Laya – Gasa Trek

The Laya—Gasa Trek with Dewa Rabsel Adventure is one of Bhutan's most diverse and culturally immersive high-altitude expeditions. This 10-day Himalayan journey traverses remote valleys, dramatic mountain passes, glacial river basins, and pristine alpine meadows while offering unparalleled encounters with Bhutan's highland communities. Crossing multiple passes between 4,500 and 4,900 meters, the route reveals majestic views of Mount Jomolhari, Jichu Drake, Tserim Kang, and surrounding Himalayan giants. The trek passes through Jigme Dorji National Park, home to rare wildlife including blue sheep, Himalayan griffons, and the takin — Bhutan's national animal. Beyond the landscapes, the cultural experience is equally profound. The trek leads to Laya, one of Bhutan's highest and most distinctive settlements, where the Layap people preserve unique traditions, attire, and architecture. This expedition concludes in Gasa, known for its hot springs and historic dzong, offering a fitting finale to an unforgettable Himalayan traverse.

Journey Highlights

• Traverse multiple high-altitude passes between 4,500m and 4,900m
• Spectacular Himalayan views including Jomolhari and Jichu Drake
• Wildlife encounters within Jigme Dorji National Park
• Visit remote villages including Laya, Bhutan's second-highest settlement
• Explore Lingshi Dzong and traditional mountain communities
• Camp in pristine alpine valleys and glacial landscapes
• Experience authentic highland culture of the Layap people

Detailed Itinerary

• Day 1 — Shana Zampa to Soi Thangthangkha (3,630m)
  The trek begins at Shana Zampa, following the Pa Chhu River upstream. The gradual ascent winds through forests of oak, rhododendron, and ferns within Jigme Dorji National Park. The soothing sound of the river accompanies the trail as it leads toward Soi Thangthangkha campsite.
  Distance: 22 km | Duration: 7—8 hours Overnight: Tented Campsite
• Day 2 — Soi Thangthangkha to Jangothang (4,090m)
  Trek through yak pastures and scattered highland settlements such as Soe, Takethang, and Dangochang. Chortens and prayer flags mark the spiritual presence of the landscape. Jangothang campsite sits beneath the towering face of Mount Jomolhari, offering one of Bhutan's most iconic alpine settings.
  Distance: 19 km | Duration: 6—7 hours Overnight: Tented Campsite
• Day 3 — Jangothang to Lingshi (4,010m)
  Ascend toward Nyile La Pass (4,890m), where sweeping Himalayan panoramas unfold. Views include Mount Jichu Drake and Mount Tserim Kang. Descend along the Mo Chhu tributary to Lingshi Valley. Optional excursion to Tserim Kang base for wildlife viewing.
  Distance: 18 km | Duration: 6—7 hours Overnight: Tented Campsite
• Day 4 — Lingshi to Chebisa (3,880m)
  Visit Lingshi Dzong, a historic fortress perched above the valley. Descend to Gayul village before continuing through open meadows and gentle ridges to the picturesque valley of Chebisa.
  Distance: 10 km | Duration: 5 hours Overnight: Tented Campsite
• Day 5 — Chebisa to Shomuthang (4,200m)
  Climb toward Gombu La Pass (4,500m), keeping watch for blue sheep and Himalayan griffons. Descend through forests of rhododendron, cedar, and fir into the remote Shomuthang Valley.
  Distance: 17 km | Duration: 7 hours Overnight: Tented Campsite
• Day 6 — Shomuthang to Robluthang
  Ascend to Jari La Pass (4,700m) before descending into Tasharijathang Valley, the summer grazing ground of the takin. This protected sanctuary is one of Bhutan's prime wildlife habitats.
  Distance: 18 km | Duration: 6—7 hours Overnight: Tented Campsite
• Day 7 — Robluthang to Limithang (4,140m)
  Cross Shinje La Pass (4,900m), the highest point of the trek. The dramatic descent leads into a glacial valley before climbing gently through forests and meadows to Limithang campsite beneath towering peaks.
  Distance: 19 km | Duration: 7 hours Overnight: Tented Campsite
• Day 8 — Limithang to Laya (3,800m)
  A scenic descent through forests and traditional villages leads to Laya, Bhutan's second-highest permanent settlement. Surrounded by mountains, Laya offers a distinctive cultural experience with its unique Layap traditions.
  Distance: 10 km | Duration: 5 hours Overnight: Tented Campsite or Village Lodge
• Day 9 — Laya Rest & Cultural Exploration
  A full rest day in Laya to explore the village, visit local homes, interact with Layap families, and enjoy short hikes above the settlement. This day allows cultural immersion and acclimatization before descent to Gasa.
  Overnight: Tented Campsite or Village Lodge
• Day 10 — Laya to Gasa
  Descend toward Taksemaka before transferring by road to Gasa. The scenic drive passes rural landscapes and river valleys, concluding the trek. Optional visit to Gasa Dzong or hot springs if time permits.
  Trek Conclusion: Transfer to Gasa or onward destination

Cost Includes

• Bhutan visa processing and trekking permits
• Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)
• Professional licensed trekking guide
• Full trekking crew (cook, assistants, support staff)
• All camping equipment and logistics support
• All meals during the trek with filtered water
• Private transfers to trek start and end points
• Government royalties and monument fees

Cost Excludes

• International airfare
• Travel insurance (mandatory for high-altitude trekking)
• Personal trekking equipment and gear
• Alcoholic beverages
• Personal expenses and laundry
• Gratuities for trekking crew and guide
• Optional services not mentioned in itinerary