Laya Gasa Trek with Royal Highlander Festival

Trip Description

Paro-Punakha-Thimphu-Paro
Sunday - 13th of October 2024

Laya-Gasa trek is one of the most beautiful and advanced high-altitude treks for the seasoned trekker. The pace is designed in such a way that we allow ample time for acclimatization. This particular departure coincides with  the annual Royal Highlander Festival that takes place in the nomadic village of Laya – allowing you a great opportunity to interact and learn the ways of the Brokpas (nomads) of northern Bhutan. The event graced by high officials of the Govt. and also His Majesty the King and several royal family members, so it is a very festive occasion with significant importance as a national event.

This trip will also give you an unparallel insight into Bhutan and its culture, nature its people and the Bhutanese way of life. On this tour we invite you on a road of self-discovery as you discover Bhutan. Starts with the ultimate highlight of Tiger’s Nest monastery before you start the 2 week trek into the mountains and finally end the trek in Punakha where you’ll visit the most beautiful fortress of Bhutan before arriving at the capital city of Thimphu.

Every stop is laden with attractions that will enliven you senses and will leave you with an indelible feeling of having touched the soul of Bhutan, rather than just skimming through attractions. Our most valuable asset is our tour guides and field personnel who’ve been working with us for a long time and understand our company’s core values and bring the experience and quality required for our trekking services. This trip has very less driving times, with maximum exploration time to make the most of your holiday.

Quick overview

price Price

High Season - USD 4090

Regular Season - USD 3640

duration Duration

18 Nights

Tour Type Trip Type

Trekking

difficulty Difficulty

Day 1-Welcome to Bhutan

Sunday - 13th of October 2024 @

Metta Resort or Gangtey Palace Resort

If you are arriving on a bright sunny day, your holiday begins with a panoramic view of the Himalayan ranges from your Drukair seat, where you’ll be greeted by Mt. Everest and Mt. Kanchenjunga, and our very own Mt. Jomolhari and Mt. Jichu Drakey. You’ll have to make sure you request to be seated on the left side of the aisle aboard the plane to enjoy great views of the Himalayan ranges while you descend into Paro airport. In the afternoon we visit Ta Dzong (DZONG: a fortified monastery containing monk’s quarters and government offices) which now houses the National Museum. Below the museum is the Paro Rimpung Dzong, the centre of civil and religious authority in this valley. A short walk takes you to the base of the dzong and across a traditional cantilevered bridge.

Day 2-Excursion to Tiger's nest monastery.

Monday - 14th of October 2024 @

Metta Resort or Gangtey Palace Resort

After breakfast drive to the road point access of Taktshang Monastery, the most famous of Bhutan’s monasteries. Taktshang means “Tiger’s Nest,” so named because Guru Rimpoche - the 8th century saint who started the Mahayana stream of Buddhism - reportedly flew to the site of the monastery on the back of a flying tiger in the late centuries of the first millennium. The monastery is perched on a cliff nearly 1000m above the Paro valley floor. This day hike is not only historically and culturally interesting, but also incredibly scenic! It takes about two hours to reach the cafeteria, which gives a breathtaking view of the Tiger’s Nest. Continue hiking you can take another hour to reach the temple. Your tour leader will explain all the story and significance of the temple. The hike also serves to help you acclimatize to the altitude and prepare you for the trek in the coming days. On the way back visit the ruins of Drugyal Dzong fortress, which is an important Bhutanese heritage as it served as a strategic watchtower and a fortress that helped repel numerous Tibetan invasions in the 1600s. Peak of Jumolhari ‘Mountain of the Goddess’ can be seen on a clear day from here (7,329 mts/24,029 ft.). Visit Kyichu Lhakhang – believed to be the oldest Buddhist temple in Bhutan built during the 07th century. Stroll around town in the evening and then proceed to your resort to prepare for the trek.

Day 3-Shana-Soi Thangthangka, 3580m, Duration 8 hours, Distance 22 Km

Tuesday - 15th of October 2024 @

Soi Thangthangkha Campsite

This is a nice scenic trekking day, taking eight hours to reach the campsite. The trail continues to follow the river; gradually ascending through a mixed forest of blue pine and oak and, later in the afternoon, tall rhododendron trees, birch, fir and maple. Though the trail is a rough and rocky path, it is not too strenuous. In rainy conditions it can be quite muddy. There are several simple wooden bridges to cross and sometimes the river reaches right up to the trail. The lunch break comes after about 4 hours of walking through an ever-narrowing valley. Shing Karap or Thombuzam are popular stopping places at around 3,305m. Several trails lead in other directions, such as the trail to Tremo La (LA: Pass), which was the old salt-trading route to Tibet. Not long before reaching the campsite, the trail leads you up a ridge with a chorten (CHORTEN: Buddhist monument). Beyond, in the distance at the end of the valley Mt. Jomolhari (7314m) comes into view. Finally, after an 8 hour walk, you reach the campsite located in a spacious clearing and directly facing Jumolhari. The view next morning of the sun’s rays striking the peak is breathtaking.

Day 4-Soi-Thangthangka-Jangothang, 4080m,Duration 5-6 hours, Distance 19 Km

Wednesday - 16th of October 2024 @

Jangothang Basecamp

The third day’s trek is shorter so it’s possible to set off a little later and progress at a leisurely pace. When you reach an army outpost you are required to stop and register your entry permits issued by the army headquarters in Thimphu. This matter will be taken care of by your guide. The Pachu River is again to the right and the trail passes through some tiny villages. It will take less than six hours to reach Jangothang. The altitude at the camp is 4,080m and is a beautiful place to spend the night. The imposing, rounded bulk of Jomolhari fills the view to the Northeast and in the evening the profile of the ruined Jangothang Dzong, populated by huge ravens, creates a mystical atmosphere. The area is rich in bird life including the fire-tailed sunbird, ibisbill, white throated dipper, yellow-billed chough, rosy pipit, snow pigeon, blue-fronted redstart, plumbeous water redstart, blood pheasant, snow partridge and many more.

Day 5-Jangothang, 4080m, Rest and acclimatisation

Thursday - 17th of October 2024 @

Jangothang Basecamp

Today is a day to rest and acclimatise to the altitude. The body also needs time to adjust to the falling temperatures, especially during the night. There are a number of opportunities to explore the valley and enjoy wonderful views of the mountains. To aid acclimatisation, a walk to a higher altitude then returning to sleep at a lower altitude is an important and strongly recommended strategy. A 2 hour leisurely hike will take you to the twin lakes of Tshophu. You can also do a 4 hour trek to get excellent views of the cone-shaped Jichu Drakye (6989m) which resembles the Matterhorn. It is a sight to hold! Many rank this as the most beautiful mountain in Bhutan.

Day 6-Jangothang – Lingshi, 4000m, Duration 6-7 hours, Distance 18 Km

Friday - 18th of October 2024 @

Lingzhi Campsite

As you climb steeply into an area of glacial moraine, the views of Jichu Drakye and Jomolhari change along with your perspective. A steep and steady climb, perhaps through snow, brings you to the Nyile La, a pass at 4890m. From the top of the windy pass enjoy a 360 degree view. Tshering Gang (6,789) also comes into full view. A fairly tough trek over scree or snow leads down to the valley and then follows the side of a ridge towards the impressively situated Lingshi Dzong (4,370m). The camp site is some distance below the Dzong on a flat area near a community building made of stones, at an altitude of 4000m.

Day 7-Lingshi – Chebisa, 3990m, Duration 5-6 hours, Distance 10 Km

Saturday - 19th of October 2024 @

Chebisa Campsite

Shortly after leaving camp, cross a stream on a wooden bridge and ascend to reach a chorten below Lingshi Dzong, perched on the hilltop with a commanding view of the green hills, a winding river and magnificent peaks. Descend to Lingzhi village notable as a centre for medicinal herbs. From Lingzhi it’s an easy, pleasant walk through villages and yak herders’ camps. Lunch will be served at scenic Goyuna village. After lunch it’s a short walk to Chebisa village and then to camp by the side of a stream at an altitude of 3990 meters.

Day 8-Chebisa – Shomuthang, 4220m, Duration 6-7 hours, Distance 17 Km

Sunday - 20th of October 2024 @

Shomuthang Campsite

Today begins with a stiff climb up a ridge to Gogu La at an altitude of 4440 meters, taking nearly 4 hours to the top. After the pass the trail descends through rhododendron forest to a valley of dense forests of birch and fir trees. The trek continues along an undulating path. After crossing a stream, proceed through rhododendron forests and across yak herder’s camps. You may see some flocks of Blue Sheep grazing among the rocky crags above the trail. This is the Shakshepasa valley, one of the most beautiful valleys on the trek. Ascend on a steep trail up the side of the valley to 4220m before a traverse past yak headers huts. Camp is beside a stream at Shomuthang.

Day 9-Shomuthang – Robluthang, 4160m, Duration 6-7 hours, Distance 18 Km

Monday - 21st of October 2024 @

Robluthang Campsite

The trek starts with an ascent up the valley, criss-crossing the stream. Climb to Jhari La (4,600m) then descend on a switchback trail that becomes rough and rocky as it enters a rhododendron forest. The trail enters the Tsheri Jathang valley, the summer grazing ground of the rare Himalayan Takin (Bhutan’s National animal). From here we may have to wade across the stream as the footbridge is frequently washed away. After crossing the stream towards the left bank the trail ascends to Robluthang camp at an altitude of 4160 meters.

Day 10-Robluthang – Lemithang, 4140m, Duration 7-8 hours, Distance 19 Km

Tuesday - 22nd of October 2024 @

Lemithang Campsite

A long climb up to the Shinche La (5005 meters). Blue sheep may be seen from the trail. The views of the mountains from the pass are breathtaking. After the pass descend on a rough trail which crosses numerous streams. After lunch the trail descends steeply to the floor of a valley then climbs through a rhododendron forest. Reach a plateau and pass through a cedar forest to our camp. The last part of the trek has fine views of the peak of Gangchey Ta (6840m).

Day 11-Lemithang – Laya. 3800m, Duration 4-5 hours, Distance 10 Km

Wednesday - 23rd of October 2024 @

Laya Campsite

In the morning you wake up with a superb view of Gangchey Ta in front of you. The walk to Laya is very pleasant with wonderful views. You will pass through a damp forest, filled with moss and singing birds. Arrive at Laya village, the second highest settlement in the country, at an altitude of 3,800 meters. The administrative name for the area is Layagewog and the main villages are Toko, Pashi, Neilo, Lubcha, Tonfra and Lungo. Laya is also part of the Jigme Dorji National Park.

Day 12-Royal Highlander Festival in Laya 3840m

Thursday - 24th of October 2024 @

Laya Campsite

Today, we’ll witness the annual Royal highlander festival for the whole day. It is a great opportunity to interact with the locals, and many high ranking officials, and other spectators who come from near and far. There will be some sporting events as well, and you are welcome to join if interested. The event has gathered even more momentum and popularity as His Majesty the King graces the event almost every year to advocate the promotion of indigeneous cultures of the highlanders.

Day 13-Laya – Koina and Drive to Punakha

Friday - 25th of October 2024 @

Hotel Lobesa or Zhingkham Resort

Descend to an army camp and join the Mo Chu and follow the river until you cross the bridge. After the bridge it’s up and down several times through juniper and fir forests until you reach the road-side where your vehicle will be waiting. Drive to Gasa for about 3 hours and another 4 hours drive to Punakha. Note – long day so have to start early. The campsite at Koina is muddy, with no proper space to put up tents in case of rain. We may need to continue for another 2 hours to a better campsite beside the Mo Chu. Bears and Takins have been sighted in this area.

Day 14-Punakha sightseeing and Thimphu

Saturday - 26th of October 2024 @

Pelyang Boutique Resort or Thimphu Towers

Drive to Punakha valley to visit Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal stupa, which involves a short scenic hike through paddy fields for about 30 minutes till the hilltop where the temple is located. From here you can also enjoy a majestic view of the underlying valley. The temple itself is a splendid example of Bhutan’s fine architectural and artistic traditions and the only one of its kind in the world. Return to the base and drive towards Zomlingthang grounds where a picnic lunch is served on the banks of the Punakha river. Here you’ll probably see locals enjoying a game of archery – the national sport of Bhutan. Continue to Punakha Dzong – the most beautiful fortress in Bhutan situated at the confluence of two rivers. This ancient fortress is the winter residence of the monastic order’s leadership and still serves as the administrative headquarters for the Punakha region. The fortress is a fine example of Bhutan’s rich art and architecture, and our guide who is an expert in iconography will explain all aspects of art, architecture, history, and its significance. Drive to Thimphu over the Dochula Pass (3140m). Situated atop the pass at the backdrop of fluttering prayer flags is the Druk Wangyal Chortens, a collection of 108 chortens (stupas) that was built to exemplify the greatness of the Fourth King. Lets head straight to the best Pizzeria in town for dinner and some good local craft beer. Stroll around town in the evening. Also a good idea to visit a Massage Spa. Drive time 2 hours

Day 15-Capitial town’s major highlights with easy walks, drive to Paro in the afternoon.

Sunday - 27th of October 2024 @

Metta Resort or Tashi Namgay Resort

After breakfast, drive to Kuensel Phodrang where the gigantic 169ft statue of Buddha Dordenma sits overlooking the valley. Enjoy a panoramic view of Thimphu city from there. From here we’ll enjoy a lovely easy hike on one of the capital town’s favourite hiking trails to start flexing your leg muscles for a great start to your Bhutan holiday. The hike of 6 km easy paced brings you to the Changangkha temple. Head to town to one of Thimphu’s favourite café for a healthy lunch. While the food is great, its also a window to see the ways of the urban townfolk of Bhutan. After lunch visit some of the cultural treasures of the capital – the Folk Heritage museum – which is a 19th century traditional Bhutanese farmhouse which provides glimpses of the Bhutanese lifestyle, the Royal Textile Museum and Academy that showcases Bhutan’s rich and famous textiles and see how local weavers are trained to make complex designs etc. Finish the day by strolling around the Crafts Bazaar, along the streets of Thimphu which sells and displays various handicrafts and textiles made entirely in Bhutan. Weekend is a time for shopping so we’ll drive to the Sunday Centenial market and Kaja Thorm markets to delve right into the Bhutanese way of life and walk past various venders selling local vegetables and fruits that make up the Bhutanese culinary. This is place where locals come and spend time enjoying meals and also there are some live music shows entertaining onlookers for a nice timepass.

Day 16-Farewell

Monday - 28th of October 2024 @

After breakfast at your hotel, your driver will take you to the airport. Your guide will help you with the formalities and fare you well on your onward journey.

What's Included and Excluded in this package

What’s Included:

  • Bhutan Sustainable Tourism Royalty/Levy ($65 per day per person)
  • Visa Fees ($40 per person)
  • All necessary permit fees
  • All transfers and sightseeing with entrance fees
  • All meals and evening tea
  • Drinking mineral water
  • All accommodations and camping equipment
  • English-speaking tour leader and driver
  • Brand new SUV
  • All trekking equipment and haulage
  • Wages for trekking crew and pony owners
  • Hot-stone bath (value-added with no extra cost)

What’s Excluded:

  • International airfare for flights in and out of Bhutan
  • All personal expenses like laundry, telephone, tips, shopping expenses
  • Spa Charges (except for the traditional hot-stone bath)
  • Travel and Medical insurance
  • Gratuity/Tipping
Ready to book this trip? or need further information? Write to us and we'll send you a customised proposal as per your requirements.







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