Bhutanese hospitality group Zhiwaling has opened a new luxury tented camp in Laya, one of the country’s highest permanently inhabited settlements, located at around 3,800 metres above sea level.
Named Laya Camp, the property features 10 geodesic tents and offers visitors an opportunity to experience Bhutan’s highland culture, mountain landscapes and traditional way of life. The camp welcomed its first guests during the Royal Highland Festival on October 23 and 24, 2026. Bookings are now open, with a minimum stay of three nights. Developed in collaboration with De-suung, Bhutan’s national volunteer service, the project aims to promote sustainable tourism while creating employment and skill-development opportunities for local communities. Guests can enjoy guided walks and cultural experiences, including traditional weaving, foraging and local cooking.
Visitors must undertake an approximately two-hour walk from the nearest road access point to reach the camp. Located in the remote Laya region of northwestern Bhutan, the property offers an alternative to traditional homestays and trekking camps. The launch expands Zhiwaling’s hospitality presence beyond its established properties in Paro and Thimphu. Both Zhiwaling Heritage and ASCENT by Zhiwaling have received One MICHELIN Key recognition in the 2026 MICHELIN Guide hotel selection.
The new camp is expected to strengthen community-based tourism in Laya while introducing travellers to Bhutan’s distinctive highland heritage and natural beauty.