GASA · LAYA FESTIVAL
Gasa (Laya) Highland Festival Tour
- 11 nights · 12 days
- North-Western Bhutan
About this tour
The Royal Highland Festival is a rare cultural celebration held in the remote highlands of Laya, showcasing the unique traditions of Bhutan’s nomadic and highland communities. The festival brings together yak herders, villagers, and artisans from some of the country’s most isolated regions. Visitors experience vibrant cultural performances, traditional sports, yak displays, ancient rituals, and exhibitions of handmade highland products. Set against dramatic mountain landscapes, the festival offers an authentic…
Photos from the tour
What’s included
Included and not included
Included
- 04 nights’ accommodation in Paro
- 02 nights’ accommodation in Punakha
- 02 night accommodation in Thimphu
- 03 nights accommodation in Gasa / Laya region
- Airport pick-up and drop off in Paro
- All ground transportation in a private, comfortable vehicle
- Accommodation in hotels and homestays (twin sharing)
- Daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the tour
- Licensed English speaking Bhutanese guide
- Experienced driver throughout the journey
- Gasa (Royal) Highland Festival entry and activities
- Trek support to Laya (local assistance as required)
- All sightseeing and monument entry fees as per itinerary
- Bhutan Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)
- Government taxes and service charges
Not included
- International airfare to and from Bhutan
- Personal expenses (laundry, phone calls, tips, etc.)
- Travel insurance (mandatory)
- Drinks and beverages (alcoholic & non-alcoholic)
- Optional activities (hot stone bath, hot springs, etc.)
- Extra costs due to weather, road conditions, or unforeseen circumstances
- Any services not mentioned in the “Tour Includes” section
Itinerary
Twelve days, day by day
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Arrive at Paro International Airport with a scenic Himalayan flight. Meet your guide and transfer to the hotel. Rest and light exploration of Paro town.
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Visit Paro Rinpung Dzong and walk across the traditional wooden bridge. Explore Paro town, local markets, and cafés. Easy day to adjust to Bhutan.
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Hike to the iconic Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) Monastery (4–5 hours round trip). One of Bhutan’s most sacred and famous landmarks. Evening at leisure.
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Drive to Punakha via the scenic Dochula Pass (3,100 m) with views of the Himalayas. Visit the 108 Druk Wangyal Chortens and continue to Punakha Valley.
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Visit the beautiful Punakha Dzong, located at the meeting point of two rivers. Walk across the Punap Suspension Bridge and enjoy the peaceful valley.
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Drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital city. Visit Buddha Dordenma Statue for panoramic valley views. Evening stroll around Clock Tower Square and local shops.
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Visit Memorial Chorten and Tashichho Dzong. Explore Simply Bhutan or Folk Heritage Museum and visit the Takin Preserve. Time for handicraft shopping.
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Drive to the remote highland district of Gasa, enjoying scenic mountain landscapes along the way. Visit Gasa Dzong and relax. Optional visit to Gasa Hot Springs if time permits.
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Drive to the last motorable point and begin a moderate hike to Laya Village, one of Bhutan’s highest settlements. Experience the unique Layap culture.
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Drive to the last motorable point and begin a moderate hike to Laya Village, one of Bhutan’s highest settlements. Experience the unique Laya culture.
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Enjoy a scenic drive from Punakha to Paro via Dochula Pass, with Himalayan views on clear days. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure, exploring Paro town or relaxing.
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After breakfast, transfer to Paro International Airport for your onward flight, marking the end of your Bhutan journey.
Booking terms
- Deposit
- 25% of the total trip cost. This deposit is non-refundable.
- Balance
- Due at least 30 days before departure. A booking made 10 days or fewer before departure needs full payment, and that payment is non-refundable.
- Cancellation
- 30 days or more before the start date, 75% of the total trip price is refunded. From 29 days to 15 days before the start date, 50% of the total trip price is refunded. Less than 15 days before the start date, there is no refund.
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