Its natural distribution extends from the Himalayas and eastern India to Myanmar and south-central China, although it is absent from Sri Lanka.

G. khasyana grows in forest at an elevation of 1400–1700 m. The trunk of this plant is erect and 5–7 m tall.

G. khasyana has a long, dark stipe that is covered in numerous scales.

Sori are borne near the midvein of fertile pinnules and lack indusia.

[3] The specific epithet khasyana refers to the Khasi Hills of India.