This trek offers a unique trekking experience in the Himalaya both in terms of scenery and in terms of being able to witness the alpine lifestyle of the semi-nomads. The route begins in picturesque farmland at the lower altitude and ascends through forests to alpine pasture and high passes. Magnificent campsites, beneath some of Bhutan's most impressive peaks await you, as do gardens of rhododendrons in full bloom, depending the season. The trek starts from Drukgyel Dzong, Paro, at 2,480m with a short downhill walk on a wide trail and then follows the Pa-chu river all the way up to the Jhomolhari base camp. The trail climbs gently, traversing well-kept rice terraces, fields of millet and passing solitary farmhouses. The path weaves in among the Himalayan blue pine forest at the lower altitude and oak, spruce and rhododendron forests as you climb higher.

From the Jhomolari base camp you will trek east shadowing the spectacular peaks of Bhutan, bordering with Tibet. The alpine forest is full of rare and medicinal plants. The legendary blue poppy, Bhutan’s national flower is a common sight. The Bhutanese Alps are home for the flocks of blue sheep, numbering hundreds, and the mythical animal, the Takin, that looks like a cross between a sheep and a cow.

In this trek, the highest point is 4900mts but every day, from the Jhomolhari base camp onwards, you will cross a pass with an elevation above 4500mts. Each day brings you a different scene of life high in the Himalaya, from people going about their daily lives, to yaks grazing on the face of the mountains. The Layap people are a distinctive tribe; their language and dress are unique. The final stretch of the trek to Laya is very pleasant with wonderful views of mt. Gangchen la.

From Laya the route descends all the way to the Punakha valley. Leaving behind the alpine forest, the trek route winds through the evergreen forest, full of delightful plants, including wild orchids of every colour, and finally to Gasa Dzong. Gasa dzong is the only district headquarters in Bhutan where the motor road has not reached. Only trekkers are able to see this unique Dzong.. The next day you can soak in the hot-spring bath and relax. The final day's trek is short. A 2 and 1/2 hours walk brings you to the newly-completed motor road where your driver will be waiting to take you to Punakha. The Lingshi-Laya-Gasa trek is one of the most beautiful and varied treks in Bhutan. We highly recommend it.

And you don' t miss out on the cultural tour either! Spend the night in Punakha and visit the majestic Dzongs of Punakaha and Wangdi en-route to Thimphu the next day. End your visit sightseeing in Thimphu and Paro for a meaningful insight into the Bhutanese way of life.