Laya Gasa Trek – 18 Days, Bhutan

Overview

The Laya Gasa Trek is Bhutan’s longest and most diverse trekking adventure, taking 18 days across valleys, alpine passes, and nomadic villages. Starting in Paro with a hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery, the trek ventures deep into Jigme Dorji National Park with breathtaking views of Jomolhari and Jichu Drake. Along the way, trekkers encounter the semi-nomadic Layap people, explore their unique culture, and witness Bhutan’s rich biodiversity including the Takin and Blue Poppy. The journey ends in Gasa with its natural hot springs before concluding with cultural sightseeing in Punakha and Thimphu. A once-in-a-lifetime trek blending nature, culture, and adventure.

Duration: 17 Nights / 18 Days

Best Time: Mar–Jun & Aug–Nov

Destinations: Paro, Jangothang, Lingshi, Chebisa, Shombuthang, Laya, Gasa, Punakha, Thimphu

Difficulty: Challenging – High-Altitude Long Trek

Day 1 – Paro Arrival

Arrive at Paro International Airport. Visit Paro Dzong and stroll Paro town & Kaja Throm. Overnight in Paro.

Day 2 – Tiger’s Nest Hike

Hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), Bhutan’s most iconic site perched at 3,120m. Overnight in Paro.

Day 3 – Paro to Pine Camp

Drive to Shana and begin trek along Paa-Chhu into Jigme Dorji National Park. Camp in woodland. Overnight in tents.

Day 4 – Pine Camp to Thangthangka

Trek along Paa-Chhu through rhododendron forests with first views of Jomolhari. Overnight in tents.

Day 5 – Thangthangka to Jangothang

Pass Soe village and yak pastures before camping beneath Jomolhari. Overnight in tents.

Day 6 – Jangothang Halt

Acclimatization day with optional hikes to base lakes or ridges. Overnight in tents.

Day 7 – Jangothang to Lingshi

Cross Nyile La Pass (4,850m) with views of Jichu Drake. Camp in Lingshi. Overnight in tents.

Day 8 – Lingshi to Chebisa

Visit Lingshi Dzong before trekking through villages and valleys to Chebisa. Overnight in tents.

Day 9 – Chebisa to Shombuthang

Trek past blue sheep habitats and cross Gogo La Pass (4,435m). Camp at Shombuthang. Overnight in tents.

Day 10 – Shombuthang to Tsharijathang

Cross Jari La Pass (4,730m). Encounter summer pastures for Takin, Bhutan’s national animal. Overnight in tents.

Day 11 – Tsharijathang to Lemithang

Cross Shingchen La Pass (5,008m), the trek’s highest point, with views of Gangchenta (Tiger Mountain). Descend to Lemithang. Overnight in tents.

Day 12 – Lemithang to Laya

Trek through muddy trails and forests before reaching the Layap village of Laya (3,800m). Overnight in tents.

Day 13 – Laya Halt

Explore Laya village, meet Layap people in their traditional attire, and learn about their culture. Overnight in tents.

Day 14 – Laya to Gasa (Trek End)

Final trek downhill to Gasa. Visit hot springs for relaxation. Drive to Punakha. Overnight in hotel.

Day 15 – Punakha Sightseeing

Visit Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, Punakha Dzong, and Chimi Lhakhang (Fertility Temple). Overnight in Punakha.

Day 16 – Punakha to Thimphu

Drive to Thimphu. Visit Buddha Dordenma, Royal Takin Preserve, and Jungshi Paper Factory. Overnight in Thimphu.

Day 17 – Thimphu Sightseeing

Visit Memorial Chorten and Textile Museum. Explore handicraft shops before driving back to Paro. Overnight in Paro.

Day 18 – Departure

Transfer to Paro International Airport for departure. Farewell and safe journey.

Normal Package

Included:

3★ Hotels in Paro, Punakha & Thimphu

Tented camps during trek

All meals (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)

Private transport & guide

Bhutan Visa & SDF

Luxury Package

Included:

4★–5★ Hotels in Paro, Punakha & Thimphu

Premium camping setup with comforts

All meals with fine dining options

Luxury vehicle & cultural expert guide

Bhutan Visa & SDF

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