Gangtey

Elevation 3,000 meters

The name commonly given to the Phojikha Valley, Gangtey is considered one of the most beautiful spots in Bhutan. It is a wide, flat glacial valley, well worth a visit of one or two days.

The area is best known as the home of the rare Black-necked Cranes, and thus is a protected area for wildlife. In Bhutan, the Black-necked Cranes have a celebrity status, as evidenced by the Crane Festival held every year on 12 November. Soon after their arrival from the Tibetan Plateau, the cranes circle the the Gangtey Gonpa before settling into their winter habitat.

Perched on top of a small hill, Gangtey Gonpa is a monastery complex with five temples that surround the main central tower. It is one of the main seats of the religious tradition based on Pema Lingpa's revelations and one of the two main centres of the Nyingmapa school of Buddhism in Bhutan.

Trekking is a popular tourism attraction in Gangtey. The route followed by international trekking enthusiasts starts from the Gangtey Gonpa, passing through the Kumbu village, goes through the Gedachen and Khebayathang villages, leads to the Kilhorthang village and terminates in the Kungathang Lhakhang.

There is also a shorter trek of about 90 minutes, known as the Gangtey Nature Trail, starts from the mani stone wall to the north of the Gangtey Gonpa and ends in Khewa Lhakhang.

The most luxurious accommodation is Amankora Gangtey, which has outstanding views of the Gangtey Gonpa. The hotel has an excellent restaurant and a library. Guests are treated to an envigorating hote-stone bath, infused with fresh artemesia.

Other hotels are the Dewachen Hotel, with 16 spacious rooms; and the Gakiling Hotel.