LAYA GASA TREK
TREKKING TOUR / LAYA GASA TREK
Laya Gasa Trek
The Laya Gasa trek in Bhutan is a challenging and rewarding journey that takes you through remote villages, dense forests, and high mountain passes.
Day 1: Paro to Sharna Zampa
Your trek starts from the historic Drugyel Dzong (2580m). You will meet your trekking crew here. After a short while you will start walking on a wide trail that tracks along the Pa Chhu (Paro river). The trail will slowly ascend where you will be walking through the countryside with views of rice paddies and fields of millet. Following the route through blue pine forest you will be brought to the army post of Gunitsawa at 2810m where your trekking permits will be checked and stamped. You will then climb towards Sharna Zampa (2870m) and we will be camping at Sharna Zampa.
Day 2: Sharna Zampa to Soi Thangkha
We will follow the Pachhua road (Paro River). You will reach Shingkharap after 2 hours of walking and crossing many streams. It is a stone house located at an altitude of 3110 meters. You will then cross the bridge to the left bank of the river, where you will be served a hot lunch. The intersection is a few steps away. The left path is an ancient trade route to Tibet and the right path leads to a wooden bridge. We choose the last path. After climbing through alpine forests and finally crossing the bridge again, we reached our camp at 3550 meters above sea level, amidst beautiful grasslands.
Day 3: Soi Thangthangkha to Jangothang Base Camp
This hike requires significant elevation gain as your path crosses the tree line. If you follow the road up from our camp, you will be taken to the military camp. You’ll then follow the river above the tree line and enjoy wonderful views of the surrounding peaks. After going through a very muddy section and crossing the Mani wall, you will reach the country of yaks. At the hunting camp, you will be served a hot lunch. After lunch, we passed by the Soe and Takethang yak farmers’ area. After lunch, you will cross the plain and go up the stream. You will pass through Dangochang village to reach the magnificent Jangohang campsite at 4100 meters above sea level. It has views of Jumolhar Hills and Jichu Drake.
Day 4: Jangothang Acclimatization And Exploration
Today is a day to rest and acclimatize to the altitude. The body also needs times to adjust to the falling temperatures, especially during the night. There is an opportunity to explore the valley and enjoy wonderful views of the mountains. A 2 hour’s leisurely hike will take you to the twin lakes of Tshophu. For those taking the Lingshi variation of the trek, this day trek hike is important. You can also enjoy the view of Cone-shape Jichu Drakey cannot fail to remind the clear blue sky. Jichu Drakey cannot fail to remind you of the Matterhorn from this perspective. It is a sight to hold! Many rank this as the most beautiful mountain in Bhutan.
Day 5: Jangothang To Lingshi
As you climb steeply above the base camp and into an area of glacial moraine, the views of Jichu Drakey and Jomolhari change along with your perspective. As steep and steady climb, sometimes through snow, brings you to the Nylie-La pass at 4890m. From the top of the windy pass enjoy the 380 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.
Day 6: Lingshi To Chebisa
Lingshi Dzong, a Buddhist pilgrimage station and hilltop defensive fortress, offers stunning views of the verdant hills and river. The day includes walks through villages and yak farms, followed by a visit to Chebisa, a charming village with a beautiful waterfall. The festival features traditional offerings, cultural programs and highland animal competitions. The festival also has booths displaying local yak products, highland technology and medicinal herbs. The journey ends in the isolated Laya Valley, where the locals have distinctive dialects, customs and costumes.
Day 7: Chebisa To Shoumuthang
The day begins with a climb up a steep ridge to Gobu la Pass at 14,560 feet/4,440 meters, taking nearly four hours to reach the top. After going over the pass, down to the place for lunch, passing through the rhododendron bushes. In the afternoon, continue walking on the hilly road, after crossing the stream, through the rhododendron forest and yak ranch. Occasionally you can see herds of blue sheep. Shakapasong Valley is one of the most beautiful places of the trip. Go to camp.
Day 8: Shoumuthang To Rogluthang
The hike begins with a climb to Jari la pass at 4,600 meters above sea level. Then descend into the Tsharijahang valley, the summer residence of the rare Himalayan Takin (Bhutan’s national animal). From there we may have to cross the stream and get wet because the footbridge is often washed away. After crossing the stream on the left, the trail climbs to Robluthang Camp at 13,120 feet/4,000 meters.
Day 9: Robluthang To Lemithang
A long climb to Shiche la Pass (elevation: 16,400 feet/5,000 meters). The view of the mountains from the pass is breathtaking. After crossing the pass, go down to Lemithang. The path is quite narrow, you may have to cross streams and get wet. The last part of the trip is very enjoyable, with views of the Gangchey-Ta peak. Arrive at camp at 4160 meters.
Day 10: Lemithang To Laya
The morning hike to Laya offers stunning views of Gangchenta peak and a pleasant walk through damp forest filled with moss and birds. The trail passes a waterfall and leads to an intersection. The upper road leads through fields with stone houses and to Laya village, the second highest village in the country at 3,800 m above sea level.
Day 11: Rest Day At Laya
Explore Laya village and visit houses, where hospitality is a key part of Bhutanese tradition. The people in this valley are interesting, with women wearing conspicuous conical bamboo hats with turquoise and silver ornaments.
Day 12: Laya To Chamsa
The journey begins at the army camp and follows the Mo Chhu river until a bridge is crossed. The journey then involves ascents and descents through juniper and fir tree forests, reaching Chamsa camp at 3,800m altitude.
Day 13: Chamsa To Gasa Tshachu
The trail ascends to Bari La pass after walking for about an hour, then descends to Gasa Tshachu, a hot water spring.
Day 14: Gasa Tshachu Rest Day
Visit Gasa Tshachu, a popular hot spring in Bhutan, and visit the Gasa Dzong, built in the 17th century by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgya to protect the valley from Tibetan invaders. After visiting Dzong, enjoy Gasa Tshachu, a popular destination in the valley.
Day 15: Gasa to Punakha
Drive to Punakha. Punakha, the former capital of Bhutan, holds historical significance. A must-visit attraction in Punakha is the Punakha Dzong, also known as the “Palace of Great Happiness” which is constructed in 1637 by the Zhabdrung. After lunch, take a leisurely stroll to Chimi Lhakhang, a temple dedicated to the Divine Madman, also known as Drukpa Kuenly. He is revered as a symbol of fertility, attracting childless couples seeking his blessings. Conclude your day with an overnight stay at your hotel in Punakha.
Day 16: Punakha to Paro
Drive back to Paro and visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest and most sacred temples in Bhutan, dating back to the 7th century. Explore Drukgyel Dzong, a historic fortress overlooking the Paro Valley and the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas. Visit a local farmhouse to experience traditional Bhutanese hospitality and learn about rural life in the Himalayan countryside. In the evening, relax and reflect on your cultural journey over a farewell dinner.
Day 17: Departure
Transfer to Paro International Airport for departure from Bhutan.
Your trek starts from the historic Drugyel Dzong (2580m). You will meet your trekking crew here. After a short while you will start walking on a wide trail that tracks along the Pa Chhu (Paro river). The trail will slowly ascend where you will be walking through the countryside with views of rice paddies and fields of millet. Following the route through blue pine forest you will be brought to the army post of Gunitsawa at 2810m where your trekking permits will be checked and stamped. You will then climb towards Sharna Zampa (2870m) and we will be camping at Sharna Zampa.
Day 2: Sharna Zampa to Soi Thangkha
We will follow the Pachhua road (Paro River). You will reach Shingkharap after 2 hours of walking and crossing many streams. It is a stone house located at an altitude of 3110 meters. You will then cross the bridge to the left bank of the river, where you will be served a hot lunch. The intersection is a few steps away. The left path is an ancient trade route to Tibet and the right path leads to a wooden bridge. We choose the last path. After climbing through alpine forests and finally crossing the bridge again, we reached our camp at 3550 meters above sea level, amidst beautiful grasslands.
Day 3: Soi Thangthangkha to Jangothang Base Camp
This hike requires significant elevation gain as your path crosses the tree line. If you follow the road up from our camp, you will be taken to the military camp. You’ll then follow the river above the tree line and enjoy wonderful views of the surrounding peaks. After going through a very muddy section and crossing the Mani wall, you will reach the country of yaks. At the hunting camp, you will be served a hot lunch. After lunch, we passed by the Soe and Takethang yak farmers’ area. After lunch, you will cross the plain and go up the stream. You will pass through Dangochang village to reach the magnificent Jangohang campsite at 4100 meters above sea level. It has views of Jumolhar Hills and Jichu Drake.
Day 4: Jangothang Acclimatization And Exploration
Today is a day to rest and acclimatize to the altitude. The body also needs times to adjust to the falling temperatures, especially during the night. There is an opportunity to explore the valley and enjoy wonderful views of the mountains. A 2 hour’s leisurely hike will take you to the twin lakes of Tshophu. For those taking the Lingshi variation of the trek, this day trek hike is important. You can also enjoy the view of Cone-shape Jichu Drakey cannot fail to remind the clear blue sky. Jichu Drakey cannot fail to remind you of the Matterhorn from this perspective. It is a sight to hold! Many rank this as the most beautiful mountain in Bhutan.
Day 5: Jangothang To Lingshi
As you climb steeply above the base camp and into an area of glacial moraine, the views of Jichu Drakey and Jomolhari change along with your perspective. As steep and steady climb, sometimes through snow, brings you to the Nylie-La pass at 4890m. From the top of the windy pass enjoy the 380 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.
Day 6: Lingshi To Chebisa
Lingshi Dzong, a Buddhist pilgrimage station and hilltop defensive fortress, offers stunning views of the verdant hills and river. The day includes walks through villages and yak farms, followed by a visit to Chebisa, a charming village with a beautiful waterfall. The festival features traditional offerings, cultural programs and highland animal competitions. The festival also has booths displaying local yak products, highland technology and medicinal herbs. The journey ends in the isolated Laya Valley, where the locals have distinctive dialects, customs and costumes.
Day 7: Chebisa To Shoumuthang
The day begins with a climb up a steep ridge to Gobu la Pass at 14,560 feet/4,440 meters, taking nearly four hours to reach the top. After going over the pass, down to the place for lunch, passing through the rhododendron bushes. In the afternoon, continue walking on the hilly road, after crossing the stream, through the rhododendron forest and yak ranch. Occasionally you can see herds of blue sheep. Shakapasong Valley is one of the most beautiful places of the trip. Go to camp.
Day 8: Shoumuthang To Rogluthang
The hike begins with a climb to Jari la pass at 4,600 meters above sea level. Then descend into the Tsharijahang valley, the summer residence of the rare Himalayan Takin (Bhutan’s national animal). From there we may have to cross the stream and get wet because the footbridge is often washed away. After crossing the stream on the left, the trail climbs to Robluthang Camp at 13,120 feet/4,000 meters.
Day 9: Robluthang To Lemithang
A long climb to Shiche la Pass (elevation: 16,400 feet/5,000 meters). The view of the mountains from the pass is breathtaking. After crossing the pass, go down to Lemithang. The path is quite narrow, you may have to cross streams and get wet. The last part of the trip is very enjoyable, with views of the Gangchey-Ta peak. Arrive at camp at 4160 meters.
Day 10: Lemithang To Laya
The morning hike to Laya offers stunning views of Gangchenta peak and a pleasant walk through damp forest filled with moss and birds. The trail passes a waterfall and leads to an intersection. The upper road leads through fields with stone houses and to Laya village, the second highest village in the country at 3,800 m above sea level.
Day 11: Rest Day At Laya
Explore Laya village and visit houses, where hospitality is a key part of Bhutanese tradition. The people in this valley are interesting, with women wearing conspicuous conical bamboo hats with turquoise and silver ornaments.
Day 12: Laya To Chamsa
The journey begins at the army camp and follows the Mo Chhu river until a bridge is crossed. The journey then involves ascents and descents through juniper and fir tree forests, reaching Chamsa camp at 3,800m altitude.
Day 13: Chamsa To Gasa Tshachu
The trail ascends to Bari La pass after walking for about an hour, then descends to Gasa Tshachu, a hot water spring.
Day 14: Gasa Tshachu Rest Day
Visit Gasa Tshachu, a popular hot spring in Bhutan, and visit the Gasa Dzong, built in the 17th century by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgya to protect the valley from Tibetan invaders. After visiting Dzong, enjoy Gasa Tshachu, a popular destination in the valley.
Day 15: Gasa to Punakha
Drive to Punakha. Punakha, the former capital of Bhutan, holds historical significance. A must-visit attraction in Punakha is the Punakha Dzong, also known as the “Palace of Great Happiness” which is constructed in 1637 by the Zhabdrung. After lunch, take a leisurely stroll to Chimi Lhakhang, a temple dedicated to the Divine Madman, also known as Drukpa Kuenly. He is revered as a symbol of fertility, attracting childless couples seeking his blessings. Conclude your day with an overnight stay at your hotel in Punakha.
Day 16: Punakha to Paro
Drive back to Paro and visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest and most sacred temples in Bhutan, dating back to the 7th century. Explore Drukgyel Dzong, a historic fortress overlooking the Paro Valley and the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas. Visit a local farmhouse to experience traditional Bhutanese hospitality and learn about rural life in the Himalayan countryside. In the evening, relax and reflect on your cultural journey over a farewell dinner.
Day 17: Departure
Transfer to Paro International Airport for departure from Bhutan.
Price Includes :
- A minimum of 3-star accommodation (4 & 5 stars can be upgraded at an additional fee)
- All meals / Tea & snacks
- All internal transport (excluding Domestic flights)
- Sightseeing with entrance fees
- An experienced English speaking tour leader
- Bottled water in the vehicle
- SDF (Sustainable Development Fees/Government Fees) & Visa Fees
Price Excludes :
- Flights
- Travel & Health Insurance
- Additional personal expenses such as souvenirs, meals, snacks, alcohol, laundry, tips, and gratuities for the tour leader and staff.
