At the heart of central Bhutan, Phobjikha valley lies hidden within the western slopes of the Black Mountains. It’s nestled at an altitude of around 3000 meters (9800 ft.) and located some 135 KMs east of Thimphu in Wangdue Phodrang District. Passing through Dochula Pass, the 5-hour drive from Thimphu to Phobjikha is one of the most scenic drives you will take in Bhutan.
Unlike most Bhutanese valleys which are V-shaped and carved by rivers, Phobjikha valley has glacial origins, as made clear by its U-shaped profile. The valley floor, approximately 7 kilometres long and 2 kilometres wide, is characterised by marshy wetlands, dwarf bamboo thickets, and grasslands that provide ideal foraging habitat for cranes and other waterbirds.
Phobjikha – also known as Gangety – remains untouched by modernisation and feels very different from other places like Thimphu, Paro or even Punakha which is about 3 hours drive away. Phobjikha valley experiences slightly colder climate than other lower regions. It’s where nature, clean fresh air, culture, and spirituality blend to create a peaceful and refreshing highland.
A Diverse Habitat
The marshes in the valley provide a haven for grazing yaks and cattle. It’s also an important sanctuary for endangered black-necked cranes that retreat to Phobjikha from the Tibetan Plateau during winters. That’s why Phobjikha valley is often called the ‘valley of the black-necked cranes’. The arrival of these migratory birds is considered a blessing. In November, Black Necked Crane Festival is celebrated at Gangtey monastery to celebrate the arrival of the cranes.
Beside the cranes, the valley is a habitat for a variety of birds, mammals, and plants while the wetlands host a variety of waterfowl, raptors, and passerines. In the forests surrounding the valley live Himalayan black bear, red fox, spotted deer, and wild boar. Despite the valley’s high elevation, the marshy grasslands contain many species of botanically-rich medicinal plants.
Home to the 17th Century Gangtey Monastery
Phobjikha valley’s most important landmark is perhaps the Gangtey monastery. Founded in 1613 by Gyalse Rinpoche, the monastery is the central seat of the Pema Lingpa tradition within the Nyingmapa school of Tibetan Buddhism.
The four storey complex features five temples that surround the main central tower. The main hall known as the tshokhang, is built in Tibetan architectural style. The hall was built with eight wooden pillars, known to be the largest in Bhutan. Inside the monastery, there are beautiful statues of Guru Rinpoche and other deities. There are elaborate images and frescos in the various parts of the monastery.
Between 2000 and 2008, Gangtey monastery underwent extensive restoration. Conservators worked to preserve the original details and structure with the addition of over 100 new pillars.
A Place Worth Going Extra Miles for
For travellers, Phobjikha valley offers a chance to experience Bhutanese culture, rich biodiversity, gorgeous landscape, and unmatched serenity. Most short-duration trips usually skip the valley. But add an additional day in the plan and you can explore Phobjikha for an experience you won’t get in other popular parts of Bhutan.
Phobjikha valley is part of Poets And Pilgrims Winter Escapade itinerary. With clear sky offering views of snow-capped Himalayan mountains, crisp fresh air, and chilly nights, December is a good time to visit Bhutan. Visiting Phobjikha valley during this time also offers a chance to spot black-necked cranes. December also brings an opportunity to attend Dochula masked dance festival.
Checkout Bhutan: A Winter Escapade – Dochula Festival Edition for more details and join us in December!
Sources:
- BhutanWiki
- Druk Asia
- Bhutan.me
- Pictures – Bhutan.travel
