1Arrival at Paro (2,235m/7,331ft)

Arrival at Paro: Take off from 2,235 meters (7,331 feet) altitude and land at Paro Airport.

Greetings from the Guide: Meet Amen Bhutan Tours and Treks’ guide and support staff.

Acclimatization: To reduce the effects of altitude sickness, spend the first day getting used to the higher altitude.

Leisure Time: Depending on when you arrive, have a nap at your hotel or go exploring the neighborhood.

Cultural Visits (when available):

• Visit the Paro Dzong, a medieval stronghold that doubles as a hub for administration and religion.
• Explore Bhutan’s cultural past at the National Museum, housed in a historic watchtower.

Trek preparations: Complete any lingering details and go over the itinerary with your guide.

Stay the night at a nearby hotel in Paro to recuperate and get ready for the upcoming journey. It starts the next day.

Acclimatization and sightseeing hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery

Breakfast in Paro: Fuel up for an action-packed day ahead of you with a hearty breakfast at your hotel.

Travel to Tiger’s Nest Trailhead: From Paro, take a quick drive to the Paro Taktsang trailhead, which marks the beginning of the walk to Tiger’s Nest Monastery.

Walk to the Monastery of Tiger’s Nest:

• Time: About four to five hours total, round trip.
• Moderate in difficulty; there are steps and a well-kept pathway.

The monastery is located at an elevation of roughly 3,120 meters (10,236 ft).

Investigate the Monastery

• Take some time to explore the famous monastery, which is located 2,953 feet (900 meters) above the Paro valley on the edge of a cliff.
• Discover its significance as one of the holiest holy locations in Bhutan, where Guru Rinpoche is said to have meditated.

Lunch: Pack a picnic to eat at the summit with its expansive views, or have lunch at one of the cafeterias located halfway up the hill.

Descend to Trailhead: Make your way back to the trailhead while appreciating the calm surroundings and thinking back on your adventure.

Relaxation and Relax: After a long day of work, get back to your Paro hotel for some much-needed relaxation.

Getting Ready for Tomorrow: Verify that all of your supplies and equipment are ready for the journey. start by having a briefing with your guide about it.
Spend an additional night in Paro to finish acclimating and recuperate before the start of the journey.

This day sets the tone for the spiritual and picturesque trip ahead on the Laya Gasa Trek in addition to being a critical day of acclimatization and cultural immersion.

Trek from Drukgyal Dzong (Paro) to Shana (2,850m/9,350ft) - 6 to 7 hours (17km) trek

Early Breakfast in Paro: To set yourself up for the day, get a head start on breakfast at your accommodation.

Travel to Drukgyal Dzong: Begin your journey in Drukgyal Dzong, which is only a short drive away. On clear days, the historic stronghold provides a view of the magnificent Mount Jomolhari in addition to its gorgeous ruins.

Start the journey to Shana:

• The distance covered by the journey is roughly 17 kilometers.
• Duration: The hike should take roughly six to seven hours.

Terrain: Beautiful pine forests, farmland, and traditional Bhutanese villages may be found along the Paro River route.

Gain in Altitude: At Drukgyal Dzong, you begin at roughly 2,580 meters, and at Shana, you reach 2,850 meters.

Midway through the hike, savor a packed lunch while admiring the peace and beauty of your surroundings.

Reach Shana Campsite: Camp at Shana, a peaceful location close to the river. This will be your first night of camping in the Himalayan bush, on the trail.

Activities for the evening:

• After a long day of hiking, take some time to rest and rejuvenate.
• Dinner: Connect with fellow hikers over a filling meal cooked by the journey team. Talk about the day’s events.

Briefing for the Next Day: Before you turn in, your guide will give you a briefing on what to expect on the trek the following day.

Your trekking trip truly begins on Day 3, when you are fully immersed in the scenic vistas and tranquil countryside of Bhutan.

Trek from Shana to Sio Thangthangkha (3,750m/12,303ft)- 7 to 8 hours (19km) trek

Shana campground Morning Start: Rise early in this peaceful campground, have breakfast that the trek crew has prepared, and get ready for the day’s travels.

Trekking to Sio Thangthangkha begins:

• The walk is roughly 19 kilometers long.
• Duration: Allow seven to eight hours for the hike.

Terrain: The trail follows the Paro River as it steadily ascends through dense alpine woods and rhododendron trees, which are particularly colorful in the springtime.

Gain in Altitude: You will gain around 900 meters as you go from 2,850 meters at Shana to 3,750 meters at Sio Thangthangkha.

Lunch on the Trail: Take a break at a beautiful location along the trail for a packed lunch. This is a wonderful chance to unwind and take in the surrounding area’s natural splendor.

Reach Sio Thangthangkha: The campsite offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the night sky, and it is situated in a lovely meadow.

Establish Camp:

Camping Setup: As soon as you arrive, assist in setting up the tent or relax while the crew gets the area ready.
Acclimatization: To avoid altitude sickness, take some time to unwind and get used to the higher height given the altitude.

Activities for the evening:

Dinner: Have a meal together as a group to strengthen bonds and exchange stories about the journey thus far.

Briefing for the Next Day: Talk with your guide about the schedule for the upcoming day so that you are well-prepared for the hike.

Sleep under the stars at this secluded campsite high in the Himalayas, Sio Thangthangkha, as you get ready for a new day of exploration.

The Laya Gasa Trek’s fourth day is one of its most difficult yet rewarding sections. As you climb higher into the mountains and get closer to Bhutan’s breathtaking high-altitude sceneries, the environment changes more dramatically.

Sio Thangthangkha to Jangothang (4,050m/13,287ft) – 7 to 8 hours (19km) trek

Start at Sio Thangthangkha: Get ready for a hard day of hiking by having an early breakfast at the campsite.

Journey to Jangothang:

Length: The journey is roughly 19 kilometers.
Duration: Allow 7 to 8 hours for the journey.
Terrain: Today’s climb is steeper as the trail passes by yak herder camps and gorgeous alpine meadows. It’s common to see blue sheep and other mountain creatures in this area, so keep an eye out for wildlife.
Gain in Altitude: This is a major ascent as you will be going from 3,750 meters at Sio Thangthangkha to 4,050 meters at Jangothang.

Lunch on the Trail: Stop for a meal at one of the beautiful locations along the trail, like next to a creek or a mountain range.

Reach Jangothang: This campsite is one of the highlights of the entire journey, providing some of the most breathtaking views of the entire walk, including a direct panorama of Mount Jomolhari and Jichu Drake.

Establish Camp:

Camping Setup: With the help of your journey crew, establish your camp after you’ve arrived. The location’s spectacular vistas make it more unforgettable.
Acclimatization: Since you are now over 4,000 meters, spend the remainder of the day getting used to the altitude.

Activities for the Evening:

Explore Around: To take in the breathtaking view, take a little stroll around the campsite, depending on how energetic you are.
Dinner: Enjoy the companionship and talk about the day’s events over a meal with your trekking group.
Briefing for the Following Day: Your guide will go over the specifics of the upcoming hike, which includes a day of relaxation and acclimatization at Jangothang.

Spend the night in Jangothang: After a strenuous day of trekking, unwind at this wonderful campsite among the gorgeous peaks of Bhutan.

Day 5 of the Laya Gasa Trek is a rewarding and unforgettable day since it rewards you with some of the most breathtaking mountain views in addition to challenging you with a greater rise.

Day 6 Acclimatize at Jangothang

The sixth day of the Laya Gasa Trek is devoted to acclimatization in Jangothang, one of the trek’s most picturesque locations with breathtaking views of Jichu Drake and Mount Jomolhari. Here’s what you can do with today:

Rest and Recovery: In order to avoid altitude sickness and to make sure you’re in good shape for the next several trekking days, use this day to relax and let your body acclimate to the higher altitude.

Brief Treks: Take brief walks around the campsite as a kind of mild exercise. These may consist of:

• Trek to Jomolhari Base Camp: For a moderate hiking experience, head towards Mount Jomolhari’s base camp to get a better look at the peak.
• Visit the surrounding rivers and lakes, and take in the expansive scenery that provides a wealth of photographic opportunity.

Wildlife Spotting: There is a lot of wildlife in the Jangothang area. In the far distance, keep a look out for marmots, blue sheep, and maybe even the rare snow leopard.

Engage with Locals: One of the special things about hiking in Bhutan is the chance to talk with yak herders about their way of life if you come across some.

Relaxation & Meditation: Take in the peace and quiet of the Himalayas by practicing yoga or meditation, which can be incredibly rejuvenating for the body as well as the mind.

Photography: Jangothang’s breathtaking landscapes make today the ideal day for those who want to take pictures of the breathtaking surroundings.

Get Ready for Tomorrow: As you will be starting your walk again, take some time to get your equipment ready and make sure your trekking supplies are ready for the journey.

Evening: Spend a restful evening at the Jangothang campground. Come together over dinner with your trekking group to swap tales or talk about the itinerary for the following day.

In addition to being crucial for your health, this acclimatization day gives you the opportunity to fully experience the surroundings and take in Bhutan’s natural beauty without having to endure the strain of hiking.

Trek from Jangothang to Lingshi (4,100m/13,451ft) – 6 to 7 hours (18km) trek

On the seventh day of your Laya Gasa journey, you will journey from Jangothang to Lingshi. You get the chance to see a variety of landscapes and perhaps even come across additional wildlife on this particular day. This is how the day goes down:

Early Start: To prepare for the day’s hike, start early and eat breakfast at the Jangothang campground.

Trek Starts: Moved out toward Lingshi from Jangothang.

• The distance is roughly eighteen kilometers.
• Duration: The hike should take roughly six to seven hours.
• Terrain: There are a variety of gentle climbs and descents on the trail. First, you’ll climb to the day’s highest point, Nyile La pass, at 4,890 meters (16,043 feet), which provides breathtaking vistas.
• Views: Jomolhari and Jichu Drake are among the neighboring peaks and valleys that are seen from Nyile La.

Descend to Lingshi: Head for the Lingshi basin after crossing the pass. Blue sheep and other wildlife may be spotted on this trail. The landscape has isolated valleys and towering mountain ridges that characterize the Bhutanese wilderness.

Arrival at Lingshi: Make your way to Lingshi, the location of your overnight camp. Lingshi is renowned for its exquisite location, which features the scenic Lingshi Dzong as a backdrop.

Lingshi Dzong: You may choose to visit the Lingshi Dzong, an old fortress that overlooks the valley and served as a vital defense building in the past, depending on your energy level and time of arrival.

Camp Setup & Relaxation: After arriving at the campsite, assist with tent setup or unwind and recuperate after the hike.

Acclimatization: Since you are still at a high altitude, keep working on your acclimatization.
Activities for the Evening:

Dinner: Savor the meal that the journey crew has prepared.
Briefing for the Next Day: Make sure everyone is prepared for the remainder of the adventure by talking with your guide about the itinerary and preparations for the following day.

Spend the night at the Lingshi campsite, taking in the peaceful surroundings and, if the weather is clear, perhaps a starry sky.

This day will remain with you as a memorable aspect of your Laya Gasa Trek experience since it blends strenuous trekking with fascinating cultural insights and breathtaking natural beauty.

Lingshi to Chebisa (3850m/12,631ft) – 5 to 6 hours (12km) trek

The eighth day of the Laya Gasa walk is a more relaxed walk than the others, with a change from Lingshi to Chebisa. This allows visitors some rest and a slower-paced opportunity to take in the peaceful surroundings. This is what to anticipate:

Breakfast at Lingshi: Begin your day with a hearty breakfast while taking in the early-morning views of the valley and citadel from the Lingshi campground.

Start Your Journey to Chebisa:

• The distance covered by the journey is roughly 12 kilometers.
  Duration: Allow around 5 to 6 hours for the hike.
  Terrain: Today’s walk is comparatively easier as it descends gradually into the charming settlement of Chebisa. The walk passes through expansive meadows and traditional Bhutanese villages, offering breathtaking scenery.

Investigate and Engage:

• Cultural Interaction: You’ll have the opportunity to engage with the locals as you travel through small villages and learn more about their rural way of life, which is closely entwined with Buddhism and the natural world.
  Scenic Spots: With its varied scenery and local settings, the journey offers a wealth of photographic opportunities.

Reaching Chebisa:

Scenic Campsite: Get to Chebisa, a town renowned for its charming village setting and stunning waterfall. The sound of the cascading water creates a calming atmosphere, and the campsite is frequently located close to the waterfall.
Camp Out and Unwind:

As the trip team sets up the camp, you can relax or assist in setting it up.
Leisure Time: Take an afternoon stroll through the village, stop by the waterfall, or just kick back and take in the tranquil surroundings.
Activities for the evening:

Dinner: Get together with the group to enjoy another filling supper that the trip crew has prepared.
Briefing for the Following Day: Your guide will give you a briefing on the itinerary for the following day, including information on the trip and any prerequisites.

Spend the night in Chebisa: Savor the peace and quiet of this isolated community, which makes for the ideal conclusion to a less taxing day of hiking.

The leisurely pace of Day 8 provides a welcome break, enabling hikers to recuperate and really take in the serene beauty and cultural diversity of Bhutan’s highland communities.

Chebisa to Shomuthang (4130m/13,549ft) – 6 to 7 hours (17km) trek

The ninth day of the Laya Gasa Trek involves climbing from the settlement of Chebisa to the campground at a high altitude known as Shomuthang. This day gives opportunities to see animals in its natural habitat while traversing a significant pass. This is the strategy:

Chebisa breakfast: Savor a substantial meal in the peaceful village environment as you get ready for the day’s activities.

Start Your Journey to Shomuthang:

• The walk is roughly seventeen kilometers long.
• Allocate around 6 to 7 hours for the hike.
• Terrain: The trail descends towards the campsite after making a considerable elevation to Gobu La pass, which is approximately 4,410 meters/14,468 feet. Along the route are forests and verdant meadows, as well as rivers and streams.

Lunch on the Trail: Possibly after passing the Gobu La pass, pause for a packed lunch at a picturesque location. This is a nice opportunity to stop and refuel while taking in the scenery before starting your journey.

Wildlife Spotting: Although they are difficult to observe, the region is well-known for its wildlife, especially the elusive snow leopard. More frequently, you may come across different bird species, marmots, and blue sheep.

Reaching Shomuthang:

• Location of the Campsite: After a long day of hiking, set up camp next to a river to unwind. Shomuthang is peaceful and alone, situated in a stunning, isolated region.

Campout and Relax

Camp Setup: As the team gets everything ready, assist in setting up the camp or relax for a little

Acclimatization: Since you are now over 4,000 meters, keep your attention on this process. As temperatures can dip, stay warm and drink lots of water.

Activities for the evening:

Dinner: As you eat together with your trekking group, talk about the day’s events and get ready for the next.
Briefing for Tomorrow: Talk with your guide about the route that day, taking note of the anticipated highlights and obstacles.
Stay the night at Shomuthang. Enjoy this peaceful location, maybe with the sound of the nearby river lulling you to sleep.

Day 9 of the Laya Gasa Trek is a noteworthy day because it is difficult but rewarding, offering great opportunity for observing wildlife, breathtaking natural scenery, and substantial height gains.

0Shomuthang to Robluthang (4160m/13,648ft) – 5 to 6 hours (15km) trek

On the tenth day of the Laya Gasa Trek, you will travel through even more breathtaking environment in Bhutan as you go from Shomuthang to Robluthang. Here’s what to anticipate:

Morning at Shomuthang: To start the day right, fill up on a hearty breakfast at the campsite, which is surrounded by peaceful mountain views.

Start Your Journey to Robluthang:

The walk is roughly fifteen kilometers long.
Trekking takes roughly five to six hours.
Terrain: Today’s task is to traverse the Jerela Pass, which rises to a height of about 4,760 meters (15,617 feet). Beautiful views of the surrounding peaks and valleys may be seen from this pass. There are rocky pathways and sometimes muddy paths to negotiate on the descent to Robluthang, especially if it has rained.

Midway through the day’s hike, ideally after descending the pass, stop for a packed lunch and enjoy some stunning views as you unwind.

species and Scenery: If you hike during the blooming season (spring), keep an eye out for species like the Himalayan blue sheep and take in the verdant rhododendron forests, which are especially bright.

Get to Robluthang:

Campsite Setup: Unlike prior nights, camp in Robluthang, which is a more secluded and untamed area. The location, tucked up in the high mountain landscape, has a more untamed vibe.
Acclimatization: Proceed with your acclimatization at an elevation of approximately 4,160 meters. For your body to acclimate, get enough of rest and water.

Evening Schedule:

Dinner: Join the trek crew for a meal that has been prepared. This is an excellent opportunity to enjoy the companionship of your trekking group and exchange experiences.

Briefing for Next Day: Find out from your guide what to anticipate the next day, including any difficult spots or noteworthy vistas.

Sleep at Robluthang: Wake up beneath the stars at this lonely campsite, enveloped in the quiet of the far-off Himalayas.
While you make your way along one of Bhutan’s less-traveled roads on Day 10, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking natural beauty and a sense of accomplishment despite the fact that your trekking abilities and physical stamina will still be put to the test.

Robluthang to Lingmithang (4140m/13,582ft) – 7 to 8 hours (19km) trek

On the eleventh day of the Laya Gasa Trek, you will go from Robluthang to Lingmithang. This is a day with a notable pass crossing and striking scenery changes. This is how your day goes:

Breakfast at Robluthang: To set yourself up for a longer trekking day, start early in the tent.

Begin your journey to Lingmithang:

• The distance is roughly nineteen kilometers.
• Duration: Seven to eight hours will pass during the walk.
• Terrain: Today’s objective is to climb to the Shinche La pass, one of the highest and trickier passes on this trek at approximately 5,000 meters (16,404 feet). You’ll be treated to breathtaking views from the pass as you descend into the Lingmithang valley.

Flora and Fauna: The descent passes through a lovely forest where you may see a variety of birds and occasionally even bears.

Lunch on the Trail: After gaining the pass, arrange to have lunch at a picturesque spot where you may unwind and take in the splendor of the high-altitude wilderness.

Get to Lingmithang:

• Set Up Campsite: After arriving in Lingmithang, camp down near the river. With its rich flora and more mild climate than the high pass, this site offers a significant change in view.
• Acclimatization: Since you are still at a high altitude, keep your attention on achieving appropriate acclimatization. Remain hydrated and easygoing.

If you have the time and energy, explore the area:

• Nature Walks: If you have the time and energy, go about the campground area for a little while to take in the views of the river and perhaps see some additional species.

Activities for the evening:

• Dinner: Have a group meal together with your trekking companions. This is a wonderful opportunity to talk about the day’s adventures and exchange stories.
• Briefing for Tomorrow: Your guide will give you a rundown of the day’s events so you can be ready for any obstacles or highlights.

Stay the night at Lingmithang. After a strenuous day of hiking, unwind and recuperate in Lingmithang’s serene surroundings, where the sound of the river contributes to the soothing environment.

Day 11 of the walk is a gratifying and challenging section that offers a profound immersion experience in the Bhutanese wilderness. It is marked by high-altitude obstacles and a substantial transformation in the natural landscape.

Lingmithang to Laya (3850m/12,631ft) – 3 to 4 hours (10km) trek

Traveling from Lingmithang to Laya on Day 12 of the Laya Gasa Trek is a comparatively simpler and shorter hiking day. This section provides you opportunity to unwind from the previous day’s activities and take in the distinctive cultural features of the Laya region. This is the strategy:

Breakfast at Lingmithang: A filling breakfast at the campsite will set you up for a less taxing day of hiking.

Start the Journey to Laya:

• The distance is roughly ten kilometers.
• Time: The hike should take three to four hours.
• Terrain: The track from Lingmithang to Laya is very easy, descending primarily through a lovely scenery of dense trees and sporadic clearings with breathtaking views of the neighboring mountains.

Reach Laya:

• Interaction between Cultures: Laya, one of Bhutan’s highest settlements, is well-known for its own culture, distinctive dress, and customs. Interacting with the Layap people, who are renowned for their warmth and rich culture, will be wonderful opportunity.
• Investigate the Village: Based on when you arrive, you can visit local houses, investigate the village, and discover more about the way of life and traditions of the Layap people.

Establish Camp:

Camping Site Setup: If you want to camp close to the village, you may take advantage of the lovely natural surroundings and socialize with the residents.
Rest: After your less strenuous hiking day, give yourself some time to unwind and recuperate.

Activities for the Evening:

Dinner: Have dinner at the campsite, maybe with some regional fare if you can work things out with the locals.
Cultural Experience: One of the best things about visiting Laya may be taking part in cultural exchange events, including traditional music or dances, if they are offered.
Briefing for the Following Day: As is customary, receive a briefing from your guide regarding the itinerary, probable weather, and any cultural sites you may see on the trip the following day.

Spend the night at the campground in Laya and take in the tranquil mountain atmosphere and distinctive cultural immersion that make this area so special.

Day 12 is a great combination of easy trekking and cultural immersion, giving you a deep understanding of Bhutan’s highland villages and preparing you for more exploration of the stunning and secluded Laya Gasa Trek region.

Laya to Koena (3800m/12,467ft) - 7 to 8 hours (19km) trek

On the thirteenth day of the Laya Gasa Trek, you will travel from Laya to Koena across the high-altitude terrain of Bhutan. This day contains a difficult pass and a significant distance. Expect the following:

Morning in Laya: Begin your day in Laya with a filling breakfast while savoring a final look at the distinctive cultural surroundings of this mountain town.

Start Your Walk to Koena:

• Distance: About nineteen kilometers.
• Time: The hike will take roughly seven or eight hours.
• Terrain: The route falls somewhat from Laya before starting the climb up to the difficult Koena pass. The trail offers a variety of terrain with its steep climbs, rough descents, and small stream crossings.

Highlights of the scenery: The hike offers breathtaking views of the far-off, snow-capped peaks and thickly wooded valleys. There are many photographic chances in this location, which is renowned for its unspoiled natural beauty.

Lunch on the route: Take a packed lunch and enjoy it on the route, ideally by a stream or with a view of the valleys below. It’s a great opportunity to relax and replenish your energy for the rest of the day’s hike.

Reach Koena:

• Campsite Setup: Prepare your campsite as soon as you arrive in Koena. Koena is a great location for people looking for solitude and tranquility in the great outdoors because it’s a less crowded, quieter area.
• Acclimatization: Since you are still over 3,800 meters, take some time to unwind and keep getting used to the altitude.

Evening Schedule:

Dinner: Savor a hot meal that your trekking crew has prepared. Now is a fantastic time to unwind and chat with other hikers about your experiences.
Briefing for Next Day: Talk with your guide about the itinerary for the following day and any necessary preparations.
Sleeping in your tent amid the peaceful solitude of the Bhutanese mountains is a great way to take stock of the adventure so far and get ready for the next hike. Spend the night in Koena.

Trekking up some of the less-trod pathways of the Laya Gasa route on day thirteen is a gratifying experience that offers excellent natural vistas and physical challenges.

Koena to Gasa (2900m/9,514ft) – 7 to 8 hours (18km) trek

Your journey from Koena to Gasa on Day 14 of the Laya Gasa Trek involves a considerable height change as well as the discovery of new environments and cultural experiences. The day’s itinerary is as follows:

In the morning, start your day at the Koena campsite with an early breakfast to prepare yourself for a day of descent towards lower elevations.

Set off on the Gasa Trek:

• About eighteen kilometers is the distance.
• Trekking should take approximately seven to eight hours.
• Terrain: As you descend steadily through mixed forest, the trail gets easier with height. In contrast to the higher heights, the dense and beautiful bamboo forests you will pass through on multiple occasions provide a different type of view.

Going Through the Bari La Pass:

• You’ll get one more look at the high mountains before you cross the Bari La pass, which is located at roughly 3,740 meters (12,270 ft) before you reach Gasa. Proceed on your descent towards Gasa after crossing the pass.

Lunch on the Trail: Take a break at a beautiful location along the trail for a packed lunch. As you descend, there’s a good chance to take a break and take in the evergreen and lush surroundings.

Reach Gasa:

Hot Springs: The hot springs in Gasa are well-known for their purportedly healing qualities. After a strenuous day of trekking, you could get the chance to relax in these natural hot springs by soaking in them when you get there.

Going through the Bari La Pass:

You’ll get one more look at the high mountains before you cross the Bari La pass, which is located at roughly 3,740 meters (12,270 ft) before you reach Gasa. Proceed on your descent towards Gasa after crossing the pass.
Lunch on the Trail: Take a break at a beautiful location along the trail for a packed lunch. As you descend, there’s a good chance to take a break and take in the evergreen and lush surroundings.

Reach Gasa:

Hot Springs: The hot springs in Gasa are well-known for their purportedly healing qualities. After a strenuous day of trekking, you could get the chance to relax in these natural hot springs by soaking in them when you get there.

Set Up Your Campsite: Choose a designated camping place in Gasa or set up your camp close to the hot springs.

Explore Gasa:

• If you have the time and energy, explore the charming little town of Gasa, which is home to the striking Gasa Dzong fortification that commands the surrounding area.

Activities for the Evening:

• Dinner: After a strenuous day of hiking, unwind with dinner at the campsite.
• Briefing for Tomorrow Day: Your guide will give you a briefing on what to expect on the journey the next day, going over the itinerary, the timetable, and any logistical information.

Spend the night in the Gasa campsite, taking advantage of the lower altitude and, if you so want, the reassuring warmth of the hot springs.

Day 14 is a rewarding journey that combines physical challenges with opportunities for relaxation. The trek’s calming conclusion is provided by the Gasa hot springs. The ultimate section of your Laya Gasa Trek journey commences on this day.

Drive from Gasa to Punakha - 2 to 3 hours (75km) drive

On the fifteenth day of the Laya Gasa Trek, you leave the isolated areas of Gasa and head towards the picturesque and historic Punakha valley by car. The schedule for the day is as follows:

In the morning, Gasa:

• Breakfast at Campsite: Packing up and getting ready to leave the high-altitude areas behind, begin with a leisurely breakfast at the Gasa campsite.
• Final Visit to the Hot Springs: If you haven’t already, or if you just want to take a final dip, don’t miss this chance to relax in the healing Gasa hot springs.

Travel by car to Punakha:

• The drive is around 75 kilometers long.
• Duration: Depending on the state of the roads and any stops made along the way, it takes roughly two to three hours.
• Scenery: As you travel through hilly terrain and enter Punakha’s wider, greener valleys, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views. There may be steep dips and picturesque viewpoints along the small, winding road.

Reach Punakha:

• Check into Hotel/Guesthouse: Once you get at Punakha, be sure to check into your lodging. After so many nights in tents, it will be nice to stay in a hotel or guesthouse.
• Rest and Refresh: After the drive, give yourself some time to recuperate. Savor the facilities provided by your lodging, such as the cozy mattresses, the bathrooms, and maybe even the Wi-Fi.

If you have the time, explore Punakha:

Punakha Dzong: At the meeting point of the Pho and Mo Chhu rivers, Punakha Dzong is a magnificent dzong that is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful in all of Bhutan. It has a long history and is a marvel of architecture.
Suspension Bridge: If you have time, you should also stop by the neighboring suspension bridge, which is one of the longest in Bhutan and provides beautiful views of the valley and river.

Evening:

supper: In a more urban setting than the hike, enjoy supper at your hotel or at a nearby restaurant. Sample some local Bhutanese food.
Unwind: Take some time to unwind, think back on the hike, and take in Punakha’s peace and quiet this evening.

Spend the night in Punakha in the comfort of your hotel or guesthouse, taking advantage of the calmer surroundings and reduced altitude.

Day 15 offers a mild transition back into more metropolitan settings, giving you time to take in Punakha’s historical and cultural attractions and mull over the experience.

Punakha to Thimphu - 2 to 3 hours (76km) drive

The 76 km (two to three hours) trip from Punakha to Thimphu

On day sixteen of the Laya Gasa Trek, you leave Punakha and go to Thimphu, the country’s capital, where you will encounter Bhutanese urban life and continue your descent into more populated areas. The daily routine is as follows:

Punakha in the morning:

• Breakfast: Get ready for the day ahead of you with a substantial breakfast at your Punakha lodging.
• Final Exploration: To capture a few more minutes in this stunning valley, if time permits and you missed it the day before, visit the Punakha Dzong or go for a morning stroll on the suspension bridge.

Travel by car to Thimphu:

• The distance is roughly 76 kilometers.
• Duration: Depending on traffic and road conditions, the travel should take two to three hours.
• The scenic route between Punakha and Thimphu provides breathtaking vistas of rivers, forests, and the terraced hillsides that are a distinctive feature of the scenery of Bhutan.

When you get to Thimphu:

• Check into Hotel: As soon as you arrive in Thimphu, go to your hotel. Luxurious hotels and cozy guesthouses are only two of the lodging options available in Thimphu.
• Lunch: Either eat at your accommodation or see some of Thimphu’s neighborhood eateries.

Investigate Thimphu:

Local Sights: Take an afternoon tour of the Tashichho Dzong, a fortification that contains the King of Bhutan’s throne room and offices, as well as the Ministry of Finance.
Cultural Sites: To learn more about Bhutanese history and culture, check out the National Memorial Chorten, the Buddha Dordenma Statue, and the Folk Heritage Museum.
Shopping: Thimphu provides great shopping experiences as well, with traditional Bhutanese arts and crafts available for purchase as keepsakes.

Evening:

Dinner: Have dinner at a nearby restaurant, where you can sample more Bhutanese food or, if you’d rather, foreign fare.
Leisure Time: Take advantage of the hotel’s amenities or spend the evening unwinding and taking walks around Thimphu.

Spend the night in Thimphu and take in the lively ambiance of Bhutan’s capital city as well as the conveniences of city living.

Day 16 offers a soft end to the rough and distant experiences of the Laya Gasa Trek, with less emphasis on physical exertion and more on cultural immersion and relaxation as you return to city life.

Thimphu to Paro and Depart

Lodging: Throughout the journey, cozy accommodations are provided, including hotels in Paro and Thimphu.
Meals: All of the meals during the hike, which will include provisions for dietary requirements and local specialties.
Transportation: Every internal transportation, including airport transfers.
Guides: English-speaking, well-versed, and seasoned guides committed to offering a secure and educational hiking experience.
Permits: All required entry and trekking permits.
Additional porters and cooks are available to provide additional help during your hiking adventure.
Equipment: Sleeping bags, tents, and mats—basic trekking equipment—are provided.