Embark on a unique adventure through Bhutan’s untouched landscapes, vibrant festivals, and remote mountain communities. This one-of-a-kind, off the beaten path itinerary takes you far beyond the usual tourist trails to the pristine and seldom-visited regions of Gasa and Laya. Perfect for travelers seeking authentic and immersive experiences, this journey offers an intimate glimpse into Bhutan’s rich traditions and way of life.

Dive into the lively celebrations of the Gasa Festival, trek to the high-altitude village of Laya, and connect with the nomadic Layap people, renowned for their unique culture and warm hospitality. Along the way, you’ll stay in local homes, where you’ll share meals, stories, and traditions with Bhutanese families—gaining a profound connection to the communities and their daily lives.

From breathtaking landscapes like the Dochula Pass and serene glacier lakes to transformative activities like soaking in the Gasa Hot Springs or trying on traditional Laya costumes, this journey blends Bhutan’s iconic landmarks with its hidden treasures.

Whether exploring vibrant local festivals, hiking through majestic mountains, or enjoying the quiet simplicity of rural life, this off-the-beaten-path itinerary promises unforgettable memories, meaningful connections, and a deeper appreciation for Bhutan’s cultural and natural heritage.

BEYOND THE BEATEN PATH – THE ITINERARY

Day 1: Arrival in Bhutan

• Arrival: Land in Paro and drive to Punakha via Dochula Pass (2.5 hours).
• Highlights: Stop at Dochula Pass for panoramic views and visit Chimmi Lhakhang.
• Overnight: Check into the hotel and rest. (Dharma Siddhi Hotel)

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Day 2: Explore Punakha and Drive to Gasa

• Morning: Visit Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, Punakha Dzong, and the Suspension Bridge.
• Afternoon: After lunch, drive to Gasa (3 hours).
• Overnight: Check into a homestay in Gasa. (Gasa Homestay)

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Day 3: Gasa Festival and Trek to Laya

• Morning: Attend the vibrant Gasa Festival.
• Afternoon: After lunch, drive to Taktse Makha (2 hours) and hike to Laya (2-3 hours).
• Overnight: Stay in a local homestay in Laya. (Laya Homestay)

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Day 4: Explore Laya

• Options:
  • Hike to Glacier Lakes (8 hours round trip).
  • Visit Nomad Camps, milk yaks, enjoy a yak ride, learn about Laya weaving textiles, or try on traditional Laya costumes.
• Overnight: Return to the homestay in Laya. (Laya Homestay)

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Day 5: Hike and Return to Gasa

• Morning: Hike from Laya to Lungo (3 hours).
• Afternoon: Have lunch at Lungo, then hike to the motor road point (2 hours). Drive back to Gasa (2 hours).
• Overnight: Stay at a homestay in Gasa. (Gasa Homestay)

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Day 6: Gasa Hot Springs and Punakha

• Morning: Optional visit to the Gasa Hot Springs.
• Afternoon: Drive to Punakha (3 hours). Check into Gaselo Eco Lodge.
• Evening: Enjoy tea with monks.
• Overnight: Stay at Gaselo Eco Lodge. (Gaselo Eco Lodge)

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Day 7: Gaselo Activities and Drive to Thimphu

• Morning: Participate in a cleansing ritual, plant a tree, and play archery or darts with monks.
• Afternoon: Take a short village hike (1 hour) and drive to Thimphu (2 hours).
• Evening: Explore Thimphu’s nightlife (optional).
• Overnight: Stay in Thimphu. (City Heritage)

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Day 8: Explore Thimphu and Drive to Paro

• Morning: Visit the Traditional Medicine Institute, Painting School in Kabesa, and Astrology School.
• Afternoon: Drive to Paro (1 hour).
• Evening: Watch a sand mandala demonstration.
• Overnight: Stay in Paro. (Tashi Namgay Resort)

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Day 9: Hike Tiger’s Nest and Paro Festival

• Morning: Hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery (6 hours).
• Afternoon: If time permits, attend the Paro Festival.
• Evening: Optionally enjoy a hot stone bath and explore Paro Town.
• Overnight: Stay in Paro. (Tashi Namgay Resort)

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Day 10: Departure

Farewell: Bid Bhutan goodbye and catch your flight to your next destination.

TRIP NOTES:

1. This is a private tour with your own guide and vehicle.
2. Tour Vehicle: 1 KIA Sorento.
3. Special Activities: Talk on Buddha Dharma, Cycling in Phobjikha, Cultural Performance at a scenic location, well-being ritual by nuns, cleansing ritual by a Buddhist master, sponsor meal to nuns

PACKAGE COST:

US$ 3095 For Solo & USD$ 5035 For Two (Does Not Include Air Ticket)

PAYMENT TERMS:

1. 50% of the tour payment to be deposited when confirming the trip. This fund will be used to book air ticket and hotel rooms. Air tickets need to be purchased in USD.
2. 50% of the balance payment can be deposited any time after the first deposited but latest before two months (60 days) of arrival date. The SDF will be paid with this deposit and visa will then be processed.
3. Here is the link on how to make a payment to Bhutan and our bank details: click here
4. If you wish to pay with a credit card, we will generate a payment invoice/link. There will be a 5% bank and processing fee if you wish pay online through a payment link (gateway)

PACKAGE COVERS/INCLUDE:

*The Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of USD100 goes towards activities that promote carbon-neutral tourism and building a more sustainable tourism sector. This includes offsetting the carbon footprint of tourists and up skilling workers in the travel industry.

• Package Covers:
• Hotel rooms at the mentioned hotels/resorts
• Three meals (at hotels and local restaurants of your choice)
• Comfortable travel vehicle and certified travel guide, throughout the tour
• SDF/Royalty of USD100 per person per night
• Entrance fees, Cooking Class And Hoist a Prayer flag

PACKAGE DOES NOT COVER/INCLUDE:

• While the above package covers all travel expenses and you will not need to pay a penny extra, the following is not covered in the package:
• Alcoholic beverages at hotels/restaurants
• Food and beverages at luxury hotels and restaurants
• Shopping and tips for guide and driver
• Hot Stone Bath, Cycling, Weaving Class & Horse Riding
• Air Ticket

Breathe Bhutan being a quality and standard oriented entity; what we want our guest to take back is an expression, which defines who we are.

Hotels: We are very picky with where we keep our guests. The hotels we pick are hotels we personally like and which are also highly reviewed by our former guests. The three star hotels and accommodations we recommend are mostly family run and they not only provide excellent service but they also have something special in each one of them.

Water: We do not charge for the unlimited mineral water supply. As a company, we are environmentally conscious and we are currently working on a way to reduce the use of single use plastic bottles.

Meals: Unlike other tour operators, we do not dictate what you should eat and where you should eat. Our guides will always ask your mood for food and take you to appropriate restaurants. If you are eating your meals at the hotel, you do not necessarily have to eat from the buffet; you have the option to order from the menu.

Guides: We are very selective with the tour guides we work with. They are highly experienced, humble and always ready to go out of their way to keep the guest happy.

Vehicles: While traveling Bhutan, you will have to do a lot of vehicle travel and a comfortable vehicle is important. For one and two people in the group, we only assign four-wheel SUV vehicles and they will not be older than 4 years. For more than two people, we use Toyota Hi Ace High Roof Travel Vans and have to be new or else in great condition.

Nightlife in Thimphu: If you are someone who like live music or like to taste local beer and whiskey, we always take you to Mojo Park (a live music club) in Thimphu and we cover all expenses. Mojo Park is a great place to check out the nightlife culture in Bhutan, especially on the weekends.

Others: You need to visit to unlock the other surprises.