Embark on the legendary Laya Gasa Trek, one of Bhutan’s most rewarding journeys that begins at the historic Drukgyel Dzong in the northern Paro Valley. Rated as medium to hard difficulty, this trek takes you across diverse terrains and sacred Himalayan peaks while unveiling Bhutan’s untouched wilderness. Along the trail, you’ll traverse meadows bursting with wildflowers, juniper, and medicinal herbs, before entering enchanting forests of birch and fir. High-altitude pastures bring encounters with nomadic yak herders, while the fluttering prayer flags on mountain passes remind you of Bhutan’s deep spiritual traditions. Wildlife lovers may spot the elusive Blue Sheep, the rare Takin, and other Himalayan species in their natural habitat. More than just a hike, the Laya Gasa Trek is a true immersion into Bhutan’s cultural and natural wonders.
Fitness Requirements
The Laya Gasa Trek demands endurance and strong physical fitness due to long, high-altitude trekking days. We recommend trekkers undergo proper physical training before starting this challenging adventure.
Support Team & Trekking Gear
With Planet Pulse Tours & Treks, you’ll be accompanied by an experienced guide, a skilled chef, and helpers. Ponies and yaks transport gear, ensuring camps are ready upon your arrival. Camps include a dining tent, toilet tent, twin-sharing sleeping tents (dome or A-frame), mattresses, foldable chairs and tables, wash basins with warm water, and a basic first aid kit. Beverages are also provided for your comfort.
Meals on the Trek
All meals are freshly prepared with a balance of local and continental dishes. Breakfast features toast, cereals, fruits, coffee, tea, milk, eggs, pancakes, and sausages or bacon. Lunch usually includes a hot packed meal, while dinner offers a variety of fresh meats—grilled chicken, fish, beef, or pork—alongside vegetarian dishes and Bhutanese specialties.
Sleeping Arrangements
Campsites are carefully chosen for their scenic beauty and proximity to water sources. Whether in pine-clad valleys, pristine meadows, or high ridges overlooking Himalayan peaks, each campsite offers peace and breathtaking natural surroundings.
Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for all participants of the Laya Gasa Trek. Insurance must cover medical emergencies, unforeseen natural events, and personal losses, as the company cannot be held liable for unexpected circumstances.
Eco-Friendly Trekking
We encourage trekkers to embrace sustainable travel practices during the Laya Gasa Trek. Respect Bhutan’s pristine environment by reducing waste, avoiding pollution, and helping conserve fragile ecosystems for future generations.
Packing Essentials
Soft duffle bag (carried by pack animals, max 15kg).
Lightweight daypack for daily essentials (camera, rain gear, toiletries, first aid).
Warm clothing: fleece, windbreaker, or down jacket depending on season.
Sleeping bag (with optional liner for extra warmth).
Flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries.
Waterproof hiking boots, collapsible trekking poles, sunglasses, lightweight towel.
Sunscreen and after-sun care.
Eco-friendly toiletries, biodegradable soap, wet wipes.
Personal first aid kit: painkillers, antiseptic, antihistamines, anti-diarrheal meds, bandages, lozenges, insect repellent, personal medication.
Hydration essentials: water purifier, rehydration salts, or sports drink powders (though camp water is boiled).
Day 01: Arrival in Paro
- Elevation: 2250m
- Scenic Flight: Views of the Himalayas, including Mt. Everest and Kanchenjunga.
- Cultural Immersion: Traditional reception and a visit to the 17th-century Paro Dzong and the National Museum for a taste of Bhutan’s rich history and cultural heritage.
Day 02: Taktsang Goemba Hike
- Distance: 03Kms
- Time: 03Hrs
- Elevation: 3140m
- Tiger’s Nest Monastery: A challenging hike to one of Bhutan’s most revered and stunningly located religious sites.
- Kyechu Lhakhang: Visiting one of the oldest temples, believed to be part of 108 temples built in a single day.
Day 03: Start of Trek from Guinitsawa to Sharnazampa
- Distance: 15Kms
- Time: 06Hrs
- Campsite Elevation: 2850m
- Historical Sites: Brief visit to the ruins of Drukgyel Dzong.
- Scenic Views: First day of trekking offering views of Mt. Jomolhari, setting the stage for the adventure ahead.
Day 04: Sharnazampa to Thangthanka
- Distance: 22Kms
- Time: 08Hrs
- Campsite Elevation: 3609m
- Nature’s Splendor: Trek through meadows, forests, and enjoy spectacular views of Mt. Jomolhari, depending on the weather.
Day 05: Thangthanka to Jangothang
- Distance: 17Kms
- Time: 07Hrs
- Campsite Elevation: 4110m
- Alpine Beauty: Journey through meadows, yak pastures, and past prayer flags, with the majestic Mt. Jomolhari in view.
Day 06: Rest Day at Jangothang
- Acclimatization: Opportunities for short walks or fishing, with chances to see blue sheep and enjoy the tranquility of the Himalayas.
Day 07: Jangothang to Lingshi
- Distance: 18Kms
- Time: 07Hrs
- Campsite Elevation: 3999m
- Mountain Passes: Cross Nyilila Pass for breathtaking views of surrounding peaks and descend to Lingshi Village.
Day 08: Lingshi to Chebisa
- Distance: 10Kms
- Time: 05Hrs
- Campsite Elevation: 3779m
- Cultural Insights: Visit Lingshi Dzong and explore the village of Chebisa with its waterfall.
Day 09: Chebesa to Shomuthang
- Distance: 17Kms
- Time: 07Hrs
- Campsite Elevation: 3992m
- Wildlife Spotting: Opportunity to see blue sheep and other wildlife while crossing the Gobu-La Pass.
Day 10: Shomuthang to Robluthang
- Distance: 18Kms
- Time: 07Hrs
- Campsite Elevation: 4099m
- Takin Sanctuary: Pass through a sanctuary for Bhutan’s national animal, the Takin, in the TseriJathang valley.
Day 11: Robluthang to Limithang
- Distance: 19Kms
- Time: 08Hrs
- Campsite Elevation: 4039m
- High Passes: Cross the Sinche La Pass, one of the highest on this trek, offering dramatic landscapes and views.
Day 12: Limithang to Laya
- Distance: 10Kms
- Time: 05Hrs
- Campsite Elevation: 3879m
- Remote Villages: Arrive in Laya, one of Bhutan’s highest settlements, with unique cultural insights.
Day 13: Rest Day in Laya
- Campsite Elevation: 3879m
- Local Exploration: Spend the day visiting local houses or hiking around Laya for more cultural experiences.
Day 14: Laya to Koina
- Distance: 19Kms
- Time: 07Hrs
- Campsite Elevation: 3240m
- Riverside Trails: Trek through diverse ecosystems alongside the Mo Chhu River, descending to Koina.
Day 15: Koina to Gasa Hot Spring
- Distance: 14Kms
- Time: 07Hrs
- Campsite Elevation: 2770m
- Therapeutic Hot Springs: End the trek with a relaxing soak in the medicinal waters of Gasa Hot Spring.
Day 16: Gasa Hot Spring to Punakha
- Distance: 12Kms
- Time: 04Hrs
- Elevation: 1350m
- Return Journey: Drive to Punakha, with an opportunity for one last dip in the hot springs.
Day 17: Punakha to Thimphu
- Distance: 77Kms
- Time: 02Hrs
- Elevation: 2320m
- Cultural Sites: Explore Punakha Dzong and Chemi Lhakhang before heading to Thimphu, stopping at Dochu La Pass for Himalayan views.
Day 18: Thimphu Sightseeing – Paro
- Elevation: 2250m
- Cultural Sites: In Thimphu explore National Memorial Chorten, National Painting School, National Library, National Textile Museum and finally the giant golden Buddha statue.
Day 19: Hotel – Airport
- Distance: 05Kms
- Time: 15 Min
- Elevation: 2250m
- After your morning breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward destination. Your tour guide and driver will see you off at the airport.
Your Everyday Benefit
- Rate inclusive of all three meals both local and continental healthy cuisine.
- Rate inclusive of all accommodation [three-star hotels with double/twin sharing basis]
- Rate inclusive of air-conditioned tourist standard transportation.
- Rate inclusive of local tour English-speaking licensed guide on all your sightseeing tours.
- Rate inclusive of extensive choices of flexible comprehensive tour itineraries.
- Rate inclusive of Bhutan Government Royalty fees of $ 100 per person per nights.
- Rate inclusive of all entry fees, museum fees and historical attraction fees.
- Rate inclusive of all applicable taxes – BST 10%, Service Charge 10%
- Rate inclusive of one-time visa fee of USD 40.
- Rate inclusive of airport arrival and departure transfer in Bhutan.
Inclusive on Trek and Camping
- Rate inclusive of support team consists of qualified guide, cook, and several assistants.
- Rate inclusive of ponies and yaks used on trek are accompanied by their owners.
- Rate inclusive of dinning tent, toilet tent, dome or A-frame sleeping tent (twin-sharing), mattress, foldable tables & chairs, plates & washing bowl.
- Rate inclusive of basic First Aid kit box.
- Rate inclusive of drinks.
- Adventure tours featuring trekking are unsuitable for children and elderly people.
Complementary Service
- Arrival refreshment
- One bottle mineral water each a day
- A small farewell gift on the day of departure
- One-time cultural program for group exceedingly above 7 members
Package Does Not Include
- Rate does not include incoming & outgoing Bhutan airfares and airport taxes.
- Rate does not include drinks and alcohols and non- alcoholic beverage.
- Rate does not include guides speaking language other than English.
- Rate does not include expenses of personal nature like tipping, laundry, potter, telephone/fax calls, camera/video camera fee at monuments, medical expenses, any insurance etc
- Rate does not include extra expenses or loss due to nature and un-foreseen events beyond the control of our management.
- Rate does not include any service outside Bhutan.
- Rate does not include onetime bank transfer charge of USD 45.
- Rate does not include tipping to guide, driver etc.
$4540/-
Valid for
GROUP ABOVE 03 MEMBERS
