Zhu Bhutan Travels

Zhu Bhutan Travels Harvard Students and Alumni Trek to Bhutan, Since December, 2017

Bhutanese people celebrating a festival

Laya-Gasa Trek

An epic journey through Bhutan's remote mountain wilderness and nomadic villages.

From Alpine Peaks to Sub-Tropical Jungles

he Laya-Gasa Trek is one of Bhutan's most beautiful and challenging treks, offering an unparalleled diversity of landscapes. This extraordinary journey takes you through breathtaking alpine meadows, over high mountain passes offering spectacular views of the Himalayan peaks, and into the heart of remote nomadic villages. The trek culminates with a descent into dense sub-tropical jungles, ending your adventure at the ancient fortress town of Gasa, a truly unique and rewarding experience for seasoned trekkers.

Local Bhutanese woman weaving

High Mountain Passes & Meadows

Begin your trek with a stunning ascent into high-altitude terrain. The trail winds through vibrant alpine meadows blanketed with flowers (seasonal) and over challenging passes. You'll be rewarded with breathtaking, uninterrupted views of some of Bhutan's most sacred peaks, including the majestic Mt. Jumolhari.

Bhutanese village and landscape

Encounters with Nomadic Tribes

The trek takes you through the isolated communities of the Layap nomads, people with a unique culture and dialect who live at the foot of the high Himalayas. This rare opportunity to interact with these communities provides a profound insight into a lifestyle preserved by their remote location and respect for tradition.

Bhutanese students in traditional dress

Descent into the Gasa Jungles

Experience a dramatic change in scenery as you descend from the high-altitude zone into the warmer, lush sub-tropical jungles. The trail winds through dense forests of oak and rhododendron before culminating at the Gasa Tsachu (hot springs), a perfect, therapeutic reward after a long trek.

Key Trekking Highlights

Incredible Biodiversity

Witness a remarkable transition of flora and fauna, from the alpine tundra to the sub-tropical rainforests, all in one expedition.

Nomadic Culture

This is a rare opportunity to visit the Layap people and experience their unique, preserved culture in the most remote parts of the country.

Challenging Adventure

A trek for the ambitious adventurer, offering a high level of physical challenge with a deeply rewarding sense of accomplishment.

Relaxing Finish

End your strenuous trek with a soothing soak in the famous Gasa hot springs, renowned for their medicinal properties.