Phobjikha Valley, also known as Gangtey Valley, is a picturesque glacial valley located in central Bhutan, at an altitude of about 3,000 meters (9,800 feet). Nestled on the western slopes of the Black Mountains, the valley is part of the Wangdue Phodrang District and is renowned for its natural beauty and ecological significance.
The valley is home to the endangered black-necked cranes, which migrate from Tibet every winter, making it a key conservation area. These graceful birds are deeply revered in Bhutanese culture, and their arrival is celebrated with an annual festival at the Gangtey Monastery.
Phobjikha is characterized by wide, open grasslands, pine forests, and traditional Bhutanese farmhouses, offering a serene escape from urban life. The Gangtey Monastery, one of the oldest and most important Nyingma institutions in Bhutan, overlooks the valley, adding cultural depth to the landscape.
Eco-tourism thrives here, with hiking trails like the Gangtey Nature Trail offering scenic walks through villages and woodlands. Due to its rich biodiversity and cultural heritage, Phobjikha is both a spiritual haven and a nature lover’s paradise.
