Legends of the North: Laya–Gasa & Haa Cultural Journeys

Welcome to Bhutan! Upon your arrival at Paro International Airport (PBH), you will be greeted in a traditional Bhutanese style by your guide. After a warm welcome, you will embark on a scenic drive to Punakha, a journey of approximately 130 kilometers that takes about 3 hours. The route will take you along the south Thimphu road before we begin your ascent to the famous Dochula Pass.

At Dochula Pass (3,100m), you will be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the Eastern Himalayas on a clear day. You will take some time to explore the 108 Druk Wangyel Chortens (stupas) and the nearby Druk Wangyel Lhakhang (temple), both built to commemorate the victory of the Fourth Druk Gyalpo. Following your time at the pass,  you will descend into the Punakha Valley, known for its subtropical climate and stunning landscapes. Upon arrival, you will check into your hotel for an overnight stay, with the remainder of the day at your leisure to rest and acclimate to the new surroundings.

Today, you will begin your journey towards the remote and majestic Laya Valley. Your day starts with a scenic two-and-a-half-hour drive from Punakha to the Gasa Dzongkhag, a region known for its pristine natural beauty and hot springs. Upon reaching Gasa, you will switch to a four-wheel-drive vehicle to navigate the rugged terrain and continue to the last motorable point. From here, your trek to Laya begins. The trail gradually ascends, winding through dense forests of rhododendron, oak, and pine. As you gain altitude, the landscape transforms, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The trek is a rewarding experience, providing a glimpse into the untouched wilderness and the unique culture of the Layap people. Your final destination for the day is Laya village, a remote settlement nestled amidst towering peaks. Upon arrival, you will be welcomed by the warm hospitality of the locals and can immerse yourself in the unique customs and traditions of this high-altitude community. You will settle into your camp or guesthouse for the night, preparing for the adventures of the following day.

After the previous day's trek, today is dedicated to a full cultural immersion in the unique world of Laya village. This remote community, with its distinct customs and dialect, offers a truly authentic Bhutanese experience. You'll start with a relaxed orientation of the village, allowing you to meet the Layap people. Known for their warm hospitality, the locals will introduce you to their unique way of life, which is deeply rooted in yak herding and traditional nomadic practices. You'll have plenty of opportunities to capture stunning photographs of the traditional attire worn by the women, including their distinctive conical bamboo hats and intricately woven wool clothing. you'll also have the chance to experience Layap cuisine, which, like the rest of Bhutan, is centered around red rice, dairy products from yaks, and hearty stews often spiced with local chilies. Following lunch, you can take a short hike to visit some of the nomadic yak camps situated in the high pastures. This is a rare chance to see how the semi-nomadic Layap people live, interact with their yaks, and learn about their livelihoods. The evening will be spent back in the village, sharing stories and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of this secluded Himalayan gem.

Today, you will begin your return journey from the tranquil highlands of Laya back to the Punakha Valley. After an early breakfast, you will start your descent, retracing your steps through the same picturesque landscapes you trekked through on your way up.

The trek back to the last motorable point is a chance to see the familiar trails from a new perspective, enjoying the last moments of the pristine mountain air and the serene beauty of the region. Upon reaching the vehicle, you will begin the drive back to Punakha. The journey will take you through the same scenic roads, offering a different view of the Gasa Dzongkhag and the surrounding valleys.

You will arrive in Punakha in the late afternoon. The evening will be at your leisure, giving you time to relax and reflect on your incredible journey to Laya. You can rest at the hotel or take a short, leisurely stroll around the hotel grounds. The warmer climate of Punakha will be a welcome change after the high-altitude conditions of Laya. Dinner will be served at the hotel, marking a well-deserved end to a day of travel.

Today is dedicated to exploring the cultural and natural highlights of the beautiful Punakha Valley. Your first stop will be the majestic Punakha Dzong, also known as "The Palace of Great Happiness." Built in 1637, this stunning fortress is strategically located at the confluence of the Pho Chhu (Male) and Mo Chhu (Female) rivers. You will take a walk across the iconic suspension bridge to reach the dzong, admiring its magnificent architecture and intricate woodwork. You will learn about its significant role in Bhutanese history, as it served as the country's capital until 1955 and was the site of the first king's coronation.

After exploring the dzong, you will venture out on a walk through the surrounding villages. This is a perfect opportunity to meet local people and witness the daily life of a rural Bhutanese community. You'll see the terraced rice fields that Punakha is famous for, and perhaps observe farmers at work.

For a deeper dive into the valley's charm,  you will embark on a scenic hike  to the magnificent Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, which sits atop a hill and offers panoramic views of the entire valley. The day will be a mix of cultural discovery, gentle physical activity, and connecting with the beautiful landscapes and friendly people of Punakha.

Today, you will travel from Punakha to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. 

Before you leave Punakha, you'll make a stop at the famous Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the "Fertility Temple." This small temple is a pleasant 20-minute walk through rice paddies and a small village. It is dedicated to the eccentric 15th-century saint, Drukpa Kunley, known as the "Divine Madman." The temple is visited by many couples who come to receive blessings for fertility. The phallus, a symbol of fertility and protection, is a prominent motif found both inside the temple and on the walls of houses in the surrounding village.

From there, you will continue your drive. You will once again pass through Dochula Pass (3,100m), where you can take a moment to enjoy the fresh mountain air and the stunning 108 memorial stupas before descending into Thimphu.

Upon your arrival in Thimphu, you will make your final stop of the day at Simtokha Dzong. Built in 1629 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, it is considered the oldest dzong in Bhutan that has survived in its original form. Strategically located on a ridge, it once served as both a monastic and administrative center. Today, it houses a language and cultural studies institute. After your visit, you will head to your hotel in Thimphu for some much-needed rest and relaxation.

Today, you will enjoy a comprehensive orientation of Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital city that beautifully blends ancient traditions with a modern lifestyle. Your first stop is the majestic Buddha Dordenma, a towering bronze statue of Buddha Shakyamuni gilded in gold, perched on a hilltop offering stunning panoramic views of the Thimphu Valley. You will then visit the Memorial Chorten, a sacred Tibetan-style stupa where locals gather daily to offer prayers, spin prayer wheels, and circumambulate in devotion. The day continues with visits to some of Thimphu’s unique cultural institutions, including the Folk Heritage Museum, which offers insight into traditional Bhutanese rural life, and the National Institute for Zorig Chusum, also known as the Painting School, where students practice Bhutan’s 13 traditional arts and crafts. Later, you’ll visit the Motithang Takin Preserve to see the Takin, Bhutan’s national animal, known for its unusual appearance and deep roots in local folklore. The rest of your afternoon is free for you to relax at your hotel or explore the local crafts market at your own pace.

Today, you will embark on a scenic journey to the beautiful and secluded Haa Valley. The drive from Thimphu promises to be a memorable experience as you travel along the lower highway, following the serene banks of the Wang Chhu River to Chuzom, the confluence where the Thimphu and Paro rivers meet.

En route, your first notable stop will be at Dobji Dzong, a historic fortress built in 1531 by Ngawang Chogyal. Perched dramatically on a ridge, the dzong offers spectacular views of the valley below. Often referred to as Bhutan’s "first model dzong," it has played various roles throughout history—from a fortress to a prison—and today serves as a monastic school. Its rich history and stunning location make it a fantastic spot for both learning and photography.

After visiting Dobji Dzong, you will continue your drive through pristine, unspoiled landscapes into the quiet beauty of the Haa Valley. Upon arrival, you’ll check in to your hotel and have the rest of the day at leisure to rest and take in the peaceful surroundings. The Haa Valley offers a tranquil retreat from the bustle of city life, giving you the perfect opportunity to relax and prepare for tomorrow’s exploration.

Today promises a rich and immersive experience as you explore the peaceful beauty of the Haa Valley.

Your morning begins with a visit to Chundu Lhakhang, one of several sacred shrines dedicated to Ap Chhundu, the valley’s revered protective deity. A short and scenic walk from the road brings you to this tranquil temple, set in a serene location ideal for quiet reflection and photography.

Afterwards, you’ll enjoy a gentle hike down to Pang Village, a lovely hamlet known for its traditional Bhutanese homes and calm, pastoral surroundings. This walk offers a wonderful opportunity to connect with the local landscape and experience the rhythm of rural life in Haa. Upon reaching Pang, your car will be waiting to take you to your next destination.

From there, we will head into the main town of Haa, a quiet and charming place where you’ll have the chance to stroll through the town, explore a few local shops, and observe daily life in one of Bhutan’s most secluded valleys.

In the afternoon, we’ll return to the hotel for a very special cultural experience — a Haapai Hoentey cooking class. These buckwheat dumplings are a beloved local delicacy unique to the Haa Valley. Under the guidance of a local expert, you’ll learn how to prepare Hoentey from scratch and enjoy your homemade creations for dinner — a delicious and memorable way to end the day.

After a final breakfast in the tranquil surroundings of the Haa Valley, your day begins with a visit to the sacred Lhakhang Karpo (White Temple) and Lhakhang Nagpo (Black Temple). According to local legend, these ancient temples were established in the 7th century by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo, with their locations determined by the landing of a white and a black pigeon. You’ll have time to explore these serene and spiritually significant sites, gaining insight into their deep historical and religious importance.

Following your temple visit, you will embark on a breathtaking drive up to Chelela Pass, the highest motorable pass in Bhutan at 3,988 meters. As you ascend, the landscape shifts beautifully from dense pine forests to open alpine meadows adorned with fluttering prayer flags. On a clear day, the pass rewards you with stunning panoramic views of the Eastern Himalayas, including the sacred Mount Jomolhari.

From Chelela Pass, you’ll begin a scenic downhill hike to Kila Goempa, Bhutan’s oldest nunnery, nestled into a cliffside and surrounded by forest. The trail winds through peaceful woods of pine and rhododendron, offering a truly serene and reflective experience. Upon arrival, you'll have the opportunity to observe the quiet monastic life of the resident nuns and soak in the spiritual atmosphere of this secluded sanctuary.

After your visit, your vehicle will meet you for the final descent into the beautiful Paro Valley, where you will check in to your hotel for the evening. It’s a day filled with natural beauty, cultural depth, and spiritual connection — a true highlight of your journey through Bhutan.

Today is dedicated to a pilgrimage to Bhutan's most iconic landmark, the legendary Tiger's Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang). After an early breakfast, you will drive to the base of the mountain, where the hike begins. The trail is a continuous ascent, winding through beautiful pine forests adorned with prayer flags. The journey to the monastery is as much a spiritual experience as it is a physical one.

The hike to the monastery takes approximately 2-3 hours for a person of average fitness, with the option to hire a horse for the first half of the journey. About halfway up, you will reach a cafeteria where you can rest and enjoy a stunning view of the monastery clinging to the cliff face. From this point, the final ascent involves a series of steps and bridges that lead you directly to the entrance.

Perched on a sheer cliff 900 meters above the Paro Valley floor, the monastery is a breathtaking architectural marvel. Your guide will take you through the various temples within the complex, sharing the history and legends of Guru Rinpoche, who is said to have flown to this site on the back of a tigress to subdue a demon. After the monastery tour, you will begin the descent, a rewarding trek back to the valley floor. The entire round trip, including the monastery tour, takes about 5-7 hours. Upon returning, you will have the rest of the day to relax and celebrate your accomplishment.

After a final breakfast at your hotel, your guide and driver will accompany you to Paro International Airport. With a traditional Bhutanese farewell, they will assist you with the departure formalities, ensuring a smooth and pleasant journey. As you fly out of the Paro Valley, you will carry with you the memories of the pristine landscapes, unique culture, and warm hospitality of the Bhutanese people. We wish you a safe and pleasant flight and hope to see you again soon.