Jhomolhari, Laya Gasa Trek - 16 days

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Things to Know
  • Duration16 Days
  • Difficulty Level Moderate
  • Altitude 4877m Neyleyla Pass
  • Trip Type Camping Trek
  • Start and End Paro and Paro
  • Best Time March- May & Oct - Nov
What You’ll Do
  • Diverse Landscapes: The trek traverses through a variety of terrains from lush valleys and dense forests to high mountain passes, providing breathtaking views of the Himalayan landscape, including the majestic peaks of Jomolhari and Jichu Drake.
  • Rich Culture: One of the most unique aspects of the Laya Gasa Trek is the opportunity to experience the authentic culture of the Layap people of Laya, one of the highest settlements in Bhutan. Trekkers can witness traditional Bhutanese lifestyles and celebrations that have remained unchanged for centuries.
  • High Altitude Passes: The trek includes crossing several high passes, including the challenging Nyile La and Sinche La, which are over 4,000 meters. These high altitude treks offer exhilarating challenges and spectacular views.
  • Flora and Fauna: Trekking through the Jigme Dorji National Park, trekkers can spot a wide array of wildlife such as the elusive snow leopard, blue sheep, and several species of birds. The park is also home to diverse plant life, blooming with rhododendrons and other alpine flowers during the spring.
  • Hot Springs: The trek offers the chance to relax in natural hot springs near Gasa, which are believed to have healing properties and provide a perfect way to rejuvenate after the rigorous trek.
  • Remote Monasteries and Sacred Sites: Along the route, trekkers encounter remote monasteries and sacred relics, offering insights into the spiritual heritage of Bhutan. Visiting these sites provides a serene and introspective experience.
  • Spectacular Camping Sites: The journey includes camping under the stars at beautiful and remote sites, providing an intimate experience with nature and a chance to disconnect from the modern world.

Embark on the Laya Gasa Trek, a premier high-altitude trek that promises unparalleled adventure and cultural immersion. This iconic journey takes you through Bhutan's most majestic landscapes. With a detailed Jhomolhari Laya Gasa Trek itinerary, you will navigate through breathtaking sceneries and unique cultural experiences. Ideal for those curious about trekking in Bhutan, this trek offers moderate to challenging hikes, making it accessible to a range of trekking enthusiasts. The Laya Gasa trek cost and required Laya Gasa trek permit are clearly outlined to help you plan effectively, ensuring you know the best time to do Laya Gasa Trek and what to pack for Laya Gasa Trek. Join us for an unforgettable journey enriched with Laya Gasa trek experiences and steeped in the tradition and beauty of the Himalayas.

Iconic Holiday Nepal, we pride ourselves on being the premier provider for the Laya Gasa Trek. Our deep understanding of the unique challenges and delights of Bhutan's high-altitude treks makes us the ideal choice for adventurers seeking to explore the majestic beauty of Bhutan. We offer a comprehensive Laya Gasa Trek itinerary, meticulously designed to cater to the needs of all trekkers, whether you are a seasoned hiker or new to trekking in Bhutan. Our expert guides ensure a safe and enriching experience, highlighting the cultural experiences in Laya Gasa Trek that make this journey more than just a trek. Trust us to make your adventure memorable with our unparalleled service and in-depth knowledge, securing all necessary Laya Gasa trek permits and providing detailed advice on what to pack for Laya Gasa Trek. This is one of the medium-hard treks offered in Bhutan owing to the high altitude and steep ascents and descents along the trail. The best season for the Jomolhari Laya Gasa Trek is  April to June and September to November.

Royal Highland Festival

Experience the warmth and authenticity of the Highlander's way of life, as you witness age-old traditions and cultural performances that have withstood the test of time, while being surrounded by magical peaks. We invite you to this year's Royal Highland Festival, set for 23-24 October every year. The annual Royal Highland Festival is held from October 23-24 every year at Laya in the Gasa district. The festival, which is held at 4,000m above sea level, aims to celebrate, promote and preserve the life and culture of the nomadic highland people of Bhutan, support their economy, exhibit the beauty and wonders of the highlands, and laud their resilience. Guests attending the two-day festival can enjoy the breathtaking sights and sounds of the high Himalaya, as well as games, parades and competitions showcasing highland animals including yaks, horses and mastiff dogs. Some of the animals are dressed in expensive fabrics with colored hair and adorned bells. In addition, a variety of cultural programmes will be performed by the Layaps, the indigenous people inhabiting Laya, including traditional songs, dances, poetry recitations and gift offerings. Layaps refer to their homeland as Be-yul – "the hidden land.”

The festival will also feature stalls selling local produce as well as showcasing highland agriculture technology, medicinal herbs and plants, among other things. The festival attracts communities from all over Bhutan and many tribes come down from the High Himalayas to compete in races and showings of their animals. The festival will also feature textile and souvenir stalls, and food stalls displaying local cuisines such as dried yak cheese, butter and alcoholic beverages.

 

 

Itinerary
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  • Altitude2200 m
  • AccommodationHotel

Fly into Paro International Airport (PBH). You'll be met by your guide and driver upon arrival.Transfer to your hotel. Settle in and take it easy to begin adjusting to the altitude. Perhaps a gentle walk through the main street of Paro.

  • Altitude3120m
  • AccommodationHotel
  • Time5-6 hours

A vital day for acclimatization. Hike up to the famous Taktsang Monastery (Tiger's Nest). The significant altitude gain (approx. 900m) and physical exertion are excellent preparation. Allow 5-6 hours for the round trip. Afternoon: Visit the historic Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan's oldest temples.

  • Altitude2200m
  • AccommodationHotel
  • Time4-5 hrs

Visit the National Museum (Ta Dzong) housed in an ancient watchtower, and the impressive Rinpung Dzong. Final gear check and briefing with your guide. Ensure you have everything needed for the trek. Continue acclimatizing.

  • Altitude3610m
  • AccommodationTented Camp
  • Time7-8 hrs

A day with considerable altitude gain. The trail continues through the river valley, gradually becoming steeper as you ascend through rhododendron and oak forests.

Trekking Time: 7-8 hours.

Overnight: Camp at Soi Thangthangkha.

  • Altitude4080m
  • AccommodationTented Camp
  • Time5-6 hrs

Continue ascending, moving above the tree line into alpine meadows.Pass an army checkpoint and enter the stunning high-altitude valley leading to Jomolhari Base Camp (Jangothang). Enjoy magnificent views of Mt. Jomolhari and Jichu Drake.

Trekking Time: 5-6 hours.

Overnight: Camp at Jangothang.

  • Altitude4080m
  • AccommodationTented camp
  • Time3-4 hrs

Crucial acclimatization day. Rest at camp or take optional day hikes to higher elevations (like Tshophu lakes or nearby ridges) for better views and to aid adaptation ('climb high, sleep low'). This is vital before crossing the upcoming high passes.

Overnight: Camp at Jangothang.

  • Altitude3800m
  • AccommodationTented camp
  • Time6-8 hrs

Instead of heading directly over the Nyile La towards Lingshi, today takes a route angling more towards Laya. This often involves crossing the Bontse La pass (approx 4,890m / 16,043 ft) with great views back towards Jomolhari and Jichu Drake.Descend after the pass towards the Soi Yaksa valley area or Dhumzo campsite. A shorter day overall helps consolidate acclimatization after the pass.

Trekking Time: 6-8 hours (pass crossing is demanding).

Overnight: Camp at Dhumzo / Soi Yaksa area.

  • Altitude4160m
  • AccommodationTented camp
  • Time5-7 hrs

Today involves crossing another high pass, likely the Takhung La (approx 4,520m / 14,829 ft).Trek through high alpine pastures often used by yak herders.Camp near Thombu or potentially push further towards Tsharijathang/Robluthang base depending on conditions and group pace. Let's aim for Thombu area for a moderate day.

Trekking Time: 5-7 hours.

Overnight: Camp near Thombu Shong.

  • Altitude4380m
  • AccommodationTented camp
  • Time4-6 hrs

Cross the Thombu La pass (approx 4,380m / 14,370 ft).Descend to the campsite at Robluthang, potentially meeting the main Snowman trail route here.

Trekking Time: 4-6 hours.

  • AltitudeSinche La 5005m
  • AccommodationTented camp
  • Time7-8 hrs

Face the highest pass of this trek, the Sinche La (Approx. 5,005m / 16,421ft). Start early for the strenuous climb.Spectacular mountain views reward your effort at the pass. Undertake a long descent into the Limithang valley.

Trekking Time: 7-8 hours.

Overnight: Camp at Limithang.

  • Altitude3840m
  • AccommodationTented camp
  • Time4-5 hrs

A relatively easier day, mostly descending through forests into the main Laya valley. Arrive at Laya village, known for the distinctive conical bamboo hats worn by the women.

Trekking Time: 4-5 hours.

Overnight: Camp near Laya village.

  • Altitude3840m
  • AccommodationTented camp
  • Time4-5 hrs

Important rest day. Explore the unique culture and village of Laya. Interact with the Layaps. This break helps with recovery before turning south towards Gasa and allows further acclimatization.

Overnight: Camp near Laya village.

  • Altitude3900m
  • AccommodationTented camp
  • Time2-3 hrs

Continue descending through forests, following the Mo Chhu river drainage. Cross the final significant pass of the trek, the Bale La (approx 3,900m / 12,795 ft), before descending towards Gasa village. Pass or visit Gasa Dzong, perched dramatically above the valley. Arrive at Gasa Tsachu (hot springs). Enjoy a well-deserved soak.

Trekking Time: 2-3 hours.

Unpaved Car Ride: 1:5 hrs – 2 hrs.

Overnight: Camp near Gasa Tsachu or stay in simple guesthouses nearby.

  • Altitude1400m
  • AccommodationHotel
  • Time4-6 hrs

Enjoy a final morning soak if desired. Meet your vehicle and begin the drive southwards towards Punakha/Wangdue (approx. 4-6 hours depending on road conditions). The road winds down through changing vegetation zones. Check into your hotel in the Punakha/Wangdue valley.

Overnight: Hotel in Punakha/Wangdue.

  • Altitude2400m
  • AccommodationHotel
  • Time3-4 hrs

From Punakha, you will head to the capital city of Thimphu. The ride will be exciting as you stop at Dochu La pass for a nice cup of tea. On a clear day, the views of the high Himalayas can be easily spotted. You will be escorted to your hotel in Thimphu.  Upon reaching Thimphu, you can head out for a stroll through the lovely city. You can even buy some souvenirs to remember the wonderful trek as you head back home.

You will stay overnight at your hotel in Thimphu. 

Drive back to Paro (approx. 3-4 hours), crossing the Dochu La pass.

  • Time50km, 1.5 hrs

On this day, you will be leaving Bhutan for home. Our Bhutanese guide will drive you to Paro International Airport. After your interesting Laya Gasa trek, with a heavy heart, we will bid you a farewell. 

Trip Cost Details
Included
  • All transfer ( Domestic and international) 
  • 3 star hotel accomodation in Kahmandu with breakfast
  • Kathmandu to paro and Paro to Kathmandu flight
  • Accommodation as per below mentioned hotels in bhutan
  • All meals ( Breakfast and dinner at the hotel & lunch at the local resturant)
  • All transfers  and Sightseeing with entrance fees.
  • English Speaking Wind Horse Local Tour Leader.
  • Bhutan visa including visa fees.
  • SDF (Sustainable Dev. Fees)
  • During the trek: Fully organized trek with all meals. All trekking gears including Tents, Thermal mats, Blow pillow, Hot-water bag for warmth during night. Pack animals to carry luggage and additional riding pony for emergency, Basic Medical Kit. Trekking staffs include first aid trained Guide, Cook, assistants and horseman)
Excluded
  • International flight 
  • Travel Insurance (for trip cancellation, interruption, medical treatment, repatriation, etc.)
  • Telephone Calls, Internet, laundry, soft drinks, beers, and any Alcoholic beverages.
  • Special Filming and Drone permit fee.
  • Tips for the guide & driver. (Tipping is Expected).
  • Any other services, activities, or personal expenses, which are not mentioned in the itinerary and other items not listed in the “Cost Includes” section.

 

Client Reviews
  • Michael C
    Michael CFranceNov 04, 2025

    Excellent trek in Bhutan

    Upendra professionally organised a 16 day visit with a 12 day trek in Bhutan, along the Snowman Trail from Paro to the Royal Mountain Festival in Laya. We had an excellent time! For 2 of us, we had 4 staff, 9 horses, 4 tents and excellent hot food 3 times a day. We even bumped into the Bhutanese Prime Minister, and saw the King, at the Royal Festival

    TripAdvisor

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