Gangtey Trekking

Trip Information

Gangtey Trekking offers Phobjikha Valley, at 3000 meters is in one of the few glacier valleys in Bhutan. It is the chosen home of the rare black–necked cranes which migrate here in winter from the Tibetan Plateau. The valley of Gangtey is one of the most beautiful places in Bhutan and the Gangtey Gompa monastery is the only Nyingmapa monastery on the western side of the Black mountains. This moderate trek passes through the village of Gogona and Khotokha, through meadows and fields, then forest of juniper, magnolia and rhododendrons. One of the finest low level Treks in Bhutan.

Day 1 : Arrive Paro International Airport 
During the journey to Paro, one will experience breath-taking view of Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga and other famous Himalayan peaks, including the sacred Jumolhari and Mount Jichu Drake in Bhutan. On arrival at Paro International Airport, you will be received by representatives of Adventure Pilgrims Trekking (P) Ltd) and escort you to the Hotel where arrangements have been made for the night.

Day 2 : Paro Sightseeing
Morning: Drive to Drukgyal Dzong (a ruined fortress - 16 km away from Paro Town). Although in ruins, this Dzong is of great historical importance. It was here that the Bhutanese finally defeated the invading Tibetans and drove them back. From here, the peak of Jumolhari (Mountain of the Goddess) can be seen on a clear day (Alt. 7,329m/ 24,029 ft.) On the way back, you will visit a typical Bhutanese farmhouse. Visit Rinpung Dzong. This massive fortress is located in the Paro Valley and houses the District Administration office and the Monk Body. It was built in 1645 AD. Lunch at the Hotel. Afternoon: Visit the National Museum (Ta - Dzong). This was actually the Watch Tower of the Rinpung Dzong. It was converted into the National Museum in 1968. Tea at the Hotel and drive to Thimphu (Capital). Thimphu is 65 km and two hours drive from Paro. Overnight in Hotel.

Day 3 : Thimphu Sightseeing
Morning: Visit the Memorial Chorten, a huge Stupa built in memory of the third King who reigned the Kingdom from 1952 to 1972. Visit the National Library where ancient manuscripts are preserved. Visit the Wood Craft and Painting school where traditional art and craft are still kept alive. Visit Handicrafts Emporium where Bhutanese textiles and other arts are displayed and can be purchased. After lunch, visit Simtokha Dzong, which is located 6 km from Thimphu Town. This is one of the oldest fortresses in Bhutan built in 1629 AD. Visit Tashichho Dzong. This massive structure houses part of the Government Ministries, the office of the King and the Throne Room. It also houses the State Monastic Body and the living quarters of the senior monks and the Chief Abbot. It is the main Secretariat building. Evening stroll freely in the town.

Day 4 : Thimphu - Gangtey
Drive to Gangtey, which is 90 km from Thimphu. On the way, halt at Dochula pass (26 km, alt. 3100m) for tea and snacks and to enjoy the most spectacular view of the eastern Himalayan mountain ranges (the view is possible only on a clear day). Also visit Punakha (60 km) the former capital of Bhutan. The Punakha Dzong lies between two rivers known as Phochu and Mochu, which mean " Male River and Female River ". The Dzong now houses the District Administration office and the winter residence of the State Monastic Body and its Chief Abbot. It was built in 1637 AD by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. Overnight in the Guesthouse. The Guesthouse in Gangtey is not luxurious but very clean and comfortable. The food is excellent. Gangtey is a beautiful place surrounded by Snowcapped mountains in the distance with a landscape of rolling hills and green meadows. It is situated at an altitude of 3000m. From Gangtey, one can closely view the picturesque Black Mountain ranges as well as the beautiful Phobjikha valley. Gangtey Goenpa (Gangtey Monastery) is perched atop a small hill that rises from the valley floor. The Monastery is surrounded by a large village inhabited mainly by the families of the 140 Gomchens (Lay Monks) who take care of the Monastery. The Gangtey Goenpa is the only Nyingmapa Monastery on the western side of the Black Mountains and is also the biggest Nyingmapa monastery in Bhutan.

Day 5 : Gangtey - Gogona
Begin the Gangtey Trek. Riding ponies can be provided if required. The trail winds through meadows and fields and the climb take you through a mixed forest of juniper, bamboo, magnolia and rhododendron to Tselela pass (3320m). Overnight in camp at alt. 3000m. Distance 16 km, and time 5-6 hours.

Day 6 : Gogona - Khotokha
A gentle climb leads to Shobjula pass (3390m). The descent from the pass leads to a wide valley, surrounded by beautiful mountain ranges Overnight in camp. Distance 16 km. Time 6-7 hours.

Day 7 : Khotokha - Chuzomsa
A short ascent will bring you to the Tashila pass (2780m). You can walk through an ever-changing landscape into the drainage of Dangchu. ( Chu means River). Overnight in camp.

Day 8 : Chuzomsa - Paro
Walk from Chuzomsa to the motor road takes about 45 minutes. Drive to Paro (75 km). Lunch on the way in Thimphu and drive on to Paro. ( Thimphu falls on the way with only 6 km diversion.) Overnight in Hotel.

Day 9 : Paro Excursion to Taktsang
Drive up to Satsam Chorten (10 km from Paro Town) and walk to Taktsang Monastery. The name Taktsang means ‘Tiger’s Nest’. The Monastery is perched on a rocky ledge with a sheer drop of nearly 3000 ft. and overlooks the Paro Valley. Taktsang is one of the most venerated pilgrim sites in the Himalayan world and it has 13 holy places. However, most people can only visit the main site called Taktsang Pelphug. According to the legend, Guru Padmasambhava founded Taktsang Monastery in the eighth century. It is believed that the Guru came to this place on the back of a tigress from Khengpajong in the Kurtoe region and meditated for three months in a cave at Taktsang and converted the Paro valley to Buddhism.

Day 10 : Paro International Airport. Seen off by our representative.

Included in the Cost