This is no ordinary travel adventure — it’s a high-altitude quest into Bhutan’s rugged alpine wilderness, and there’s no guarantee of success.

Cordyceps, the elusive “caterpillar fungus,” appears only briefly each year, usually from late May to mid-July, when the snow retreats and the alpine meadows come alive.

The timing also coincides with a rare chance of spotting a snow leopard; as they venture lower in search of yak herders’ calves, adding a touch of wild unpredictability to the journey.

To reach its habitat, you’ll join a local Layap on a multi-day foray into the mountains, camping under vast Himalayan skies. Your role will be that of a respectful participant—assisting local harvesters in their meticulous search—but in accordance with Bhutan’s strict conservation laws, you will not be allowed to keep any fungus you help locate. Only the local community is permitted to harvest and sell cordyceps, ensuring this precious resource remains a sustainable livelihood for the Layap people.

This journey is as much about the challenge as the reward: thin air, cold nights, and uncertain bounty, all set against one of the most breathtaking landscapes on Earth.

But the expedition is far more than the hunt for a rare fungus. You can also:

1. Explore Laya and its culture — meet the Layap people, learn their traditions, and share stories over yak butter tea.
2. Visit Punakha Dzong, Bhutan’s magnificent riverside fortress-monastery.
3. Spend a night in a monastery or rural farmhouse, experiencing Bhutanese hospitality at its purest.
4. Discover Thimphu, the modernized yet deeply traditional capital.
5. End your journey with blessings at Tiger’s Nest Monastery, perched dramatically on a cliffside.

And for those who wish to balance rugged adventure with refined comfort, add a night or two in Bhutan’s most exclusive luxury retreats—from the serene wellness of &Beyond Punakha River Lodge and Como Uma Paro to the ultra-luxe Aman Kora and Six Senses properties.

This journey is as much about the challenge as the reward: thin air, cold nights, uncertain bounty, deep cultural connection, and the rare privilege of walking in the footsteps of Bhutan’s highland harvesters—ending in comfort, reflection, and blessings in one of the world’s most extraordinary.

This is a one-of-a-kind adventure, open to only a select few each season.

Get in touch with Breathe Bhutan today to craft your private, tailor-made Bhutan expedition—from the highland cordyceps harvest to the country’s most exclusive cultural and luxury experiences.

What Is Cordyceps?

Cordyceps sinensis, also called the caterpillar fungus, is a rare medicinal fungus that grows in alpine meadows above 3,500 meters. Highly prized in traditional medicine, it forms a critical part of the Layap community’s seasonal livelihood.

Season for Cordyceps Harvesting.

• The harvesting season is typically late May to mid-July.

• During this period, travelers can join Layap collectors in their meadows, witnessing the meticulous search for this rare fungus.

• Travelers cannot keep any Cordyceps, as harvesting and selling is strictly regulated for sustainability.

Snow Leopard Sightings

• Laya is part of Bhutan’s high Himalayan ecosystem, where snow leopards occasionally roam.
• While sightings are rare and never guaranteed, the journey offers excellent opportunities for wildlife observation and photography.

Trip Highlights

• Trek through pristine alpine landscapes, rhododendron forests, and high mountain passes.
• Cultural immersion with the Layap people, including tea ceremonies and storytelling.
• Visit Bhutanese landmarks like Punakha Dzong, Thimphu, and Tiger’s Nest Monastery.
• Combine adventure with comfort at luxury retreats such as &Beyond Punakha River Lodge, Como Uma Paro, Aman Kora, and Six Senses properties.

Why Choose This Trip?

1. Rare Alpine Experience: Witness Cordyceps harvesting and the stunning highland wilderness.

2. Wildlife Opportunity: Chance to spot the elusive snow leopard.

3. Cultural Insight: Learn from the Layap community’s traditions and way of life.

4. Sustainable Tourism: Support local livelihoods while respecting fragile ecosystems.