Six Senses Gangtey

Sitting high on the slopes of the Phobjikha Valley (Gangtey), Six Senses Gangtey offers a bird’s-eye view of one of Bhutan’s most captivating landscapes: a deep glacial bowl with forest-covered mountains swooping high above flat plans, sleepy villages, and ancient temples where black-necked cranes fly and yak herders roam.

Standing sentry over this silent valley, the luxury property harmoniously combines cozy mountain lodge design with sleek Zen aesthetics. Set on the western slopes, nearly every space—from its eight well-balanced and inviting suites to the restaurant and lounges—boasts wall-to-wall windows, bathing the wooden indoors in sunshine and warmth. Decor and adornments are kept to a minimum: the main event is the panoramic valley vista. A two-bedroom villa generously accommodates multigenerational families or small groups.

But the massive windows serve another crucial purpose. Come October, flocks of endangered, black-necked cranes fly from Tibet to overwinter in the valley, settling in the protected conservation wetlands right below the hotel. Equipped with telescopes, all guests have to do is sit back and watch as these majestic birds breeze right past their balconies.

Home to a wealth of wildlife beyond cranes (think: barking deer and Himalayan black bears), head out on hikes and bike rides to see other fauna, or seek softer adventures like touring the 17th-century Gangtey Monastery. After full days of birdwatching and getting to know this reclusive valley, sweat it out with a Swedana steam therapy treatment before nourishing your body with organic, wholesome meals. Close out your day at a communal fire pit, in the cozy library, or in the movie and games room.

Six Senses luxury lodges are also found in Thimphu, Paro, Punaka, and Bumthang.