Central Bhutan
Gangtey / Phobjikha Valley
A glacial valley in central Bhutan, and the winter home of the rare, endangered black-necked crane.
Elevation: 3,000m / 9,800ft
Overview
The Phobjikha Valley, overlooked by Gangtey Monastery, is a wide U-shaped glacial valley that stands apart from Bhutan's typically steep, forested terrain. It's one of the few places in the country without a river running through it, which — along with local conservation efforts — makes it an ideal wintering ground for the black-necked crane.
Gangtey Goemba, the valley's Nyingma-school monastery, sits on a small hill overlooking the valley floor and is one of the oldest and largest Nyingma monasteries in Bhutan.
- Black-necked cranes wintering in the valley (November–March)
- Gangtey Goemba monastery
- The Gangtey Nature Trail, a gentle walk across the valley floor
- Black-Necked Crane Festival, held every November
- Traditional Bhutanese farmhouses with distinctive black-roofed architecture
Getting There
Gangtey/Phobjikha is roughly a 1.5-hour drive from Wangdue Phodrang, or about 4–5 hours from Thimphu, making it a common stop between central and western Bhutan itineraries.
Best Time to Visit
November through March is prime season for crane viewing, coinciding with the valley's crisp, dry winter climate. Spring and autumn are best for walking the valley's nature trails.