The Enchanting Phobjikha Valley

The Pele-la pass (3300m) on the black mountain range is the traditional boundary between the east and west regions, the diversion just ahead of the pass leads to beautiful Gangtey/Phobjikha valley.

Gangtey is the name given to the hilltop settlement while Phobjikha is the term given to the adjoining area that covers the valley and villages. Phobjikha has the distinction of being the most beautiful valley in Bhutan. Phobjikha valley also serves as the sanctuary area of the highly endangered black-necked crane that flock here during the colder months.

Both Gangtey and Phobjikha are famed for its picturesque scenery, monasteries, ecologically diverse wetlands, scenic walking trails, sustainable land use methods, organic agriculture and potato farming villages. Phobjikha Valley aims to create a model of community-based sustainable tourism that contributes to conservation of the natural environment, protects the crane’s habitat, conserves its local culture, and simultaneously contributes to socio-economic benefits for local communities.

The annual Black-necked Crane festival is held annually on 11th November in Gangtey-Phobjikha, the major wintering habitat of this heavenly bird. This festival is a major event conceived to uphold the importance of conserving the species and its habitat. The festival is also an occasion for the locals to rejoice and celebrate the arrival of this endangered species which becomes an inseparable part in their daily lives during the winter months.

 A trip to enchanting Gangtey/Phobjikha provides a great understanding on the harmonious coexistence between the people and environment.