Laya Gasa trek (18 days/17 nights)

Day 01: Arrival at Paro Valley by Druk Air 

Arrive in Bhutan, one of the most breathtaking destinations in the world, via Druk Air. This flight, often described as one of the most scenic in the Himalayas, offers an awe-inspiring view of the towering peaks of the region. Upon arrival at Paro, you will go through immigration and customs, where your guide will meet and escort you to your hotel. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll around the town and enjoy the tranquil night views of the Paro Valley.

Day 02: Explore Paro

Start your day with a visit to Ta Dzong, Bhutan’s National Museum, which was originally built as a watchtower and now houses a stunning collection of antiques, thangka paintings, textiles, and Bhutan’s famous postage stamps. Continue to the historic Rinpung Dzong, a fortress with a fascinating past. In the afternoon, visit the ruins of Drukgyel Dzong, where Bhutanese forces successfully repelled several Tibetan invasions. Explore traditional Bhutanese homes to gain insight into the local way of life and then visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan's oldest and most sacred monasteries. Return to your hotel for a restful night.

Day 03: Paro to Shana, 17 km, 5-6 hours  

Begin your trek today by leaving the road behind and heading into the wild terrain. Starting from Drukgyel Dzong, the trail takes you on a gentle downhill path that soon transforms into a moderate climb through lush rice terraces and millet fields. As you move through apple orchards and forests, the valley widens, and you reach the army post of Gunyitsawa, the last stop before Tibet. Your campsite is located in the meadows of Sharma Zampa at 2,870m.

Day 04: Shana to Soi Thangthangkha, 20 km, 7-8 hours 

Today, follow the Pa Chu river through pine, oak, and spruce forests. After a hot lunch near a river crossing, ascend through rhododendron forests before crossing another bridge and reaching your campsite at 3,750m in Soi Thangthangkha.

Day 05: Soi Thangthangkha to Jangothang, 19 km, 7-8 hours

The trail begins with a gentle ascent, taking you past an army camp and then through the valley, where you’ll walk above the tree line with panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. A hot lunch awaits at a yak herder’s camp. After lunch, a short walk will lead you to the stunning camp at Jangothang, located at 4,040m, offering breathtaking views of Mount Jomolhari and Jichu Drake.

Day 06: Jangothang to Lingshi, 18 km, 7-8 hours

Begin the day with a half-hour streamside walk before crossing a bridge to the right side. Then ascend to a ridge with breathtaking views of Mount Jomolhari, Jichu Drake, and Tsrim Khang. After reaching the Nyele La pass at 4,700m, descend gradually to Lingshi at 4,000m, where you'll enjoy a view of Lingshi Dzong.

Day 07: Lingshi to Chebisa, 10 km, 5-6 hours

After passing Lingshi Dzong, built in the 17th century, continue through scenic villages and yak herder camps to Chebisa. This is a gentle walk, and you'll camp at an altitude of 3,860m by a stream.

Day 08: Chebisa to Shomuthang, 17 km, 6-7 hours

Begin with a steep climb to Gomby La (4,450m) and descend into the valley before entering a beautiful forest of fir and birch trees. In the afternoon, cross streams and pass high above the valley floor, eventually reaching your campsite at 4,250m near a stream in a serene valley.

Day 09: Shomuthang to Robluthang, 18 km, 6-7 hours  

Your day begins with a climb to Jari La pass (4,700m), followed by a descent into Tasharijathang Valley, known for its population of Himalayan Takin, Bhutan’s national animal. After crossing the stream, the trail ascends to the camp at Robluthang at 4,200m.

Day 10: Robluthang to Limithang, 19 km, 7-8 hours

Today’s trek is challenging as you ascend to the Shinjela Pass at 4,900m, the highest point of the journey. The trail then descends into a glacial valley with stunning views of Mount Gangchey Ta. Set up camp at 4,140m in a beautiful meadow.

Day 11: Limithang to Laya, 10 km, 4-5 hours

Today’s walk is a pleasant one as you make your way down to the valley of Laya, one of the highest settlements in Bhutan, located at 3,800m. You’ll pass through damp forests with moss-covered trees and vibrant birdsong. Spend the night in the village or a yak herder’s home.

Day 12: Laya to Chamsa, 19 km, 8-9 hours

Descend from Laya to the Mo Chhu River, crossing several bridges. The trail moves through juniper and fir forests, climbing and descending until you reach Chamsa at 3,500m for the night.

Day 13: Chamsa to Gasa Tsachu, 14 km, 6-7 hours

Pass through lush forests before reaching Bari La (3,900m) and descending steeply into Gasa Tsachu (hot spring), where you can relax after your journey. Set up camp at 2,200m, and take a quick tour of the Gasa Dzong and village.

Day 14: Gasa Tsachu to Damji, 18 km, 6 hours

Continue your trek along the Mo Chu river, passing through dense forest areas until you reach Damji.

Day 15: Damji to Tashithang, 16 km, 6 hours

Follow the Mo Chu river through scenic forests, arriving at Tashithang at 1,620m, where you will be met by your transport and transferred to your hotel in Punakha.

Day 16: Punakha to Thimphu (75 km, 2.5 hours)  

Visit the Punakha Dzong and explore its historical significance. Afterward, head to Wangduephodrang for a brief visit to its Dzong. In the afternoon, explore the local market before driving back to Thimphu for an overnight stay.

Day 17: Thimphu to Paro (55 km, 2 hours)

Enjoy a full day of sightseeing in Thimphu, including visits to Memorial Chorten, Tashichhodzong, the National Library, and the Textile & Folk Heritage Museum. In the evening, drive back to Paro for your overnight stay.

Day 18: Departure from Paro

On your final day, drive to Paro’s airport for your departure flight, marking the end of an unforgettable journey in Bhutan.