Laya-Gasa Trek

Experience Bhutan’s Remote Highlands & Cultural Treasures

The Laya-Gasa Trek is one of Bhutan’s most iconic and rewarding high-altitude adventures, blending alpine landscapes, cultural encounters, and spiritual heritage. Traverse remote mountain villages, cross high passes, and camp in pristine valleys, meeting the semi-nomadic Layap people along the way. Witness the sacred peaks of Jomolhari and Jichu Drake, explore Punakha, Thimphu, and Paro, and enjoy a fully supported trekking experience with the Miles To Memories team.

Highlights of the Trek:
  • Epic Himalayan Views: Close-up vistas of Mount Jomolhari and Jichu Drake, with pristine glacial valleys and alpine meadows.
  • High Pass Adventure: Cross multiple high-altitude passes, including Nyile La (4,890m) and Shingche La (5,010m).
  • Cultural Immersion: Interact with the semi-nomadic Layap people in Laya village, witnessing traditional attire, rituals, and daily life.
  • Remote Villages & Settlements: Explore isolated highland villages and experience Bhutanese pastoral culture.
  • Wildlife & Nature: Opportunities to spot blue sheep, Himalayan marmots, and rare birds in their natural alpine habitat.
  • Camping Experience: Fully supported camps along the trekking route with breathtaking mountain backdrops.
  • Hot Springs & Relaxation: Visit Gasa Hot Springs for rejuvenation after high-altitude trekking.
  • Cultural Heritage Sites: Visits to Punakha Dzong, Rinpung Dzong, and other historic Bhutanese landmarks.
  • Adventure & Acclimatization: Well-paced trekking itinerary with optional acclimatization hikes at base camps for maximum comfort and safety.
  • Photography Paradise: Dramatic landscapes, vibrant villages, and Himalayan panoramas ideal for photography enthusiasts.
Day 01 – Arrival in Paro

Arrive in Paro, Bhutan, with stunning Himalayan views. Visit Rinpung Dzong and the National Museum. Overnight in Paro.

Hike to Taktsang Monastery (3,120m), a sacred cliffside site. Visit Drugyel Dzong and Kyichu Lhakhang in the afternoon. Overnight in Paro.

  • Drive to Sharna Zampa and begin the trek along Paro Chhu valley, passing pine forests and rhododendron groves. Camp at Thangthangkha.

Gradually ascend through alpine meadows to the base camp at Jangothang, with panoramic views of Mount Jomolhari and Jichu Drake. Camp at Jangothang.

Optional short hikes to nearby ridges (up to 4,100m), explore yak herder camps, and enjoy the alpine scenery. Overnight at Jangothang.

Begin descent via the same valley route, observing the changing alpine landscapes. Overnight at Thangthangkha camp.

Complete descent to Sharna Zampa, drive back to Paro. Rest and enjoy Paro town in the evening. Overnight in Paro.

Optional departure or preparation for Laya trek segment. Overnight in Paro (if continuing).

Drive to Sharna Zampa and begin the Laya trek along the Paro Chhu river, ascending through forests and farmland. Camp at Soi Thangkha.

Continue gradual ascent to Jangothang base camp for spectacular Himalayan views and campsite stay.

Optional local hikes, wildlife spotting (blue sheep, marmots, Himalayan birds), and village exploration. Overnight at Jangothang.

Cross Nyile La Pass (4,890m) and descend to Lingshi Valley. Overnight near Lingshi Dzong.

Trek through high pastures and settlements to Chebisa village, experiencing Layap culture. Overnight at Chebisa camp.

Ascend toward Gobu La Pass (4,440m) and descend to a high-altitude basin at Shoumothang. Overnight camp.

Cross Jare La (4,785m) and Shingche La Pass (5,010m), descend into Limithang valley. Camp at Limithang.

Reach Laya village (3,800m), immerse in Layap traditions. Continue descent to Gasa, visit Gasa Hot Springs, then drive to Punakha. Overnight in Punakha.

Drive through Punakha and Thimphu, visiting Buddha Dordenma, Takin Preserve, Memorial Chorten, and Tashichho Dzong. Overnight in Paro.

Transfer to Paro International Airport for onward flight, concluding the Laya-Gasa Himalayan adventure.

gasa laya