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, we will embark on a scenic drive to Punakha, a journey of approximately 130 kilometers that takes about 3 hours. The route will take us along the south Thimphu road before we begin our 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. We 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 our time at the pass, we 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, we begin our journey towards the remote and majestic Laya Valley. Our 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, we will switch to a four-wheel-drive vehicle to navigate the rugged terrain and continue to the last motorable point. From here, our trek to Laya begins. The trail gradually ascends, winding through dense forests of rhododendron, oak, and pine. As we 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. Our 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. We will settle into our 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. We'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. We'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, we 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, we will begin our return journey from the tranquil highlands of Laya back to the Punakha Valley. After an early breakfast, we will start our descent, retracing our steps through the same picturesque landscapes we trekked through on our 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, we will begin the drive back to Punakha. The journey will take us through the same scenic roads, offering a different view of the Gasa Dzongkhag and the surrounding valleys.

We 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. Our 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. We 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, we 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, we 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, we will travel from Punakha to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. Our journey is a scenic one, taking us back up to Dochula Pass and offering some final views of the Punakha Valley before we begin our descent into the Thimphu Valley.

Before we leave Punakha, we'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, we will continue our drive. We 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 our arrival in Thimphu, we will make our 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 our visit, we will head to your hotel in Thimphu for some much-needed rest and relaxation.

Today is dedicated to a comprehensive orientation of Thimphu, a city that uniquely blends ancient tradition with a modern, urban lifestyle. As the capital and largest city, Thimphu serves as the cultural and political heart of Bhutan.

Our first stop is the magnificent Buddha Dordenma, a colossal bronze statue of Buddha Shakyamuni gilded in gold, perched on a hilltop overlooking the valley. This impressive monument symbolizes peace and prosperity and offers panoramic views of the entire Thimphu Valley.

Next, we will visit the National Memorial Chorten. This large Tibetan-style stupa is a prominent landmark and a focal point of daily worship for many Bhutanese. You'll observe devotees circumambulating the chorten, spinning prayer wheels, and offering prayers. It’s a wonderful place to witness the deep-rooted faith of the Bhutanese people.

We will then explore some of Thimphu's unique cultural institutions. This may include a visit to the Folk Heritage Museum, which provides a fascinating glimpse into the traditional rural life of Bhutan. We'll also stop by the National Institute for Zorig Chusum, also known as the "Painting School," where you can observe students learning the 13 traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan.

Finally, we'll visit the Motithang Takin Preserve to see the Takin, Bhutan's unique national animal. This peculiar creature, with the head of a goat and the body of a cow, has a special place in Bhutanese folklore. The rest of the afternoon can be spent at your leisure, perhaps exploring the local crafts market or simply relaxing at your hotel.

Today, we journey to the beautiful and secluded Haa Valley. The drive from Thimphu is an unforgettable experience, as we descend from the capital and follow the lower highway. This route takes us along the scenic banks of the Wang Chhu (river) and to the Chuzom (river confluence), where the Thimphu and Paro rivers meet.

Our first notable stop will be Dobji Dzong. This historical fortress is perched on a ridge and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Known as the "first model dzong in Bhutan," it was built in 1531 by Ngawang Chogyal. It has served various roles throughout its history, including as a prison, and today functions as a monastic school. The dzong's dramatic setting against the backdrop of the valley makes for fantastic photographic opportunities.

After taking in the sights and history of Dobji Dzong, we will continue our drive to the Haa Valley. The road winds through picturesque and pristine landscapes, showcasing the quiet beauty of this less-visited region. Upon arrival in Haa, you will check into your hotel. The remainder of the day is free for you to rest and acclimate to the serene atmosphere of this hidden gem in the Himalayas. The Haa Valley offers a perfect escape from the bustle of city life, and you will have ample time to prepare for tomorrow's exploration.

Our day in the beautiful Haa Valley begins with a morning of exploration. Our destination will be Chungdu Lhakhang, one of several shrines dedicated to the valley's protective deity, Ap Chhundu. The temple is a short, scenic walk from the road and offers a peaceful setting for reflection and photography.

Following our visit to the temple, we will embark on a gentle hike down to Pang, a village known for its traditional homes and serene surroundings. This hike is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the local landscape and culture, offering a tranquil experience as we follow the trail down through the countryside. At Pang, our car will be waiting to pick us up.

From there, we will visit the main town of Haa. It’s a small, charming town with a few shops and a quiet atmosphere. We will explore the area, and you'll have the opportunity to see how the locals live their daily lives in this remote part of Bhutan.

In the afternoon, we will return to our hotel for a very special experience: a Haapai Hoentey cooking class. Haapai Hoentey is a buckwheat dumpling, a local delicacy unique to the Haa Valley. You'll get hands-on guidance from a local expert as you learn to prepare this traditional dish. After the class, you'll get to enjoy your freshly made hoentey for dinner, a perfect ending to a day filled with cultural immersion and natural beauty.

After a final breakfast in the tranquil Haa Valley, our day begins with a visit to the sacred Lhakhang Karpo and Lhakhang Nagpo, known as the White and Black temples. According to local legend, these ancient temples were built by the Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo in the 7th century, with their locations determined by the landing of a black and a white pigeon. You will have a chance to explore these serene sites and appreciate their profound historical and religious significance.

Following our visit, we embark on a spectacular drive up to Chelela Pass, the highest motorable pass in Bhutan at an elevation of 3,988 meters. As we ascend, the landscape transforms from dense forests to alpine meadows adorned with prayer flags fluttering in the crisp mountain air. From the pass, on a clear day, you will be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the magnificent Eastern Himalayan ranges, including the sacred Mount Jomolhari.

From the pass, we will begin our rewarding hike down to Kila Goempa, the oldest nunnery in Bhutan. The scenic downhill trail winds through a beautiful forest of pine and rhododendron, leading you to this sacred place perched dramatically on a cliff face. You can spend some time observing the peaceful daily life of the nuns before our vehicle meets you to continue the final descent into the Paro Valley, where you will check into your hotel for the evening.

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.