14 Nights / 15 Days
Embark on a transformative journey into the remote Laya region, a land of towering Himalayan peaks, pristine alpine lakes, cascading waterfalls, and ancient forests. This trek takes you through Jigme Dorji National Park, home to rare wildlife such as the elusive snow leopard, Himalayan black bear, red panda, and blue sheep, while offering the chance to meet Bhutan’s semi-nomadic Layap people. Along the way, you’ll explore centuries-old monasteries, dzongs, and traditional villages, soaking in the unique culture, spirituality, and architectural heritage of Bhutan. The trek culminates at Laya Village, Bhutan’s second-highest settlement, before descending to the natural hot springs of Gasa for a rejuvenating finale.
Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, receive a traditional Khada scarf as a warm welcome to Bhutan. Your journey begins with a visit to Rinpung Dzong, a 17th-century fortress-monastery, where you can admire its central tower (Utse), the monks’ prayer hall (Kuenrey), and the old wooden bridge that once guarded the dzong. Afterward, stroll through Paro town, visiting local shops and cafes while enjoying scenic views of rice paddies, rivers, and traditional Bhutanese houses. Overnight at a hotel in Paro.
Today you will hike to the iconic Taktsang Monastery, perched 200 meters above the Paro Valley. En route, walk through dense pine forests, past waterfalls, prayer flags, and cliffside viewpoints, while spotting Himalayan vultures and small marmots. Meditate at Taktsang and enjoy sweeping views of the valley below. In the evening, visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples, built in the 7th century. Return to Paro for an overnight stay.
Drive through scenic valleys, terraced rice fields, and pine forests to Dzongdrakha Village, perched on a cliff with panoramic views of Paro Valley. Visit Kila Gompa Nunnery, enjoying tea and interacting with the resident nuns. Continue the drive past the ruins of Drugyel Dzong, tiny villages, and lush forests, ending the day at Shana, where your first camping experience begins amidst the peaceful Himalayan environment.
Trek through remote highland farms, yak pastures, and dense alpine forests, where you may spot wildflowers, yaks, and Himalayan birds. Cross wooden bridges over mountain streams, ascend steep ridges, and enjoy panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks. Arrive at Soi Thangthangkha campsite, surrounded by serene meadows for your overnight stay.
Following the Pa Chhu River, the trail gradually leaves the tree line behind, opening into a wide valley with breathtaking views of Jomolhari (7,325m) and surrounding peaks. Along the way, you will see yak winter camps, alpine settlements, and grazing blue sheep, offering a glimpse into the local pastoral lifestyle. Overnight camping at Jangothang, with majestic mountain vistas.
Take a day to rest and acclimatize. Options include hiking to Tshophu Lakes with views of Jomolhari and Jichu Drakey peaks, exploring alpine ridges, or walking among yak herder settlements, observing daily life and wildlife. This day allows you to enjoy the serenity of the mountains and adapt to the high altitude.
The trek continues through open meadows, yak pastures, and forested valleys, crossing Nyle La Pass (4,880m). Enjoy panoramic vistas and spot Himalayan wildlife, including marmots and vultures. Descend to Lingshi Dzong, perched atop a ridge, then continue to Chha Chi Thang campsite for an overnight stay amidst peaceful mountain scenery.
Trek through traditional villages, alpine meadows, and yak pastures, arriving at Chebesa, where a crystal-clear waterfall adds to the charm of the village. Enjoy close encounters with local stone houses, prayer wheels, and grazing yaks before camping for the night.
Ascend Gogu La Pass (4,500m), spotting blue sheep grazing on rocky terrain. Descend through lush rhododendron forests, alpine meadows, and yak herder camps, arriving at Shomuthang campsite, surrounded by pristine mountain landscapes.
The trail passes edelweiss meadows and crystal-clear streams, crossing Jari La Pass (4,750m) with magnificent views of Kangbum Peak (6,526m). Enter Tsarijathang Valley, home to Bhutan’s rare Himalayan Takin, before reaching Robluthang campsite.
Cross the Shingchen La Pass (5,005m) and enjoy breathtaking views of Gangchenta Peak (6,840m). Descend through moraine valleys, cedar forests, and alpine streams, arriving at Limithang campsite with mountains towering above.
Trek through dense forests, cascading waterfalls, and high meadows to reach Laya Village, Bhutan’s second-highest settlement. Meet the Layap people, observe their traditional clothing, weaving, and customs, and take in the crisp mountain air and panoramic vistas. Overnight at a local farmhouse.
Descend to the army camp and meet your vehicle for the drive to Gasa, famous for its natural hot springs. Relax and soak in the mineral-rich waters before continuing to Punakha, passing through rivers, valleys, and forested landscapes. Overnight at a hotel in Punakha.
Visit Punakha Dzong, an architectural masterpiece built at the confluence of Po Chu and Mo Chu rivers. Drive through Dochula Pass, adorned with 108 Druk Wangyel Chortens, and enjoy panoramic Himalayan views. Explore Thimphu’s craft and weekend markets, then overnight at a hotel in Thimphu.
Drive to Paro International Airport for your onward journey, carrying unforgettable memories of remote highlands, sacred monasteries, traditional villages, and the majestic Himalayas.
Gakiling Tours and Travels is a professionally licensed and registered tour operator based in Thimphu, Bhutan, accredited by the Tourism Council of Bhutan. Established in 2019, the company is founded and managed by a team of experienced Bhutanese travel professionals who bring deep local insight and a commitment to delivering high-quality, personalized travel experiences.
Specializing in tailor-made itineraries, Gakiling Tours and Travels offers a wide range of services including cultural tours, trekking expeditions, spiritual and wellness retreats, and nature-based journeys. The team works closely with each client to design customized travel programs that reflect individual interests and preferences, ensuring an enriching and seamless Bhutanese experience. Every aspect of the journey - from visa assistance and flight bookings to premium accommodations, guided excursions, and ground transportation - is meticulously planned and executed to the highest standards.
With a strong network of trusted local partners and extensive knowledge of Bhutan’s diverse regions, the company provides comprehensive travel solutions throughout western, central, and eastern Bhutan. Gakiling Tours and Travels is known for its professionalism, attention to detail, and warm hospitality, consistently earning positive feedback from international travelers for its dedication to service excellence.
Whether you are seeking a cultural immersion, spiritual renewal, or an adventure in the Himalayan landscape, Gakiling Tours and Travels offers a reliable and insightful gateway to the Kingdom of Bhutan. Read More...
Discover Bhutan - 17 Day Journey From Ea..
Guwahati - Thimphu - Paro - Wangdue Phodrang - Punakha - Trongsa - Mongar - Bumthan..
9 Nights - 10 Days Bhutan Tour Package
Thimphu - Paro - Punakha - Trongsa - Bumthang
7 Nights - 8 Days Bhutan Tour Package
Thimphu - Paro - Wangdue Phodrang - Punakha
New Delhi - Agra - Gwalior - Bhopal - Indore - Mumbai - Tikamgarh - Chhatarpur - Au..
Rome - Pisa - Lucerne - Paris - Brussels - Amsterdam - London - Innsbruck - Vatican..
Chandigarh - Shimla - Manali - Dalhousie - Amritsar - Dharamshala
New Delhi - Haridwar - Rishikesh - Shivpuri - Agra - Jaipur
Mystical Himalayas Nepal - Bhutan Discov..
Pokhara - Chitwan - Thimphu - Paro - Patan
6 Nights/ 7 Days - Bhutan Happiness Tour
Punakha - Bumthang - Paro - Thimphu - Phobjik
6 Night 7 Day Wonderful Bhutan Tour
Thimphu - Paro - Wangdue Phodrang - Punakha
20 Days Land Package Country Tour Bhutan..
Punakha - Paro - Phuntsholing - Bagdogra - Bumthang - Mongar - Trashigang - Trongsa..