Highlight: 8 days high altitude trekking; 5 days cultural touring and sightseeing in 5 different districts of Bhutan; visit ancient monasteries, Dzongs (fortress-monasteries), more.. Trip Duration 13 days Trekking Grade Rigorous Trekking Days 8 days Min. Group Size 4 Participants Season April to June; Sept. to Nov. This invigorating trekking adventure offers Bhutan at its best. On this trek, we will be rewarded with close-up views of Mt. Masagang (7,200m/23616’) - and the unique and mystical culture of Laya, one of the remotest yak herders settlement areas. "Our trek was both the challenge and highlight of a lifetime. The entire trip to Laya, a yak herders’ village near the Tibetan border at 12,630 feet, is through the Jigme Dorji National Park, following the canyon of the Mo River up and up to its source in the mountain glaciers. Along the way we enjoyed birdsong, butterflies, wild strawberries, trees of rhodis, powerful waterfalls, and, at higher elevations, carpets of violet primrose. The village of Laya is just above the tree line, overlooking both the Mo River gorge below and the dramatic snowcapped mountains above. We were treated to breathtaking views of the major mountain peaks. Both women and young girls wear unique black yak hair jackets, long skirts, and conical bamboo hats. People are friendly, outgoing, and welcoming. Our tour operator, Sonam Jatso of Insiders’ Bhutan Travel, thought of everything. We had superb tents, delicious food, warm water for washing, and plenty of tender, loving care. Our trip to Laya has redefined what we mean by “remote.” Trails to get there are rocky, muddy, and steep. But once in Laya, we experienced breathtaking beauty “on top of the world.” - Russ and Blyth Carpenter (Authors of "The Blessings of Bhutan"). Important Note Most of our trips take place during the busy season and it is difficult to secure reservations on Druk Air and in Hotels in Paro, Thimphu, Wangdi Phodrang, Tongsa and Bumthang. The farther in advance that you book, the more likely it is that we can confirm the resrvation you choose. The rule of thumb is: Book as far in advance as possible, but don't hesitate to contact us at the last minute if free time suddenly comes your way. 13 Day Moderate Touring & Rigorous Trekking D1: Arrival in Paro D2: Punakha/Wangdi Phodrang Trek Begins D3: Meadow Camp (Distance: 12 km; 4-5 hours) D4: Meadow Camp to Gasa (Distance: 14 km; 5-6 hours) D5: Gasa to Koina or Riverside Camp (Distance: 14 km; 6-7 hours) D6: Riverside camp to Laya (Distance: 19 km; 6-7 hours) D7: Layover day at Laya D8: Riverside Camp D9: Gasa/Hot Spring D10: Damji/Punakha End of the Trek D11 & 12: Thimphu D13: Paro D14: Depart by Druk Air Choosing a Trek by Trip Rating A Rule of Thumb: Anyone who has no problem with an all-day hike should find our easy treks manageable. And anyone with backpacking experience and who is in good shape generally should have no trouble with a rigorous trek. Trekking Grade: Rigorous Physically more challenging and more suited to regular hill-walkers who are used to extended days and who are competent over difficult terrain. The trek involves several days of camping at high altitudes. Trip Overview: Moderate Touring with Moderate to Rigorous Trekking Adventure Trekking (with only a light daypack) 4-10 hours per day over varying terrain. Lodging Overview: 7 nights tent camping during trek and 6 nights in best available hotels and resorts on double occupancy basis with private bath   Meals You will eat well. We provide superb meals even in the most remote areas. Our selected hotels and restaurants offer delicious Chinese, continental, Bhutanese and Indian Cuisine. On trek, well trained cooks prepare dishes suitable to western taste ranging from Continental to Chinese and Bhutanese to Indian.