Gasa, the northernmost district of the country adjoins the districts of Punakha, Thimphu and Wangdue Phodrang and with Tibet to its north. This starkly beautiful region with elevations ranging from 1500 to 4,500 m experiences extremely long and cold winters and short but beautiful summers. 
It has the smallest population with just about 3000 inhabitants. This region is inhabited by the Layaps; nomadic herders with a unique culture. Their main source of revenue comes from trading products made from their yaks, such as yak hair textiles, cheese, butter and yak meat. They also harvest and sell Cordyceps, (a fungus of extremely high value that is frequently used in oriental medicine). The majority of the known herds of wild Takin also occur in Gasa.

Gasa has become a tourist destination because of its pristine forests and the exceptionally scenic location of its Dzong.  A narrow road from Punakha, which is mostly unpaved, reaches up to the Dzong and is now being extended up to Laya. Gasa Dzong was built by Zhabdrung in 1646 to commemorate the victories over the Tibetans and it later defended the country against several invasions in the 17th and 18th century. 
Gasa is famously known for its inhabitants, the Layaps, and for the Snowman Trek - one of the most challenging treks in the Himalayas. The newly established festival called the Royal Highlander Festival is becoming more popular each year. Attending this festival allows you to see the real feature of this remote Dzongkhag and should not be missed by travellers. Gasa is also famous for its healing hot springs, located around 2hrs walk at the bottom of the ridge. The hot spring is popular amongst Bhutanese all over the country during the winter. 

Places to Visit

1. Gasa Dzong (Tashi Thongmon Dzong)

Discover the historic Gasa Dzong, a magnificent fortress built in the 17th century by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel. Distinguished by its unusual circular design and strategically positioned watchtowers, the dzong stands on a hill overlooking the surrounding mountains. It is one of the region's most significant historical and architectural landmarks.

2. Gasa Tshachu (Natural Hot Springs)

Relax and enjoy the natural hot springs of Gasa, beautifully situated beside the Mo Chhu River. Known locally as Gasa Tshachu, the hot springs feature several bathing pools with different water temperatures, surrounded by peaceful mountain scenery.

3. Laya Village

Explore the remote highland settlement of Laya, home to the distinctive Layap community. The village is famous for its traditional houses, unique bamboo hats, colourful clothing and yak-herding traditions. Visitors can experience the remarkable cultural identity and hospitality of this highland community.

4. Lunana

Discover Lunana, one of Bhutan's most remote and spectacular highland regions. Surrounded by dramatic mountains, glaciers and alpine landscapes, the area is home to traditional highland communities whose lifestyles remain closely connected to nature and livestock herding.

5. Jigme Dorji National Park

Explore the natural heritage of Jigme Dorji National Park, one of Bhutan's largest protected areas. The park encompasses remarkable biodiversity, forests, alpine landscapes and habitats for several rare Himalayan wildlife species.

6. Royal Highland Festival

Experience the vibrant Royal Highland Festival, an annual celebration of Bhutan's highland communities and their cultural heritage. The festival showcases traditional music, dances, local products, livestock traditions and the distinctive lifestyle of the Layaps and other highland communities.

7. Traditional Highland Settlements

Visit the traditional settlements scattered throughout Gasa and discover the distinctive lifestyle of Bhutan's highland communities. Learn about yak herding, traditional weaving, local food and the cultural practices passed down through generations.

Hiking & Trekking

1. Gasa–Laya Trek

• Duration: Approximately 1–2 days, depending on the starting point and route.
• Difficulty: Challenging.

2. Laya–Gasa Trek

• Duration:  Approximately 12–14 days for the full Jomolhari–Laya–Gasa route.
• Difficulty: Challenging.

3. Snowman Trek

• Duration:  Approximately 25–30 days
• Difficulty: Very Challenging.