Lunana

Lunana is one of the most remote high-altitude villages in Bhutan, located in the far northeast of Gasa district at an elevation of approximately 4,000 m. It is widely considered one of the most isolated permanent settlements in the Himalayas. The village is home to the Lunanap people, a yak-herding community with a distinct dialect and culture.

Lunana is best known as the most remote stop on the Snowman Trek, the world-famous 25-day trekking route that crosses some of the highest passes in Bhutan. The surrounding landscape is stark and breathtaking — vast alpine valleys, glacial lakes, and towering peaks including Tsenda Gang (7,100 m). The village has no road access, no electricity grid, and minimal contact with the outside world for most of the year.

By Plane

Paro Airport (PBH IATA) is the nearest airport, but Lunana is only reachable on foot.

By Car / Road

Lunana has no road access. It is reached exclusively by multi-day trekking from Laya (3–4 days) or Gasa. The trek crosses passes above 5,000 m and is extremely challenging.

On foot. The village and surrounding yak pastures are walkable.

• Lunana village — A scattering of stone houses in an immense alpine valley.

• Yak herds — Thousands of yaks graze the surrounding pastures in summer.

• Glacial landscapes — Massive glacial valleys, moraines, and crystal-clear streams.

• Snowman Trek route — One of the world's great trekking experiences.

• Snowman Trek — Lunana is the most iconic stop on this epic route.

• Photography — The scale and isolation of the landscape are hard to capture in words.

• Cultural experience — Meet the Lunanap people, who have minimal contact with the outside world.

Basic meals with trekking groups. Tsampa, yak cheese, and suja (butter tea) are the local staples.

Treat all water. Suja (butter tea) is essential at this altitude.

Camping is the only option. Trekkers carry their own tents and supplies.

Nothing available. All provisions must be carried in.

• Laya — 3–4 days trek west. Another high-altitude village.
• Gasa — 5–7 days trek south. District headquarters.
• Thimphu — 14–18 days trek. Via the full Snowman Trek route.