Laya Gasa Trek

An extended high-altitude route that continues past Jomolhari to the remote village of Laya before descending to Gasa’s natural hot springs, offering deep immersion in Bhutan’s far north.

  • Duration: 14 days
  • Difficulty: Strenuous
  • Max elevation: 4,890 m
  • Starts: Paro

Overview

An extended high-altitude route that continues past Jomolhari to the remote village of Laya before descending to Gasa’s natural hot springs, offering deep immersion in Bhutan’s far north.

Best season: April–June, September–October

Trek Highlights

  • Layap village culture and traditional dress
  • Remote high passes above 4,800 m
  • Gasa Tshachu natural hot springs
  • Extended wilderness with minimal other trekkers

Day-by-Day Itinerary

  1. Day 1

    Paro to Shana

    Trek into Jigme Dorji National Park along the Paro Chhu.

  2. Day 2

    Shana to Soi Thangthangkha

    Climb steadily through forest toward the high valley.

  3. Day 3

    Soi Thangthangkha to Jangothang

    Arrive beneath Mount Jomolhari.

  4. Day 4

    Acclimatization at Jangothang

    Rest day with optional exploratory walks.

  5. Day 5

    Jangothang to Lingzhi

    Cross Nyile La toward Lingzhi Dzong.

  6. Day 6

    Lingzhi to Chebisa

    A shorter day through a scenic village-dotted valley.

  7. Day 7

    Chebisa to Shomuthang

    Cross Gombu La with chances to spot blue sheep.

  8. Day 8

    Shomuthang to Robluthang

    Cross Jare La, the trek’s highest pass.

  9. Day 9

    Robluthang to Limithang

    Cross Sinche La beneath views of Gangchenta peak.

  10. Day 10

    Limithang to Laya

    Descend into the highland village of Laya.

  11. Day 11

    Rest day in Laya

    Time to explore the village and Layap culture.

  12. Day 12

    Laya to Koina

    Begin the descent following the Mo Chhu river.

  13. Day 13

    Koina to Gasa

    Continue down to Gasa Dzong and the nearby hot springs.

  14. Day 14

    Gasa to Punakha/Thimphu

    Drive out of the mountains, ending the trek.