21-Day Laya Gasa Trek

A 21-day expedition that combines Bhutan’s most famous trek with cultural immersion

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Paro Arrival

Day 1: Arrival in Paro

Welcome to the mystical Land of the Thunder Dragon! Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, your guide will welcome you. Today is a gentle day to acclimatize. Visit Sangaygang Viewpoint, Buddha Point, and the Takin Enclosure.

Take in panoramic views of Thimphu Valley and see Bhutan’s unique national animal. Evening at leisure to enjoy your first night in Bhutan.



Drubchen Festival

Day 2: Thimphu & Drubchen Festival

Immerse yourself in Bhutanese culture at the vibrant Drubchen Festival, featuring masked dances and spiritual rituals. Explore Thimphu’s Heritage and Textile Museums, Thimphu Dzong, and National Memorial Chorten.

Learn about rural life and weaving arts, and witness Bhutanese spiritual traditions up close.



Dochula Pass to Punakha

Day 3: Thimphu to Punakha

Drive via Dochula Pass with 108 memorial chortens. Visit Punakha Dzong, set by the river, and explore the Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten.

Admire Bhutanese architecture and intricate religious artistry. Evening at leisure in Punakha.



Tashithang to Damji Trek

Day 4: Tashithang to Damji Trek

Begin your trek along the Mo Chhu river from Tashithang through forests to camp near Damji village.

A moderate walk to help acclimatize and enjoy pristine nature.



Damji to Gasa

Day 5: Damji to Gasa Tshechu

Trek through orchid-rich forests to the healing hot springs of Gasa Tshechu.

Relax and rejuvenate in naturally warm, medicinal waters. Evening at camp.



Gasa Festival

Day 6: Gasa Tshechu Festival

Witness monks performing masked dances and sacred chants at the vibrant Gasa Tshechu Festival.

Experience traditional attire, the sacred thangka unveiling, and the lively local atmosphere.



Bale La Pass

Day 7: Gasa to Koina via Bale La Pass

Trek across Bale La Pass (3,740m) through forests and meadows, descending to Koina campsite.

High-altitude landscapes offer breathtaking scenery and a sense of achievement.



Laya Valley

Day 8: Koina to Laya

Trek through forests to the remote Laya Valley, home to yak-herding communities.

Observe traditional Layap culture, clothing, and jewelry in one of the highest inhabited valleys.



Laya Rest Day

Day 9: Laya (Rest Day)

Take a well-deserved rest day in Laya. Explore local culture, meet friendly residents, and enjoy the mountain environment.

Short walks around the valley or relaxation at the camp help acclimatize and prepare for the trek ahead.



Limithang Camp

Day 10: Laya to Limithang

Trek across rivers and through rhododendron and silver fir forests to Limithang.

Ascents and descents provide a good challenge while surrounded by stunning natural beauty at your campsite.



Sinche La Pass

Day 11: Limithang to Robluthang via Sinche La Pass

Ascend to Sinche La Pass (5,000m) and descend to Robluthang campsite.

Challenging trek with breathtaking views rewarding your endurance.



Jare La Pass

Day 12: Robluthang to Shakyapasang via Jare La Pass

Cross Yarila river twice and ascend Jare La Pass (4,785m), then descend to Shakyapasang.

Physically demanding day showcasing diverse landscapes from high passes to river valleys.



Gombu La Pass

Day 13: Shakyapasang to Chebisa via Gombu La Pass

Climb to Gombu La Pass (4,687m) and descend to Chebisa.

Trekking day with chances to spot Himalayan blue sheep and bearded vultures.



Lingshi

Day 14: Chebisa to Lingshi

Follow a high trail rich in medicinal plants and arrive at Lingshi Dzong ruins.

Easier trekking day to appreciate cultural and natural beauty after challenging previous days.



Jangothang Viewpoint

Day 15: Lingshi to Jangothang via Nyile La Pass

Cross gorges and rivers, then reach viewpoint at Jangothang.

Mixed terrain with rewarding views of surrounding mountains as you approach base camp.



Jangothang Rest Day

Day 16: Jangothang (Rest Day)

Rest day for acclimatization at Jumolhari Camp.

Optional day hikes following "trek high, sleep low" principle, with time for photos and relaxation.



Thangthankha

Day 17: Jangothang to Thangthankha

Begin the descent through an army camp en route to Thangthankha.

Trail includes uphill and downhill sections, gradually moving toward lower altitudes and easing trekking fatigue.



Shana Village

Day 18: Thangthankha to Shana

Continue descending along forested trails and wooden bridges, historically part of a trade route to Tibet.

Long day of trekking, but scenic forests and river views make the journey enjoyable. Sense of accomplishment upon arrival.



Drugyal Dzong

Day 19: Shana to Drugyal Dzong

Follow the gentle Paro river valley trail leading to the historic Drugyel Dzong ruins.

Relaxed trekking day with spectacular views of Mount Jomolhari, transitioning from high passes back to cultural sightseeing.



Taktsang Monastery

Day 20: Paro Cultural Highlights

Explore Paro Valley’s historical landmarks, including Drukgyal Dzong ruins.

Embark on the hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang), enjoy a local lunch, and visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples.



Paro Airport Departure

Day 21: Departure from Paro

After breakfast, transfer to Paro International Airport for your departure.

Leave Bhutan with unforgettable memories of remote villages, high mountain passes, vibrant festivals, and warm hospitality.