Phobjikha Valley (Gangtey) Travel

The Phobjikha Valley is a postcard-pretty valley two-and-a-half-hours southeast of Punakha. Commonly referred to as Gangtey, this scenic spot features a broad, flat valley floor cradled by conifer-blanketed slopes. Nature reigns supreme here, but not by happenstance.

Committed to conservation, the valley floor is completely undeveloped—when Phobjikha was modernized, electricity was buried underground to avoid disturbing the natural environment—making Gangtey a refuge for wildlife. Bears, deer, boar, and foxes wander the valley’s tranquil forests and meadows, and horses cross babbling streams. The misty wetlands also attract majestic and vulnerable black-neck cranes. Each fall, the birds depart the Tibetan Plateau, arriving in Bhutan where they remain until early spring. (Generally, November through March.) Reverence for cranes is palpable, and you don’t need to be a dedicated birder to appreciate them. Their arrival is hugely anticipated, as is their departure. Before leaving, they circle Gangtey Monastery three times in a clockwise direction (an auspicious number and direction in Buddhism), earning them the moniker “God’s Bird.” The apex of avian celebration takes place on November 11 during the annual Black Neck Crane Festival, with festivities set at the Gangtey Monastery. It’s a special opportunity for visitors to admire crane-inspired attire and performances—but you’ll need to book a year in advance—the festival is popularly attended.