17-Days Laya–Gasa Trek

Arrive at Paro International Airport, one of the world’s most scenic landings. After
immigration formalities, meet your guide and transfer to the hotel.
Sightseeing includes:
 Rinpung Dzong – fortress-monastery overlooking Paro valley
 National Museum (Ta Dzong) – insight into Bhutanese history & culture
 Kyichu Lhakhang – one of Bhutan’s oldest and most sacred temples
Evening stroll through Paro town.

Overnight: Hotel in Paro

After breakfast, drive to the trailhead and begin the hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest
Monastery, perched dramatically on a cliff (3,120 m).
 Hiking time: 4–6 hours (round trip)
 Optional lunch at Taktsang Cafeteria viewpoint
 Visit monastery and descend back
Evening at leisure.

Overnight: Hotel in Paro

Drive to Shana village (starting point of the trek). Begin trekking along the Paro Chhu
River, passing farmlands and forests.
 Trek distance: ~17 km
 Walking time: 5–6 hours
 Gradual ascent
Camp at Thangthangkha, surrounded by pine and cedar forests.

Overnight: Camp(4080m)

One of the most scenic trekking days.
 Pass army post at Soe
 Walk through yak pastures and alpine meadows
 Stunning views of Mt. Jomolhari (7,314 m)
Reach Jangothang Base Camp.

Overnight: Camp (4,080 m)

Rest and acclimatization day.
Optional hikes:
 Jomolhari viewpoint
 Twin lakes hike
 Explore yak herders’ settlements
Essential for altitude adaptation.

Overnight: Camp

A long but rewarding day crossing Nyile La Pass (4,890 m).
 Panoramic Himalayan views
 Descent into Lingzhi valley
Arrive at Lingzhi village, one of Bhutan’s highest settlements.

Overnight: Camp (4,010 m)

Gradual trek with spectacular landscapes.
 Cross Goyul La Pass (4,440 m)
 Alpine ridges and glacial valleys
Camp at Chebesa near yak pastures.

Overnight: Camp (3,880 m)

Ascend through rhododendron forests and alpine slopes.
 Cross Jarela Pass (4,780 m)
 Views of Gangchentak glacier
Descend to Shombuthang campsite.

Overnight: Camp (4,200 m)

Cross the highest point of the trek.
 Cross Sinche La Pass (5,005 m)
 Dramatic snow-covered landscapes
 Enter Laya region
Camp at Robulthang.

Overnight: Camp (4,160 m)

Steady descent with changing landscapes.
 Walk through yak herders’ camps
 First views of Laya village region
Camp at Lingmethang near river.

Overnight: Camp (4,140 m)

Short but steep ascent to Laya.
 Trek time: 3–4 hours
 Arrival at Laya village (traditional highland community)
Explore village, meet locals in unique Laya costumes.

Overnight: Camp or homestay (3,800 m)

Rest and cultural exploration.
Activities:
 Visit Laya village houses
 Short hike to viewpoints
 Interaction with Layap community
A perfect cultural immersion day.

Overnight: Camp/Homestay

Descend through forested trails to Gasa.
 Trek time: 5–6 hours
 Visit Gasa Dzong
Enjoy a relaxing soak at Gasa Hot Springs, famous for therapeutic benefits.

Overnight: Guesthouse/Camp

Drive from Gasa to Punakha via scenic mountain roads.
 En-route views of deep valleys
 Arrival in warmer Punakha valley
Evening at leisure.

Overnight: Hotel in Punakha

Full day sightseeing in Punakha.
Visit:
 Punakha Dzong – most beautiful dzong in Bhutan
 Chimi Lhakhang – fertility temple
 Suspension bridge walk

Overnight: Hotel in Punakha

Drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital.
Thimphu sightseeing:
 Buddha Dordenma
 Memorial Chorten
 Tashichho Dzong
Continue drive to Paro.

Overnight: Hotel in Paro

Transfer to Paro International Airport for onward flight with unforgettable memories of
Bhutan’s most legendary trek.