The glacier-carved valley where endangered black-necked cranes winter.
Two days in Phobjikha, one of Bhutan's most pristine glacial valleys and a RAMSAR-listed wetland. Walk the Gangtey Nature Trail past traditional farmhouses, visit the 17th-century Gangtey Gonpa monastery, and look for the rare black-necked cranes that migrate here from the Tibetan plateau (October-February). An unhurried retreat into rural Bhutan.
Highlights
- Gangtey Gonpa monastery
- Black-necked crane habitat (RAMSAR wetland)
- Gangtey Nature Trail
- Pristine glacial valley
Sample day-by-day itinerary
Your guide may adjust this based on conditions and your preferences.
1 Arrive Phobjikha — Gangtey Gonpa & Evening Crane Walk
Drive from Thimphu or Punakha into the broad, open Phobjikha Valley. Visit Gangtey Gonpa, the only Nyingmapa monastery in western Bhutan, with its sweeping valley views. Evening walk to the wetland viewing area — in season (Oct-Feb), hundreds of black-necked cranes roost at dusk.
2 Gangtey Nature Trail & Crane Information Centre
Morning 5km walk along the Gangtey Nature Trail through dwarf bamboo, traditional farmhouses, and forest. Visit the Royal Society for Protection of Nature's Black-Necked Crane Information Centre to learn about the cranes' migration from the Tibetan plateau. Afternoon departure.
Tour locations
Key stops and landmarks on this tour.
Choose your package
Prices are per person. Each package lists exactly what is included.
Comfortable & straightforward
$400
per person, all-inclusive
- Budget guesthouse
- All meals (farmhouse style)
- SDF ($100/night)
- Licensed guide
- Shared vehicle
- Crane sanctuary entry
The best-value Bhutan experience
$720
per person, all-inclusive
- Valley lodge (4 star)
- All meals
- SDF ($100/night)
- Licensed guide
- Private vehicle
- Crane sanctuary entry
- Nature trail with binoculars
Five-star Bhutan, no compromises
$1,450
per person, all-inclusive
- Boutique eco-lodge with valley views
- Fine dining
- SDF ($100/night)
- Senior naturalist guide
- Luxury vehicle
- Private crane spotting session
- Stargazing evening
Included
Only the items listed in your chosen package, including the SDF when shown.
Usually not included
International flights, travel insurance, visa application fee, tips, alcohol, and personal expenses unless listed.
The itinerary shows travel days. Accommodation nights and exact check-in dates are confirmed before payment.
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