Chang Gangkha, Thimphu:Bhutan
Serenity Journeys Tours & Treks
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Before entering central Bhutan, the last town is Wangdue Phodrang Valley, which is located on the route to Gangtey. Wangdue Phodrang town and the Punakha valley are only 14 kilometers apart. The Wangdue Phodrang Dzong, a notable landmark perched atop a hill, is located in this small town. Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal constructed the Dzong in 1639 atop a ridge that resembles a sleeping elephant. Driving from Wangdue toward Trongsa, the stunning Gangtey valley is 60 kilometers away.
Gangtey is the name of the valley's upper region, and Phobjikha is its lower region. In the winter, this valley is well-known for the rare black-necked cranes. The only Nyingmapa monastery in the country's west is located in this valley and is called Gangtey Gompa.
Rich in flora and fauna, the picturesque Phobjikha valley is situated against the backdrop of the Black Mountain Range. This has drawn religious and ecotourism visitors to the valley, along with the Gangtey Monastery's religious significance. Gangtey Valley and Phobjikha Valley are interchangeable terms. The Phobjikha valley in Bhutan, which has an elevation range of 2,800 to 4,000 meters, is renowned for its beauty and timeless natural splendor. The Phobikha Valley is most beautiful in the spring, when a profusion of different rhododendron blossoms can be seen. And in late autumn, following the monsoon, when the Black Necked Cranes, the birds of heaven, arrive in a delightful deluge.
One of the biggest dzongkhags in the nation is Wangdue Phodrang. The district is dominated by the 1638-built dzong. Zhabdrung Rimpoche is credited with coming up with the name while looking for the ideal site for a dzong to stop attacks from the south. The Zhabdrung Rimpoche named the dzong "Wangdue's Palace" after they saw Wangdue, a boy, playing by the river at the designated location.
Encircled by Gangtey village, this is the only Nyingmapa school located west of Black Mountain. According to the well-known Saint Pema Lingpa's prophesies, it was constructed in the late 15th century. The Monastery is on a hill top overlooking Phobjikha valley, roosting ground of the Rare Black necked Cranes. This monastery holds an annual festival in November that is very similar to the Thimphu festival. At a height of 3000 meters is this stunning glacial valley. The best places to visit in Bhutan are Wangdue Phodrang's Gangtey and Phobjikha Valley.
This is an easy hike and is one of the most beautiful hikes. The Trail starts from Gangtey Gompa passing through Semchubara village. A short walk though coniferous forest takes you through the valley and ends near the Kewang temple. You can see the beautiful view of the Gangtey / Phobjikha valley, marshy wetland and the rare black necked Cranes. A highly recommended hike if you are staying in Gangtey for a full day.
