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Imagine Asia  >  Destinations  >  Bhutan  >  Gangtey
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Gangtey

Located in a glacial valley on the western slopes of the Black Mountains, lies Gangtey, one of the most beautiful spots in Bhutan. The wide, flat valley offers stunning panoramic views, and is home to the endangered Black-necked Cranes - Bhutan’s ‘heavenly birds’.

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J F M A M J J A S O N D

At an altitude of 2,900m, Phobjikha Valley (or Gangtey Valley) lies on the periphery of the Black Mountain National Park with two beautiful meandering rivers flowing through it – Nakay Chhu and Gay Chhu – which according to local legend represent a snake and boar. As one of Bhutan’s few glacial valleys, it differs from others by being unusually flat and wide, making it the largest and most significant wetland in the country.

The Black Mountains National Park (Jigme Singye Wangch) is the third largest park in the country, home to an amazing 450 species of birds and other key species which include the Golden Langur, Red Panda and Tiger. The valley is best known for the flocks of endangered black-necked cranes that descend on the valley each winter as they migrate from Tibet and the region has been officially declared as a conservation area to protect this rare species. Referred to as ‘heavenly birds’, the black-necked cranes are deeply embedded in Bhutanese culture and traditions.

Perched on top of a small hill, overlooking the valley of Phobjikha, lies the Gangtey Goempa. This is the only Nyingmapa monastery on the western side of the Black Mountains as well as being the biggest Nyingmapa monastery in the whole of Bhutan. Dating back to the mid-17th century, the monastery is still surrounded by a large village of families, inhabited mainly by the families of the 140 Gochems who take care of the monastery.

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Gangtey, Bhutan

Blending traditional Bhutanese style with the design and flair of a luxury boutique retreat, Gangtey Lodge offers stunning accommodation with extraordinary attention to detail, sweeping views of the Phobjikha Valley and a sense of complete tranquillity.

Gangtey Lodge

Gangtey, Bhutan

One of the leading luxury Aman hotels, Amankora Gangtey is the perfect base for exploring the Phobjikha Valley. Set on a forested knoll, this stylish and inviting accommodation enjoys incredible views of a glacial valley untouched by the modern world.

Amankora Gangtey

Gangtey, Bhutan

Framed by a towering pine forest on the edge of the Black Mountain National Park, Dewachen Hotel and Spa is a traditionally-styled guesthouse full of Bhutanese charm and comfort, perfectly located for those wishing to explore the Phobjikha Valley.

Hotel Dewachen

Gangtey, Bhutan

Hidden in the Phobjikha valley amongst lush forests of bamboo, lies the remote village of Gangtey and the serene, minimalist Six Senses. With breathtaking views of the valley, the small lodge offers a tranquil retreat in spectacular surrounds.

Six Senses Gangtey

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Thimpu, Punakha, Paro

Discover one of Asia’s most beguiling destinations. Taking in the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, the thriving capital city of Thimpu and some of Asia’s most stunning scenery, this 8 night itinerary offers the perfect introduction to the Kingdom of Bhutan.

8 nights from $4963 per person Imagine Favourites

Classic Bhutan

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Gangtey, Bhutan

Walking through the Gangtey valley, its floor swathed in rhododendron plants and winding crystalline streams, you’ll be surrounded by the extraordinary wealth of flora and fauna found in this picture-perfect landscape.

Gangtey Nature Trail

Gangtey, Bhutan

This relatively short hike to 3,400m affords exceptional 360° views of the Gangtey Valley and beyond to the Himalayan peaks of Bhutan’s northern border.

Gangtey 360 Hike

Gangtey, Bhutan

Today you will have a relaxing half day with your guide to explore Gangtey visiting some of the highlight sites including Gangtey Goemba and the Crane Centre.

Half Day in Gangtey

Gangtey, Bhutan

Descending on the Gangtey Valley every winter, the famed and revered black-necked crane is one of the region’s most famous residents and a visit to the Crane Information Centre offers a chance to spot these protected birds.

Crane Information Centre

Gangtey, Bhutan

This incredibly scenic and varied trail leads through bamboo forests, villages of charming Bhutanese homes and glorious rainbows of rhododendrons. Picturesque landscapes unfold before you as the pathway winds its way through the Gangtey valley.

Longtey Hike

Gangtey, Bhutan

Set on a forest-clad hill, overlooking the verdant Gangtey valley, Gangtey Goenpa is a beautiful and highly significant monastery and a visit here provides an opportunity to explore the Nyingma sect of Bhutanese Buddhism.

Visit the Gangtey Goenpa

Gangtey, Bhutan

Marking the arrival of the rare and revered migratory cranes, the Black-necked Crane Festival is a vibrant celebration of this elegant bird, combining cultural performances with a focus on conservation.

Black Necked Crane Festival

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Boutique Nepal and Bhutan

Bhutan in Style

Classic Bhutan

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