Himakshi Panwar
Navigating a 200 km stretch from Paro to Gasa, you pass through Thimphu and Punakha, immersing in Bhutan's diverse landscapes.
En route from Paro to Gasa, a vital hanging footbridge in Punakha connects a small village to the main road, serving pedestrians and supplies.
Mules and donkeys are the sole means to transport cargo and people from the base camp to Laya and Lunana.
Man leads yak to the Royal Highland Festival's Best Yak Competition, where offerings like yak cheese are top picks
At Laya Basecamp canteen, expect a warm welcome and relish a breakfast of rice, fried pork, green vegetables, and red chilli.
Bhutan's integral 'tsechus' (festivals) include the Royal Highland Festival, honouring Highlander community contributions.
Dancers line up to welcome HM the King at the Royal Highland Festival, turning Laya into a bustling hub of activities.
Dzongs (fortresses) play a crucial role in Bhutan's cultural landscape, originally designed for defence and later adapted to serve religious and administrative functions.