Bhutan - Exotic Laya and Lingshi Trek

This trek takes about ten days and goes from the subtropical Punakha valley, (1,300 meters / 4,265 feet), up to Laya (3,850 meters / 12,630 feet), one of the highest settlements in Bhutan, situated at the foot of Mt. Masa Gang (7,200 meters / 23,620 feet). From Punahka the trail follows Mo-Chu River passing by hot springs and the fortress at Gasa Dzong, the district center, passing through different levels of vegetation before reaching the village of Laya. Here yak-herders take their animals to the pastures at the foot of the mountains. The natives of this remote area, where life has remained unchanged for centuries, wear costumes woven from yak-hair and distinctive conical bamboo hats.The wildlife of the area includes the forest dwelling takin, the odd looking national animal of Bhutan, Himalayan black bears, large flocks of blue sheep in the higher reaches and, the rarely seen, snow leopard. This trek combines a variety of flora, stunning landscapes, remote villages and dramatic views of the high snow-capped peaks.

The Laya-Lingshi trek can be done in May, June, September, October and November.

Itinerary

16 days Bhutan tour with 10-day Laya-Lingshi trek.
Day 01: Arrive Paro from Bangkok, Kathmandu or Delhi
Day 02: Paro sightseeing and hike to Taksang. Hotel.
Day 03: Thimphu sightseeing. Hotel.
Day 04: Drive to Punakha. Hotel.
Day 05-14: Laya-Lingshi trek. Camps.
Day 15: End trek in Thimphu. Hotel.
Day 16: Depart Bhutan for Bangkok, Kathmandu or Delhi.