The Laya Gasa Trek offered by Imperial Lotus Tours is a popular and challenging trek that takes trekkers through some of the most remote and beautiful regions in Bhutan. The trek covers a distance of approximately 70 miles and crosses several high-altitude passes, including the legendary Gasa hot springs. The trek offers trekkers breathtaking views of the Himalayas, pristine forests, and unique flora and fauna. The highlight of the trek is the remote Laya village, which is located at an altitude of over 12,000 feet and is home to the Layap people, an indigenous group with a distinct cultural identity. With Imperial Lotus Tours, trekkers can have a safe and comfortable experience, as the tour operator provides experienced guides and high-quality camping equipment.
The Laya Gasa Trek is a challenging trek suitable for experienced trekkers looking for a unique and unforgettable experience in Bhutan. With Imperial Lotus Tours, trekkers can have a comprehensive experience that combines adventure, culture, and natural beauty. The tour operator also provides opportunities for trekkers to interact with the local communities, supporting sustainable tourism practices and contributing to the socio-economic development of the region. The Laya Gasa Trek is a must-do for any intrepid traveler looking to explore the remote and pristine landscapes of Bhutan.
mperial Lotus Tours has designed the Laya Gasa Trek to showcase the natural beauty and cultural richness of Bhutan. The tour operator also provides opportunities for trekkers to explore the unique cultural heritage of Bhutan by visiting ancient temples and monasteries along the trekking route. With Imperial Lotus Tours, trekkers can have a memorable and life-changing experience that will leave a lasting impression. The Laya Gasa Trek is an exceptional way to explore the rugged and pristine landscapes of Bhutan and is a must-do for any adventurous trekker.
Day 1: Lingshi – Chebisa (Distance 10km, five to six hours, 280m ascent, 410m descent, camp altitude 3,880m). Today is the shortest walking day, and you can really take it easy. Shortly after starting you will reach a chorten below Lingshi Dzong. Here, you have the choice of staying on the main trail or taking a diversion up to the Lingshi Dzong (4,220m), which sits right atop a ridge.
Besides a very special atmosphere of mystic silence Lingshi Dzong provides a great view over the valley. After Lingshi Dzong you will be passing the villages of Lingshi and Goyul. In Goyul, the stone houses are clustered together to a small compact village that is unusual in Bhutan where village houses are normally scattered. On reaching the campsite at Chebisa with a beautiful waterfall behind the village, you will have plenty of time to visit the village houses if you feel up to it.
Day 2: Chebisa – Shomuthang (Distance 17km, six to seven hours, 890m ascent, 540m descent, camp altitude 4,220m)
You walk through a wide pastureland towards Gobu La (pass). On the way, you will see a few people herding yaks. There is also a great chance to spot large herds of blue sheep above the trail. After crossing the Gobu La (4,410m), you descend to the valley, then climb again a little bit, and descend again to Shakshepasa (3,980) where a helipad has been established. Climbing from here you will finally reach the campsite at Shomuthang, above a river, which is a tributary of the Nochu river.
Day 3: Shomuthang – Robluthang (Distance 18km, six to seven hours, 700m ascent, 760m descent, camp altitude 4,160m). As the walk is a little strenuous, it is advisable to start early. Climbing up the valley to view Kang Bum (6,526 m) and some edelweiss. After two hours of climbing you will reach Jhari La (4,750m), from where you catch the first sight of Sinche La, the pass you will have to cross the day after. The big snow peak in the north is Gangchhenta 6,840 m, better known as the Great Tiger Mountain. If weather is clear, Tserim Kang and the top of Jumolhari will be visible.
The camp by the river is called Tsheri Jathang. Herds of takin, the Bhutanese National Animal, migrate to this valley in summer and remain for about four months. The valley has been declared a takin sanctuary. Climb up a little bit and you will reach the campsite at Robluthang in a rocky meadow.
Day 4: Robluthang – Limithang (Distance 19km, six to seven hours, 850m ascent, 870m descent, camp altitude 4,140m). After crossing Sinche La (5,005m) – the last and highest pass on the trek in case you don’t intend to continue the Snowman trek from Laya onwards – you descend to a little stone house where a few Laya women – dressed in typical Laya costume with long pointed bamboo hats on their head – live and offer their weaving products.
Right behind the stone house you will see an impressive terminal moraine and a glacial lake at the foot of the valley. You can see classic examples of the lateral moraines where the glacier has pushed rocks up both sides of the valley. Below the moraine, you cross the Kango Chhu and soon reach the Limithang campsite. The peak of Gangchhenta towers over the campsite even though it’s quite a distance away.
Day 5: Limithang – Laya (Distance 10km, four to five hours, 60m ascent, 340m descent, camp altitude 3,840m). Today, you walk all the way downhill along a narrow winding river valley. After a long time, you again trek partly through deep forest. The trail leads you to the west side of Laya village. From the west of the village you will view Gangchhenta again and catch a glimpse of Masagang. In the village centre is a community school and a basic health unit with telephone connection. The campsite is below the school.
Day 6: Laya – Koina (Distance 19km, six to seven hours, 260m ascent, 1,070m descent, camp altitude 3,050m). The trail winds up and down along the river valley of Mo Chhu avoiding natural obstacles and affording breath-taking views of the crashing river, feeder streams and water falls. Lots of ups and downs will lead you to Kohi Lapcha at 3.300 m. The trek then drops down to the large stream of Koina Chhu, where you will find the campsite of Koina.
Day 7: Koina – Gasa (Distance 14km, six to seven hours, 740m ascent, 1,500m descent, camp altitude at Gasa Tsachu 2,240m). Today you will have your last major climb of the Laya Gasa Trek. You will cross the Bari La (3,740m), after which the trail is all the way down till you reach Gasa village (2,770m), where you will find the first restaurants since starting from Drukgyel Dzong. There also is a campsite close to Gasa Dzong (. You will have to decide if you want to stay in Gasa village or descend for another one hourto the Gasa Tsachu (hot springs) and relax in the thermal water. The Gasa Tsachu is one of the most popular hot springs in Bhutan.
Day 8: Gasa – Damji (Distance 18km, five to six hours, 480m ascent, 470m descent, camp altitude 2,250m). After a short climb, the trail winds through lots of ups and downs, through rolling hills and passes and pine and oak forests, villages and wheat fields. You will also see a beautiful view of the Gasa Dzong glued to the valley wall as if floating in space. You finally reach Damji with its well maintained campsite.
Day 9: Damji – Tashithang (Distance 16km, five hours, 250m ascent, 870m descent). The trail descends from the high agricultural benches above the Mo Chhu into a lush semi-tropical gorge filled with banana trees, creepers and various tropical vegetation. You will also see monkeys and a few other animals occasionally. The road actually leads further up than Tashithang and will soon reach Damji. You can save about two hours of walking when you arrange transport from the current roadhead.
Included Services
Imperial Lotus Tours is delighted to offer you an exceptional journey through the enchanting kingdom of Bhutan. To ensure complete clarity about the services included in your tour package, please review the following terms and conditions regarding inclusions:
Note*
(Please note that the services mentioned above are exclusively included in your tour package. Any additional services, activities, personal expenses, or purchases (e.g. Airfare, Any expenses of personal nature such at laundry, table drinks, telephone calls etc.) not explicitly listed as included in this agreement will be at your own cost.)
Imperial Lotus Tours is committed to providing you with an enriching and seamless travel experience in Bhutan. We hope you enjoy your stay in this extraordinary kingdom and make unforgettable memories.
Imperial Lotus Tours offers a range of value-added options to enhance your travel experience in Bhutan.
1. Cultural Immersion:
Imperial Lotus Tours offers a range of cultural immersion experiences, including;
1. Traditional Bhutanese cooking classes.
2. Archery lessons.
3. Dance performances.
These activities provide a deeper understanding of Bhutanese culture and traditions, and are a great way to connect with the local people.
2. Wellness Activities:
Bhutan is known for its focus on wellness and mindfulness, and Imperial Lotus Tours offers a range of wellness activities to help you relax and rejuvenate. These include;
1. Yoga and meditation sessions.
2. Traditional hot stone baths.
3.spa treatments.
3. Adventure Activities:
Bhutan is a great destination for adventure activities, and Imperial Lotus Tours offers a range of options, including;
1. Trekking.
2. Mountain biking.
3. White-water rafting.
These activities provide an opportunity to explore Bhutan’s stunning natural beauty and challenge yourself physically.
4. Customized Itineraries:
Imperial Lotus Tours can customize your itinerary to suit your interests and preferences. Whether you want to focus on cultural experiences, wellness activities, adventure activities, or a combination of all three, Imperial Lotus Tours can create a personalized itinerary that meets your needs.
