The Laya Gasa trek, which follows the path of the Jomolhari Trek up till Lingshi and also covers almost the first half of the Snowman Trek, offers trekkers a remote and hidden journey that is rated medium-hard and takes them through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Himalayas, where along the way they will experience stunning views of towering mountain peaks and the mesmerizing beauty of pristine, unspoiled landscapes, passing through isolated villages and the traditional stone houses of yak herders, encountering indigenous wildlife such as blue sheep, takin, and other rare species that thrive in this secluded region, while being immersed in the tranquility and awe-inspiring scenery that only such a remote journey can offer, where the combination of rugged terrain, high-altitude passes, and spectacular natural beauty creates an unforgettable adventure, providing trekkers with an opportunity to witness Bhutan’s rich biodiversity and the simple yet enduring lifestyles of the people who inhabit these remote areas, making it a truly remarkable and challenging experience for those seeking to connect with nature and culture in one of the world’s most untouched and beautiful regions.
DAY 01: ARRIVAL PARO (2250 m)
Arrive in Bhutan with a scenic flight showcasing the stunning Himalayas. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by your guide and taken to your hotel for a rest. Afterward, enjoy an introduction to Bhutanese culture with visits to Paro’s National Museum, Rinpung Dzong, and the unique Jangsa Dumtse Lhakhang, offering a perfect start to your adventure in this breathtaking valley.
DAY 02: HIKE TO THE FAMED TIGER’S NEST (2950 m)
Embark on a rewarding hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, perched on a cliffside. After a challenging ascent, explore this sacred site where Guru Padmasambhava meditated in the 8th century. On your return, visit the historic Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan's oldest temples, before relaxing back in Paro.
DAY 03: HOTEL – SHARNA – THANGTHANKA (3570 m)
Your trek begins at Sharna, where you’ll meet your trekking crew. As you ascend through dense forests of oak, fir, and rhododendron, cross streams and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The journey leads to Thangthanka, offering spectacular views of Jomolhari, making it a memorable first day of the trek.
DAY 04: THANGTHANKA – JANGOTHANG (4080 m)
Trek to Jangothang, the Jomolhari Base Camp, nestled in a picturesque alpine meadow. Along the way, enjoy views of yak herders' stone houses and stunning vistas of Jomolhari peak. The campsite offers an unmatched panoramic view of the majestic mountain, offering trekkers a serene place to rest.
DAY 05: JANGOTHANG HALT
A well-deserved rest day at Jangothang. Acclimatize and take in the majestic views of Jomolhari and Jichu Drakey. For the adventurous, take a hike to the nearby Tshophu Lake, where you may spot the rare Himalayan blue sheep and enjoy breathtaking landscapes.
DAY 06: JANGOTHANG – LINGSHI (4010 m)
Embark on a challenging day, crossing the high Nelela Pass (4860m). Enjoy incredible views of Jichu Drakey and Tsherimgang peaks. Spot Himalayan blue sheep along the way. The descent reveals Lingshi Dzong, perched atop a hill, offering a stunning sight as you reach your campsite.
DAY 07: LINGSHI – CHEBESA (3880 m)
Start with a visit to Lingshi Dzong, dating back to the 17th century. The trail then leads through small villages and takes you on a gradual ascent to a ridge, followed by a descent to the beautiful Goyul village. Reach Chebesa, where you can explore a charming village and enjoy a scenic waterfall.
DAY 08: CHEBESA – SHOMUTHANG (4220 m)
After an early start, climb towards Gobula Pass (4510m) and enjoy views of Himalayan blue sheep. The descent leads to a U-shaped valley, where yak herders' stone houses dot the landscape. Finally, reach Shomuthang, a peaceful campsite surrounded by the beauty of nature.
DAY 09: SHOMUTHANG – ROBLUTHANG (4160 m)
The trek today takes you uphill to the Jarila Pass (4750m), offering panoramic views of Khangbum and Gangchenta peaks. Afterward, descend to Tserija Thang, where rare Himalayan Takin graze. The final ascent leads to your campsite at Robluthang, nestled in the valley with magnificent views.
DAY 10: ROBLUTHANG – LIMITHANG (4460 m)
Start early to tackle the long climb to the Sinchela Pass (5005m), the highest point of the trek. The views of Gangchenta and Tsherimgang are stunning as you descend through a glacier valley, passing through rhododendron and cedar forests before reaching Limithang with its breathtaking backdrop.
DAY 11: LIMITHANG – LAYA (3840 m)
A pleasant walk today through a narrow river valley, where you’ll pass by mossy forests and listen to the sounds of birds. The view of Gangchenta and Masagang peaks accompanies you as you enter Laya village, the second-highest settlement in Bhutan, where the unique culture of the locals awaits.
DAY 12: LAYA HALT
Rest day in Laya. Take a break from trekking and explore the village, known for its distinctive culture. The Layap people, especially the women, are known for their coral and turquoise jewelry, conical bamboo hats, and vibrant clothing—offering a rich cultural experience.
DAY 13: LAYA – KOINA (3100 m)
Today’s trek follows the Mochu River, with several ascents and descents leading you to Koina Pass (3300m). After crossing the pass, descend to Koina Chhu, where a short walk takes you to your campsite in the tranquil surroundings of Koina.
DAY 14: KOINA – GASA HOT SPRING (2340 m)
Ascend to Barila Pass (3900m), the final pass of the trek, before descending through lush forests. Arrive at Gasa, where you’ll visit the Gasa Dzong and enjoy the healing waters of the famous Gasa Hot Springs, known for their medicinal properties and relaxing ambiance.
DAY 15: GASA HOT SPRING – THIMPHU (133 km)
After bidding farewell to your trekking team, drive to Punakha to explore its historic sites, including Punakha Dzong and Chimi Lhakhang. Then, continue your journey to Thimphu, Bhutan’s vibrant capital, where culture, history, and stunning landscapes await.
DAY 16: THIMPHU SIGHTSEEING – PARO
Explore the cultural heart of Bhutan with visits to the National Memorial Chorten, Thimphu Dzong, and the Giant Buddha Statue. If you’re in Thimphu on the weekend, explore the lively weekend vegetable market before heading back to Paro for your final evening in Bhutan.
DAY 17: THIMPHU – PARO AIRPORT
On your final day, enjoy your last moments in Bhutan. Bid farewell to your guide and driver before departing from Paro Airport, taking with you memories of the breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality of Bhutan.
THE QUOTED BHUTAN TOUR COST INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING
INCLUSIVE TREK AND CAMPING
COMPLEMENTARY SERVICE
THE QUOTED BHUTAN TOUR COST DOES NOT INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING
After a long trek, there’s nothing more rejuvenating than a visit to the Gasa Hot Springs. Known for their therapeutic properties, the springs draw both locals and trekkers seeking relaxation. The surrounding natural beauty, combined with the warmth of the springs, offers a perfect way to unwind and reflect on the journey’s highlights.
The trek to Jangothang offers spectacular views of the towering Jomolhari (7,314m), one of Bhutan’s most sacred mountains. The base camp is nestled in a scenic alpine meadow, providing trekkers with a serene environment to relax. The area’s untouched beauty and proximity to yaks and herders’ stone houses make it one of the most picturesque campsites in the Himalayas..
You’ll have the opportunity to spot a variety of indigenous wildlife. From the rare Himalayan blue sheep grazing on rugged slopes to the national animal of Bhutan, the Takin, these encounters add an exciting wildlife element to the journey. The trek offers trekkers a rare glimpse into the wildlife that thrives in Bhutan’s pristine ecosystems.
Laya, the second-highest village in Bhutan, offers a unique cultural experience. The village is inhabited by the Layap people, known for their distinct appearance, colorful clothing, and love for coral and turquoise jewelry. The friendly villagers, alongside the stunning mountain views, make Laya a fascinating and memorable stop on the trek.
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The trek spans an elevation range from 2,880m (Shingkhar) to 2,900m (Gasa), offering diverse terrains such as dense forests, alpine meadows, high mountain passes, and rugged ridgelines. Along the way, trekkers encounter several rivers, including the Mo Chhu and other numerous streams and stunning waterfalls.
Trail markers along the trek include painted stones and wooden signposts, guiding trekkers through the path, while direction indicators such as cairns and occasional prayer flags help ensure clear navigation, blending traditional Bhutanese markers with the natural landscape to lead adventurers through this stunning trek.
Streams and rivers provide plentiful water along the route, but trekkers must carry water purification tablets or filters for safe drinking. There are no designated food stops along the trek; meals and snacks will be provided and carried by your team, ensuring you stay nourished throughout the journey.
High-altitude areas require proper acclimatization to prevent altitude sickness, with the trail posing challenges like steep ascents, rocky sections, and potential snow or ice on high passes. Limited medical facilities are available, so trekkers should carry a personal first aid kit. Be cautious of wildlife.
Before embarking on this trek, it is essential to dedicate time to proper preparation and training to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, as the challenging terrain, remote locations, and demanding physical requirements of the journey necessitate excellent fitness, stamina, and mental resilience; this includes engaging in cardio exercises, strength training, and hiking practice, as well as researching the route, packing appropriate gear, and acclimatizing to high altitudes, which will not only enhance your capability to handle the trek’s rigors but also allow you to fully appreciate the breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable moments this extraordinary adventure has.
This trek is best suited for seasoned adventurers with prior walking experience and fitness preparation, as it demands stamina, endurance, and readiness for challenging ascents, descents, and long walking days; it is not recommended for children or the elderly, ensuring participants are fully equipped to embrace the physical demands while enjoying every moment of this thrilling journey; taking a fitness class beforehand will enhance your ability to tackle the rugged terrain with confidence and make the most of the trek’s breathtaking landscapes, allowing you to savor an unforgettable adventure tailored for those ready to push their limits and explore nature's best.
The higher your trek takes you, the more crucial – and often costlier – your gear becomes. However, every investment will feel worthwhile when you're standing at the summit.
Here’s a checklist of essential items to prepare for high-altitude trekking.
High-altitude hiking and mountaineering offer unmatched thrills and unforgettable rewards. With proper gear and preparation, you can safely explore breathtaking landscapes and achieve incredible milestones.
Altitude sickness, including Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), can develop at elevations above 8,200 feet (2,500 meters) due to reduced oxygen levels. This condition can be life-threatening and is the leading cause of medical evacuations in the Himalayas.
AMS is the most common and frequently affects trekkers who ascend too rapidly without adequate acclimatization. Fortunately, proper preparation, gradual altitude training, and acclimatization can significantly reduce the risk of severe altitude illnesses, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable trekking experience.
Our every tour and travel package is crafted to immerse you in local cultures, offering you the chance to engage with communities as you explore. Whether staying in a local farmhouse, visiting farms, or trekking through remote areas, our packages always include community involvement and unique experiences. We take you beyond the typical tourist sites, guiding you through hidden gems off the beaten path—places not found in guidebooks and missed by most tourists. Our goal is to provide travelers with an interactive, authentic experience, fostering respect for local customs and traditions.
Every area we visit holds great importance to us, and trekkers can truly appreciate and enjoy the effort invested in showcasing Bhutan's pristine landscapes; let us collectively support the conservation of Bhutan’s natural environment by respecting, preserving, and refraining from polluting these treasured spaces, as our conscious actions contribute significantly to safeguarding the delicate balance of this unique ecosystem; by practicing sustainable tourism and protecting these threatened natural wonders, we ensure that the unmatched beauty and cultural richness of this small kingdom are preserved for future generations to admire, cherish, and be inspired by.
Our expert cook ensures your trek is fueled with fresh, organic, and healthy ingredients sourced from local markets, crafting a delightful blend of local and continental dishes to keep you energized; breakfast features options like toast, juice, coffee, tea, cereal, fresh fruits, pancakes, eggs, and fried bacon or sausage, while lunch is often a packed hot meal for convenience; dinner offers a variety of freshly available grilled meats, fish, chicken, pork, beef, and optional vegetables, with occasional treats of local or regional specialties, delivering a culinary experience that satisfies your appetite and enhances the joy of your trekking adventure.
Whether you’re embarking on a trek or simply visiting Bhutan, obtaining travel insurance is mandatory, as Born Explorer cannot control or take responsibility for unforeseen events such as natural disasters or other incidents that could impact your trip; holding comprehensive travel insurance is essential to cover all intended activities, including health emergencies, lost belongings, and any other related issues beyond our control, ensuring peace of mind and protection throughout your journey, as this vital safeguard allows you to focus on enjoying Bhutan’s breathtaking landscapes and unique cultural experiences while being prepared for any unexpected challenges that may arise.
Your trek will be guided by a highly experienced senior trekking guide with extensive knowledge of the route, terrain, and essential details, ensuring your journey is safe, well-organized, and enjoyable; their expertise encompasses not only navigating the path but also addressing any challenges, providing valuable tips, and sharing insights about the region’s natural beauty, culture, and environment, which greatly enhances your trekking experience; with their support, you’ll have access to guidance on acclimatization, equipment, and local customs, allowing you to focus on the adventure while feeling confident and well-prepared throughout the journey, making your trek truly memorable and enriching.
Enhance your travel experience by upgrading your stay at luxurious hotels that offer unparalleled comfort and world-class amenities, ensuring a memorable and relaxing retreat.
Alternatively, immerse yourself in the heart of local culture by spending time with the locals at their homestays, where you can experience their everyday life, traditions, and warm hospitality. This unique opportunity allows you to bond with the community, savor authentic home-cooked meals, and gain deeper insights into their customs. Whether indulging in luxury or embracing local living, both options promise enriching experiences that will make your journey truly unforgettable.
Below are some additional adventures you may want to explore, offering unique experiences that will enhance your journey. From trekking through remote mountain trails to immersing yourself in local cultures, these trips provide a perfect balance of adventure and discovery. Whether you seek thrilling outdoor activities, cultural exchanges, or serene escapes, these experiences are designed to offer something for every type of traveler. Kindly check them out to see which ones align with your travel aspirations and interests.
We offers the ultimate and most reliable escape to Bhutan, providing an unbeatable experience through stunning landscapes and thrilling exploration. Trust us to deliver an unforgettable journey.
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