Overview
The Gasa Hot Spring Trek also offers an exhilarating journey through the pristine landscapes of Bhutan, combining the thrill of trekking with the relaxation of natural hot springs. This adventure is a perfect blend of scenic beauty, cultural exploration, and rejuvenation.
Beginning in the picturesque town of Gasa, the trek winds its way through lush forests, charming villages, and rugged terrains, providing trekkers with an authentic experience of Bhutan’s diverse topography. The trail showcases the rich biodiversity of the region, with rhododendron-filled forests and cascading waterfalls adding to the visual spectacle.
As trekkers ascend to higher altitudes, they are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan mountains, including glimpses of snow-capped peaks that pierce the sky. The trail also passes through traditional villages, allowing trekkers to interact with friendly locals and experience their unique way of life, deeply rooted in Bhutanese culture and traditions.
One of the highlights of the Gasa Hot Spring Trek is the opportunity to relax in the soothing waters of natural hot springs. Nestled amidst the rugged wilderness, these hot springs provide a perfect respite for weary trekkers, allowing them to soak in the mineral-rich waters while surrounded by the serenity of the mountains.
Throughout the journey, experienced guides also provide valuable insights into the local flora, fauna, and cultural heritage, enhancing the trekking experience with their knowledge and stories. Camping in well-selected spots along the trail adds an element of adventure, as trekkers immerse themselves in the remote beauty of the Bhutanese wilderness.
Conclusion and Summary
The Gasa Hot Spring Trek is suitable for trekkers with moderate fitness levels, and it offers an ideal introduction to Bhutan’s natural beauty and cultural richness. It’s a trek that caters to both adventure enthusiasts and those seeking a more tranquil escape. With its combination of awe-inspiring landscapes, cultural encounters, and the therapeutic touch of hot springs, the Gasa Hot Spring Trek promises an unforgettable journey that lingers in the heart and soul long after the trek is complete.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 01: Arrival Paro (2,250m) – Sightseeing
Arrive Paro by the Bhutanese National Carrier flying over the world’s highest mountains and finally landing at the lush green Paro valley. A cool and clean fresh air greets the visitor as stepping down from the plane, the first gift of Bhutan. After clearing customs and visa formalities, meet the representatives and the Bhutanese guide, and a short tour brief by the guide then transfer to Paro town for lunch. After lunch visit Ta Dzong. Ta Dzong, once a watchtower, built to defend Rinpung Dzong during inter-valley wars of the 17th century.
It was inaugurated as Bhutan’s National Museum in 1968. Afterwards visit Rinpung Dzong. Rinpung Dzong built in 1646 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the first spiritual and temporal ruler of Bhutan; the Dzong continues its age-old function as the seat of the district administration, district court and the monastic body. The southern approach to the Dzong has a traditional roofed cantilever bridge called Nemi Zam. Overnight at Hotel.(Lunch/Dinner included)
Day 02: Paro – Thimphu (2,350m) Sightseeing
After breakfast, drive towards Thimphu (the capital of Bhutan) which is about 1 & half hours drive. En-route Thimphu, one can do a short hike to Tamchog Monastery, a private temple owned by the descendents of famous Tibetan bridge – builder Thangthong Gaylpo. Later on continue the drive to Thimphu and visit Buddha point for a stunning view of Thimphu city and Takin Compound: One the way to the Viewpoint over Thimphu is the home of Bhutan’s national animal, the Takin, a strange looking beast which some say resembles a beestung moose. The Bhutanese have their own story to narrate about how the Takin was created by the Master Drukpa Kuenley (the divine madman).(Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner included)
In Thimphu visit Tashi Choe Dzong: The fortress of the glorious religion was initially constructed in 1641 and rebuilt by King Jigme Dorji Wangchuk in the 1960s. Visit the Folk Heritage Museum – a 300 year old traditional house converted into a museum. (Both open Mon-Fri). Brush shoulders with the everyday Bhutanese grocery shopping for local produce at the Centenary Farmers Market (Open Fri – Sun). Also see the new authentic craft bazaar (Close on Tue) of 80 stalls showcasing works by artisans from rural areas will showcase. Overnight at Hotel.(Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner included)
Day 03: Thimphu – Punakha (1,310m)
After early breakfast, drive towards Punakha which is about 1 & half hour passing along Dochu La Pass at 3140m. On clear weather, the pass commands a wonderful panorama of the Eastern Himalayas. From the pass, the road descends through varied forest and finally emerging into the highly cultivated valley of Punakha. Take a short hike through beautiful rice fields to Chimmi Lhakhang, a temple dedicated to Drukpa Kuenley, who as a favorite saint of the Bhutanese people is known affectionately as “the Divine Madman”. The temple is on a hillside in the middle of rice fields and has become a pilgrimage site for childless couples. In the afternoon, visit Punakha Dzong. Located at the confluence of the Pho-chu (male-river) and Mo-chu (female-river), the Punakha Dzong is arguably the most impressive dzong in the country. Overnight at Hotel.(Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner included)
Day 04: Drive to Tashithang (1,840m) & trek to Geon Damji (2,430m)
After an early breakfast, drive through the valley of Punakha on the Mo-chu side to Tashithang which will be approx. 18 km and 1 & half hours drive. Start the trek at Tashithang (1840m) and camp at Geon Damji (2430m). First the trail gradually climbs up above the Mo-chu into the lush semi-tropical forest filled with banana trees, creepers and different kinds of orchids. If luck favours ‘Takin’ the national animal can be seen on the other bank of Mo-chu. Geon Damji is a large village with rice terraces along side. Overnight at camp (Walking Duration: 5-6 hrs)(Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner included)
Day 05: Trek to Gasa Hotspring (2,240m)
Today, the trail gradually passes through oak forests and also different varieties of orchids can be spotted along the way. Before reaching Gasa, a Dzong can be seen from the view point. The trail to Gasa Hot spring is to descend through quite thick forest and mini bamboo. Overnight at Camp. (Walking Durations: 4-5 hrs)(Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner included)
Day 06: Rest at Gasa Hotspring (2,240m)
The day will be at leisure and to try out the hot spring located by the bank of a stream. There are cement pools to dip into. The day can also be spent going up to Gasa Dzong with packed lunch. The trek to Gasa Dzong will be quite a tough climb and takes about 2 hours upto an elevation of 2770m. Overnight at Camp.(Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner included)
Day 07: Trek to Geon Damji (2,430m)
The trail winds through rolling hillsides with vistas of fields, villages and Oak and Pine forests. Gasa Dzong will be visible behind glued to the valley wall as the trek proceeds ahead. The route goes through small settlements and finally at camp of Geon Damji – a large village with rice terraces on the hillsides. Overnight at Camp. (Walking Duration: 5-6 hrs)(Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner included)
Day 08: Trek to Tashithang (1840m) & drive to Punakha (1,310m)
Start from Geon Damji and end at the vehicle point at Tashithang. From here it is 18 km (1 hour drive) to Punakha but the initial 5-6 km is unpaved road. Upon arrival in Punakha, check-in hotel. Overnight at Hotel. (Walking Duration: 5 hrs)(Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner included)
Day 09: Punakha – Thimphu (2350m)
Drive to visit a stunning hill-top nunnery – Sangchen Dorji Lhundrup Chholing. Have a chat with the nuns and enjoy the charm of the surrounds! The main temple dedicated to the bodhisattva of compassion (Avaloketeshvara) and next to the temple is a beautiful Stupa and there are slate carvings of religious figures. Re-crossing Dochula and drive towards Thimphu upon arrival check-in hotel. Overnight at Hotel (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner included)
Day 10: Thimphu – Day excursion to Haa Valley (2740m) – Paro
After breakfast, drive over the Chelela pass (3899 m). From the pass, good view of the Himalayan Ranges and the valley beyond can be spotted. Then continue the drive towards Haa. Haa made up of five counties and closed to outside world until 2002. There is a military camp by the Indian Army. In Haa valley, visit Wangchucklo Dzong dating back to 1915. Lhakhang Nakpo (Black temple) said to have built by pigeon emanation of King Songtsen Gampo in the 7th century. Lhakhang Karpo (white temple). After the visit drive to Paro. Overnight at Hotel (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner included)
Day 11: Paro – Hike to Taktsang Monastery (3,120m)
Early in the morning, make an excursion to Taktsang Monastery – this has to be the monastery with the most outstanding setting in Bhutan. Set on a vertical cliff face at 2950m above sea level, it defies all engineering logic. For the energetic, hike 2 hours up to get a more dramatic view of the monastery. (The hike demands a certain level of fitness and a pony ride to the monastery can be arranged at additional cost). Just on the outskirts of Paro town, visit Kyichu Lhakang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan and have the opportunity to meet the local villages in a local farm house. Overnight at Hotel.(Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner included)
Day 12: Paro depart
After breakfast, drive to the Paro airport in time to catch the onward flight. Bid farewell to the remote and legendary Dragon Kingdom disappears again behind its guardian mountains.(Breakfast only included)