The Ultimate Himalayan Adventure
Laya Gasa Trek
Overview
This is the trek of a lifetime. Designed for the serious adventurer, this itinerary takes you deep into the remote Lunana region, skirting the Tibetan border and traversing some of the most breathtaking and isolated landscapes on earth. You’ll cross 11 high-altitude passes, encounter unique nomadic cultures in villages like Laya, and witness Himalayan giants like Jomolhari and Gangchenta up close. This journey is not just a trek; it’s an expedition into the heart of the Himalayas.
Duration
16 days
Group Size
2+
Avg Walking Dist
17-18 KM
Trek Grade
Hard/Challenging
Trekking Seasons
March - June, September - November
Max Elevations
5000 M
Trek Highlights
- Trek to the base camp of the sacred Mount Jomolhari and witness its breathtaking grandeur from Jangothang.
- Conquer multiple high Himalayan passes like the Nyile La (4,890m) and Shinje La (4,900m) for unparalleled panoramic views.
- Experience the unique culture of the Layap people in the remote highland village of Laya, set against the backdrop of Gangchentag.
- Soak your weary muscles in the restorative Gasa Tsachu Hot Springs as a perfect finale to your challenging trek.
- Hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang) as a spiritual and acclimatizing prelude to your epic journey.
- Witness a dramatic change in landscapes, from alpine valleys to lush, subtropical forests as you descend from Laya.
- Embark on a segment of the legendary Snowman Trek, one of the world’s most difficult and rewarding Himalayan expeditions.
Detailed Itenary
Day 1
Arrive in the Kingdom of Bhutan | Paro (2,280m)
- Experience: Your epic journey begins with a spectacular flight into Paro, surrounded by the peaks of the Himalayas. After visa formalities, meet your guide and transfer to your hotel.
- Evening: Briefing on the incredible adventure that lies ahead.
- Accommodation: Hotel in Paro
Day 2
Acclimatization & Spiritual Ascent | Hike to Tiger’s Nest (3,120m)
- Highlight: A crucial acclimatization day tackling Bhutan’s most iconic site. The hike to the sacred Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest) prepares your body for the challenges ahead and is a profound cultural experience in itself.
- Accommodation: Hotel in Paro
Day 3
Trek Begins! | Drugyal Dzong to Shana (Trek Start: ~17km, 5-6 hrs, 360m ascent)
- Experience: Drive to Drugyal Dzong (a ruined fortress) to begin your trek. The trail follows the Paro Chhu river through beautiful pine and oak forests, gradually climbing to your first camp at Shana (2,850m).
- Accommodation: Camping at Shana
Day 4
Deeper into the Valley | Shana to Sio Thangthangkha (~21km, 7-8 hrs, 795m ascent)
- Experience: The trail continues to follow the river, climbing steadily through dense, pristine forests. The valley begins to narrow, and the views of the surrounding peaks become more dramatic.
- Camp: You’ll reach your camp at Soi Thangthangkha (3,620m), a small clearing in the forest.
- Accommodation: Camping at Soi Thangthangkha
Day 5
First Glimpse of Giants | Sio Thangthangkha to Jangothang (~19km, 5-6 hrs, 480m ascent)
- Highlight: A shorter but spectacular day. The trail leaves the forest line and enters a wide, alpine valley. The breathtaking peak of Mount Jomolhari (7,314m) reveals itself, dominating the skyline. You’ll set up camp at Jangothang (4,080m), Jomolhari’s base camp, with stunning views in every direction.
- Accommodation: Camping at Jangothang
Day 6
Acclimatization & Exploration | Jangothang Halt
- Experience: A vital rest day for acclimatization. Choose from several spectacular day hikes:
- Hike towards Jomolhari for closer views of the glacier.
- Trek to the opposite side of the valley to see Tshophu Lake.
- This day is crucial for adapting to the altitude before crossing high passes.
- Accommodation: Camping at Jangothang
Day 7
Crossing the Nyile La | Jangothang to Lingshi (~19km, 6-7 hrs, 840m ascent/870m descent)
- Challenge & Reward: The first major pass day. A steep climb rewards you with stunning views from the Nyile La Pass (4,890m). You’ll then descend into the Lingshi basin, with chances to see blue sheep and the impressive Lingshi Dzong perched on a hillside. Camp at Lingshi (4,010m).
- Accommodation: Camping at Lingshi
Day 8
A Cultural Gem | Lingshi to Chebisa (~12km, 5-6 hrs, 280m ascent/410m descent)
- Highlight: A shorter, beautiful day. The trail takes you through villages and past shepherd camps, offering a deep sense of remoteness. Your destination is the beautiful village of Chebisa (3,850m), with a picturesque waterfall nearby. A great opportunity to interact with local nomadic communities.
- Accommodation: Camping at Chebisa
Day 9
Over the Gombu La | Chebisa to Shomuthang (~17km, 7-8 hrs, 890m ascent/540m descent)
- Experience: A steep climb leads to the Gombu La Pass (4,470m). The descent takes you through a rhododendron forest to a vast pastureland where your camp at Shomuthang (4,220m) is set up by a river.
- Accommodation: Camping at Shomuthang
Day 10
The Jhari La Pass | Shomuthang to Robluthang (~15km, 6-7 hrs, 700m ascent/760m descent)
- Experience: Start with a long climb up the valley to the Jhari La Pass (4,750m). From the pass, you are treated to spectacular views of Kang Bum (6,526m) and other snow-capped peaks. A steep descent leads to your camp at Robluthang (4,160m).
- Accommodation: Camping at Robluthang
Day 11
The Shinje La Pass | Robluthang to Lingmithang (~19km, 6-7 hrs, 850m ascent/870m descent)
- Challenge: Today you cross the highest pass so far, the Shinje La Pass (4,900m). The descent is long, passing a stunning turquoise lake before dropping into a deep, forested valley. You’ll notice a dramatic change in vegetation and climate. Camp at Lingmithang (4,140m).
- Accommodation: Camping at Lingmithang
Day 12
Entering the Layap Region | Lingmithang to Laya (~10km, 4-5 hrs, 60m ascent/380m descent)
- Cultural Highlight: A relatively easy and fascinating day. You descend to the Laya Valley, the home of the Layap people, known for their distinctive conical bamboo hats and intricate costumes. The view of the village with Gangchentag (The Tiger Mountain) in the background is unforgettable. Camp near Laya (3,800m).
- Accommodation: Camping at Laya
Day 13
Descent to Sub-Tropics | Laya to Koena to Gasa (Trek Ends: ~19km, 6-7 hrs)
- Final Trekking Day: Begin with a steep descent into a different ecological zone, feeling the air grow warmer. The trail follows the Mo Chhu river through lush, subtropical forests.
- Finale: Your epic trek concludes. You meet your vehicle and drive a short distance to the famous Gasa Tsachu (hot springs). Soak your weary muscles in the healing waters—a perfect end to the trek. Overnight in a lodge.
- Accommodation: Lodge in Gasa
Day 14
To the Former Capital | Gasa to Punakha (~3 hrs drive)
- Experience: A scenic drive from the highlands down to the balmy Punakha Valley (1,300m). Visit the breathtaking Punakha Dzong, arguably Bhutan’s most beautiful fortress, situated at the confluence of two rivers.
- Accommodation: Hotel in Punakha
Day 15
To the Capital | Punakha to Thimphu (~3 hrs drive)
- Experience: Drive back to the capital, Thimphu, over the Dochu La Pass (3,100m). Stop to admire the 108 chortens and the Himalayan views. In Thimphu, visit key sites like the Buddha Dordenma statue and the Takin Preserve. Enjoy a final celebratory dinner.
- Accommodation: Hotel in Thimphu
Day 16
Farewell, Bhutan | Thimphu to Paro Departure
Morning: After a final Bhutanese breakfast, drive to Paro International Airport for your flight onward. Depart with a lifetime of memories and the immense satisfaction of completing one of the world’s greatest treks. “Tashi Delek!”
Tour Package Conditions
Inclusions
- Sustainable development fees and internal taxes
- Accommodation in certified 3-star hotels (4/5-star upgrades available).
- All meals
- A licensed, English-speaking Bhutanese trekking guide.
- A private driver and comfortable tourist vehicle for all transfers.
- All entry fees to museums, monuments, and cultural sites.
- Equipment & haulage for trekking.
Exclusions
- Flight tickets.
- Alcoholic, sparkling water, and soft drinks.
- Tips for guides, drivers and trekking crews.
- Personal shopping and expenses.
Travel Insurance
Package does not include insurance of any kinds, and that you are required to obtain separate coverage from your home country before your trip begins.
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