Gasa Himalayas & Glacials - Ati Jong Ati Jong

GASA HIMALAYAS(1,500 - 7,200M)

Located on the extreme Northwest, Gasa Bhutan holds a significant place in history as Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal came to Bhutan via Gasa in the early 17th century. The first Druk Desi (secular ruler) of Bhutan, Tenzin Drugyel, also came from the well-known house of Hobtsho Lams in Gasa. Although quite remote, with far-flung highland communities in the north, Gasa’s natural splendors are unrivaled. In fact, the entire Dzongkhag falls within the Jigme Dorji national park, which is home to rich biodiversity, fauna, and flora. Gasa is also home to some of the highest peaks in the kingdom. Over a hundred glacial lakes, at the foot of these greater Himalayan peaks, feed some of the major river systems in the country, including the Pho Chhu and the Mo Chhu of Punakha. Gasa, Bhutan is popular for its famed hot spring (tsachus), unique highland culture, and trekking trails that cut across one of the most difficult yet exotic terrains and mountain passes in the country. Distance from Thimphu: 135 km 4-5 hours (via Punakha) Best Time to Visit: Spring and Autumn

FACTS ABOUT GASA

Gasa experiences extremely long winters and short but beautiful summers.

Gasa has a small population of 3000 inhabitants

The place has a unique culture

It is famous for yak hair textile

Gasa also harvest and sell Cordyceps

The town was build in 1646

Gasa is known for Snowman Trek

he place popular for its healing hot springs

GASA DZONG

The fortress of Gasa (Gasa Dzong), locally known as Tashi Thongmoen Dzong, stands tall on a hillock surrounded by towering mountain peaks. The fortress served as defending barrack in the 17th century. The fortress’s architecture is unique with a semi-circular arch and three watchtowers the at are places at strategic points. The beauty of the Dzong is heightened during clear days with a view of Mt. Gangbom at the backdrop.

GASA TSHACHU

Gasa Tshachu ( Gasa Hot Spring) The hot spring of Gasa is situated close to the banks of the Mo Chhu River and is accessible by road. Believed to have healing powers, the famed hot springs draw people from near and far, the locals as well as tourists. A trip to Gasa is incomplete without taking a dip in the Gasa hot spring. In addition, there are over 104 menchus (medicinal spring water) in Gasa.

LAYA VILLAGE

Laya Village, known as the highland of yaks, lies in north-western Bhutan at 3,800 meters, nestled between Masang Gang, Gangchen Taag, and Gangla Karchung. Famous for its cordyceps “diamond mines,” the village is home to the Layaps, a semi-nomadic people who have preserved their unique culture, traditions, and costumes. Visiting during the triennial Owlay Festival offers the richest cultural experience. Key sites include Yongzhu Lhakhang, Jangsa Dzong, and Dung Goempa.

LUNANA VALLEY

One of the remotest human settlements in Bhutan, the people of Lunana reside among the Himalayan glaciers. It takes four to nine days on foot to reach the villages in Lunana. People of Lunana mostly depend on yak and sheep rearing. The nomads also harvest Cordyceps Sinensis. Many Lunaps migrate to lower altitudes to escape the long harsh winters. You can also visit Tshojong Dzong and Toenchoe Lhakhang in Lunana.

GLACIAL

Bhutan, with altitudes ranging from 600 to 5,800 m, is home to 677 glaciers and over 2,600 glacial lakes, mostly above 3,500 m. Many are used for yak grazing and occasional temporary settlements. Treks like Laya–Gasa or the Snowman Trek reveal stunning glacial lakes, considered sacred and inhabited by spirits. Gasa alone has over a hundred glacial lakes feeding major rivers, and helicopter tours offer a mesmerizing view of these pristine landscapes and the impact of climate change. Lhuntse, one of Bhutan’s remotest dzongkhags in the northeast, is spiritually significant, culturally diverse with shamanic Bon rituals, and worth visiting for Khoma, Gangzur, and Takila villages.

GASA NATURE TRIP

Undoubtedly one of the toughest treks in the world, the Snowman Trek starts from Laya into the high altitudes of the Himalayas. The Trek takes tough and enduring trekkers into Lunana region and further on to Gangkhar Puensum and Bumthang or down to Sephu in Wangdue, depending on the route. Trekkers have to camp above 5000m more than once.

GASA HIMALAYAS(1,500 - 7,200M)

FACTS ABOUT GASA

GASA DZONG

GASA TSHACHU

LAYA VILLAGE

LUNANA VALLEY

GLACIAL

GASA NATURE TRIP

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