Laya Camp
Laya Camp is a glamping-style retreat in Laya, Gasa district, in northwestern Bhutan, operated by Zhiwaling, a Bhutanese-owned hospitality group. Its 10 geodesic tents provide a base for exploring the surrounding mountains and highland culture, with a minimum stay of three nights.
Enquire About Your StayLaya Camp at a glance
| Detail | Information |
| Location | Laya, Gasa district, Bhutan |
| Accommodation | 10 geodesic tents |
| Operator | Zhiwaling |
| Minimum stay | Three nights |
| Final approach | Approximately two hours on foot from the road access point |
The walking time refers to the final approach to camp; allow additional time for the road journey.
Why stay at Laya Camp?
Some places deserve more than a passing visit. Give yourself time to notice the changing light, enjoy an unhurried walk and settle into the rhythm of your surroundings.
Laya Camp offers an opportunity to build your Bhutan journey around a longer highland stay. It is an appealing choice for travellers who value walking, cultural encounters and time outdoors.
Come with curiosity and leave room in your itinerary for the moments you cannot schedule.
You can also include a stay at the camp as part of the Laya Gasa Trek.
Discover highland life
The camp’s planned experiences include weaving, foraging and cooking with members of the local community, alongside walks and mountain viewpoints. Activities should be confirmed when booking.
Let your interests guide the experience. Ask about the stories behind local textiles, take an attentive approach to photography and make space to learn from the people you meet.
Experience the Royal Highland Festival
For a journey centred on highland culture, consider a visit during the Royal Highland Festival. Held in Laya, the festival celebrates Bhutan’s highland communities through traditional performances, animal parades, local produce and crafts. Bhutan’s tourism authority lists its annual dates as 23–24 October; confirm the programme for your travel year before booking.
A stay connected to skills and opportunity
Developed in collaboration with De-suung, the camp combines hospitality operations with training and employment opportunities for De-suung members.
Planning your visit
Build your itinerary around a comfortable pace, with time to prepare for the walking involved. Discuss acclimatisation, current access conditions and suitable activities with your travel specialist.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Laya?
The best time to visit Laya is April–May and mid-September–early November, when conditions are generally more favourable for walking and trekking. These periods are also suitable for travellers arriving via the Laya Gasa Trek, subject to weather and trail conditions. October is especially rewarding if you want to experience the Royal Highland Festival, traditionally held on 23–24 October, with highland cultural performances, local food, crafts and animal parades.
Can you drive directly to Laya Camp?
You have to walk approximately two hours from the road access point to reach the camp.
Can I include the camp in a longer Bhutan holiday?
Ask your travel specialist to build the stay into your wider itinerary, allowing sufficient time for transfers, walking and acclimatisation. Laya-Gasa route is a popular trekking itinerary in Bhutan.
Is Laya Camp suitable for families?
Discuss your children’s ages, walking experience and accommodation needs before booking. Suitability should be assessed against the journey and available facilities.
Plan your Laya journey
Tell us when you would like to travel, who is joining you and what you hope to experience. We’ll help you explore how a stay at Laya Camp by Zhiwaling could fit into your Bhutan holiday.
Plan My Laya StayThinking of Visiting Bhutan?
Let our friendly team of Travel Specialists guide you every step of the way. During peak travel periods, flights can book out months in advance — you can reserve your ticket with us at no cost, giving you peace of mind while you plan the rest of your journey.
Send Us a Message
Share your plans and one of our Bhutan Travel Specialists will be in touch.
