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Gangtey Trekking - 9 Days

Gangtey Trekking

Gangtey trekking is a moderate trek to the home of black necked cranes in Bhutan who migrate here for winters. This trek of Phobjikha valley at 3000 meters is one of the few glacial valleys in Bhutan. It is chosen home of the rare Black-necked cranes who migrate here in winter from Tibetan plateau. Also 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. The moderate trek visits the village of Gogona and Khotokha, passing through meadows and fields, then forests of juniper, magnolia and rhodendrons. It is one of the finest low level treks in Bhutan.

Trek Level: Easy
Season : March to June & September to November

Itinerary

Day 1 Arrive Paro - Thimphu:
Arrive at Paro Airport (Altitude: 2320meters above sea level): The flight into the Himalayas reveals scenic and breathtaking views of Himalayan Mountains of the world. If weather permits you will be able to see Mt Everest (8848 meters) and other Himalayan mountain ranges. Landing in the Paro valley, surrounded by 4000 meters high mountains stretching across the west of Bhutan, enables you to have a visual landing which is indispensable and that makes your day an unforgettable one. our Bhutanese representative welcome on arrival in Bhutan and drive you through the beautiful valley of Paro to the capital city Thimphu. (2 hours drive). Visit Zorig Chusum Institute 13 traditional arts and crafts. It was established in 1971 by the Royal Government in order to preserve the invaluable heritage and promote the arts of Bhutan, Tashichho Dzong (Fortress of the glorious religion) houses the throne room of His Majesty the King, the main secretariat building and the central monk body, Mini Zoo here you can see Bhutan national animal- the Takin. This is an extremely rare member of the goat family. Sangaygang view point as well as being the location of the transmitter tower of the only national television tower in the country (BBS), the view point is also the perfect place to take in some truly breathtaking views of the entire city of Thimpu. Overnight Thimphu Hotel.

Day 2 In Thimphu:
Morning visit the weekend market. Market days are absolutely central to the lives of the Bhutanese. Later take a hike to Cheri Monastery hike about 2 hours. Later you can stroll around the city and if you wish you can do some shopping too. Overnight Thimphu Hotel.

Day 3 Thimphu to Gangtey (Altitude: 2800 meters above sea level):
The valley of Phobjikha is well known as the winter home of the black necked cranes. Bhutan is home to around six hundred black necked cranes with Phobjikha being one of the popular places that the birds migrate to in the winter months from Tibetan plateau. These elegant and shy birds can be observed from early November to end of March. Overlooking the Phobjikha valley is the Gangtey Goenpa. This is an old monastery that dates back to the 17th century. Morning visit Jungshi Paper Factory established in November 1990 as an undertaking of the Royal Government of Bhutan. Later drive to Gangtey valley (4 hours drive). Overnight Gangtey Hotel.

Day 4 Trek Start Gangtey to Gogona:
The first day of the trail begins from Phobjika Valley, through meadows, and then through a mixed forest of rhododendron, bamboo, juniper, and magnolia. You reach Hele La (pass) (3,438 meters) and after crossing some meadows, you will descend to a valley. There will be a short climb to the camp at Gogona. Nearby is a small village where you can drink some homemade arra(spirit). The women in this village are known for the woven blankets they make. Altitude: 3140 meters, 14 kilometers, 5 to 6 hours walk. Overnight Camp

Day 5 Gogona to Khothakha:
The trail goes gently uphill. You will notice the daphne plants, from which the Bhutanese make traditional paper (and which you can purchase in Thimphu). After a long, but gradual climb, you will cross Shobju La (pass) at 3,410 meters. The trail is downhill from here. You will pass an old coal mine and a miner's camp. Eventually you will come to Chorten Karpo, where you will see four 'chortens' in honor of the four chief abbots who came from this area. You will then camp nearby Chorten. Altitude: 2720 meters, 15 kilometers, 5 to 6 hours walk. Overnight Camp

Day 6 Trek End Khothakha to Tika Zampa:
A short ascent leads to a pass; then the path descends steeply through a wonderful forest full of birdlife and ever changing vegetation to the bridge in Wangduephodrang. Your car will be waiting there for transfer to the hotel in Punakha: Altitude: 1350 meters above sea level. Punakha served as the capital of Bhutan until 1955. It is the winter seat of the Je Khenpo(Chief Abbot) and the monk body. It has a temperate climate and its rich fertile valley is fed by Pho(male) Chu and Mo(female) Chu (river).(3 hours drive). Later visit Wangdue Town unique to look around with small huts by the side of the road. Overnight Punakha Hotel.

Day 7 Punakha to Paro (2280 meters above sea level):
Morning visit Kham Sum Yule Lahkahang, it was built by HRH Azhi (Queen) Tshering Pem Wangchuck for a successful rule during the reign of the present Crown Prince Daso Khesar Namgyal Wangchuck, & Punakha Dzong remarkable for its ability to withstand natural disasters - fires and earthquakes have done nothing to diminish its grandeur the Punakha Dzong is rightly famous throughout Bhutan, as well as being one of the most well protected buildings in the country. Later drive back to Paro (4 hours 30 minutes drive). Overnight Paro Hotel.

Day 8 In Paro:
Morning visit Taktshang Monastery (Generally regarded as Bhutan?s most recognizable cultural icon, the Taktshang Monastery, or Tiger?s Nest, is strikingly iconic of the country's culture and traditions). Later Visit Farm House, Bhutan is justly not famous for its cuisine, which is somewhat predictable. Eating at a local farmhouse at least gives a slightly different variation. Later stroll around the town and see how locals live. Overnight Paro Hotel

Day 9 Depart from Paro:
Early breakfast at the hotel and then drive to the airport to Departure your Onward destination

Note: Designed itinerary is a sample itinerary intended to give you a general idea of trip to Bhutan. We can create an itinerary to suit as your needs and interest one you give your interest and travel timeframe.


 

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