Geographical Expedition Package
Led by a specialist guide briefed on sub-Himalayan thrust geology, crossing Chele La into the secluded Haa Valley and on to remote Gasa.
Led by a local specialist guide briefed on the region's sub-Himalayan thrust geology, this expedition crosses Chele La — one of Bhutan's highest motorable passes — into the secluded Haa Valley, then continues to remote Gasa, ending with a soak in its medicinal hot springs (tshachu). Trip grade: moderate to challenging — remote roads and guided field walks.
Ideal for: Geography and geology enthusiasts, offbeat explorers
- Local geology briefing throughout the route
- 4x4 vehicle for remote, less-travelled roads
- Crosses Chele La, one of Bhutan's highest passes
- Farmhouse stays for authentic local immersion
- Soak in the medicinal Gasa hot springs (tshachu)
- Visits Bhutan's least-visited dzongkhags
The journey
Paro – Chele La – Haa Valley – Gasa – Punakha – Paro — a day-by-day plan operated by our licensed guides, with overnight stops, drive times and highlights confirmed before you travel.
Arrive Paro
Arrival, hotel check-in, and afternoon visit to Rinpung Dzong. Evening expedition briefing. Overnight at hotel, Paro.
Paro – Chele La Pass – Haa Valley
Cross Chele La Pass (3,988m) with views of Jomolhari and Jichu Drake on clear days, descending into the remote Haa Valley, opened to tourism only in 2002. Visit the twin temples of Lhakhang Karpo and Lhakhang Nagpo. Overnight at hotel/farmhouse, Haa.
Haa Valley geological walk
A guided walk through Haa's pastoral villages, discussing the region's distinctive slate and stone architecture and underlying geology. Overnight at hotel/farmhouse, Haa.
Haa – Punakha (transit)
Scenic transit day back through Paro and over Dochula Pass toward Punakha. Overnight at hotel, Punakha.
Punakha – Gasa
Drive north along the Mo Chhu river valley into Gasa Dzongkhag, Bhutan's most sparsely populated district, visiting Gasa Dzong. Overnight at hotel, Gasa.
Gasa hot springs (tshachu) & geological walk
Morning guided walk through the forest surrounding Gasa with your naturalist guide, followed by an afternoon soak in the Gasa Tshachu hot springs beside the Mo Chhu river. Overnight at hotel, Gasa.
Gasa – Punakha – Paro
Return through Punakha, visiting Punakha Dzong, before continuing to Paro via Dochula Pass. Overnight at hotel, Paro.
Departure
Transfer to Paro International Airport for your onward flight.
Geographical Expedition Package
Full package sheet — itinerary, inclusions and pricing notes. Tap to enlarge.
Included
Excluded
- Sustainable Development Fee and visa processing are handled by our TCB-licensed desk.
- Private vehicle, fuel, driver and a licensed English-speaking guide throughout.
- Best seasons: March–May and September–November; winter departures on request.
- Every itinerary is customisable — dates, hotels, pace and add-on days.