Masagang Trek is widely regarded as one of the most stunning high-altitude treks in Bhutan. Beginning at the head of the Paro Valley, it follows the Laya Gasa Trek trail, winding through rugged terrain to the remote Laya village. This settlement offers a rare glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of Bhutan’s indigenous people, particularly the women of Laya, known for their distinct facial features, vibrant coral and turquoise adornments, and traditional bamboo hats. From Laya, the Masagang Trek continues upward for three days, culminating at Masagang, a sacred peak with great spiritual significance. Here, trekkers immerse themselves in the region’s natural beauty and cultural history. As one of Bhutan’s most remote and ecologically sensitive areas, the Masagang Trek combines nature, culture, and adventure, offering an unforgettable experience for those exploring the untouched wilderness of the Himalayas.
DAY 01: ARRIVAL PARO (2250m)
Your adventure begins with a scenic flight to Bhutan, where breathtaking Himalayan views set the stage for your journey. Upon landing at Paro Airport, you’ll be greeted by our representative and transferred to your hotel. After a short rest, explore Paro Valley’s cultural gems: first, visit Paro Rinpung Dzong, a fortress monastery; then, the National Museum’s art collections; and finally, historic Jangsa Dumtse Lhakhang. By evening, return to your hotel to unwind.
DAY 02: TIGER’S NEST HIKE (2950m, 4 km, 3 hrs)
Today’s highlight is the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery. After a short drive north of Paro, begin the challenging 3–4-hour hike. Despite the steep climb, the reward—a cliffside monastery at 3100 m—is unforgettable. Following your visit, explore Kyichu Lhakhang, a 7th-century temple, before returning to your hotel.
DAY 03: HOTEL-SHARNA-THANGTHANKA (3570m, 16 km, 7 hrs)
After an early checkout, drive to Sharna to meet your trekking crew. The trek begins with a riverine trail through oak and rhododendron forests. As you ascend, alpine meadows and views of Jomolhari emerge. By evening, camp in a scenic meadow surrounded by peaks.
DAY 04: THANGTHANKA-JANGOTHANG (4080m, 15 km, 6 hrs)
Today, follow the Pa Chhu River through alpine meadows. Gradually, Jomolhari’s towering presence dominates the horizon. Upon reaching Jangothang, camp in a barren meadow with panoramic mountain vistas—perfect for reflection after your hike.
DAY 05: JANGOTHANG HALT
After days of trekking, today is a rest day. For those eager to explore, hike to Tshophu Lake for stunning views of Jomolhari and Tsherimgang. Alternatively, relax at camp and soak in the serenity.
DAY 06: JANGOTHANG-LINGSHI (4010m, 18 km, 8 hrs)
Start early for the ascent to Nylila Pass (4860 m). Along the way, spot blue sheep grazing on slopes. After crossing the pass, descend to Lingshi Dzong, where your campsite offers sweeping valley views.
DAY 07: LINGSHI-CHEBISA (3880m, 10 km, 5 hrs)
Begin with a visit to Lingshi Dzong, then trek through villages and ridges to Chebisa. If time permits, explore the village or a nearby waterfall before settling into camp.
DAY 08: CHEBISA-SHOMUTHANG (4220m, 15 km, 7 hrs)
Today’s challenge is the Gobula Pass (4510 m). During the ascent, encounter blue sheep and yak herders. After descending, camp in a U-shaped valley dotted with nomadic camps.
DAY 09: SHOMUTHANG-ROBLUTHANG (4160m, 16 km, 8 hrs)
Climb to Jarila Pass (4750 m) for Khangbum Mountain vistas. Next, descend to Tserijathang, a Takin grazing ground. Finally, ascend to Robluthang, where rocky meadows frame your campsite.
DAY 10: ROBLUTHANG-LIMITHANG (4460m, 18 km, 8 hrs)
Tackle the strenuous climb to Sinchela Pass (5000 m). From the summit, descend past Glacier Lake to Limithang. Here, camp amid rhododendron forests and mountain vistas.
DAY 11: LIMITHANG-LAYA (3840m, 11 km, 5 hrs)
Descend gently through forests to Laya village. Upon arrival, camp below the school and explore Bhutan’s second-highest settlement. Don’t miss interactions with Layap women in their iconic bamboo hats.
DAY 12: LAYA EXPLORATION
Immerse yourself in Layap culture today. Observe their unique traditions, jewelry, and semi-nomadic lifestyle. This immersive experience offers deep insights into Bhutan’s remotest communities.
DAY 13: LAYA-KALUKHA (3850m, 13 km, 7 hrs)
Trek past Lungo village to Kalukha. Throughout the day, enjoy views of Masagang Peak. By evening, camp in a valley surrounded by rugged beauty.
DAY 14: KALUKHA-NULITHANG (4050m, 7 km, 5 hrs)
Cross winter yak pastures and rivers to Nulithang. Here, camp opposite Masagang Peak, where stark landscapes highlight Bhutan’s raw wilderness.
DAY 15: MASAGNAG EXCURSION
Choose between a hike to Chethola (5010 m) for Masagang vistas or a yak herder’s camp for panoramic Himalayan views. Either way, the day promises awe-inspiring moments.
DAY 16: NULITHANG-TAKTTSEMAKA (3480m, 14 km, 7 hrs)
Descend through Lungo village to Taktsemaka. En route, bid farewell to alpine views. At camp, reflect on your journey’s highs.
DAY 17: TAKTSEMAKA-GAS HOT SPRINGS (2340m, 17 km, 8 hrs)
Hike muddy trails to Koina, then drive to Gasa Hot Springs. Finally, soak in therapeutic waters to rejuvenate tired muscles.
DAY 18: GASA-PUNAKHA-THIMPHU (140 km, 3 hrs)
Visit Punakha Dzong en route to Thimphu. Afterward, cross Dochula Pass for mountain views. In Thimphu, enjoy souvenir shopping before retiring to your hotel.
DAY 19: THIMPHU-PARO AIRPORT
After breakfast, depart for Paro Airport. Bid farewell to Bhutan’s wonders as you board your flight, concluding this unforgettable adventure.
THE QUOTED BHUTAN TOUR COST INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING
Your Bhutan tour package comprehensively covers the following services and amenities:
Firstly, the rate includes all three meals, featuring both local and continental healthy cuisine.
Additionally, accommodation in three-star hotels on a twin/double sharing basis is provided.
Moreover, you’ll enjoy air-conditioned, tourist-standard transportation throughout your journey.
Furthermore, a licensed English-speaking guide will accompany you on all sightseeing tours.
The package also provides extensive, flexible itineraries tailored to your preferences.
Importantly, the Bhutan Government royalty fees of $100 per person per night are included.
Additionally, all entry fees, museum charges, and historical attraction costs are covered.
All applicable taxes, including BST (10%) and service charge (10%), are part of the rate.
Lastly, the one-time visa fee ($40) and airport arrival and departure transfers in Bhutan are included.
INCLUSIVE TREK AND CAMPING
For trekking and camping adventures, the following are included:
Your package features dining tents, toilet tents, twin-sharing sleeping tents, mattresses, and essential camping equipment.
A basic first aid kit is also provided for safety during treks.
Additionally, local drinks, including wine, are included to enhance your experience.
Moreover, a dedicated support team (guide, cook, assistants) ensures a smooth trek.
Furthermore, ponies and yaks (with handlers) are available for transport during the trek.
COMPLEMENTARY SERVICES
To further enrich your journey, the following complimentary services are offered:
Upon arrival, refreshments will be provided to welcome you.
Each day, you’ll receive a bottle of mineral water.
On departure, a small farewell gift will be presented as a token of appreciation.
For groups exceeding seven members, a cultural program and a traditional farewell dinner at a local farmhouse are included.
THE QUOTED BHUTAN TOUR COST DOES NOT INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING
Please note that the following are not covered:
Firstly, incoming/outgoing Bhutan airfares and airport taxes are excluded.
Additionally, drinks (alcoholic/non-alcoholic) beyond specified inclusions are not covered.
Guides speaking languages other than English incur extra charges.
Expenses of a personal nature, such as tipping, laundry, phone calls, or medical costs, are your responsibility.
Moreover, extra costs due to unforeseen events (e.g., natural disruptions) are not included.
Services outside Bhutan or bank transfer fees ($45) are excluded.
Lastly, tipping for guides, drivers, etc., is at your discretion.
The trek spans 2,200m (Paro) to 4,000m (Masagang Base Camp), offering diverse terrains like dense forests, meadows, and rugged passes. Additionally, it features steep ascents, gradual climbs, and encounters with wildlife, rivers, and streams along the way.
The trail is marked by cairns, painted rocks, and prayer flags, guiding trekkers. Additionally, natural landmarks like ridgelines and high passes serve as direction indicators, ensuring easy navigation through rugged terrain and keeping trekkers on the right path.
Streams and rivers provide ample water along the trail; however, trekkers must carry purification tablets or filters for safety. Additionally, since no food is available, your host arranges and carries all meals and snacks to ensure sustenance throughout the journey.
Risk zones include steep slopes and rocky paths, especially near high passes. Additionally, rapid weather changes at higher altitudes may bring cold, rain, or snow. Since no medical facilities exist, carry a first aid kit. Wildlife like yaks, blue sheep, and eagles inhabit the area.
GROUP ABOVE 03 MEMBERS
Before embarking on the Masagang trek, dedicate time to preparation and training to ensure safety and enjoyment. Since the terrain is challenging and remote, excellent fitness, stamina, and mental resilience are essential. This includes cardio, strength training, and hiking practice. Additionally, research the route, pack appropriate gear, and acclimatize to high altitudes. These steps not only enhance your ability to handle the trek’s demands but also allow you to fully appreciate its breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable moments.
Masagang 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. Therefore, 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. Additionally, taking a fitness class beforehand will enhance your ability to tackle the rugged terrain with confidence. Moreover, this preparation allows you to make the most of the trek’s breathtaking landscapes, savoring 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. To ensure a successful journey, here’s a checklist of essential items for high-altitude trekking:
Comfortable, well-fitted hiking backpack
Broken-in trekking boots
Waterproof jacket (Goretex or equivalent)
Packable down layers
Sunglasses
Headlamp
Lightweight, moisture-wicking base layers
Packable down, synthetic, or fleece mid-layers
Water purification system
Extra socks and undergarments
Ultimately, 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. In fact, this condition can be life-threatening and is the leading cause of medical evacuations in the Himalayas.
For example:
Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS): A general term for altitude sickness, with symptoms such as headaches (worsened by bending over), nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and a hangover-like sensation.
High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE): A severe, life-threatening condition involving brain swelling, ataxia (stumbling), confusion, lethargy, and AMS symptoms.
High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE): A critical condition causing coughing, difficulty breathing even with mild activity, and fluid accumulation in the lungs, often accompanying AMS symptoms.
Typically, AMS is the most common and frequently affects trekkers who ascend too rapidly without adequate acclimatization. However, proper preparation, gradual altitude training, and acclimatization can significantly reduce the risk of severe altitude illnesses. Ultimately, these measures ensure a safer and more enjoyable trekking experience.
Our every tour and travel package is crafted to immerse you in local cultures, offering the chance to engage with communities as you explore. For instance, whether staying in a local farmhouse, visiting farms, or trekking through remote areas, our packages always include community involvement and unique experiences. Moreover, we take you beyond typical tourist sites, guiding you through hidden gems off the beaten path—places not found in guidebooks and missed by most tourists. Ultimately, 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 the effort invested in showcasing Bhutan’s pristine landscapes. Therefore, let us collectively support conservation by respecting, preserving, and avoiding pollution in these treasured spaces. Since our actions safeguard this unique ecosystem, practicing sustainable tourism is essential. Moreover, by protecting these natural wonders, we ensure the unmatched beauty and cultural richness of Bhutan 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. For breakfast, enjoy options like toast, juice, coffee, tea, cereal, fresh fruits, pancakes, eggs, and fried bacon or sausage. Meanwhile, lunch is often a packed hot meal for convenience. Additionally, dinner offers a variety of grilled meats, fish, chicken, pork, beef, and optional vegetables, with occasional treats of local or regional specialties. Ultimately, this culinary experience 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. Therefore, holding comprehensive travel insurance is essential to cover all intended activities, including health emergencies, lost belongings, and related issues beyond our control. Additionally, this ensures peace of mind and protection throughout your journey. Ultimately, 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.
The Masagang 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. Additionally, their expertise encompasses not only navigating the path but also addressing challenges, providing valuable tips, and sharing insights about the region’s natural beauty, culture, and environment. As a result, your trekking experience is greatly enhanced. Moreover, 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. Ultimately, this makes 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 local culture by staying at homestays, where you can experience 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.
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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