Laya - Discovering Bhutan

Travelling to Laya

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Laya, a pretty good destination in Bhutan (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Laya and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Laya, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Bhutan, here's everything to know about Laya for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Laya

Laya is a small village in the Gasa District of Bhutan, located in the northern part of the country. It is situated at an elevation of 3,800 meters above sea level and is known for its unique culture and traditions. The village is surrounded by towering mountains and is home to the Layap people, who have a distinct way of life and language. The Layap people are famous for their yak-herding lifestyle and colorful traditional dress, which includes a conical bamboo hat and a long-sleeved blouse tied with a sash. The village can be reached by trekking through scenic mountain trails, and visitors can enjoy the breathtaking views of pristine landscapes and experience the local culture firsthand.

What to visit in Laya

Laya, Bhutan is a beautiful destination for adventure seekers, trekkers, and nature lovers. Here are some of its top tourist attractions with information: 1. Laya Village: Laya Village is a small, picturesque hamlet located in the northern part of Bhutan. The village is known for its unique culture, traditional attire, and annual festivals.
2. Laya Trek: Laya Trek is a popular trekking trail in Bhutan, which takes you through stunning landscapes, including pine forests, mountain passes, and pristine rivers. It is a challenging trek and takes around 12-14 days to complete.
3. Gangala Pass: Gangala Pass is a high altitude mountain pass located in the Jigme Dorji National Park. The pass offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayan ranges and is popular among trekkers and hikers.
4. Punakha Dzong: Punakha Dzong is a stunning fortress located on the banks of the Mo Chhu River. The fortress served as the seat of government until 1955 and now serves as a religious and administrative center.
5. Dochula Pass: Dochula Pass is a scenic mountain pass located on the way to Punakha from Thimphu. The pass is adorned with 108 chortens, offering panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges.
6. Phobjikha Valley: Phobjikha Valley is a glacial valley located in the Wangdue Phodrang district. The valley is known for its vast meadows, rare black-necked cranes, and stunning landscapes.
7. Chele La Pass: Chele La Pass is the highest motorable pass in Bhutan, offering breathtaking views of the Paro and Haa valleys. The pass is popular among mountain bikers, hikers, and nature lovers.
8. Taktshang Goemba: Taktshang Goemba, also known as Tiger's Nest, is an iconic Buddhist temple located in Paro. The temple is perched on a cliff, offering stunning views of the surrounding Himalayan ranges. It is one of the must-visit destinations in Bhutan.
These are some of the top tourist attractions in Laya, Bhutan. Visitors can explore these destinations and experience the authentic culture, natural beauty, and adventure of the country.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Bhutan, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Laya

The best time to visit Laya in Bhutan is during the months of April, May, September, October, and November. These months offer the most pleasant and mild weather conditions, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and trekking. The temperature during these months ranges from 15°C to 20°C, making it comfortable to enjoy the scenic beauty of the region. However, it is important to note that the weather can be unpredictable, and it is always advisable to check the weather forecast before planning your trip.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Laya

Laya is a remote village in Bhutan, and getting there can be a bit challenging. Here are the steps you can follow to reach Laya: 1. Fly to Paro International Airport in Bhutan. From Paro, you can take a car or bus to Punakha, which is the nearest town to Laya.
2. From Punakha, you can hire a car or take a shared taxi to Gasa. This journey takes around 3-4 hours and is a scenic drive through the mountains.
3. From Gasa, you have two options to reach Laya. You can either trek from Gasa to Laya, which is a 3-4 day journey, or hire a horse to carry your baggage and trek for 1-2 days to reach Laya.
4. The trek from Gasa to Laya is a challenging one and requires a decent level of fitness. However, the views of the mountains and the trek through the forest are breathtaking and worth the effort.
5. It is advisable to take a local guide with you on the trek, who can help you navigate the route and ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable experience.
I hope this helps you plan your trip to Laya!
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Laya, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Laya

Sure, here are some typical foods of Laya (Bhutan) along with a short description of each: 1. Ema Datshi - This is the national dish of Bhutan and is made with chili peppers cooked in a cheese sauce. It can be served with rice or bread.
2. Jasha Maru - Jasha Maru is a spicy chicken dish made with ginger, garlic, onions, and a variety of spices.
3. Phaksha Paa - This is a pork dish made with dried chilies, onions, and radishes.
4. Momos - Momos are steamed dumplings filled with either meat or vegetables, and they are a popular snack in Bhutan.
5. Red Rice - This is a type of rice that is native to Bhutan, and it has a reddish-brown color and a nutty flavor.
6. Kewa Datshi - This is a dish made with potatoes cooked in a cheese sauce with chili peppers.
7. Shakam Shukam - This dish is made with dried beef or yak meat, onion, and chili peppers.
8. Suja - Suja is a butter tea that is a popular beverage in Bhutan. It is made with yak butter, salt, and tea leaves.
These are just a few of the typical foods of Laya and Bhutan.
You can find general info about typical foods in Bhutan here.

Is Laya an expensive destination for tourists?

Yes, Laya (Bhutan) can be considered an expensive destination for tourists, as the government of Bhutan has implemented a "high value, low impact" tourism policy, which means that visitors must pay a daily tariff to enter the country. The minimum daily tariff for tourists is set by the government and includes accommodation, meals, guide, and transportation. The tariff can range from $200 to $250 per person per day depending on the season and duration of the trip. However, this tariff ensures that your trip is sustainable and supports the local economy. Additionally, the beautiful scenery, unique culture, and experiences of Bhutan make it well worth the cost.

Where to find accomodation in Laya

Laya is a remote village located in the northern part of Bhutan. Travelers typically stay in nearby towns or settlements before embarking on the trek to Laya. The most popular areas for accommodation include: 1. Punakha: Punakha is about 3-4 hours away from Laya and offers a variety of lodging options ranging from budget to luxury. It is a great place to acclimatize before embarking on the trek.
2. Wangdue Phodrang: About 5-6 hours away from Laya, Wangdue Phodrang offers a few budget-friendly guesthouses and hotels.
3. Gasa: Gasa is about 1-2 days away from Laya on foot but can be reached by car. It offers a small selection of guesthouses and hotels.
4. Paro: Although not the closest area to Laya, Paro is a popular destination for tourists visiting Bhutan. It offers a wide range of accommodations including luxury resorts, hotels, and budget-friendly guesthouses.
You can check hotel prices at Laya here:
Booking.com

Is Laya a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Laya, Bhutan is generally considered a safe place for tourists. Bhutan is known for its low crime rate and friendly people. However, it is always advisable for tourists to exercise caution and make informed decisions while traveling to any new destination. It is recommended to stay alert, follow the local customs, and be respectful towards the country's culture and traditions. It is also recommended to be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded and unfamiliar tourist areas. Overall, Bhutan is a peaceful and safe destination, and visitors are likely to have a pleasant and memorable experience in Laya.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Bhutan here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Laya.

What type of travelers will enjoy Laya the most?

Laya in Bhutan is a destination that can be enjoyed by various types of travelers. However, it is more suitable for people who are interested in exploring wildlife, culture, and adventure. Since Laya is a remote location in Bhutan, it is not recommended for young people who are looking for typical nightlife entertainment or partying. Couples who love outdoor activities like trekking, camping, and hiking will enjoy Laya the most. Families with older children who are enthusiastic about exploring the countryside, discovering new things, and experiencing new cultures will also find it a fascinating destination. Overall, Laya Bhutan is a haven for adventure seekers who are looking for an off-the-beaten-track destination. The climate is perfect for trekking during the summer, while the stunningly beautiful Himalayas can be experienced throughout the year.

How to get around Laya

The most common mode of transportation used in Laya, Bhutan is walking or hiking, as it is a remote and mountainous area with no road access. For longer distances or to reach neighboring villages, visitors can use pack animals, such as horses or yaks. It is also possible to hire a private vehicle to reach the nearest road access point, which is about 3-4 days' hike away from Laya.

What to see around Laya

Sure, here are some nice places that you can visit in a day trip from Laya, Bhutan: 1. Gasa hot springs - These hot springs are around 40 km from Laya and are known for their medicinal properties. It can be a unique experience to soak in the hot waters surrounded by the lush green mountains.
2. Punakha Dzong - This is one of the most stunning Dzongs (fortress-monastery) in Bhutan and it is located around 90 km from Laya. The intricate artwork on the walls and ceilings is sure to amaze you.
3. Wangdue Phodrang Dzong - This Dzong is around 70 km from Laya and is located on a hill overlooking the Punatshangchu River. The monastery is known for its architectural beauty and panoramic views of the surroundings.
4. Phobjikha Valley - This valley is around 80 km from Laya and is known for its scenic beauty and rich biodiversity. The valley is also home to the endangered black-necked cranes and is a great place to connect with nature.
5. Taktshang monastery (Tiger's Nest) - This iconic monastery is located around 100 km from Laya and requires a hike of around 3-4 hours to reach. The monastery is perched on a steep cliff and offers breathtaking views of the Paro valley.
For every travel information about Bhutan you can click here.

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