The Laya Gasa Trek is one of Bhutan’s most rewarding and scenic trekking adventures, combining spectacular Himalayan landscapes with rich cultural experiences. Over 19 days, the trail passes through pristine forests, alpine meadows, high mountain passes above 5,000 meters, and the remote village of Laya, home to the unique Layap people. The journey offers breathtaking views of Mount Jomolhari, traditional Bhutanese villages, and concludes with a relaxing soak in the famous Gasa Hot Springs before returning to Paro. Ideal for experienced trekkers, this expedition showcases the untouched beauty and cultural heritage of Bhutan.
4,090 m
17 km per day
6–7 hours per day
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Welcome to Bhutan, the Land of the Thunder Dragon! Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, one of Asia’s most scenic airports, our representative will warmly receive you and provide a brief orientation about your journey. If flights are booked through us, we will try our best to arrange suitable seats for breathtaking Himalayan views during the flight. Later, explore Paro town and enjoy your first glimpse of Bhutanese culture. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel in Paro.
After breakfast, spend the day exploring the cultural highlights of Paro while allowing your body to gradually acclimatize to the altitude. Visit the historic Rinpung Dzong, known as the “Fortress of the Heap of Jewels,” and explore the nearby traditional Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temple .In the afternoon, take a gentle walk around Paro town, experiencing local life, traditional architecture, and peaceful surroundings. Overnight stay in Paro.
After breakfast, begin the memorable hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest), Bhutan’s most iconic landmark, perched dramatically on a cliffside above the Paro Valley. The trail winds through pine forests, prayer flags, and scenic viewpoints, with a stop at the viewpoint café for a stunning view of the monastery. Continue the hike to explore the sacred temple complex and learn about its spiritual significance. After the visit, descend back to Paro and enjoy a relaxing evening at the hotel. Overnight stay in Paro.
After breakfast, drive to Drukgyel Dzong and begin the trek towards Shana. The trail follows the beautiful Paro Chhu River, passing through traditional villages, farmland, and dense pine forests. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings, mountain scenery, and views of rural Bhutanese life along the way. Continue through the forested valley to reach Shana campsite, where you will spend the night surrounded by nature.
After breakfast, continue trekking along the Paro Chhu River through lush forests of pine, oak, and rhododendron. The trail gradually ascends through remote valleys, crossing wooden bridges and passing small settlements. Enjoy spectacular views of surrounding mountains, waterfalls, and pristine Himalayan landscapes. As you gain altitude, the vegetation changes into alpine forest, and the campsite at Thangthangka offers the first glimpse of the majestic snow-capped peaks. Overnight camp at Thangthangka.
After breakfast, continue the trek through beautiful alpine forests and gradually ascend towards the high Himalayan landscape. The trail follows the Paro Chhu River, passing through yak pastures, remote settlements, and open valleys. As you approach Jangothang (Jomolhari Base Camp), enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Jomolhari (7,326m) and surrounding snow-capped peaks. Arrive at the campsite and relax while taking in the spectacular mountain scenery. Overnight camp at Jangothang.
After breakfast, enjoy a relaxing acclimatization day at Jangothang Base Camp to prepare for higher elevations ahead. Take an optional hike to nearby viewpoints, following trails through alpine meadows and yak grazing areas while enjoying stunning views of Mount Jomolhari, Jichu Drakey, and surrounding peaks. Spend time exploring the beautiful valley, observing local wildlife, and experiencing the peaceful Himalayan environment. Return to camp for rest and overnight stay at Jangothang.
After breakfast, begin one of the most scenic sections of the trek towards Lingshi Valley. The trail climbs gradually through alpine landscapes and yak grazing fields before crossing the Nyile La Pass (4,870m), offering spectacular views of Mount Jomolhari, Jichu Drakey, and Tsherim Gang. Descend through beautiful valleys, passing remote settlements and colorful prayer flags before reaching the peaceful village of Lingshi. Enjoy the breathtaking views of Lingshi Dzong and surrounding mountains. Overnight camp at Lingshi.
After breakfast, begin a shorter but scenic trek from Lingshi to Chebisa Village. The trail passes through beautiful alpine meadows, yak grazing areas, and traditional mountain landscapes. Walk through the remote villages of the region while enjoying views of surrounding peaks and valleys. Continue along a gentle trail to reach Chebisa, a charming village known for its traditional houses and peaceful atmosphere. Explore the nearby waterfall and relax at the campsite surrounded by nature. Overnight camp at Chebisa.
After breakfast, continue trekking through beautiful alpine landscapes towards Shomuthang. The trail begins with a climb through forests and open meadows, offering spectacular views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks. Cross the Gobu La Pass (4,350m) and descend through remote valleys, where you may spot blue sheep, yaks, and various Himalayan birds. Continue along the scenic trail to reach Shomuthang campsite, located beside a peaceful stream and surrounded by pristine mountain scenery. Overnight camp at Shomuthang.
After breakfast, begin the challenging trek from Robluthang Camp (4,160m) toward Limithang (4,090m). The trail climbs gradually toward the impressive Ganglakarchung La Pass (5,120m), offering breathtaking views of snow-covered peaks and vast Himalayan landscapes. After crossing the pass, descend through rocky terrain, alpine meadows, and remote valleys.
Continue the journey through beautiful mountain scenery, crossing streams and passing through wilderness areas before reaching Limithang Camp (4,090m).
After breakfast, continue your trek from Limithang Camp (4,090m) toward the beautiful village of Laya (3,840m). The trail descends gradually through lush forests, crossing streams and following the river valley while offering magnificent views of the surrounding mountains.
As you approach Laya, the landscape becomes greener, and you will get your first glimpse of the unique highland village and the traditional lifestyle of the Layap people.
Today is a relaxing day to explore the unique village of Laya, one of Bhutan’s most remote and culturally rich settlements. Take a gentle walk around the village, visit traditional homes, and experience the unique lifestyle, customs, and hospitality of the Layap people.
After breakfast, leave the beautiful village of Laya (3,840m) and continue your trek toward Koina Camp (3,050m). The trail descends gradually through lush forests, following the Mo Chhu River and passing through scenic valleys filled with waterfalls, streams, and diverse vegetation.The trail offers peaceful surroundings and beautiful views of the mountains before reaching Koina.
After breakfast, begin your final trekking day from Koina Camp (3,050m) toward Gasa. The trail follows the river valley through lush forests, crossing streams and passing through beautiful Himalayan landscapes. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings as the route gradually descends to the roadhead.
Upon reaching the end of the trek, drive for about 30 minutes to Gasa (2,770m).Relax and celebrate the completion of the incredible Snowman Trek with a visit to the famous Gasa Hot Springs.
After breakfast, drive from Gasa to Punakha through scenic mountain roads, descending from the high Himalayas into the warmer valleys of western Bhutan. Enjoy beautiful views of terraced fields, rivers, forests, and traditional villages along the way. Spend the evening relaxing and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of this historic valley.
After breakfast, drive from Punakha to Paro through scenic mountain roads, crossing the beautiful Dochula Pass (3,100m) with its famous 108 chortens and panoramic Himalayan views on clear days. Continue through lush valleys, forests, and traditional villages as you make your way toward Paro.Upon arrival in Paro, enjoy your final evening in Bhutan, surrounded by the peaceful beauty and rich heritage of the Paro Valley.
After breakfast, enjoy your final moments in Bhutan before transferring to Paro International Airport for your onward journey. Bid farewell to Bhutan with unforgettable memories of the Snowman Trek, breathtaking Himalayan landscapes, and the warm hospitality of the Bhutanese people.
The Laya Gasa Trek is rated 4.5/5 (Strenuous). It is best suited for experienced trekkers or physically fit travelers who are comfortable walking 6–8 hours a day over high mountain passes.
The Laya Gasa Trek is considered a moderate to challenging trek due to high altitudes, long walking days, and rugged mountain terrain. Good physical fitness and previous trekking experience are recommended.
The highest point of the trek is Ganglakarchung La Pass (5,120m). The route also crosses several high-altitude camps and mountain passes with spectacular Himalayan views.
Accommodation during the trek is mainly in tented camps at designated campsites. In villages like Laya and Gasa, local guesthouses may also be available.
Trekkers need a valid Bhutan travel permit and trekking permits, which are arranged by a licensed Bhutanese tour operator. Restricted area permits are also required for some sections of the route.
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