Laya Gasa Trek – 19 Days

Day 01: Arrive Paro 
As your flight lands in Paro .You will meet our representative at the airport and will be driven to Thimphu.Check into your hotel.If time permits Sight Seeing in Paro. Overnight In Hotel.

Day 02: Paro – Sharna Zampa 17Km (2870m) 5-6 hrs
Your trek starts from the historic Drugyel Dzong (2,580m). The Dzong is a 12km drive to the north of Paro valley from the hotel. You will meet your trekking crew here. After a short while you will start walking on a wide trail that tracks along the Pa Chhu (Paro river). The trail will slowly ascend where you will be walking through the countryside with views of rice paddies and fields of millet. As the valley widens you will find apple orchards, traditional Bhutanese farmhouses and a few small settlements of Mitshi Zampa and Sangatan. Following the route through blue pine forest you will be brought to the army post of Gunitsawa at 2,810m where your trekking permits will be checked and stamped. You will then climb towards Sharna Zampa (2,870m) after crossing Pa Chhu on a wooden bridge. You will be camping at Sharna Zampa in the meadows among the trees for the night.

Day 03: Sharna Zampa – Soi Thangkha 22Km (3750m) 7-8 hrs
Just like the previous day, we will be following the trail following the Pachhu (Paro river). We will be ascending and descending through pine, oak and spruce forests. You will reach at Shingkharap after 2 hours of hiking and crossing several streams. This is a stone house at 3110m. You will then cross the bridge towards the left side of the river where you will be served a hot lunch. A little walk ahead is the trail junction. The left road is an old trade route to Tibet and the right route leads to the wooden bridge. We will be taking the latter route. After climbing through rhododendron forests and finally crossing the bridge again, we reach our camp at 3750m, which is amidst beautiful meadows.

Day 04: Soi Thangkha – Jangothang Base Camp 19Km (4040m) 5-6 hrs
Today is not a long trekking day but it will involve a significant gain in altitude as your trail goes above tree line. As you take the path that ascends from our camp you will be brought to an army camp. Then you will follow the river above the tree line as well as enjoying the spectacular view of the surrounding mountain peaks. After walking through a very muddy section and passing a mani wall you will enter yak country. Inside a yak herder’ camp you will be served a hot filling lunch. After lunch, we walk past yak herder settlements of Soe and Takethang. Some common crops that people grow here are barley, potatoes and turnips. After your lunch, you will walk across a plateau and up a stream bed. You will pass Dangochang village to the beautiful campsite of Jangothang at an altitude of 4,040m. From here, the views of Mount Jumolhari and Jichu Drake will take your breath away.

Day 05: Jangothang Rest Day & Explore Jangothang 
Today, you will do a four hours long acclimatization hike to the north of your camp. There isn’t really a trail but you will climb on an open and endless slope till you see the view of Mt Jichu Drakye (6989m). You can hike further up to 4895m (higher than Mount Blanc) to see the amazing view of Mount Jumolhari. You are likely to spot rare blue sheep, Himalayan rhubarb, griffon vultures, golden eagles and the our national flower – the blue poppy. In the foreground below the colossal Mount Jumolhari and its neighboring mountain, Jichu Drake is the Jangothang base. It is a flat grassy land with the ruins of an old fortress on a hillock. It is highly recommended for all trekkers to halt here as most people show signs of mountain sickness at this altitude. You will have the option to hike or to simply rest in camp. Both ways, it will be a very memorable day. 

Day 06: Jangothang- lingshi 18Km (4010m) 6-7 hrs
Today’s trail follows the stream for half an hour and crosses the bridge to the right side. You will then start to climb up to the first ridge where you will be greeted by a breathtaking view of Jumolhari (7314m), Jichu Drake (6989m) and Tshering Gang (6789m). You will then be walking on an almost flat track for sometime towards the valley and then you will have to climb to Ngye La pass at 4,700m. After the pass, it is a gradual descent to the camp. You will get to enjoy the spectacular panoramic view of the peaks here and the Lingshi Dzong. If time permits, you can take a detour to this tiny fortress that is sits on a hilltop overlooking Lingzhi village. For centuries, Lingzhi Dzong was a way station for weary Buddhist pilgrims and was a defense fort against Tibetan and Mongol invaders. You will camp today at an altitude of 4010m.

Day 07: Lingshi – Chebisa 12Km (3850m) 5-6 hrs
Perched on a hilltop with breathtaking views of green hills, meandering rivers and magnificent peaks is the Lingshi Dzong. For centuries, Lingzhi Dzong was a way station for Buddhist pilgrims. It was also a defense fort against Tibetan and Mongol invaders. Today is an easy day filled with pleasant walks through villages and yak herders’ camp. After lunch, a short walk will take you to Chebisa, a charming little village adorned with a beautiful crystal clear waterfall. You will camp by the side of a stream at an altitude of 3,850m.

Day 08: Chebisa – Shoumuthang 17Km (4130m) 6-7 hrs
You will begin your trek with a steep climb up a ridge to Gogu La pass (4500m) which will take nearly four hours. It is common to spot rare blue sheep on the rocks near the top of this pass. After the pass you will make a descent in your route where you will pass through rhododendron bushes to a lunch stop. In the afternoon you will continue to walk along the trail with scattered ascents and descents. After crossing the stream, walking through rhododendron forests and yak herders camp, we arrive at Shakepasa at 3980m. After this point, you will be climbing steeply up to the northern side of the valley and passing by a few yak herder’s camp. We will then arrive at our camp located beside a stream at an altitude 4,250m.

Day 09: Shoumuthang – Rogluthang 17Km (4130m) 6-7 hrs
Today the trek begins by you walking through edelweiss bound trail and then a climb to Jari La pass at an altitude of 4,700m. The snow capped peak visible to the south-east is Kangbum at 6526m. You will then descend to Tsarijathang valley. This valley is the summer residence of rare Himalayan Takins (national animal of Bhutan). From here on you may have to cross streams without a footbridge because in most cases these bridges are washed away. After crossing the stream, to the left the trail ascends till you reach Robluthang. It is a rocky meadow camp at an altitude of 4,200m.

Day 10: Robluthang – Lingmithang 19Km (4140m) 7-8 hrs
Today will be an exhilarating day as you will cross the highest pass in our entire trek. You will climb all the way up through boggy patches. As you follow this trail you’ll be crossing streams and spotting marmot holes and moraine. You will then reach the top of Shingchen La pass (5005m). You will be greeted with the view stunning view of the snow-covered Gangchenta or the Tiger Mountain (6,840m) filling the northern horizon. After taking in the view you will descend through a rough rocky trail following the moraine river valley to Kango Chhu River. You will find that the path is quite narrow and you may be expected to cross a stream again and get yourself wet. After a fresh walk through cedar forests you will finally arrive at Lingmethang (4,140m). Lingmithang is a beautiful campsite, with scattered meadows by the river with Tiger Mountain (Gangchenta) towering behind your campsite.

Day 11: Lingmithang – Laya 10Km (3850m) 3-4 hrs
In the morning you will wake up to a superb view of Gangchenta peak. The walk to Laya is very pleasant with wonderful views. You will pass through a damp forest, filled with moss and singing birds. It is a pretty long walk through this uninhabited valley. You will also see a waterfall as you follow this trail. As you walk further, you will find yourself at a junction. The upper route will bring you to fields spotted with stone houses. Arrive at Laya village, the second highest settlement in the country, at an altitude of 3,800m.

Day 12: Rest Day At Laya
Today is a day you can temper to your taste. Explore Laya village and go visit any of the houses around. Hospitality is a big part of Bhutanese tradition. Even to a perfect stranger, traditional Bhutanese hospitality is extended and a cup of tea and Chang (local, wine) is always offered. You will notice that the people in this valley are very interesting especially their attire. Women in particular have very conspicuous attire, wearing conical bamboo hats decorated with turquoise and silver ornaments

Day 13: Laya – Chamsa 19 Km (3800m) 6-7 hrs
Today you will descend to the army camp and join the Mo Chhu (Mother River of Punakha). You will then follow the river till you cross the bridge. After you cross the bridge you will be making several ascents and descents through juniper and fir forests. You will eventually reach the camp at Chamsa at an altitude of 3,800m.

Day 14: Chamsa – Tshachu 19Km (2900m) 6-7 hrs
After walking for about half an hour over flat land you will get to Bari La pass. From this point the trail decreases in altitude all the way to Gasa Tshachu (Hot water spring). On the way, you may spot Satyr Tragopan, Himalayan Monal, and Blood Pheasants. You will be camping at Gasa village at an altitude of 2,700m.

Day 15: Gasa Tshachu Rest Day
Gasa Tshachu (Hot spring) is the place to take a well awaited rest. You can visit the village and the Gasa Dzong. The Dzong was built in the 17th century by the first religious leader of Bhutan, Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgya. It was built to protect the valley against Tibetan invaders. After visiting the Dzong, make a descent to Gasa Tshachu (hot spring) to enjoy the hot bath in one of the pools. The Gasa Tsachu is one of the most popular hot springs in Bhutan.

Day 16: Gasa Tshachu Via Damli and Tashithang – Punakha 
After breakfast, you will drive on unpaved road through heavily forested areas rich bound with wild orchids to arrive at Damji Village (2,400m). You will continue downhill through the high agricultural benches and lush semi-tropical gorge filled with banana trees and creepers. Then, follow the Mo Chhu river through the thick forest till you reach Tashithang at an altitude of 1,620m and further down for 15km to Punakha.

Day 17: Thimphu (sightseeing) and later drive to Paro
After breakfast drive to Thimphu.In Thimphu we will take you through the  National Memorial Chorten, here meet the elderly generation in circumambulation of the Chorten. Chorten literally means “Seat of Faith” or the “ Mind of Buddha”. Treat yourself with fantastic depiction of Buddhist teachings in form of paintings and sculptures in this temple. As the name denotes this National Memorial Chorten was consecrated on July 28th, 1947 in the memory of the Third King.
Institute for Zorig Chusum, commonly known as the Painting School, the institute offers you a glimpse of novices learning 13 traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan. Enjoy few moments with the future artists of the country.
The Folk Heritage Museum, also known as Phelchey Toenkhyim is dedicated to connecting people of the Bhutanese rural past through exhibits. The house dates back to 19th century. You can also see a traditional watermill. The national animal “Takin”. You can see the national animal at the Takin preservation.  It is a very fascinating animal with a very fascinating story about the creation of the animal. Buddha point(Kuensel Phodrang). It is again a short drive from the town. You can pay your obeisance and offer prayers to the Buddha, the largest statue in the country and then walk around and take a glimpse of the valley. Depending on time availability visit the  Post office and Handicraft emporium. Later in the evening drive to Paro. 

Day 18: Paro sightseeing
Today we are going for a hike to the magnificent Taktsang Monastery. Often called the Tiger’s Nest, perched on the cliffs, has awestuck many a visitor. “Trip to Bhutan is never complete without climbing to Taktsang”, says one visitor. Indeed it’s true as the journey there fills you up in spiritual bliss. For those not choosing the spiritual side, it is the dramatic landscape and the artistically built monument that becomes a hiker’s delight. Let us take you to this dramatically set Buddhist relic hanging from a cliff. Experience the uphill climb as you ascend more than two thousand feet from the valley floor. It is said that Guru Rinpoche arrived here on the back of a tigress and meditated in a cave which is now inside the monastery. This site was recognized as most sacred and visited by Zhabdrung in 1646 wished to build a monastery and now almost every Bhutanese visited this monastery. It was build in 1692 and was mysteriously burnt down on 19th april 1998. The fire damaged the main structure of the building and some religious Contents. The monastery has been renovated and restored to its former glory. It takes about 2-3hours to get to the monastery from the motor road end. Enjoy vegetarian lunch at the cafeteria while climbing back.
On the way back visit Kichu Lhakhang which was built on the same day as Jambay Lhakhang in Bumthang. It is said that 108 monasteries were built on the same day. Later in 1968, the Royal Grandmother, built a second temple alongside the first one, in the same style. Inside the courtyard, there is an orange tree that bears fruits throughout the year, which is quite amazing because nowhere in the valley you can find orange trees bearing fruits with the exception of one more temple. Rinpung Dzong: Built in 1646 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the “fortress of the heap of jewels“stands on a hill above Paro Township. The approach to the Dzong is through a traditional covered bridge (called the Nemi Zam) and then up a paved stone path running alongside the imposing outer walls. The valley’s annual springtime religious festival, the Paro Tsechu, takes place in the courtyard of the Dzong and on the dance ground on the hillside above.Over night in Hotel Jigmiling.

Day 19: Departure to your onward destination
After Break fast drive to Airport & Fly Back to Kathmandu Or your onward Destination.
 

Visa Information

Indian, Bangladeshis and Maldivian nationals can obtain a visa at the port of entry on producing a valid passport with a minimum of 6 month validity (Indian nationals may also use their Voters Identity Card (VIC). For other tourists, you will to need to acquire visa clearance in advance. Visas are processed through an online system by your licensed Bhutanese tour operator, directly or through a foreign travel agent. Tourists are also required to book their holiday through a Bhutanese tour operator or one of their international partners. The tour operator will take care of Visa arrangements for visitors.

You are required to send the photo-page of your passport (passport scanned copy) to your tour operator who will then apply for your visa. The visa will be processed by the Tourism Council of Bhutan (TCB) once the full payment of your holiday (including a USD $40 visa fee) has been wire transferred and received in the TCB bank account. Once received the visa clearance will be processed within 72 working hours. At your point of entry you will be required to show your visa clearance letter, and the visa will then be stamped into your passport.

Weather Information

There is no appropriate season as which is go say that Bhutan’s warm and temperate climate, never-ending festivals and rich and abundant heritage sites provide visitors with a wide array of experiences throughout the year across the country. Bhutan has all four seasons and the climate varies widely depending on the altitude.

Spring (March, April & May)

This time is considered the most beautiful time of the year, resplendent and ablaze with a spectacular array of bright colors. This is the time when the valleys are green with fresh vegetation and fruit trees are blossoming – the time when locals are naturally mirthful and cheery; when visitors are most welcome. Also, you can witness the famous Paro tsechu festival.

Autumn (September, October & November)

Autumn is lovely with clear and crisp blue skies, providing a grand view of some of the tallest unclimbed mountains in the world. It is the best time for trekking and traveling. The climate is cool and temperate and you can get lovely photography opportunities of willows shedding their golden brown leaves, the solitude of parks and somber views of  dzongs and monasteries.

Monsoon (June, July & August)

During these months, Bhutan receives more rainfall than any other region in the Himalayas. Glorious sapphire skies and warm weather is a pleasant time to spend visiting places of cultural and historical interest though this season is not the best time for trekking. Enjoy a cup of warm, aromatic tea while watching the rainfall from your hotel window. Or if you possess an adventurous spirit, grab an umbrella/raincoat while it is raining and take a day tour through the town.

Winter (December, January & February)

Winter in Bhutan is sunny, cool and agreeable to say the least. Much of the east-west highway remains snowbound during winter. It is the best time to tour the western districts of Paro, Wangdue, Punakha, Thimphu and Haa. One of the chief attractions in winter is the beautiful Gangtey (Phobjikha) valley where you can expect to see a wide expanse of rolling plain with bamboo shrubs.

Safety Guidelines

• Credit cards are not a convenient source of payment in Bhutan as only a handful of hotels in a few places provide this facility. Also, only MasterCard and Visa. US dollars are the most convenient currency and are cashed by most banks.
• You should avoid drinking tap water altogether, but it is okay to use it for brushing your teeth. Bottled water is widely available and is best for drinking. It is also wise to carry water purification tablets when trekking in remote locations of Bhutan.
• The local currency is the Ngultrum, which is pegged to the Indian Rupee. Note: The Indian Rupee in denominations of 500 and 1000 are no longer accepted in Bhutan.
• Bhutan is the only country in the world that has banned the consumption and sale of tobacco, resulting in smoking being largely disallowed in public places. Having said that, consumption is not completely prohibited in Bhutan so if you want to smoke, bring your own cigarettes and ask your guide where you can light up. (seal opened pack only)
• Tuesdays are considered the national 'dry day,' with the sale of alcohol prohibited.
• When taking photos/filming inside Dzongs, monasteries, temples, or any religious institutions, check with your guide whether it is permitted as some areas do not allow it.

1. Where is Bhutan?

Bhutan is a land-locked country nestled between the world’s giants, India and the Tibetan region of China. Bhutan – Land of the Thunder Dragon is one of the most exotic destinations in the world today. This kingdom, often referred to as the last Shangri-la, is a land of outstanding people, remarkable scenery and natural wonders, and a proud and vibrant culture. Moreover, it is now gradually opening to the world with a sensitive approach to tourism.

2. What is the time difference in Bhutan?

Bhutan Standard Time ( IST ) is 0600 hours (6 hours) ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+6).

3. How can I enter Bhutan?

There are a number of airports where you can fly into Bhutan from.  At present two carriers operate to Bhutan, Drukair and Bhutan Airlines.

By Air the Entry Points are:

Bangkok to Paro.

Dhaka to Paro.

Katmandu to Paro.

Kolkata to Paro.

Delhi to Paro.

Singapore to Paro.

By Land, the Entry Points are:

Also, there are three land border crossings which you can travel into the kingdom overland.  All crossings are along the Indian border only - Phuentsholing, Gelephu and Samdrup Jongkhar.

Bagdora to Phuntsholing.

Bagdora to Gelephu.

Guwahati to Samdrup Jongkhar.

Note: Exit can also be done through the same Entry Points.

4. How can I process Visa?

All International tourists wishing to enter Bhutan require a visa which must be pre-arranged through a license Bhutanese Tour Operator or one of their international partners.  Visa clearance must be obtained through your tour operator prior to travel.  For Indian passport (or VIC) holders, Bangladeshi nationals and persons from the Maldives may obtain a visa on entry. Visas are approved by the Immigration Department in Thimphu, with which you allowed to enter Bhutan or board the Druk Air flight and Bhutan Airlines.

The actual visa is stamped on the passport upon arrival in the country, either at Paro airport or (if entering by road) at Phuentsholing. You just need to provide us a passport scanned copy by email which should be more than six months validity. There is no need to send the pictures or sign the visa application at this time.

5. What is Visa cost?

International tourist visas a cost of USD $40 applies with TDF (Tourism Development Fund).  This can be paid in advance to you tour operator or travel agent.  For Indian passport (or VIC) holders, Bangladeshi nationals and persons from the Maldives there is no cost incurred.

6. What is the best time to travel to Bhutan?

Bhutan is a year round Tourist Destination and every season or month is the best time. However, depending on climate and festivals, the season is defined either as High or Low seasons. Hence, the best time could be season time and good time can be low season time. However, if you are looking for low cost and good time, we consider the months of January, June and July as the Best time. During this time, you will see fewer foreigners in Bhutan and you have the luxury of enjoying your privacy. When it comes to Hotels also, you have more choices and you will also receive special attention both from the Hoteliers and your Agent since there won’t be many guests and it can be well taken care.

March – May and September – November is the best time to travel in Bhutan. The climate is good then and there are many festivals around this time.

7. Do I require a travel insurance?

Yes, Book Bhutan Tour is committed to a careful preparation of the tour, but cannot foresee all risks and contingencies. In view of these risks, participation is at your own risk. For your own safety of the traveler is to take out a luggage, accident, travel liability and travel insurance that covers the costs of repatriation in case of accident or illness, as a cancellation insurance is strongly recommended. These are not included in the tour price. In addition, Swiss nationals are recommended REGA patronage.

8. What currency shall I carry?

Bhutanese currency is known as the Ngultrum. Most currencies are exchanged by banks here. The most commonly accepted currencies are Ngultrum, US dollars and Indian rupees. However Indian notes in 500 and 1000 denominations are not acceptable. Most handicraft shops accept US dollar. You can even exchange the currencies in some local shops. They give you better exchange rate than the banks.

9. Is it safe to drink tap water in Bhutan?

Tap water is not considered safe for drinking and also ice cubes should be avoided. Mineral water is easily available throughout the country (but make sure that seal is not broken). At the same time it is better to go with the trusted brand rather than picking the local brands.

10. Do I have to worry about altitude sickness in Bhutan?

The altitude in Bhutan is higher than many people are habituated to. Although many people might not have any problem in adjusting, altitude sickness may be a problem for a few ones. If visitors do some simple preparations before leaving for Bhutan, most of the symptoms of altitude sickness can be avoided. Being healthy and in good shape before you arrive in Bhutan will help greatly. It is also recommended that you talk to your local doctor about AMS and medicines in case of emergency.

11. Are there ATM s counter in Bhutan?

Bank of Bhutan (BoB), Bhutan National Bank and Druk PNB Bank ATMs usually accept foreign credit cards; however, it would be prudent to get your cash in Thimphu or Paro before heading out into the countryside, particularly the far east. Transactions are limited to Nu 10,000 or Nu15,000.

12. Is the country safe to travel?

Absolutely, Bhutan is safe for traveler. There is little crime in Bhutan and it is safe for women, family with children and for solo travelers as well. However, women are advised to follow the same universal precautions when they are in crowded entertainment places at night, mainly when in discos or bars.

13. What is the electricity supply in Bhutan and what plugs are used?

240 volts AC – Flat round 2-pin plugs are most common and a universal adapter is an important travel item. Power cuts are quite frequent in central and eastern Bhutan while western Bhutan has stable power supply.

14. What is the electricity supply in Bhutan and what plugs are used?

240 volts AC – Flat round 2-pin plugs are most common and a universal adapter is an important travel item. Power cuts are quite frequent in central and eastern Bhutan while western Bhutan has stable power supply.