Overview
The Laya Gasa Trek is one of Bhutan’s most spectacular high-altitude trekking adventures, combining dramatic Himalayan landscapes, sacred mountain passes, remote villages, and authentic nomadic culture. Traversing through the Jomolhari and Gangchhenta mountain ranges, this trek takes you across pristine valleys, alpine meadows, yak pastures, and some of the highest passes in Bhutan before concluding at the historic village of Gasa. Ideal for experienced trekkers, this journey offers unmatched views of Mt. Jomolhari (7,314 m) and Gangchhenta (6,840 m) along with rich cultural encounters.
Itinerary
Duration: ~40 minutes
Descent: 80 m
Camp Altitude: 2,850 m
The trek begins at Gunitsawa Village, passing through an army checkpoint where trek permits are verified. Walk along the river to reach Sharna Zampa campsite, located in a serene forested valley—an ideal introduction to Bhutan’s trekking wilderness.
Distance: 22 km | 7–8 hrs
Ascent: 770 m | Descent: 10 m
Camp Altitude: 3,610 m
A long but scenic trekking day through river valleys and forested paths. As the valley narrows into alpine terrain, reach Thangthangkha meadow campsite. On clear days, enjoy your first breathtaking view of Mt. Jomolhari.
Distance: 19 km | 5–6 hrs
Ascent: 480 m
Camp Altitude: 4,080 m
Continue trekking through alpine meadows along the Paro Chhu valley. Pass army checkpoints, yak herders’ settlements, and traditional villages such as Soe, Takethang, and Dangochang. Reach Jangothang, one of the most beautiful Himalayan campsites, offering stunning views of Mt. Jomolhari.
A rest and acclimatization day with optional hikes to nearby lakes and ridges. Enjoy panoramic views of Jomolhari, Jichu Drake, and surrounding snow-clad peaks. Excellent opportunities to spot blue sheep on the mountain slopes.
Distance: 18 km | 6–7 hrs
Ascent: 840 m | Descent: 870 m
Camp Altitude: 4,010 m
Cross the high Nyilila Pass (4,870 m), one of the most scenic passes of the trek. Enjoy panoramic Himalayan views before descending into the beautiful Lingshi Basin, with views of Lingshi Dzong and surrounding glaciers.
Distance: 10 km | 5–6 hrs
Ascent: 280 m | Descent: 410 m
Camp Altitude: 3,880 m
A relaxed trekking day. Optional hike to Lingshi Dzong (4,220 m) for stunning valley views. Pass through compact mountain villages before reaching Chebisa, known for its beautiful waterfall and traditional stone houses.
Distance: 17 km | 6–7 hrs
Ascent: 890 m | Descent: 540 m
Camp Altitude: 4,220 m
Climb steadily to Gobu La Pass (4,410 m) through yak pastures. Descend and re-ascend through wide alpine valleys before reaching Shomuthang campsite, set beside a tributary of the Nochu River.
Distance: 18 km | 6–7 hrs
Ascent: 700 m | Descent: 760 m
Camp Altitude: 4,160 m
Ascend to Jhari La Pass (4,750 m) with views of Kang Bum, Gangchhenta (Great Tiger Mountain), and distant peaks of Jomolhari. Trek through the Takin Sanctuary, home to Bhutan’s national animal, before camping at Robluthang.
Distance: 19 km | 6–7 hrs
Ascent: 850 m | Descent: 870 m
Camp Altitude: 4,140 m
Cross the highest point of the trek, Sinche La Pass (5,005 m). Descend past glacial lakes, moraines, and the Kango Chhu River to reach Limithang campsite, dominated by views of Mt. Gangchhenta.
Distance: 10 km | 4–5 hrs
Descent: 340 m
Camp Altitude: 3,840 m
A scenic downhill walk through forests and river valleys leads to the remote highland village of Laya, famous for its unique culture and spectacular views of Gangchhenta and Masagang.
Distance: 19 km | 6–7 hrs
Ascent: 260 m | Descent: 1,070 m
Camp Altitude: 3,050 m
Follow the Mo Chhu River valley with continuous ascents and descents. Cross Kohi Lapcha Pass (3,300 m) before descending to the Koina campsite.
Distance: 14 km | 6–7 hrs
Ascent: 740 m | Descent: 1,500 m
Camp Altitude: 2,240 m
Cross Bari La Pass (3,740 m) and descend to Gasa Village. Option to relax at the famous Gasa Hot Springs (Gasa Tsachu), one of Bhutan’s most rejuvenating natural baths.
The trek concludes at Gasa, home to a uniquely designed dzong and one of Bhutan’s most remote settlements. Transfer arrangements as per itinerary.
Your feedback means the world to us
Our tour guide, Sangay Wangchuk was knowledgeable, friendly, and deeply passionate about Bhutanese culture and history. His insights added so much depth to each location we visited, and he made sure we understood the significance of each place in a way that was engaging and easy to follow. He was always just a call or message away, ready to assist with any queries or requests, which gave us a lot of comfort throughout the trip. Also he entertained us with his beautiful Shero -shayri & hind songs during the long travel.
Every aspect of the tour – from transportation and accommodations to sightseeing and local experiences – was thoughtfully curated. Thanks to the Teem Travel, we could fully immerse ourselves in the beauty and serenity of Bhutan without any logistical stress.
On behalf of our Group of Four, may I thank you, your Guide Kinley Lekpa and Pilot Pratap for taking excellent care of us, right from the moment we landed in Paro Int. Airport on Aug 17, to the time we reached the Paro Int. Airport on Aug 22, to take a return flight back to India.All four of us are immensely pleased with your Company and your officers Kinley and Pratap for the kind courtesy and genuine warmth extended to us throughout our 6 day stay in Bhutan-rightly called as the Happiest Country in the World.
Our family had the most incredible experience in visiting Bhutan and I thank TEEM TRAVEL BHUTAN. I recently had the pleasure of touring Bhutan with Teem Travel, and I must say, it was a truly memorable and seamless experience right from the very beginning (Pick up from Bagdogra Airport), the planning and coordination were handled with professionalism and care, ensuring we had nothing to worry.
