Laya Gasa Trek - 16 nights 17 days

• Arrive at Paro International Airport, where you will be greeted by your guide. Transfer to your hotel and check-in.

• After a brief rest, head to Paro Dzong (Rinpung Dzong). This impressive fortress-monastery showcases traditional Bhutanese architecture and offers stunning views of the Paro Valley. Explore the Dzong and learn about its history and role in Bhutanese culture.

• Visit the National Museum of Bhutan, located in the Ta Dzong (watchtower). The museum houses an extensive collection of art, artifacts, and historical items that provide insights into Bhutans rich heritage.

• Enjoy a leisurely walk around Paro town, exploring its quaint shops, local markets, and charming cafes. Immerse yourself in the relaxed atmosphere and get a sense of Bhutanese daily life.

• Overnight: Stay in Paro in hotel

 After an early breakfast, embark on the iconic hike to Tigers Nest Monastery. The monastery is perched on a cliffside, approximately 900 meters above the Paro Valley. The hike takes about 5-6 hours round trip and includes breathtaking views of the valley and surrounding mountains.

• Explore the Tigers Nest Monastery, a sacred pilgrimage site for Buddhists. Learn about its history and legends from your guide. Spend some time soaking in the serene atmosphere and taking photographs.

• Descend back to the base and transfer to your hotel for rest and relaxation.

• Overnight: Stay in Paro in hotel

• Distance: 22 km

• Time: 7-8 hours

• Description: A moderate trek through dense forests of oak, pine, and rhododendron along the banks of the Paro Chhu (river). You may spot wildlife like Himalayan blue sheep or even takins.

• Overnight: Stay in Tent

• Distance: 19 km

• Time: 5-6 hours

• Description: Trekking through alpine landscapes with views of snow-capped peaks, including Mount Jomolhari (7,326 m). The trail passes small villages and yak herders camps.

• Overnight: Stay in Tent

• Activities: Explore nearby areas, take short hikes for acclimatization, or enjoy panoramic views of Jomolhari and Jichu Drake peaks.

• Overnight: Stay in Tent

• Distance: 18 km

• Time: 6-7 hours

• Description: Cross the first high pass, Nyile La Pass (4,890 m), offering incredible mountain views. Descend into the valley to Lingshi village.

• Overnight: Stay in Tent

• Distance: 10 km

• Time: 5-6 hours

• Description: A relatively short and easier day. Trek past the Lingshi Dzong and scenic landscapes, reaching the picturesque village of Chebisa.

• Overnight: Stay in Tent

• Distance: 17 km

• Time: 7-8 hours

• Description: Cross the Gobu La Pass (4,410 m) while passing through yak pastures and stunning natural scenery.

• Overnight: Stay in Tent

• Distance: 18 km

• Time: 67 hours

• Description: A challenging day with the ascent of Jhari La Pass (4,700 m) and rewarding views of snow-capped peaks.

• Overnight: Stay in Tent

• Distance: 19 km

• Time: 6-7 hours

• Description: Cross the highest pass of the trek, Sinche La Pass (5,005 m). Descend into a valley leading to Lemithang with spectacular views of Mount Gangchhenta.

• Overnight: Stay in Tent

• Distance: 10 km

• Time: 4-5 hours

• Description: A gentle trek to the beautiful village of Laya, with traditional houses and warm hospitality. Explore the village and interact with the Layap people.

• Overnight: Stay in Tent

 Explore the Village

• Laya is one of Bhutans highest settlements, situated at around 3,800 meters above sea level. The village is known for its traditional stone houses with distinctive wooden roofs.

• Walk around the village to observe daily life and interact with the Layap people, who are known for their unique attire, including conical bamboo hats worn by women

• Overnight: Stay in Tent

• Distance: 8 km

• Time: 2 hours Trek & Drive 2 hours to Gasa with 4x4 Jeep

• Description: The trek ends at Gasa, famous for its natural hot springs, where you can relax after the journey.

• Overnight: Stay in guest house/tent

 Depart from Gasa early in the morning for Punakha. (approximately 3 hours drive).

• Visit Punakha Dzong (also known as the Palace of Great Happiness), which is one of Bhutans most iconic landmarks. It is located at the confluence of the Pho and Mo rivers.

• Afterward, visit the Chimi Lhakhang, a fertility temple known for its peaceful setting and the statue of the saint Drukpa Kunley (the Divine Madman).

• Explore the Punakha Suspension Bridge, one of the longest suspension bridges in Bhutan, offering spectacular views of the surrounding nature.

• Overnight: Stay in Punakha in hotel

After breakfast, travel from Punakha to Thimphu (approximately 2-3 hours drive).

 Dochula Pass: This pass is at an altitude of 3,100 meters (10,200 feet) and offers panoramic views of the eastern Himalayan mountain range. On clear days, you can see peaks like Gangkar Puensum, the highest mountain in Bhutan.

• Visit the National Memorial Chorten, a stupa dedicated to the late King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. This is a place for locals to come together for prayers and offerings.

• Next, head to the Buddha Dordenma Statue, the tallest statue of Buddha in Bhutan, located on a hilltop offering breathtaking views of the Thimphu valley.

• Evening: Enjoy a leisure walk around Thimphu, exploring the local market or the serene surroundings of the city.

• Overnight: Stay in Thimphu in hotel

• Visit the 13 Arts and Crafts School, a traditional school where students learn Bhutans artistic practices, including painting, sculpture, and textile weaving.

• Head to the Handmade Paper Factory, where you can see the traditional Bhutanese method of making paper from the Daphne plant.

• Explore the Takin Preserve Center, dedicated to Bhutans national animal, the Takin. Its an interesting place to observe the unique and endangered species.

• Visit the Weaving Center, where you can learn about traditional Bhutanese weaving techniques and purchase handwoven textiles.

• Explore Tashichho Dzong, the administrative and religious heart of Thimphu, which houses the office of the King of Bhutan and various government ministries.

• Evening: You may have some free time to relax or explore more of Thimphu.

• Overnight: Stay in Thimphu in hotel

• Morning: After breakfast, head towards Paro Airport for the departure.

• (Approximately 1.5 hours drive).