 AM
End Point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
What To Expect
Welcome to Bhutan-Arrive to Paro
1 Stop
Paro
The flight into Bhutan takes you close to the great Himalayas; offering dazzling scenic views of world’s highest glacial peaks. If you feel like venturing out for first impression of Bhutan, and if time permits,we’ll visit Kyichu Lhakhang – believed to be the oldest Buddhist temple in Bhutan built during the 07th century. Welcome dinner and trip briefing before calling it a night.
2 Hours • Admission Ticket Free
Accommodations : Overnight at Metta Resort/ Mandala Resort/ Gangtey Palace
Meals : Lunch, Dinner
Excursion to Tiger’s Nest and Paro sightseeing.
1 Stop
Paro
Today you’ll experience Bhutan’s most valued attractions, and perhaps the biggest highlight for your trip! This hike will also help you to acclimatize to the altitude before you start your trek. An excursion to the famous Taktshang monastery –translated as- Tiger’s nest monastery – is a two hours hike that rewards you with a spectacular temple clinging on a 1000 feet cliff. On the way back visit the ruins of Drugyal Dzong fortress, which is an important Bhutanese heritage as it served as a strategic watchtower and a fortress that helped repel numerous Tibetan invasions in the 1600s. In the afternoon, visit Paro Rimpung Dzong, the center of civil and religious authority in this valley. Stroll around town in the evening and then proceed to your resort.
3 Hours • Admission Ticket Free
Accommodations : Overnight at Metta Resort/ Mandala Resort/ Gangtey Palace
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Shana-Soi Thangthangka, 3580m, Duration 8 hours, Distance 22 Km
1 Stop
Paro
This is a long trekking day, taking eight hours to reach the campsite. The trail continues to follow the river; gradually ascending through a mixed forest of blue pine and oak and, later in the afternoon, tall rhododendron trees, birch, fir and maple. Though the trail is a rough and rocky path, it is not too strenuous. In rainy conditions it can be quite muddy. There are several simple wooden bridges to cross and sometimes the river reaches right up to the trail. Shing Karap or Thombuzam are popular stopping places at around 3,305m. Several trails lead in other directions, such as the trail to Tremo La (LA: Pass), which was the old salt-trading route to Tibet. Not long before reaching the campsite, the trail leads you up a ridge with a chorten (CHORTEN: Buddhist monument). Finally, after an 8 hour walk, you reach the campsite located in a spacious clearing and directly facing Jumolhari. The view next morning of the sun’s rays striking the peak is breathtaking.
8 Hours • Admission Ticket Free
Accommodations : Overnight at Soi Thangthangka campsite
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Soi-Thangthangka-Jangothang, 4080m, Duration 5-6 hours, Distance 19 Km
1 Stop
Paro
The third day’s trek is shorter so it’s possible to set off a little later and progress at a leisurely pace. When you reach an army outpost you are required to stop and register your entry permits issued by the army headquarters in Thimphu. This matter will be taken care of by your guide. It will take less than six hours to reach Jangothang. The altitude at the camp is 4,080m and is a beautiful place to spend the night. The imposing, rounded bulk of Jomolhari fills the view to the Northeast and in the evening the profile of the ruined Jangothang Dzong, populated by huge ravens, creates a mystical atmosphere. The area is rich in bird life including the fire-tailed sunbird, ibis bill, white throated dipper, yellow-billed chough, rosy pipit, snow pigeon, blue-fronted redstart, plumbeous water redstart, blood pheasant, snow partridge and many more.
6 Hours • Admission Ticket Free
Accommodations : Overnight at Campsite
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Jangothang, 4080m, Rest and acclimatization.
1 Stop
Paro
Today is a day to rest and acclimatize to the altitude. The body also needs time to adjust to the falling temperatures, especially during the night. There are a number of opportunities to explore the valley and enjoy wonderful views of the mountains. To aid acclimatization, a walk to a higher altitude then returning to sleep at a lower altitude is an important and strongly recommended strategy. A 2 hour leisurely hike will take you to the twin lakes of Tshophu from which you’ll get excellent views of the cone-shaped Jichu Drakye (6989m) which resembles the Matterhorn. It is a sight to hold! Many rank this as the most beautiful mountain in Bhutan.
5 Hours • Admission Ticket Free
Accommodations : Overnight at Campsite
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Jangothang – Lingshi, 4000m, Duration 6-7 hours, Distance 18 Km
1 Stop
Thimphu
As you climb steeply into an area of glacial moraine, the views of Jichu Drakye and Jomolhari change along with your perspective. A steep and steady climb, perhaps through snow, brings you to the Nyile La, a pass at 4890m. From the top of the windy pass enjoy a 360 degree view. Tshering Gang (6,789) also comes into full view. A fairly tough trek over scree or snow leads down to the valley and then follows the side of a ridge towards the impressively situated Lingshi Dzong (4,370m). The camp site is some distance below the Dzong on a flat area near a community building made of stones, at an altitude of 4000m.
7 Hours • Admission Ticket Free
Accommodations : Overnight at Campsite
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lingshi – Chebisa, 3990m, Duration 5-6 hours, Distance 10 Km
1 Stop
Thimphu
Shortly after leaving camp, cross a stream on a wooden bridge and ascend to reach a chorten below Lingshi Dzong, perched on the hilltop with a commanding view of the green hills, a winding river and magnificent peaks. Descend to Lingzhi village notable as a center for medicinal herbs. From Lingzhi it’s an easy, pleasant walk through villages and yak herders’ camps. Lunch will be served at scenic Goyuna village. After lunch it’s a short walk to Chebisa village and then to camp by the side of a stream at an altitude of 3990 meters.
6 Hours • Admission Ticket Free
Accommodations : Overnight at Campsite
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Chebisa – Shomuthang, 4220m, Duration 6-7 hours, Distance 17 Km
1 Stop
Thimphu
Today begins with a stiff climb up a ridge to Gogu La at an altitude of 4440 meters, taking nearly 4 hours to the top. After the pass the trail descends through rhododendron forest to a valley of dense forests of birch and fir trees. The trek continues along an undulating path. After crossing a stream, proceed through rhododendron forests and across yak herder’s camps. You may see some flocks of Blue Sheep grazing among the rocky crags above the trail. This is the Shakshepasa valley, one of the most beautiful valleys on the trek. Ascend on a steep trail up the side of the valley to 4220m before a traverse past yak headers huts. Camp is beside a stream at Shomuthang.
7 Hours • Admission Ticket Free
Shomuthang – Robluthang, 4160m, Duration 6-7 hours, Distance 18 Km
1 Stop
Thimphu
The trek starts with an ascent up the valley, criss-crossing the stream. Climb to Jhari La (4,600m) then descend on a switchback trail that becomes rough and rocky as it enters a rhododendron forest. The trail enters the Tsheri Jathang valley, the summer grazing ground of the rare Himalayan Takin (Bhutan’s National animal). From here we may have to wade across the stream as the footbridge is frequently washed away. After crossing the stream towards the left bank the trail ascends to Robluthang camp at an altitude of 4160 meters.
7 Hours • Admission Ticket Free
Accommodations : Overnight at Campsite
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Robluthang – Lemithang, 4140m, Duration 7-8 hours, Distance 19 Km
1 Stop
Thimphu
A long climb up to the Shinche La (5005 meters). Blue sheep may be seen from the trail. The views of the mountains from the pass are breathtaking. After the pass descend on a rough trail which crosses numerous streams. After lunch the trail descends steeply to the floor of a valley then climbs through a rhododendron forest. Reach a plateau and pass through a cedar forest to our camp. The last part of the trek has fine views of the peak of Gangchey Ta (6840m).
8 Hours • Admission Ticket Free
Accommodations : Overnight at Campsite
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lemithang – Laya. 3800m, Duration 4-5 hours, Distance 10 Km
1 Stop
Thimphu
In the morning you wake up with a superb view of Gangchey Ta in front of you. The walk to Laya is very pleasant with wonderful views. You will pass through a damp forest, filled with moss and singing birds. Arrive at Laya village, the second highest settlement in the country, at an altitude of 3,800 meters. The administrative name for the area is Layagewog and the main villages are Toko, Pashi, Neilo, Lubcha, Tonfra and Lungo. Laya is also part of the Jigme Dorji National Park. In the afternoon, proceed to the village to witness the annual Royal Highlander Festival where various events will be taking place to showcase the life of the nomads of Bhutan.
5 Hours • Admission Ticket Free
Accommodations : Overnight at Campsite
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Royal Highlander Festival
1 Stop
Thimphu
Today, we’ll witness the annual Royal highlander festival for the whole day. It is a great opportunity to interact with the locals, and many high ranking officials, and other spectators who come from near and far. There will be some sporting events as well, and you are welcome to join if interested.
3 Hours • Admission Ticket Free
Accommodations : Overnight at Campsite
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Laya – Tongchu Zam Koina (River side camp) 3240m, Duration 4 hours, Distance 12 Km
1 Stop
Punakha
Descend to an army camp and join the Mo Chu and follow the river until you cross the bridge. After the bridge it’s up and down several times through juniper and fir forests until you reach the camp at Koina at an altitude of 3,240 meters. The campsite at Koina is muddy, with no proper space to put up tents in case of rain. We may need to continue for another 2 hours to a better campsite beside the Mo Chu. Bears and Takins have been sighted in this area.
4 Hours • Admission Ticket Free
Accommodations : Overnight at Campsite
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Koina (River side) – Gasa Hot Springs.
1 Stop
Punakha
We begin early as it is the last and the longest day of your trek. Although you are heading downstream, the climbs on this trek are not yet finish worked. There is another major climb ahead to get over Bari La Pass at an altitude of 3900m. After the pass, it’s downhill until you reach Gasa village at the altitude of 2760 meters. We will be camping beside the small bazaar in Gasa. Proceed to the Hot-springs for an overnight camp to soak in the nice natural geysers to sooth your body and mind, after a long trek.
4 Hours • Admission Ticket Free
Accommodations : Overnight at campsite
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Gasa Tshachu – Punakha
1 Stop
Punakha
We start the drive towards Punakha. The drive descends through heavily forested areas on a winding road, high above the valley floor. The gradient eases as we stop in a small park for a lunch beside the river. The afternoon drive continues alongside the Mo Chhu through scenic farmland and past Royal Family residences to the town of Punakha. Proceed to Punakha valley to visit Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal stupa, which involves a short scenic hike through paddy fields for about 45 minutes till the hilltop where the temple is located. In the afternoon, drive to visit Punakha Dzong – the most beautiful fortress in Bhutan situated at the confluence of two rivers. This ancient fortress is the winter residence of the monastic order’s leadership and still serves as the administrative headquarters for the Punakha region. Congratulations, your trek has ended.
4 Hours • Admission Ticket Free
Accommodations : Overnight at Drupchu Resort/ Meriphuensum Resort/ Punatshangchhu Cottages
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Punakha – Thimphu.
1 Stop
Thimphu
To pay your respects to one of Bhutan’s most charming and eccentric historic figures nicknamed ‘The Divine Madman’ at the Chhimi Lhakhang – also called the fertility monastery - our guide will explain the entire story about it. The visit involves a short nice hike through a beautiful village surrounded by paddy fields. Drive to Thimphu over the Dochula Pass (3140m). Situated atop the pass at the backdrop of fluttering prayer flags is the Druk Wangyal Chortens, a collection of 108 chortens (stupas) that was built to exemplify the greatness of the Fourth King. Let’s head straight to the Pizzeria for dinner and some local craft beer. Stroll around town in the evening. Also a good idea to visit a Massage Spa.
4 Hours • Admission Ticket Free
Accommodations : Overnight at Hotel Pedling/Thimphu Tower/ Peaceful Resort
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Cultural Exploration and Optional Hiking in the capital city.
1 Stop
Thimphu
Visit the Zorig- Chusum school of 13 traditional arts/crafts to see local students hone their arts skills in various forms of traditional art. Visit the Folk Heritage museum then proceed to the Royal Textile Museum and Academy to appreciate the work of Bhutanese weavers and the rich textiles of Bhutan. Stroll around town and visit the Bhutan Post Office where you can see the famous Bhutanese stamps. If you would like, you can make stamps with your photos on it and post them to your loved ones. Drive to Kuensel Phodrang where the gigantic 169ft statue of Buddha Dordenma sits majestically overlooking the valley. Enjoy a panoramic view of Thimphu city and visit the temple inside the big statue. If you feel like hiking, let’s take a beautiful hike on the Kuenselphodrang trail which is the capital city’s favourite hiking trail that lasts for 2 hours.
4 Hours • Admission Ticket Free
Accommodations : Overnight at Hotel Pedling/ Thimphu Tower/ Peaceful Resort
Meals : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Farewell
1 Stop
Paro
After breakfast at your hotel, your driver will take you to the airport. Your guide will help you with the formalities and fare you well on your onward journey.
3 Hours • Admission Ticket Free
Meals : Breakfast
Additional Info
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness
Operated by Bhutan Travel Club
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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