Trip Overview
The Laya Gasa Trek, an exhilarating journey through Bhutan's natural splendor and cultural heritage, promises unique experiences that will leave you in awe. This trek, covering approximately 217 kilometers, commences at the Drukgyel Dzong in Paro, a historic fortress that echoes Bhutan's past. The trail meanders through diverse landscapes, from vibrant subtropical forests to lofty alpine meadows, and culminates at the Gasa hot springs, a blissful haven of rejuvenation.
The Laya Gasa Trek is renowned for its dramatic elevation range, spanning from about 2,500 meters to over 5,000 meters. This altitude variation demands careful acclimatization and rewards trekkers with unmatched views of the majestic Himalayan peaks, including Mount Jomolhari and Mount Gangchhenta, often referred to as the Great Tiger Mountain. The trek's high passes, such as the Nyile La and the Gangla Karchung La, are physically challenging but offer breathtaking panoramic vistas that make the effort worthwhile.
The Laya Gasa Trek offers a rich cultural immersion experience. Trekkers have the rare chance to visit remote villages that have preserved their traditional way of life. The village of Laya, in particular, is a highlight. Perched at approximately 3,800 meters, Laya is the home of the Layap people, an indigenous community with unique traditions and a way of life that has stood the test of time. Their traditional attire, distinct language, and warm hospitality provide a glimpse into a captivating and timeless world.
Visa Formalities for Bhutan :
- A visa is required for traveling to Bhutan, and it is processed in Thimphu through a local tour operator. No foreign missions/Embassies abroad grant tourist visas.
- As part of the visa process, it's crucial to
forward all passport details to the agent at least three weeks before
the travel date. This ensures that your visa is processed promptly,
allowing you to focus on other aspects of your trip. The visa is stamped
only upon arrival in Bhutan with the support of visa clearance, which
will be sent to you in advance.
- For all travelers entering
Bhutan via Druk Air, it's important to note that the visa clearance
number is a crucial requirement. This number is forwarded to the
concerned overseas Druk Air Stations; passengers can board the flight
with it. This is a standard procedure to ensure a smooth entry into the
country. For travelers entering the country by surface through
Phuntsholing (the border town in the south), the Visa clearance number
is forwarded to the local authorities, and the actual visa is stamped on
arrival.
- Two copies of original passport-size photographs are required upon arrival.
- The
visa fee is US$20 per person, payable on arrival, in addition to the
package costs. For visits exceeding two weeks, an additional fee of US
$15 is charged.
The trek also takes adventurers through Jigme Dorji National Park, Bhutan's largest protected area and biodiversity hotspot. The park is home to various wildlife, including the elusive snow leopard, blue sheep, and the takin, Bhutan's national animal. The rich flora and fauna and the pristine natural environment make this trek a paradise for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
As you approach the culmination of the Laya Gasa Trek, a well-deserved reward awaits you. The Gasa hot springs, with their healing properties, offer a rejuvenating experience amidst the tranquil landscape. The nearby Gasa Dzong, an ancient fortress perched on a hilltop, adds a touch of history to the trek's conclusion, leaving you with a profound sense of accomplishment and a renewed spirit.
Itinerary
Cost Include
- All pickup and drop in Nepal
- Accommodation in Kathmandu
- Full day sightseeing in Kathmandu with English Speaking Guide.
- Mixed accommodation in 3+ standard and Trekking in Home stay or Tent.
- All 3 meals (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) inclusive in tourist standard restaurants and hotel
- Transport/ new model,
- Entrance fees to all Major Tourist Sites including museums, fortresses & Temples
- Royalty of USD 200 per-night per head, TDF and Government tax
- Professional Company English Speaking Guide
- Mineral water on tour
- Bhutan Visa fee (As separate above)
- Traditional herb’s bath (As separate above)
- Bhutan Cultural show (Private) for less than 15 persons in a group (Optional as separate above)
Cost Exclude
- International Airfare
- Travel Insurance
- Beverages and Personal expenses
- Monuments entrance fees at Kathmandu
- Lunch and dinner at Kathmandu
- Personal tips to staffs
Equipment list for Laya Gasa Trek
This checklist is designed to help you prepare for a trekking holiday in Nepal, with additional notes for those attempting to summit a trekking peak. It's reassuring to know that high-quality gear, including outdoor clothing and sleeping bags, can be conveniently rented in Kathmandu.
Most treks will be in lodges or teahouses, which offer basic rooms with two single beds and mattresses. These lodges, with their cozy rooms and provided blankets, ensure a comfortable stay, making your trek a more enjoyable experience. A good-quality three-season sleeping bag should suffice. However, for trekking peaks, you'll generally set up base camp with tents, necessitating a warmer sleeping bag, a liner to enhance its warmth, and a sleeping mattress.
TRAVEL DOCUMENTS | HEAD |
Debit/Credit Cards | Sun Cap |
PP Size Photo (2 Pieces) | Fleece Hat/ Warm Hat (1-2 Pcs) |
Insurance Paper And Contact Address. | Neck Gaiter (2 Pcs) |
Family Members / Company’s Contact | Head Lamp with extra batteries |
Address | Sun Glasses (UV Protection) |
Travel Insurance | Balaclava |
HANDS AND FEET | UPPER BODY |
Light Liner & Down Gloves | Thermal Top Base Layer (2 Pcs) |
Normal Socks (5-6 Pairs) | Fleece Jacket (1 Pcs) |
Trekking Shoes | Gore Tex Jacket (1 Pcs) |
Slipper (1 Pair) | Down Jacket (1 Pcs) |
Camp Shoes | Quick Dry T-Shirt (2 Pcs) |
Hiking Boot with ankle support | Wind breaker/Windproof Jacket |
LOWER BODY | PERSONAL EQUIPMENT |
Thermal Bottom Base Layer (2 Pcs) | Down Sleeping Bag -10°C to -20°C |
Fleece Trouser (1pcs) | Headlamp (Rechargeable Batteries) |
Gore Tex Pant (1 pcs) | Trekking Pole |
Light Weight Quick Dry Trekking Pants(2-3 Pairs) | Rucksacks 35L - 45L/Day Bag |
Gaiters for trekking boots | Rain Pancho & Umbrella |
Under Wear (4 pcs) | Powerbank |
EATING & DRINKING | TOILETRIES |
Energy Bar | Hand Disinfectant |
Snacks | Wet Tissue |
Water Bottle | Tooth Paste & Tooth Brush |
Thermos | Soap & Shampoo |
MEDICAL/FIRST AID | MISCELLANEOUS |
Severe Pain Killer (Flexon) | Lip Balm |
Mild Pain Killer (Paracetamol) | Sunscreen |
Throat Lozengen (Strepsils) | Moisturizer |
Lubricating Eye Drop (Artificial Tear) | Quick Dry Towel |
Antacid Tab | Trails Maps |
Electrolyte Tab | Trekking Poles |
Handy Plast | Sun Cream (30-50 Spf) |
Blister Blast | Lip Guard (30-50 Spf) |
Crep Bandage (Elastic Bandage) | Sun Glasses (UV Protection) |