Laya Village is one of Bhutan’s most remote and high-altitude settlements, nestled at an elevation of over 3,800 meters (12,500 feet) in the northern reaches of Gasa. It is home to the Layaps, a semi-nomadic indigenous community known for their distinct language, unique traditions, and vibrant attire, particularly the women who wear conical bamboo hats and elaborate jewelry. Their lifestyle is deeply intertwined with yak herding and trade, adapting to the harsh mountain environment.

Reaching Laya usually involves a multi-day trek, making it an adventurous and immersive experience. A visit to Laya offers an extraordinary opportunity to witness a living nomadic culture, observe their unique customs, and experience their warm hospitality. It’s a profound cultural exchange that provides insights into the resilience and adaptability of traditional Himalayan communities, set against a backdrop of stunning untouched mountain scenery.