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The Kingdom of Bhutan is an unexplored kingdom of Asia also known as “Druk Yul” The Land of Thunder Dragon, located in the southern foothills of Himalayan between China and India. The land is covered with magnificent mountains, panoramic valleys, dense forest with rare flora and fauna. Bhutan is well-known as a trekking destination. It is home to some of the world’s most difficult high-altitude treks.

The Gangtey Trek, also known as the Phobjikha Valley, is one of the few glacial valleys in the world. It is located in Wangduephodrang districts’ East Mountains at an elevation of 3000m/9,842ft. It is a winter stopover for endangered Black-necked Cranes migrating from the Tibetan plateau. The only Nyingmpa monastery on the western side of the Black Mountains is Gantey Gompa. There is a clear winding stream at the bottom of the valley, as well as cattle, sheep, and horses grazing freely.

The 3 trek begins with a drive from Thimphu to Gangtey. The Gangtey trek is moderately difficult. You will pass through several remote villages, meadows, fields, and a juniper, magnolia, and rhododendron forest. From there, you will hike to Gogona, crossing the Tsele La pass. Hike toward Khotokha crossing the Shobju La Pass and Through Chorten Karpo and Tashi La pass, you will reach Tikke Zampa, the trek’s endpoint, and then drive to Punakha.

Trip Facts

Trip Highlights 

• Scenic drive toward the Gangtey.
• Visit 17th-century Gangtey Gompa- the only Nyingmapa Monastery on the western side of the black mountains in central Bhutan.
• Trek through the beautiful glacial valley of Bhutan- Phobjikha valley.
• Witness the rare black-necked cranes in winter.
• Cross the Tsele La Pass, Shobju La Pass, and Tashi La pass.
• Pass through the Gangtey forested area.
• Witness the Bhutanese culture, traditions, and lifestyle.
• Hike to Tiger Nest Monastery- one of the most sacred pilgrim’s centers for Buddhists.
• Visit the beautiful dzongs in Paro, Thimphu, and Punakha.

Is this trek appropriate for you?

• The Gangtey Trek is the Moderate Trek. You can easily complete this trek if you are physically and mentally prepared and willing to do so.
• You will be Trekking for 3 Days. The Path can be completed in as little as 3 hours as much as 8 hours.
• The walk is not tricky, there is no Climbing or Scrambling but the path is rocky and hilly.
• Each day you will cover 200 to 400 meters in height while trekking. The Highest Point in the trek you will reach on the trek is 3,440m.
• The weather and Remoteness of this trek, as well as dealing with the high altitude, require a slow pace and the need to stay hydrated.

Itinerary