Overview
Laya Gasa Trek takes you through the semi-nomadic village with unique culture, tradtions, and appearance. Laya Gasa Trek is one of Bhutan’s most spectacular long-distance treks along the Tibetan border and showcasing some of the most pristine, untouched Himalayan landscapes. Walking an average of 14km a day, sleeping mostly at around 4,000 meters, and crossing four high passes above 4,500 meters, this trek tests one’s endurance while offering some of the finest alpine experiences in the Himalayas.
Beginning from Gunitsawa, after a scenic drive through the countryside north of Paro Valley, the first three days unfold gently—ascending through lush forests, highland hamlets, and winding trails that cross the upper reaches of the Pachu River several times. This phase of the trek leads you to the breathtaking Jangothang Base Camp, where Mount Jumolhari rises dramatically to 7,315 meters.
After a rewarding acclimatization day at Jangothang, the second stage takes you into higher alpine country, through serene meadows, past stone cairns, and along ridgelines offering sweeping views of Jumolhari, Jichu Drake
(6,662m), and Tserim Gang (6,532m). You will gradually climb to Neyle La Pass at 4,870 meters. From the pass, a stunning descent reveals
panoramic vistas of glaciated peaks and the historic Lingzhi Dzong Fortress before you arrive at Lingzhi Village. The final phase continues across high meadows and grazing lands, yak herder’s camps, passing through the traditional nomadic villages of Gongyul and Chebisa. By crossing other three high mountain passes, the trail leads you to the beautiful village of Laya. A pleasant two-hour descent from Laya marks the end of your trek, where a vehicle will be waiting to drive you to Punakha. Many travellers choose to complement this trek with a few days of cultural touring, and if you wish to do the same, we can easily add extra sightseeing days to your itinerary.
Highest Altitude: 5000m
Avg. Walking Distance: 17km
Brief Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Fly into Paro, Bhutan
Day 2: Acclimatization Hike to Tiger’s Nest
Monastery
Day 3: Paro to Shana – Trek Starts
Day 4: Shana – Soi Thangkha
Day 5: Soi Thangkha – Jangothang base camp
Day 6: Jangothang acclimatization and exploration around.
Day 7: Jangothang to Lingzhi
Day 8: Lingzhi to Chebisa
Day 9: Chebisa – Shomuthang
Day 10: Shomuthang – Robluthang
Day 11: Robluthang – Lingmithang
Day 12: Lingmithang – Laya
Day 13: Laya to Punakha – Trek Ends
Day 14: Punakha sightseeing and Thimphu
Day 15: Explore Thimphu, the capital
Day 16: Departure