High in the Himalayan mountains of northern Bhutan lies one of the country’s most extraordinary cultural celebrations — the Royal Highland Festival. Held every October in the remote highland village of Laya in Gasa District, this event brings together yak herders, highland communities, and travelers for two unforgettable days of tradition, music, and shared celebration.

A Journey to the Highlands

Part of what makes this festival so special is the adventure of getting there. The journey begins with a two-hour drive from Gasa to Taktse Makha, the base of Laya. The road is a rough farm track that winds through mountain valleys and dense forests, giving travelers a taste of Bhutan’s rugged beauty.

From the base, reaching the festival site involves a 1–2 hour hike, depending on individual fitness. It’s a scenic uphill trail that gradually reveals panoramic views of the surrounding peaks — a perfect prelude to the highland celebration that awaits.

A Celebration of Highland Culture

The festival was launched in 2016 under the vision of Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck to honor the traditions of Bhutan’s highland communities. These nomadic groups have lived for generations in harmony with their environment, raising yaks and preserving a unique way of life.

Festival highlights include:

• Yak beauty contests and races, where proud herders decorate their animals with colorful ornaments.
• Horse races and traditional competitions, showcasing highland strength and skills.
• Cultural performances featuring Layap dances, songs, and storytelling.
• Demonstrations of traditional crafts, yak produce, and highland medicines.
• A vibrant market atmosphere, with locals gathering from across the region.

All of this unfolds on alpine meadows at 4,000 meters, surrounded by snow-capped Himalayan peaks — a setting that feels like stepping into another world.

Lunch with the King — Literally

One of the most memorable aspects of the festival is that lunch on both days is sponsored by His Majesty the King. Every attendee — locals, herders, and foreign visitors alike — eats together at the festival ground.

The royal kitchen prepares meals for around 1,500 people, and guests are served the same food as the highlanders. This shared meal isn’t just about food; it’s about unity, celebration, and the spirit of Bhutanese hospitality.

An Audience with His Majesty The King Of Bhutan

His Majesty the King personally attends the festival each year. For many Bhutanese, this is a moment of deep pride and reverence. For foreign visitors, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity: many have had the chance to meet His Majesty in person, often sharing a brief but meaningful exchange.

It’s rare anywhere in the world to attend a festival in such an intimate setting with the country’s monarch.

Highland Nights: Concerts and DJ Party at 4,000 Meters

As night falls over the highlands, the celebration doesn’t stop. The festival hosts a concert featuring popular local bands and singers, filling the alpine air with music. And to everyone’s surprise, the night ends with a DJ party under the stars — an unforgettable moment of dancing and joy at 4,000 meters above sea level.

It’s an experience that blends tradition with modern Bhutanese energy in the most surreal setting imaginable.

Hiking to Yak Herders’ Camps

For those seeking an even deeper connection, the surrounding mountains offer the chance to hike to nearby yak herder camps. Visitors can meet families who live year-round in these alpine meadows, learn about their lifestyle, share butter tea, and experience a way of life rarely seen by outsiders.

Gasa Hot Spring — A Local Favorite

After the festival, many travelers visit Gasa Tshachu, Bhutan’s most famous hot spring. Locals from across the country travel here to soak in its mineral-rich waters, believed to have healing properties. It’s a beloved tradition — part relaxation, part social gathering — and a perfect way to unwind after days in the highlands.

Practical Information

• Festival Dates: Usually held in late October (often around October 23–24).
• Location: Laya, Gasa District, Bhutan.
• Altitude: Around 4,000 meters — give yourself time to acclimatize.
• Access: Two-hour drive from Gasa to Taktse Makha base, then a 1–2 hour uphill hike.
• What to Expect: Simple facilities, warm local hospitality, royal lunch, cultural events, and incredible scenery.
• What to Bring: Warm clothes, good trekking shoes, sun protection, and a sense of adventure.

The Royal Highland Festival is not just another event — it’s a once-in-a-lifetime cultural immersion. It’s hiking through remote mountain trails, sharing a royal lunch with 1,500 people, meeting the King of Bhutan, dancing under the stars at 4,000 meters, and witnessing a living culture that has endured for centuries.

It’s a journey that stays with you long after you’ve left the mountains.