What Everyone’s Asking
1. General Festival Information
1.What is the Royal Highland Festival?
The Royal Highland Festival is an annual celebration held in Laya, Bhutan, showcasing highland culture, traditions, and entrepreneurship, while promoting sustainable development and tourism.
2.When and where is the 2025 Festival happening?
The 7th Royal Highland Festival will take place in Laya, Gasa Dzongkhag, Bhutan on the 23rd and 24th of October.
3.What kind of activities can I expect at the festival?
Attendees can enjoy cultural performances, local markets, yak parades, local home stays, traditional games, and highland food experiences.
4.What is the weather like in Laya and what should I pack?
- Daytime: Crisp and sunny (10–15°C)
- Nighttime: Very cold, often dropping below 0°C
- Recommended gear:
- Layered clothing (thermal base, fleece, wind/waterproof outerwear)
- Gloves, beanies, hiking boots
- Sunscreen and sunglasses (UV is strong at high altitudes)
- Reusable water bottle and personal first aid kit
- A packing checklist will be provided to registered guests.
5.How can I stay updated on festival announcements?
Follow our official website and social media pages for real-time updates on schedules, travel info, and featured events.
6.What do tour packages for the Royal Highland Festival include?
Most RHF-focused tour packages include:
- Transportation (Only from and towards Thimphu)
- Accommodation (including homestays in Laya or Gasa)
- Guide and porter support
- Entry to the Royal Highland Festival
- Cultural and hiking add-ons (Gasa Soechu, Gangkar Phuensum base, etc.)
Contact your preferred operator early, as spots are limited due to trek logistics.
7.How can visitors prepare for the Laya trek?
Reaching Laya requires a moderate to strenuous trek from Taktsimakha, typically taking 6–8 hours each way. Visitors should be in good health and prepared for high-altitude conditions (up to 4,000m).
- Porter ponies are available and highly recommended for carrying luggage and ensuring safety.
- Appropriate footwear, trekking gear, and gradual acclimatization are essential.
2. Travel & Attendance
1.How can I register to attend the festival?
International visitors must register through a licensed tour operator. Bhutanese participants, vendors, media, and volunteers can register via the official website.
2.How do I get to Laya?
Travel involves a combination of road transport to Gasa and a guided trek to Laya. Detailed travel itineraries and tour options will be available on the site.
3.Are there tour packages available for international visitors?
Yes. Customized packages, including festival attendance, guided treks, and cultural experiences, will be available through Department of Tourism-approved operators.
3. Participation & Events
1.Can I participate as a vendor?
Yes. Vendors can apply through the vendor registration form on the website. Shortlisted participants will be contacted directly.
2.What is the Laya Run and how do I register?
The Laya Run is a high-altitude trail race promoting climate resilience and highland health. Registration and race details will be available in the Laya Run section.
4. International Visitors Information
1. What should international visitors know before attending the RHF?
All international guests must travel through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator as per national tourism policy. Tour operators will manage your visa application, itinerary, festival bookings, and local guides.
Book your travel through: https://services.bhutan.travel
2.What is the Laya Run and how do I register?
The Laya Run is a high-altitude trail race promoting climate resilience and highland health. Registration and race details will be available in the Laya Run section.