The Laya Gasa Trek

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Trekking Itinerary

The Laya-Gasa Trek is a captivating journey through Bhutan's remote and rugged landscapes, offering an immersive experience in the heart of the Himalayas. Spanning approximately 17 days, this trek takes you through picturesque valleys, alpine meadows, and high mountain passes, with breathtaking views of towering peaks like Jomolhari and Jichu Drake.

Day 1

Arrival in Paro

Upon landing in Paro, you will proceed through customs and immigration. Your Bhutanese guide will greet you at the airport, and you'll take a short drive through Paro's main street to reach your accommodation. Depending on your arrival time and the completion of trek preparations, you'll have the opportunity to visit the town's main attractions, including the National Museum. Overnight stay at a hotel.

Day 2

Exploring Paro Valley and Taktsang Monastery (3,120m)

Today, we immerse ourselves in the beauty and culture of the Paro Valley. This area is known for its agricultural activities, including the cultivation of asparagus, strawberries, and shiitake mushrooms for export. The valley is a vibrant patchwork of fields and traditional farmhouses, all framed by forested slopes and distant mountains.

Our morning is dedicated to visiting the iconic Taktsang Monastery, also known as Tiger's Nest. After a short drive from our resort, we embark on a steep hike through chir pine forests to a tea house with stunning views of the monastery. A further half-hour hike brings us directly opposite the cliffs where the monastery is perched. This sacred site is the divine resting place of Guru Rinpoche and has been beautifully restored after a fire. We return to our resort for lunch, followed by an afternoon of sightseeing. In the evening, we'll repack, leaving behind any items not needed for the trek, for safe storage with our local partner.

Day 3

Drive past Drukyel Dzong (2580m) to Shana (2860m) and commence trek to Thongo Zampa (3250m) (11 km, approx. 4 hrs)


A short 20-minute drive up the Paro Valley takes you to Drukyel Dzong, a fortress built in 1647 to guard against Tibetan invasions. From here, continue driving to Shana (1-1.5 hours). This scenic drive passes fields of rice, wheat, barley, mustard, potato, and radish, along with herds of cows and traditional Bhutanese houses. The trek begins with a packed lunch, initially following a wide and flat trail through lightly forested fields. This area has seen large-scale electrification projects to bring power to isolated villages further up the valley. Overnight camp at Thongo Zampa.

Day 4

Trek to Soi Thangthangkha (3700m) (approx. 4 hrs)

Trekking within the Jigme Dorji National Park, Bhutan’s largest protected area (4350 sq km), offers a glimpse of the park’s diverse flora and fauna. The trail ascends through forests of oak, maple, birch, larch pine, and alder, giving way to rhododendron and pine as you climb higher. The rhododendron species vary with altitude, offering a colorful display depending on the season. Camps are often clearings beside water sources, used by seasonal yak herders and workers involved in the electrification project. Some camps near settlements offer opportunities to recharge camera batteries and phones for a small fee. Overnight camp at Soi Thangthangkha.

Day 5

Trek to Jangothang (4100m) (12 km, approx. 5 hrs)

Today, continue higher to the camp at the base of Jomolhari, surrounded by an alpine setting with Jichu Drake (6794m) rising to your right. This area is characterized by low tundra of juniper and rhododendron setosum, with possible sightings of blue sheep in the higher rocky outcrops. You’ll camp near yak herders from the Paro Valley, who live in woven yak wool tents during the summer months. Overnight camp at Jangothang.

Day 6

At Jangothang (acclimatization day)

A day for acclimatization at Jangothang, with optional side trips. A hike up the small valley towards Jomolhari offers dramatic views of the glacier beneath. Alternatively, you can make a scenic excursion to Sopu Lake near Nye La pass, both excellent photo opportunities. This area has seen little mountaineering activity, with Doug Scott successfully climbing Jichu Drake in 1988 on his third attempt. Overnight camp at Jangothang.

Day 7

Cross Nyile La (4890m) to Lingshi Village (~15 km, approx. 7 hrs)

Begin the ascent over rolling grassland and small brush to the Nyile La (4850m). This is a relatively long day, so pace yourself, especially on the steeper final stages before the pass. From the Nyile La, leave Jomolhari and Jichu Drake behind and descend through dwarf rhododendron shrub towards Lingshi village. The Lingshi Dzong, built to protect against raids from Tibet, comes into view. Before reaching the village and Dzong, turn off to cross a stream, followed by a short climb and descent into the quiet valley and the camp of Chazhithang by a stream. Overnight camp at Chazhithang.

Day 8

Trek to Chebisa (3880m) village (14 km, approx. 5/6 hrs)

Continue northeastward, ascending past the Lingshi Dzong across high alpine pastures to Chebisa. This picturesque valley, with pastures and stone houses, features a tall waterfall cascading from rocky cliffs with a hanging lake behind. The camp is next to the village, so you may hear yak herder dogs at night. Above Chebisa, alpine pastures host blue sheep and bharal during the summer months. Overnight camp at Chebisa.

Day 9

Cross Gombu La (4440m) to Shomuthang (4221m) camp (16 km, approx. 7/8 hrs)

Gradually ascend from Chebisa to the Gombu La (4440m), with spectacular views back to Lingshi and the surrounding peaks. The descent to Shomuthang camp passes through forests of cypress, spruce, and birch with large stands of rhododendron, iris, and edelweiss. Camp is set beside the river in a small clearing surrounded by dense bushes. Overnight camp at Shomuthang.

Day 10

Cross Jare La (4785m) to Robluthang (4165m) (18 km, approx. 8/9 hrs)

The route ascends directly upwards through grassy slopes to the Jare La. Blue sheep and griffons are often seen here. From the gap marked by flags and cairns, expansive views of the adjacent valley and Shinge La, the highest and hardest pass of the trek, await. Descend through rhododendron, spruce, cypress, and birch to a broad valley floor. Encounter people of Laya, distinguished by their woven conical hats and colorful beads. Ascend several hundred meters to camp at Robluthang. Overnight camp at Robluthang.

Day 11

Cross Shinche La (5005m) to Lemithang (4150m) (16 km, approx. 8/9 hrs)

Ascend to Sinche La, taking about four hours. Steady pacing is essential for a comfortable ascent and descent. At the pass, glimpse peaks to the left, including Gangchenta. Descend through boulders and grassy slopes with stunning views of glacial blue lakes and white ribbon streams beneath the 'Tigers Ears' Gangchenta. Further down, classic glacial erosion creates a dramatic landscape. The riverside camp is surrounded by tall conifers and the Tigers Ears as a backdrop. Overnight camp at Lemithang.

Day 12

Trek to Laya village (3800m) (13 km, approx. 5/6 hrs)

Walk away from the mountain environment, descending the valley to Laya. The trail winds through thick forests for several hours before reaching the pastures of outer Laya. A swing in the trail leads to the main settlement, spread over a broad spur above the Mo Chu River. With about 800 inhabitants, Laya has a school, hospital, several small shops, and a gompa. Life relies heavily on yaks and one annual crop of barley, mustard, and turnips. Below the village, an army post guards the frontier with Tibet. Overnight camp at Laya.

Day 13

Rest day at Laya, explore the local area

A day to relax and rejuvenate after the exertions of the past days. Enjoy a leisurely start, followed by time spent in Laya, perhaps threshing wheat with locals, visiting the school, or enjoying a soda in one of the small shops. Depending on logistics, you may spend the night in Laya or descend to camp at an army post by the Mo Chuu River. Overnight camp in Laya or near

Day 14

Rest day at Laya, explore the local area

A day to relax and rejuvenate after the exertions of the past days. Enjoy a leisurely start, followed by time spent in Laya, perhaps threshing wheat with locals, visiting the school, or enjoying a soda in one of the small shops. Depending on logistics, you may spend the night in Laya or descend to camp at an army post by the Mo Chuu River. Overnight camp in Laya or near

Day 15

Trek to Gasa Village (2,770m) (approx. 4/5 hrs)

As we embark on our final day of trekking, the journey promises a blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion. The trail today is a delightful descent through lush forests, rich with diverse flora. We start early, making our way down broad paths lined with tall conifers, eventually reaching the serene Mo Chuu River and the army post that marks our halfway point.

Our trail follows the river's course, weaving through a magnificent forest of spruce, larch, birch, maple, and various species of rhododendron. Expect to encounter muddy patches along the way, as these fertile soils are frequented by horse trains transporting goods between Laya and the roadhead. The sound of cascading waterfalls provides a soothing backdrop, enhancing the enchanting ambiance of the forest. This region is also home to the red pheasant and the takin, Bhutan’s national animal, adding to the trek’s allure.

After a few hours, we reach Ponjothang road point, where our vehicle awaits to take us to the village of Gasa (2,850m). The drive is short but offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. For those still eager to hike, optional trails are available—just inform your guide.

Upon arrival in Gasa, we are greeted by the sight of the impressive Gasa Dzong, a fortress guarding the trade route to Tibet. This village is the administrative and monastic hub of the region, offering a glimpse into local governance and spiritual life.

One of the day's highlights is a visit to the famed Gasa hot springs. Nestled below the village, these thermal baths are the perfect place to relax and rejuvenate. As we soak in the healing waters, we can celebrate the successful completion of our trek, reflecting on the incredible journey we've undertaken.

In the evening, we camp near Gasa, enjoying a well-deserved rest. The serene environment and the soothing warmth of the hot springs make this a memorable conclusion to our trekking adventure.

Day 16

Travel Back to Thimphu(approx. 4/5 hrs)

Today, we say goodbye to Gasa and set off for Thimphu, a journey that offers a scenic and immersive travel experience through Bhutan's varied landscapes. The drive begins with a winding descent from Gasa, gradually transitioning from the lush, high-altitude terrain to the greener valleys below.

The road meanders through picturesque countryside, with expansive views of terraced fields and quaint villages. As we descend, the environment transforms, revealing more subtropical forests and agricultural land. This route provides a visual feast of Bhutan's natural beauty, with opportunities to see traditional farmsteads and vibrant local life.

The drive is also a chance to reflect on the trek and enjoy the contrasting landscapes, from the rugged highlands of Gasa to the fertile, rolling hills of Thimphu's valley. We pass through several charming hamlets and picturesque spots, making the journey itself a highlight of the day.

Day 17

Sightseeing in Thimphu

Today we explore Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. Highlights include the National Memorial Chorten, Tashichho Dzong, and the bustling weekend market. We'll have time for shopping and relaxation in the city's cafes and restaurants.

Day 18

Drive to Paro and Departure

After breakfast, we drive back to Paro for your departure. Depending on your flight time, you may have time for last-minute shopping or a visit to the Kyichu Lhakhang temple. Your guide will see you off at the airport, bidding you farewell and a safe journey home.