The panoramic Himalayan views shall be mesmerizing as you fly to Bhutan. The Landing is another experience.  Upon arrival you will be greeted by your Bhutanese Guide from Ideal Travel Creations before driving to your hotel in Paro. Check in and spend some time in the property settling into your new surroundings.

Afternoon, you shall be taken for your first foray into this Hidden Kingdom. This afternoon in the Paro Valley shall allow you to acclimatize to the air at this altitude, as well as getting yourself introduced to this Kingdom where you shall spend the next 11 days.

Visit the Paro Rinpung Dzong, a Buddhist monastery and fortress of the Drukpa Lineage of the Kagyu school in Paro. The Monastic body and government office of Paro is housed in this fortress and is listed as a tentative site in Bhutan’s Tentative List for UNESCO inclusion. Visit the Paro National Museum, which displays a collection of fascinating Bhutanese relics.

Explore the Paro Town. Visit Coffee shops, handicraft shops and interact with the locals.

Spend your evening in the quaint setting of hotel. Dinner and overnight in the hotel.

ALTITUDE OF PARO: 2280 M

Note: The sightseeing and activities of day 1 is subject to flight timings)

Your day starts with an early morning hike to Taktshang Monastery, one of the most wonderful and significant monasteries in Bhutan. Also known as the Tiger’s Nest, the hike shall be accompanied with stories of Guru Rinpoche, who arrived on the spot where the monastery is located on the back of a flying tigress somewhere in 8^th century. Reaching the top shall enlighten you on why the Monastery is an iconic pilgrimage for visitors to the Kingdom of Bhutan.

In the afternoon drive to the almost fully reconstructed Drukgyel Dzong.  The original monument (destroyed by fire in 1951) was built by Zhabdrung to commemorate his victory against invading Tibetans in 1644.  In fine weather the towering peak of the sacred Mount Jomolhari (7314m) appears as a stunning backdrop.

(If time permits) Visit Kyichhu Lhakhang, a 7th-century temple nearby with two magical orange trees that bear fruit throughout the year.

Drive back to the Hotel. Dinner and Overnight at the hotel.

ALTITUDE OF PARO: 2280 M

PARO – SHANA

DRIVING DISTANCE: 29 KM | DRIVING TIME: 1 HR

SHANA – SOI THANGTHANGKA (START OF TREK)

21 KM | 8 HR | 770 M ASCENT | 10 M DESCENT

After breakfast, drive to Shana, your trekking crew will be waiting here.

After getting yourself for the trek and gettimng to know your crew members. Start your trek to Thangthangka. The trail follows the river through a heavily forested area with a few isolated farmhouses. It narrows and closes in and the trail winds up and down along the drainage. We pass a junction enroute, where another path leads north over the Tremo La to Tibet.

Camp is in a meadow with a stone shelter.

ALTITUDE OF CAMPSITE: 3610 M

17 KM | 6 HR | 290 M ASCENT

Today’s trek shall take you above tree line at 3700 m. The trail ascends for a while till you pass a small army post in the morning, then the trail slowly leaves the forest line and gradually climbs into a beautiful valley, passing Tegethang, a winter home for yak herdsmen. Lots of yaks will be seen today before we arrive at the Jhomolhari base camp (4,115 m). High mountains overlook the camp. From here, the views of Mt. Jumolhari and Jichu Drake are superb. The ruins of an old fortress  is visible nearby.

Jangothang base is a flat grassy land beneath the colossal Mount Jumolhari and Jichu Drake with an old ruined fortress on a hillock in the foreground, used to guard Bhutan against Tibetan invasions. Dinner and overnight in camp.

ALTITUDE OF CAMPSITE: 4040 M

Most trekkers show signs of altitude sickness at this altitude this night in Jangothang is highly recommended.

You may choose to simply relax at the camp enjoying the serene place or, taking some photographs around to gather energy for tomorrows trek. Another option could be to walk up to the Jhomolhari glacier or do the two hours excursion to the twin Tsho Phu lakes on the way to Bongtela Pass.

A hike to the north of the camp on an open endless slope till you see the view of Mount Jichu Drakye at 6989 m. Hiking further up till 4895 m shall give you the amazing view of Mount Jumolhari.

You are likely to spot rare blue sheep, Himalayan rhubarb, griffon vultures, golden eagles and the remarkable blue poppy.

Dinner and overnight in camp.

ALTITUDE OF CAMPSITE: 4040 M

18 KM | 6 – 7 HR | 800 M ASCENT | 730 M DESCENT

The trail follows the stream for half an hour and crosses the bridge to the right side. Start the climb up to the first ridge with a breathtaking view of Jumolhari, Jichu Drakey and Tsrim Ghang. Then walk towards the valley, almost flat for a while, until the climb to the Nyeley la pass at an altitude of 4,830 m. After the pass it’s a gradual descent to the Lingshi camp, enjoying the panorama view of the peaks and Lingshi dzong. Lingzhi Dzong used to serve as a way station for Buddhist pilgrims and defence fort against Tibetan and Mongol invaders for centuries.

Dinner and overnight in Camp.

ALTITUDE OF CAMPSITE: 4010 M

10 KM | 5-6 HR| 280 M ASCENT | 410 M DESCENT

Today is the shortest walking day and you can really take it easy. On reaching the campsite at Chebisa, you may visit the village houses. The trail climbs to reach Gom Yu village and cross a huge waterfall to reach Chebisa village and camp near the river.

ALTITUDE OF CAMPSITE: 3880

17 KM | 6-7 HR | 890 M ASCENT | 540 M DESCENT

You walk through a wide pastureland towards Goku La Pass and forest of dwarf Rhododendron to reach Shomuthang near the river. On the way, you will see few people herding the yaks. After crossing the Goku -la (Alt. 4350m) descend down to the valley. The campsite is on a bench above a river, which is a tributary of the Nochu river.

Dinner and overnight in camp.

ALTITUDE OF CAMPSITE: 4260 M 

17 KM | 6-7 HR | 570 M ASCENT | 290 M DESCENT

As the walk is little strenuous today, it is advisable to start little early. We shall first climb till we reach  Jari La Pass at and altitide of 4600 m. The snow capped peak visible to the south-east is Kangbum at 6526 m. We shall then descend down to Tsharijathang valley where you can normally see herds of Takins. This valley is the summer placve for the rare Himalayan Takins (The National of Bhutan). From here we shall cross a stream from where the trail ascends till you reach Robulathang.

Dinner and overnight in hotel.

ALTITUDE OF CAMPSITE: 4200 M

19 KM | 7-8 HR | 850 M ASCENT | 870 M DESCENT

Today you shall cross the highest pass in our entire trek. After crossing the Shingchenla pass, alt. 4900m, you come down and follow the valley. Lingmithang is under the Laya District and you will see people dressed in typical Laya costume with long pointed bamboo hats on their head. Camp at Lingmithang.

If you have time, it would be advisable to spend a day here exploring the valley and meeting the people who have a different and unique culture.

ALTITUDE OF CAMP:  4140 M

10 KM | 4-5 HR | 60 M ASCENT | 340 M DESCENT

You shall wake up to the beautiful view of Gangchenta Pass. After breakfast, we shall walk all the way downhill along a narrow winding river valley. The trail leads you to the west side of Laya village. 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. Campsite is on a high flat bench above the Laya village.

ALTITUDE OF CAMPSITE: 3850 M

Nestled at an elevation of 3,800 meters in the breathtaking Himalayas, Laya Village is one of Bhutan’s most remote and enchanting destinations. Renowned for its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture, Laya offers travelers a unique glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of the Bhutanese people. Surrounded by towering mountains and pristine valleys, Laya is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The village is situated near the border with Tibet, making it a part of the greater Lunana region, which is famous for its dramatic scenery and diverse flora and fauna.

The people of Laya are known for their rich cultural heritage. The village is home to the Layaps, a unique ethnic group with their own distinct traditions, language, and attire. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture by attending traditional festivals, sampling authentic Bhutanese cuisine, and participating in daily village activities. The vibrant dresses worn by the villagers, often adorned with intricate patterns, showcase their artistic craftsmanship.

LAYA – TONGCHUDRA

15 KM | 5 HR

TONGCHUDRA  – GASA

APPROXIMATELY 2HRS DRIVE ON DIRT ROAD

After breakfast, descend to army camp and join the Mo Chhu (Mother River of Punakha). Follow the river till you cross the bridge. After the bridge we will have to ascend and descend several times, through juniper and fir forests until you reach Tongchudra.

Your vehicle (4×4 pick up truck) shall be waiting for at this place. From here drive to Gasa. Explore the Gasa town for a while and then relax in the Gasa Hotsprings. Also known as Gasa Tshachu, it is one of Bhutan’s most popular and revered natural hot springs. Nestled in the remote district of Gasa in the northwestern part of the country, these hot springs are not only a place of relaxation but also a site of spiritual and cultural significance for the Bhutanese people.

Overnight in Guest House or Camp.

ALTITUDE OF GASA: 2860 M

DRIVING DISTANCE; 50 KM | DRIVING TIME: 2.5 HR 

After breakfast, drive to Punakha. After lunch, Visit Chimi Lhakhang. Also known as the temple of fertility, the temple was built by Lam Drukpa Kuenley. the revered ‘Divine Madman’ and Buddhist ‘crazy wisdom.’ A lot of graphic phallus paintings and crafts might surprise you in the nearby areas. Visit the Punakha dzong at the junction of Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu River. Addition to its appealing looks this Majestic Dzong stands six stories high. Walk over the one of the country’s longest suspension bridges and enjoy the breathing views, soothing breeze and a beautiful experience.

Dinner and overnight in hotel.

ALTITUDE OF PUNAKHA: 1250 M

DRIVING DISTANCE; 76 KM | DRIVING TIME: 2.5 HR 

Start your day with a Hike to the Khamsum Yulley Namgyel Chhorten. An hour of walk after crossing the suspension bridge and through the rice fields takes you to magnificent views and the Chhorten, beautifully crafted in traditional Bhutanese style. With the intricate design and sculptures, the temple was built by Bhutanese craftsmen which took 9 years. The craftsmanship of Bhutanese artists is amazing. The 360-degree views of the Punakha valley’s rice fields and the shimmering river shall ensure that the sweating was worth.

An hour of rafting on the Mo Chhu shall bring you near the Punakha Dzong. A Picnic lunch at the Banks of the Mo chhu.

After lunch, drive to Thimphu. On the way explore the Dochula Pass (3150 m), the highest point between Thimphu and Punakha valleys. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the higher Himalayas, explore the 108 Druk Wangyel Chhortens and then visit the Druk Wangyel Lhakhang.

In the evening, walk around the Thimphu Town.

Dinner and overnight in hotel.

ALTITUDE OF THIMPHU: 2350 M

After a leisure breakfast, join the Local residents of Thimphu for circumambulations at the National Memorial Chorten, built in the honor of the Third King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, also known as “The Father of Modern Bhutan”. Drive towards Kuenselphodrang. On the way visit Hindu Temple formally known as Devi Panchayan Mandir which was consecrated on 1st October 2019. His Majesty, The King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck offered worship and granted “Tika” to the Hindu Communities on the Dussehra on 1019 in this temple. Further in Kuenselphodrang, witness the 52-meter Buddha Dordenma statue in Thimphu. Visit the temple inside the statue and discover the 125,000 smaller Buddhas. The place offers a breath-taking view of the Thimphu Valley. If you love Hiking You can opt for a gentle hike to Changangkha Lhakhang from here. It is a 7 km Hike through the pine forest. This trail was initially intended to be a cycling trail but is very good for hike as well. It is a part of the 60 km cycling trail around Thimphu valley which was initiated in 2016 to commemorate the 60^th Anniversary of His Majesty the Fourth King of Bhutan. Finally visit the Simply Bhutan, a living museum and a photo studio aimed at preservation and promotion of culture involving Bhutanese youth as the core group. 

After lunch, visit Takin Preserve. Takin is the national animal of Bhutan. Then visit the Zorig Chusom (The National Institute for 13 Traditional Arts and Crafts of Bhutan) and the Royal Textile Academy. The day ends witnessing an Archery Match at the Changlimithang stadium.

Dinner and overnight in hotel.

ALTITUDE OF THIMPHU: 2350 M

Your 17 days of Bhutan travel with the Laya Gasa Trek with Ideal Travel Creations comes to an end with a drive to Paro airport and farewell.