Laya-Gasa Trek — Through Chomolhari Base Camp to the Layap People

The Laya-Gasa Trek is an 18-day wilderness expedition through the remote northwestern highlands of Bhutan — one of the most culturally extraordinary and ecologically rich long-distance treks in the Himalayan world. The route passes entirely through Jigme Dorji National Park, Bhutan's largest protected wilderness, following the Pa Chhu River from Paro to Jangothang Base Camp (4,115m) beneath Mount Chomolhari (7,326m), then striking north across four high passes into terrain that receives very few visitors each year.

The defining destination is Laya village at 3,880m — home of the Layap people, a semi-nomadic community whose culture, dress, and way of life have remained largely unchanged for centuries. Conical bamboo hats, yak-hair garments, turquoise jewellery, and an economy built around high-altitude yak herding distinguish the Layap from any other community in Bhutan. A full cultural immersion day in the village is built into the itinerary.

The trek concludes at the Gasa Tshachu Hot Springs — natural thermal pools that have been used for centuries by trekkers and pilgrims descending from the northern highlands — before a final drive through Punakha Dzong and Dochula Pass to Paro.

The Laya-Gasa Trek reaches 4,870m at Sinchela Pass — the highest of four passes crossed on the route. Altitude management is a genuine part of planning for this expedition. The itinerary is structured to allow careful acclimatisation: three days at Paro (2,300m) before the trek begins, a gradual two-day ascent to Jangothang Base Camp (4,115m), and a dedicated acclimatisation rest day at Jangothang before the route climbs higher.

Common symptoms at altitude — headache, mild fatigue, disrupted sleep — are normal above 3,800m and are not a reason to stop unless they worsen. Your guide monitors the group daily and carries basic altitude medication. The route above Jangothang has regular campsites that allow a controlled descent if needed at any point.

Trekkers with pre-existing heart or respiratory conditions should consult their doctor before booking this route. We are happy to discuss altitude considerations directly — our team in Thimphu has guided this route many times and can advise on preparation specific to your fitness level and trekking background.

The map below shows the full 11-day Laya-Gasa Trek route from the Paro valley trailhead through Jangothang Base Camp, the four high passes, Laya village, and the descent to Gasa Hot Springs.

The Laya-Gasa Trek is an 11-day wilderness route with no resupply points. All equipment, food, and fuel is carried by pack horses from Paro. You carry a daypack only — but that daypack must contain everything you need for a full day in mountain conditions at up to 4,870m.

Essential items:

• Down jacket or high-loft fleece — mandatory at Jangothang (4,115m) and above. Nights can drop well below freezing.
• Waterproof outer shell jacket and trousers — weather on the high passes changes without warning
• Sturdy trekking boots with ankle support — fully broken in before departure. River crossings may require waterproof gaiters.
• Trekking poles — essential for Sinchela Pass descent and river crossings near Jarela Pass
• Thermal base layers — top and bottom, minimum two sets
• Warm hat and gloves — mandatory above 4,000m
• Gaiters — recommended for high passes, especially in spring when snow may still be present
• Sunscreen SPF 50+ and UV-protective sunglasses — UV intensity at 4,800m is severe
• Personal altitude medication if prescribed — consult your doctor before departure
• Small daypack (20–25L) — main luggage travels by pack horse
• Water purification tablets or filter — stream water is used above Lingshi

Sleeping bags, tents, dining tent, toilet tent, and all camp equipment are provided by Ambo Tours. For a full Bhutan packing reference, see our complete Bhutan packing guide.