Walking the high trails near Laya | David Symonds

Trekking through Jangothang to the iconic Jichu Drake in Bhutan | Gavin Turner

Punakha Area, Bhutan | Lachlan Gardiner

Pack horses carrying camp equipment through Jigme Dorje National Park | Gavin Turner

Drukyel Dzong, Paro Valley, Bhutan | Lachlan Gardiner

Bhutan High Trails via Laya

Name: Bhutan High Trails via Laya
Brand: World Expeditions
SKU: BHT
Rating: 4.82 (33 reviews)

An exhilarating remote trek crossing high mountain passes

Bhutan

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33 reviews

18 Days from

$7990 USD

Trip Code: BHT

View dates to Book

Essential Information

Extra trip options & supplements

*Prices listed are per person

Hotel only Single Supplement

$190 USD

Tent only Single Supplement

$450 USD

Single Supplement

$640 USD

Duration

18 Days

Activities

12 day trek

Accommodation

5 nights hotel
12 nights camping

Meals

17 Dinners
16 Lunches
17 Breakfasts

Difficulty Grading

7 / 10

Challenging

Carbon Footprint

32kg of CO₂-e PP per day

(545kg of CO₂-e PP entire trip)

Trip highlights

Traverse five Himalayan passes - including Sinche La (5005m) - on one of Bhutan’s most demanding and rewarding trekking routes
Experience life in Laya, a high-altitude village home to the resilient Layap people and their distinctive culture
Begin and end your adventure with visits to Bhutan’s iconic dzongs and sacred sites, including Paro’s cliffside Taktsang Monastery
Camp deep in remote alpine wilderness, among yak pastures, birch forests and glaciated valleys framed by high ridgelines

Overview

Join us on this deep journey into the far reaches of the Kingdom of Bhutan. Starting in the fertile valley of Paro, this high-altitude trek leads you over the Druk Path, past alpine pastures and yak-grazed ridges, to the hidden settlement of Laya, one of Bhutan’s most remote mountain villages.

From the cliffside Taktsang Monastery (Tiger’s Nest) to the shoulder of Sinche La (5005m), this is a route for seasoned trekkers drawn to raw, isolated wilderness. You’ll cross five major Himalayan passes, walk beneath the towering flanks of Jomolhari (7314m) and Gangchenta, and descend through deep, glaciated valleys.

Along the way, meet Layap herders and camp in pristine wilderness locations framed by alpine ridgelines and glacier-fed rivers. Traverse terrain that shifts from ancient rhododendron forests and groves of spruce, fir and juniper, to wide open valleys dotted with seasonal wildflowers. At night, fall asleep to the remote mountain silence, with stars blazing overhead. Conclude in Gasa and Punakha, with a restorative soak in the natural hot springs.

This is a fully supported expedition-style trek with expert guides, kitchen crew and pack animals – allowing you to focus on the challenge and the rewards of a route that few outsiders ever experience.

Itinerary

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After clearing customs and immigration, you will be met by your World Expeditions representative and transferred a short distance through the town of Paro to our accommodation. Depending on your arrival time and the completion of trek preparations, we plan to explore parts of the town and visit several important cultural sites. Our sightseeing includes the impressive Paro Rinpung Dzong, a magnificent fortress monastery that dominates the valley and serves as both a religious and administrative centre. Considered one of Bhutan’s finest dzongs, it has long served as the architectural model for many others across the kingdom. Above the dzong stands Ta Dzong, a historic watchtower that now houses the National Museum of Bhutan. The museum contains a fascinating collection of artefacts including traditional costumes and battle dress, priceless jewellery, religious objects, and displays showcasing Bhutan’s unique flora and fauna. There may also be time to stroll through Paro town, where small shops sell everyday goods alongside traditional handicrafts made from wood, cloth and metal. Along the valley you may notice archery ranges, reflecting Bhutan’s national sport, often set beside willow-lined fields and traditional wooden bridges. Accommodation: Hotel in Paro

Meals: D

Today provides a wonderful introduction to Bhutan as we explore the beautiful Paro Valley, a landscape of forested hills, traditional farmhouses and cultivated fields. The valley supports a variety of agriculture, including asparagus, strawberries, shiitake mushrooms and seasonal grain and vegetable crops. The patchwork of fields, framed by ornate Bhutanese farmhouses and wooded slopes, creates a striking and colourful setting. This morning we take a short drive to the trailhead for Taktsang Monastery, famously known as the Tiger’s Nest. Perched dramatically on a cliff at 3,100 metres (10,171 feet) above the valley floor, it is one of Bhutan’s most sacred pilgrimage sites. The trail climbs steadily through chir pine forest, taking around 1.5 hours to reach a teahouse that offers excellent views of the monastery across the gorge. From here, a further 30-minute walk brings us to a spectacular viewpoint almost directly opposite the cliffs where the monastery is set. According to legend, Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) arrived here on the back of a flying tigress to subdue local spirits and meditate in the caves that later became the monastery. Although Taktsang was partially destroyed by fire in 1998, it has since been beautifully restored. After returning to Paro for lunch, we continue our sightseeing with a visit to the National Museum, housed in the historic watchtower Ta Dzong above Paro Dzong. The museum displays an impressive collection of artefacts, traditional costumes, religious objects and exhibits relating to Bhutan’s natural and cultural heritage. In the evening, you will repack your bags, leaving behind any items not required for the trek. These will be safely stored with our local partner until our return. Accommodation: Hotel in Paro

Meals: B,L,D

This morning we drive up the Paro Valley, passing through beautiful rural landscapes before reaching the historic ruins of Drukyel Dzong (2,580 m / 8,465 ft). Originally built in 1647, the dzong served as a fortress guarding the valley from Tibetan invasions and remains an important historical landmark. Continuing further up the valley, we drive to Shana (2,860 m / 9,383 ft) where our trek begins. The scenic drive passes through traditional farming country with fields of rice, wheat, barley, mustard, potatoes and radishes, along with herds of grazing cattle. Along the way we also gain our first views of Mount Jomolhari (7,314 m / 23,996 ft) rising at the head of the valley. From Shana we begin trekking along a broad and relatively gentle trail, following the valley floor through lightly forested terrain and open fields. We stop for lunch along the way, enjoying our packed meals surrounded by the quiet Himalayan landscape. The trail gradually ascends through the valley, passing areas that have recently seen development as part of a Bhutan Government project to bring electricity to remote villages further up the valley. By late afternoon we reach our campsite at Thongo Zampa (3,250 m / 10,663 ft) beside the river. Accommodation: Wilderness camp at Thongo Zampa

Meals: B,L,D

Today we continue trekking within Jigme Dorje National Park, the largest protected area in Bhutan, covering approximately 4,350 square kilometres. The park extends north beyond Laya to Lunana and south across vast tracts of wilderness. While it is a protected area, park management based in Gasa must balance conservation with the needs of local farmers and semi-nomadic yak herders who depend on these landscapes. The park supports a remarkable diversity of flora and fauna across both low and high altitudes. The forests along today’s trail are dense and varied, including oak, maple, birch, larch pine and alder, gradually giving way to increasing numbers of rhododendron and pine as we gain elevation. Depending on the season, the rhododendrons may be in bloom, with different species appearing as we climb higher, including rhododendron arboreum, griffithianum, and cinnabarinum. Many of the campsites along this route are not permanent settlements despite having place names. Most are simply clearings beside water sources, used seasonally by yak herders and by workers involved in the large-scale electrification project bringing power to remote communities further up the valley. Some camps located near small settlements may also offer the opportunity to recharge camera batteries and phones for a small local fee. Accommodation: Wilderness camp at Soi Thangthangkha

Meals: B,L,D

Today we continue ascending through the upper valley toward Jangothang, the spectacular base camp beneath Mount Jomolhari (7,314 m / 23,996 ft). The setting here is a magnificent alpine landscape surrounded by high Himalayan peaks. To our right rises the impressive summit of Jichu Drake (6,794 m / 22,290 ft), its elegant ridge stretching down toward the pass that we will cross in the coming days. The valley gradually widens as we approach our campsite. We camp near seasonal settlements used by yak herders from the Paro Valley, who spend the summer months grazing their herds in these high pastures. Similar to their counterparts in southern Tibet, many herders still live in traditional woven yak-wool tents during this time. By now we are well above the treeline, and the landscape becomes increasingly alpine, characterised by low tundra vegetation including juniper and rhododendron setosum. In the surrounding rocky slopes it is sometimes possible to spot blue sheep (bharal) moving across the cliffs. Accommodation: Wilderness camp at Jangothang

Meals: B,L,D

Today is an important acclimatisation day at Jangothang, allowing time for our bodies to adjust to the higher altitude while exploring the spectacular alpine surroundings beneath Mount Jomolhari. One option is a scenic hike up the valley toward the glacier below Jomolhari, offering dramatic views of the mountain’s imposing north face. Alternatively, we may trek to the Tshophu Twin Lakes (4,520 m / 14,829 ft) near Nye La Pass, a beautiful excursion through high alpine terrain with excellent opportunities for photography. These high lakes sit within a remote mountain basin framed by towering Himalayan peaks, providing a striking perspective of the surrounding wilderness. From a mountaineering perspective, these peaks have seen relatively little climbing activity. Jichu Drake (6,794 m / 22,290 ft) was first successfully climbed by Doug Scott in 1988, on his third attempt, highlighting the challenging conditions found in this far eastern section of the Himalaya. Being among the first high mountains to receive the summer monsoon, weather conditions here can be particularly demanding. Accommodation: Wilderness camp at Jangothang

Meals: B,L,D

oday is one of the more challenging and rewarding stages of the trek as we cross Nyile La (4,890 m / 16,043 ft). From camp we begin a steady ascent across rolling alpine slopes of grass and low shrubs, gradually gaining height toward the pass. The climb is long but manageable if taken at a steady pace. The final approach becomes steeper, where grassy slopes give way to scree and sandy terrain before reaching the summit of the pass. The views along the ascent toward Jomolhari and Jichu Drake are spectacular. Local communities undertook significant effort during the regional electrification project, carrying power poles across this high pass by hand. From the pass we leave the dramatic peaks of Jomolhari (7,314 m / 23,996 ft) and Jichu Drake (6,794 m / 22,290 ft) behind as we descend through slopes covered with dwarf rhododendron toward the remote settlement of Lingshi. In the distance we see Lingshi Dzong, a historic fortress built to protect the region’s villages from historic Tibetan incursions. Before reaching the village, the trail turns off toward a quiet valley where we cross a stream, followed by a short but steep climb and final descent to our peaceful campsite at Chazhithang, beside a mountain stream. Accommodation: Wilderness camp at Chazhithang (near Lingshi)

Meals: B,L,D

While trekkers heading only to Jomolhari Base Camp return toward the roadhead today, our journey continues northeastward deeper into the highlands of Bhutan. We begin by ascending past the impressive Lingshi Dzong (4,200 m / 13,780 ft), a historic fortress overlooking the valley. The trail then traverses open alpine pastures dotted with rhododendron and daphne shrubs, offering wide views across the surrounding mountains. Gradually we descend toward the picturesque village of Chebisa, a beautiful valley of grazing pastures scattered with traditional stone houses topped with shingle roofs. A short walk from camp leads to a striking waterfall cascading from a rocky cliff, fed by a hanging lake high above the valley. Near the waterfall stand groves of ancient, gnarled juniper trees, adding to the atmosphere of this remote landscape. Our campsite is located close to the village. During the night you may hear the deep bark of Tibetan mastiffs and other herding dogs, which guard the village livestock from predators. Earplugs are recommended for a peaceful sleep. Above Chebisa stretch the alpine grazing grounds of blue sheep (bharal), which feed high on the slopes during summer and descend closer to the villages during the winter months. Accommodation: Wilderness camp at Chebisa

Meals: B,L,D

From Chebisa, the trail ascends gradually through alpine terrain toward Gombu La (4,440 m / 14,567 ft). As we gain elevation, expansive views open behind us toward Lingshi and the surrounding mountain peaks. The high alpine slopes are rich in birdlife, and sightings of hill partridges are possible along the trail, while Himalayan griffon vultures may be seen soaring overhead on thermal currents above the pastures. After crossing the pass, we descend through increasingly dense forest. The landscape transitions through stands of cypress, followed by spruce and birch, with large clusters of rhododendron griffithianum and campylocarpum. In season, wildflowers such as iris and edelweiss may be seen along the trail. Our campsite at Shomuthang (4,221 m / 13,849 ft) is set beside a small farm settlement, located in a clearing near the river and surrounded by thick alpine shrubs. Accommodation: Wilderness camp at Shomuthang

Meals: B,L,D

This morning we climb steadily across grassy alpine slopes toward Jare La (4,785 m / 15,699 ft). Blue sheep and Himalayan griffons are sometimes seen in this high mountain environment. From the pass, marked by prayer flags and cairns, we enjoy expansive views across the valley toward Shinge La, the highest pass of our trek. Descending from the pass, the trail winds through forests of rhododendron, spruce, cypress and birch before reaching a broad valley floor where grazing animals are often seen. Along the way we may encounter the people of Laya, recognisable by their distinctive woven conical hats decorated with colourful beads. Like many high-altitude herders of the region, they live seasonally in yak-wool tents while tending their livestock. From the valley we climb several hundred metres to reach our campsite at Robluthang, set in a quiet hollow surrounded by high mountain scenery. Accommodation: Wilderness camp at Robluthang

Meals: B,L,D

Today we cross the highest pass of the trek, Shinge La (5,005 m / 16,421 ft). The ascent takes around four hours and is best approached at a slow, steady pace to ensure a comfortable climb before the long descent that follows. From the pass we gain impressive views of nearby peaks, including Gangchenta (6,840 m / 22,441 ft), often referred to as the “Tiger’s Ears.” Descending through boulder fields and grassy alpine slopes, magnificent views unfold across glacial landscapes. Turquoise alpine lakes and glacial streams lie beneath the dramatic ridges of Gangchenta, while further down the valley the effects of glacial erosion are clearly visible in the lateral and terminal moraines scattered across the valley floor. As we continue lower, dense forests of tall conifer trees surround the trail before we reach our peaceful riverside campsite at Lemithang (4,150 m / 13,615 ft), with the striking peaks of the Tiger’s Ears rising above the valley. Accommodation: Wilderness camp at Lemithang

Meals: B,L,D

This morning we descend steadily through thick forest as the trail follows the river valley toward Laya, the first major village we encounter on the trek. The path winds down through dense woodland before emerging into the grazing pastures used by farmers on the outskirts of the settlement. A final climb brings us to Laya village, set on a broad spur several hundred metres above the Mo Chhu River. With around 800 inhabitants, Laya is one of the most remote highland communities in Bhutan. Despite its isolation, the village includes a school, small hospital, local shops and a gompa serving the community. Life here is challenging, particularly during the long winters when heavy snowfall can isolate the village. Much of the local livelihood depends on yak herding, providing meat, wool and dried cheese, along with a single annual crop of barley, mustard and turnips. Below the village lies an army post guarding the frontier with Tibet, while to the east there are magnificent views toward Masang Gang (7,194 m / 23,602 ft) and the remote region of Lunana, through which the famous Snowman Trek passes. Accommodation: Wilderness camp at Laya

Meals: B,L,D

Today is set aside to rest and recover after the demanding stages of the previous days, while also providing time to explore the unique highland community of Laya. After a relaxed start to the morning, we spend time visiting the village and interacting with local residents. There may be opportunities to observe daily life such as threshing barley with villagers, visiting the local school, or stopping at one of the small village shops. Depending on logistics and camping arrangements, we may either remain in Laya village for the night or descend through forest to the Mo Chhu River, where we camp near an army post that protects the frontier with Tibet. Accommodation: Wilderness camp

Meals: B,L,D

Today we complete our trek, descending from Laya along a broad trail through forests of tall conifers to the Mo Chhu River and the nearby army post. The trail then follows the river downstream toward the roadhead at Taktsimakha. Along the way we pass through beautiful forest of spruce, larch, birch, maple and rhododendron, while impressive waterfalls cascade over large boulders beside the trail. The fertile soils in this region can be muddy underfoot, as the path is frequently used by horse caravans transporting supplies between Laya and the roadhead. At Taktsimakha, our waiting vehicle transfers us to the village of Gasa (2,850 m / 9,350 ft), the local administrative and monastic centre of the region. The village is home to an impressive Gasa Dzong, historically built to guard the trade route between Bhutan and Tibet. Below the village we visit the famous Gasa hot springs, where we can relax in the warm mineral waters — a perfect way to ease tired muscles and celebrate the completion of our trek. Accommodation: Wilderness camp at Gasa

Meals: B,L,D

This morning we drive to the fertile valley of Punakha, a scenic journey of around 2–3 hours through idyllic countryside. The road passes small villages, agricultural terraces and subtropical forests, with waterfalls cascading down the surrounding hillsides. On arrival in Punakha, we visit the local bazaar before exploring the magnificent Punakha Dzong, one of Bhutan’s most impressive fortresses. Situated at the confluence of the Pho Chhu (male) and Mo Chhu (female) rivers, the dzong contains 21 temples, administrative buildings and an assembly hall. It also serves as the winter residence of the Je Khenpo, the head monk of the Drukpa Kagyu Buddhist order, Bhutan’s official religious tradition. Later we enjoy a short walk through farmland to Chimi Lhakhang, a small temple dedicated to Bhutan’s beloved saint Drukpa Kunley, often known as the Divine Madman. Living nearly 500 years ago, he was famous for teaching Buddhist philosophy through humour, songs and unconventional behaviour. Accommodation: Hotel in Punakha

Meals: B,L,D

Today we drive to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan and home to around 150,000 people. The journey takes us over the scenic Dochula Pass (3,100 m / 10,170 ft), where we pause to admire the 108 memorial stupas built by the Queen Mother. From this beautiful mountain viewpoint we may also raise prayer flags for good fortune. Descending into the Thimphu Valley, we visit the Memorial Chorten, built in 1974 by the Royal Grandmother Ashi Phuntsho Choden in memory of the Third King, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. This revered monument is a gathering place for Bhutanese who circumambulate the stupa while offering prayers. After lunch at a traditional Bhutanese restaurant, we continue our sightseeing with a visit to Buddha Point (Kuensel Phodrang), home to the impressive Buddha Dordenma, a towering statue standing 51.5 metres (169 ft) high overlooking the valley. Depending on time, we may also visit some of Thimphu’s cultural highlights including the Textile Museum, the lively Farmers’ Market, the Post Office famous for Bhutan’s unique stamps, or a traditional workshop demonstrating Bhutanese handmade paper production. Accommodation: Hotel in Thimphu

Meals: B,L,D

This morning we complete our sightseeing in Thimphu, including the opportunity to witness an archery contest, offering a glimpse into Bhutan’s beloved national sport. We then drive to Paro, a scenic journey of around 1–2 hours through forested valleys and traditional villages. On arrival we visit Dungtse Lhakhang, an important temple traditionally attributed to King Songtsen Gampo, whose temples across Bhutan and Tibet symbolise the early introduction of Buddhism to the region. The temple contains well-preserved ancient murals that provide fascinating insight into Bhutanese religious art and spiritual traditions. Later there is free time to stroll through Paro town, where local markets and traditional shops offer a variety of handicrafts and souvenirs. In the evening we gather for a farewell dinner with our guide and driver, celebrating the completion of our memorable journey through the Kingdom of Bhutan. Accommodation: Hotel in Paro

Meals: B,L,D

After breakfast, you will be transferred to Paro International Airport for your onward flight. Your journey through Bhutan concludes today.

Meals: B

Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.

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What's included?

Included

All meals during the trek: 17 breakfasts, 16 lunches and 17 dinners
The use of a World Expeditions trek pack including a quality sleeping bag, down or fibre fill jacket and insulated mat (valued at over US$500)
Bhutan visa fees
All park entrance fees and trekking permits
Good quality accommodation in Paro and Thimphu
Accommodation in fully serviced wilderness campsites
Private transportation
Airport transfers if arriving on Day 1 and Day 18
Expert bilingual guide
Safety equipment including portable altitude chamber, group medical kit and satellite phone for emergency use
Animals to carry up to 20kg of personal equipment
All group camping equipment
Sightseeing and entrance fees as listed
Souvenir World Expeditions kit bag

Not included

International flights
Travel insurance
Meals not listed as included
Personal expenses such as laundry, etc.
Bottled water, aerated and alcoholic drinks
Tips and gratuities
Any items not listed as included