Gangtey Valley

Country: Bhutan | City: Gangtey Valley

Top Places to Visit: Phobjikha Valley, Gangtey Gompa

Ideal Trip Duration: 4 Full Days

Nearest City: Thimpu, Paro, Punakha, Trongsa, Bumthang

Best Time to Visit : November to March

Overview

Gangtey Valley Trek is one of and also the simplest low-altitude treks in Bhutan. The trek takes you to Phobjikha’s big green lush and glacial valley at an altitude of 3000 metres. The valley is also the winter habitat of the Tibetan plateau breeding black necked cranes. Eventually the trek begins from the Phobjikha Valley and finishes at the en-route of Tiki Zampa passing through the villages of Gogona and Khotoka.

The trekking trail meets mixed juniper, magnolia and rhododendron forests, as well as remote hamlets and farmlands. The great Gangtey monastery was established in the 17th century, after crossing the pass. Phobjikha village lies on the valley floor in a few kilometers down from the monastery. In addition to the plan, the lively Paro, the tiny capital-Thimphu and the former capital-Punakha. Visits to several historical and religious sites such as Punakha Dzong, Kyichu Lhakhang, Chimi Lhakhang and the most popular hike to the Taktsang Monastery ‘Tiger’s Nest’ perched in a vertical cliff are on the list as well.