LAYA GASA TREKS
Laya Gasa trek leads to northwest from Paro, offering a great experience of picturesque farmland, sub-tropical forests, alpine pastureland and high passes. This trekking has a combination of dense forests of rhododendron, willow, oak, blue pine, golden birch, juniper. Laya Gasa takes us through remote and traditional villages of Chebisa and Laya, passing via numerous nomadic sites. Wildlife along with Takin and blue sheep may be visible and even snow leopards can occasionally be spotted in this trek.
Overview
Day 00: Preparation in KATHMANDU for a journey to Bhutan *
Day 01: Arrival in Paro (2200m)
Day 02: Sightseeing around Paro city
Day 03: Drive from Paro to Shana (2890m) >>> 15 km-5 hr
Day 04: Trek to Thangthangka (3575m) >>> 22 km-7 hr
Day 05: Trek to Jangothang (4044m) >>> 17 km-5 hr
Day 06: Rest day in Jangothang
Day 07: Trek to Lingshi (4010m) >>> 21 km-7 hr
Day 08: Trek to Chebisa (3850m) >>> 16 km-4 hr
Day 09: Trek to Shakya Pasang (4000m) >>> 14 km-5 hr
Day 10: Trek to Robkuthang (4160m) >>> 16 km-8 hr
Day 11: Trek to Limithang (4160m) >>> 14 km-7 hr
Day 12: Trek to Laya (3800m) >>> 9 km-4 hr
Day 13: Free day in Laya
Day 14: Trek to Koina (3240m) >>> 16 km-6 hr
Day 15: Trek to Gasa hot Springs (2220m) >>> 12 km-6 hr
Day 16: Trek to Damji Village and drive to Punakha (1242m) >>> 14 km-5 hr
Day 17: Drive from Punakha to Thimphu (2334m) and then to Paro
Day 18: Return to Kathmandu or proceed to another destination
Itinerary Details
Day 01: Arrival in Paro (2200m)
We receive and welcome you at Paro international airport, showing our signboard outside the airport terminal. You are then transferred to the respective accommodation for a wonderful stay.
Day 02: Sightseeing around Paro city
We have a day tour and sightseeing including Taktsang monastery/Tiger’s nest, a staggering monastery and likely the most photographed one in Bhutan. It is stated that Guru Rinpoche arrived right here on a tigress and meditated at this place, as a result it got its name. The excursion to monastery’s view point takes almost 5 hours for round trip.
Day 03: Drive from Paro to Shana (2890m) >>> 15 km-5 hr
Drive to Drukyel Dzong, north of Paro, where the motor-able road ends. The ruins of Drukgyel Dzong with mount Chomolhari are in the background with astounding vista. The trek to Shana begins alongside a dirt road for 1 hour through a valley, under woodland-protected mountains, following the Paro Chu (river). Beware of sun, which may be very fierce at this altitude. The first settlement encountered is Tsento Zampa, in which the traditional Bhutanese farmhouses are seen with red chilly drying on their roofs in season. Farmers on this upper valley normally grow red rice, potatoes and wheat. The trek follows the east facet of a river, gently through the forests lively with birds and bright colored butterflies. After a couple of hours, we reach the camp at Gunitsawa where a permit can be checked at the camp entrance. After minutes through wooded area, we see a camp at Shana near the river. Looking lower back from camp you could see Jo Drakey.
Day 04: Trek to Thangthangka (3575m) >>> 22 km-7 hr
This is a difficult day as we follow a river upstream from the campsite passing vintage ruins of Shana Bridge, damaged by flood because of glacial lake outbursts in 1950s. This bridge was used in old days by travelers to and from Phari in Tibet. The trail climbs gradually through a heavily forested region of oak, rhododendron, bamboo and ferns. After Shing Karap, we pass a junction en-route, in which any other path leads up the smooth, forbidden pass of Tremo la and onwards to the city of Phari in Tibet. This was the old trading path. The path makes a short steep climb and descent with a bridge at 3250m. Crossing to the east aspect of river is Thongo Zam. Trek to Thangthangka follows the wooded area which includes birch, fir, larch, maple and blue pine. After a quick climb, we reach Seyende Zam where there is a massive chorten (stupa). On clear weather we are able to see Mt. Chomolhari to the North.
Day 05: Trek to Jangothang (4044m) >>> 17 km-5 hr
Enjoying the view of Chomolhari, our path slowly leaves the woodland area and gradually climbs right into a beautiful valley, passing Tegethang, an iciness home of yak herdsmen, continuing till we arrive at Jangothang aka Chomolhari base camp. This valley is big and high with mountains. Jichu Drake overlooks the camp which is visibly close.
Day 06: Rest day in Jangothang
This is a rest day at Chomolhari camp to acclimatize. Our walk is in the direction of east up to the dual lakes of Tsho Phu. From the lakes there may be a fantastic view of Chomolhari and Jichu Drake mountains. Watch out for a herd of Himalayan blue sheep in this valley.
Day 07: Trek to Lingshi (4010m) >>> 21 km-7 hr
After breakfast, a steep trail begins that leads to the very last climb and pass. It is a few hours climb to windy pass of this trek, Nyelela pass (4890m). Mt. Takaphu dominates the view towards the north. Gangchen Ta “Tiger mountain” is the primary mountain to be visible looking east. Less than half an hour downwards is a flat region, a terrific lunch spot. We manage to descend passing through narrow gorge with a small river crossing. The path results in a viewing point from which Lingshi Dzong may be visible whereas our campsite remains located subsequent to a river.
Day 08: Trek to Chebisa (3850m) >>> 16 km-4 hr
This is the easy walk as we leave Lingshi and lightly climb to other village, Gom Yu, right beneath a 300m cliff. An hour walk brings us to a valley with a massive waterfall at one end of the Shangri La of Chebisa, where we camp by the side of river.
Day 09: Trek to Shakya Pasang (4000m) >>> 14 km-5 hr
The day starts off with a climb to Gogu la (4440m) then a long descent to 4170m. Extended climb over the ridge, the path descends on a muddy path into Jholethang valley deep in the jungle of fir and birch. The path traverses high above the valley to Chachim, a yak pasture at 4260m. Camp would be in Shakya Pasang, a beautiful place in the valley.
Day 10: Trek to Robkuthang (4160m) >>> 16 km-8 hr
Over the Jarela pass at 4785m is where we get beautiful views of himalayas. We drop steeply down the wooded area to Tsarigathang valley, a summer time house of uncommon himalayan Takin (Bhutan’s national animal). After crossing the circle, the trail ascends until Robkuthang camp at altitude of 4160m.
Day 11: Trek to Limithang (4160m) >>> 14 km-7 hr
It is lengthy and tough crossing Shinche la pass (5000m), highest pass en route. You will be able to spot blue sheep high at the slopes as well as eagles, griffin vultures and yaks. The descent is a rough and rocky path that follows moraine into other glacial valley. The final part of the trek may be very thrilling with fascinating views of Mt. Gangchey Ta. Campsite would be in a meadow by the riverbank.
Day 12: Trek to Laya (3800m) >>> 9 km-4 hr
A walk is to Laya with exquisite views alongside the river, one of the tributaries of Mochu. We pass through a damp wooded area, full of moss and song birds. Arriving at Laya village, second camp is at the altitude of 3800m.
Day 13: Free day in Laya
This is a rest day and one may even visit some village houses. People in Laya are semi-nomadic yak-herders. In comparison to women, Laya girls have their hair lengthy and get dressed fabricated from yak hair and sheep’s wool.
Day 14: Trek to Koina (3240m) >>> 16 km-6 hr
We descend to army camp and observe Mo Chhu (river) and upon crossing the bridge it is up and down journey through juniper and fir jungle till reaching the camp at Koina.
Day 15: Trek to Gasa hot Springs (2220m) >>> 12 km-6 hr
Upon climbing to Bale la pass (3900m), there is a small rock cairn and some prayer flags on the pass. The direction goes down once more via bamboo woodland. Later it is far downhill all the way to Gasa hot springs. If time allows, we are able to visit Gasa village and Dzong built in 17th century. A descent then leads to Gasa warm springs for camping.
Day 16: Trek to Damji Village and drive to Punakha (1242m) >>> 14 km-5 hr
As we climb faraway from Gasa Tsachu (warm spring), the path winds through hillsides with the vista of fields, villages and forests of pine. Gasa Dzong can be visible in the back, glued to the valley wall, seeming afloat. The path descends from high agricultural benches into a lush semi-tropical gorge above Damji village, then we drive 3 hours to Punakha.
Day 17: Drive from Punakha to Thimphu (2334m) and then to Paro
We visit Punakha Dzong that houses a monastic body and is a residence of Je Khenpo – chief abbot. We then drive towards Paro through Dochula pass. In Thimphu, we have lunch as well as some sightseeing before continuing a journey to reach Paro in the evening.
Day 18: Return to Kathmandu or proceed to another destination
You may opt for returning back to Kathmandu or proceeding to another destination.
Essential Information
Passport & visa
All foreigners beside Indians have to get a visa to enter Nepal. Unlike other countries, Nepali consulates and embassies issue visas without much fuss. On-arrival visas also are issued instantly at Tribhuvan international airport or at the border checkpoints. It may without difficulty be acquired at the Nepal/China border too. While you arrive at the airport you have to fill in a form and submit a passport photo. A single entry visa is valid for 15, 30 or 90 days. At the airport, you could pay this sum in any major foreign currency. Kids below 10 are required to have a visa however are not charged. In case you are making plans to go to India, Tibet and Bhutan you can follow for a more than one entry visa. You could change your single entry visa to multiple visa at Kathmandu’s immigration office. Your passport needs to be valid for at least 6 months. All foreign nationals getting into Nepal are required to arrange a visa either on arrival or in advance. A Nepalese visa may be received both prior to your arrival at a Nepalese embassy abroad and on arrival in Kathmandu at the airport. Note: Citizens of Afghanistan, Iraq, Cameroon, Ghana, Somalia, Swaziland, Palestine, Zimbabwe, Nigeria, Ethiopia and Liberia are not subjected to obtain the Nepalese visa upon arrival. Nepalese visa can also be secured at entry at Nepalese borders.
Lukla [Everest]
Please note the flights to and from Lukla rely on weather conditions. Awful weather might delay flights. While planes are grounded due to terrible climate, helicopter charter organizations operate mountain flights to Lukla. On your request, we even arrange a helicopter flight (to or from Lukla) for you. Whilst trekking in the mountains we stick to the standard itinerary. However if bad weather persists or if something occurs (natural calamities like landslide, avalanche or so), our trek leader regulates the itinerary. For instance, if horrific climate persists for days that disrupts your journey time table, you get the choice to cancel your trek to Everest and book other trekking regions – Annapurna, Langtang and many others or a cultural excursion. We assist on proper itinerary for you; one which fits your budget and time.
Weather
The coldest month is January and the hottest is July. We say weather of Nepal is mild which means winter is dry and summer is hot. Monsoon lasts from around June to August. However rest of the year is dry. March to May is spring and September to November is autumn and they are additionally the most pleasant seasons. During winter (December, January and February), temperature drops down with snowstorms mainly in the high mountain areas.
Banking and foreign exchange
Payment in hotels, travel offices and airways can be made in foreign exchange. Credit card payments are common at major business institutions. There are plenty of machines or ATMs in towns and most will receive cards issued through any of the banking networks. Cards like Visa, Master, JCB and American express are simply universal at hotels, restaurants, airlines and major visitor centers.
Custom formalities
Upon arrival in Nepal, your luggage should be cleared by customs at the entry. You are allowed a private computer, digital camera, movie/video camera or so. If you buy an antique item in Nepal and need to take it back home with you, it needs to be licensed by the department of Archaeology. In Nepal, it is unlawful to take items abroad that are 100 years or older.
Emergency
Please do not forget to provide your emergency contact records whilst filling out forms. You could mention the contact information of a member of the family or a person close to you.
Safety and security
Nepal is one of the most secure and hospitable destination for tourists. Nepalese are friendly and most of them assist visitors. Crime rate is very low as Nepal police is strict and smart. Tourism police is always on high alert and stand by. As per the review, it has been found that travelers rarely experience any hassle and difficulties while in Nepal.
Phone/SIM/data plan
Upon arrival in Nepal, you can get a sim card at ease under certain terms & conditions. We can arrange it on your behalf. While in mountains, you may face some difficulties to receive internet range. In that case, you might need mobile data plan since it works everywhere. We assist on this if you require. Yet wireless internet works in majority of cities & towns nowadays. Internet system has already been installed even in Mt. Everest. These days you can mostly get a good internet access in Nepal.
Electricity
In Nepal the standard voltage is 220 – 230V and the frequency is 50 HZ. In cities, maximum hotels have multi-adapter style sockets but in the mountains the teahouses may or may not have these. It would be good to have international adapter with you to fit your devices. Some teahouses along the trail use solar too.
Vaccinations
We advise you to go to a health practitioner specialized in travel associated illnesses months before your trip departure. Take the specified boosters and vaccinations. You ought no longer to fear about tropical illnesses in case you are hiking in the mountains.
Baggage
On the path while your heavy baggage is carried by porters, you shall be carrying a light daypack of your valuables and accessories. Please make sure the baggage for a porter does not weigh more than 20 kg. One porter usually carries the bags of two guests. The luggage allowance for domestic flights is 20 kg. Maybe you ought to pay for extra luggage if your general bag weight exceeds it.
Body condition & experience
Walking in higher altitudes is physically demanding. In case you are in proper health; have common physical wellness, positive attitude, self-confidence and strong determination; you can easily do the trek. We would suggest exercising and walking regularly for some weeks prior to the experience. This may assist you on your energy and balance. Participants who have coronary heart, lung and blood illnesses are required to seek advice from their physician before participating.
Altitude sickness & Acclimatization
At higher altitudes, air gets scanty and oxygen level decreases. One has to acclimatize properly before going higher. Going too rapid will result in acute mountain illness. The symptoms consist of issue in breathing, nausea, headache, dizziness, irregular heartbeat, vomiting and many others. If left untreated, it might affect major organs too. All our itineraries permit enough time for acclimatization. One or two relaxation days have been allocated at lower elevations before you challenge into the higher levels (3500 to 4000 meters and above). This could supply your body enough time to get used to thin air. Additionally our guides bring a first-aid kit to stop and minimize the signs and symptoms of altitude sickness. On the trail, keep yourself hydrated with fluids as dehydration doubles the risk. To be more secure, we advise you to consult your medical doctor earlier than booking a trek.
Equipment & packing list
We also want you to take into account that the clothing items may vary with season and the trek duration. The listing given below is a basic guideline that may help you for your adventure:
Valid passport, passport size photos, airline tickets, insurance
Dollars, pounds or Euros
Payment cards, ATM, coins
Required clothing … etc …
Travel coverage
It is a good idea to have a travel insurance policy whilst traveling to Nepal. Nepal is a great destination where most of the travelers encounter grand himalayan peaks and enjoy special adventure excursions. You will attain above 4000m in most of the treks in Nepal and it is fine to have a policy that covers clinical and emergency rescues. Helicopter rescue and emergency evacuation is common in Nepal so that you ought to pick out insurance accurately. It is a wise selection to have insurance coverage that can pay directly to hospitals as opposed to you having to pay for it.
Arrival & Departure
We offer airport pick up and drop off. On arrival at the Tribhuvan international airport in Kathmandu, we are there to welcome you. On the final day, you will be transferred to the international airport well in time (3 hours prior to your flight’s scheduled departure) to catch your flight.
Include/Exclude
*Airport / hotel / pick up & drop off on a tourist vehicle ✓
*Guided town tour in Kathmandu valley or related attractions ✓
*All meals throughout the trek (Breakfast, lunch and dinner) ✓
*Guesthouse accommodation during the trek ✓
*Required trek staff, guides and porters for your bags ✓
*Trekking equipment and special clothing ✓
*Food, accommodation, coverage, device and medicine ✓
*National park permits, TIMS permits & tickets ✓
*Vehicles to/from Kathmandu ✓
*Sightseeing/monument entry tickets in Kathmandu ✓
*Government tax, vat & revenue ✓
*Official costs ✓
*Visa fees
*Travel insurance that covers emergency rescue and evacuation
*International flight fares and airport tax
*Alcoholic, canned or any beverage
*Gratuities & private expenses
*Any other that is not mentioned within the prices include section …