Royal Highland Festival Tour
9 Nights / 10 DaysThe Royal Highlander Festival is held at an incredible altitude of 4,000m in Laya, Gasa, from 23–24 October 2026. This unique festival brings awareness about the beauty of Gasa district – its pristine nature, history and venerable traditions.
At 3,800m altitude, Laya is not an easy destination, but all the effort is worth it. The festival is a special opportunity to understand the rich heritage of Bhutan's highland communities, challenge yourself with the Gasa-Laya trek, and revel in striking scenery.
The Royal Highlander Festival is held at an incredible altitude of 4,000m in Laya, Gasa, from 23–24 October 2026. This unique festival brings awareness about the beauty of Gasa district – its pristine nature, history and venerable traditions.
At 3,800m altitude, Laya is not an easy destination, but all the effort is worth it. The festival is a special opportunity to understand the rich heritage of Bhutan's highland communities, challenge yourself with the Gasa-Laya trek, and revel in striking scenery.
Welcome to Bhutan! Check in at hotel, followed by authentic Bhutanese lunch.
Visit Paro Rinpung Dzong (Fortress on A Heap of Jewels) – massive complex visible throughout the valley with iconic buttressed walls and Buddhist wall paintings.
National Museum (Ta Dzong) on the hilltop – antique thangka paintings, weapons, armor, and historic artifacts. Overnight in Paro.
Hike to Taktsang Monastery (Tiger's Nest) at 3,120m. 4.5km trail, ~900m elevation, 5–6 hours. 8 caves where monks live and meditate.
Immerse yourself in pristine nature – lush forests and spectacular mountain scenery. Overnight in Paro.
Stop at Dochula Pass (3,050m) – breathtaking panoramic views of Himalayan ranges.
Punakha Dzong (Palace of Great Happiness) at the confluence of Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers. Contains preserved remains of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal.
Hike to Khamsum Yuelley Namgyal Chorten (1,500m) – ~1hr, one of its kind in the world. Overnight in Punakha.
Early morning drive 5 hours to Taktsemakha (road end). Trek to Kohi Lapcha pass (3,300m).
Trail follows Mo Chhu river valley with incredible views of raging river, feeder streams and astounding waterfalls.
Steep ascent to campsite in Laya (3,800m). Ascent 1,070m / Descent 260m. Overnight at camp in Laya.
★ FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHT — Royal Highlander Festival at 4,000m altitude in Laya, Gasa.
Traditional offering of Buelwa (gift offering) with Auley (traditional epic poem recitation from Zhabdrung Rinpoche days).
Cultural programs by the Layaps: traditional songs and dances, competitions with highland animals – Yaks, horses and Mastiffs. Overnight at camp in Laya.
Continue participating in the exciting festival, or explore Laya village and meet the locals.
Short walks to holy lakes – Kharkhil Tscho, Paro Tsho and Oneme Tsho. Crystal-clear water surrounded by lush meadows.
Option to visit hot springs in Lungo village near Laya. Overnight at camp in Laya.
Trek back on the same path. Descend through raging river views and cascades to Kohi Lapcha, then down to Taktsemakha.
Visit Gasa Dzong (1646), with unique circular shape and three watchtowers. Magnificent backdrop of Mount Gangboom on clear days.
Drive ~5 hours to Punakha. Overnight in Punakha.
Walk to Chimi Lhakhang (Temple of Fertility) through lush hillock meadows.
Drive to Thimphu. Rest at hotel. Overnight in Thimphu.
Explore Thimphu: National Memorial Chorten, Changangkha Lhakhang (12th century) on a cliff overlooking the valley.
Buddha Point (51.5m). Visit General Post Office for a unique personal stamp souvenir.
Drive to Paro. Last night in Paro.
After breakfast, head to the airport. Tashi Delek! We hope to see you again!
- Bhutan visa fee
- 3-star and 4-star hotels (camping in Laya)
- Three meals daily
- Bottled water
- SDF US$100/night/person
- 5% GST
- Museum fees
- Private car with driver
- Licensed English-speaking guide
- Gho or Kira traditional dress
- Bhutan SIM card
- Camping equipment for Laya trek
- Walking sticks
- Personal expenses, laundry, beverages
- Travel insurance
- Airfares
- Airport taxes
- Excess baggage
- Tips for guide and driver
- Services not mentioned
Paro → Punakha → Gasa → Laya (Festival) → Punakha → Thimphu → Paro
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