It is a 3 days trek at relatively low elevations, which visits several remote villages. This is not a very popular Trek but very easy. This trek can be done with kids above 6 years also.

Gangtey Trek (Winter Trek)

Gangtey Trek Starts from Phobjikha. Phobjikha Valley, at 3000meters, 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, and then a forest of juniper, magnolia, and rhododendrons. One of the finest low-level treks in Bhutan.

Why book this Trek with us?

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Trip Highlights

Explore Phobjikha Valley which is home to the endangered black necked crane that migrate here very winter from Tibet.
Get the Opportunity to see Black Necked Crane.
Low altitude Trekking, popular in winter months of January to February.
Scenic Beauty: The trek takes you through beautiful forest, rolling hills,and lush valleys offering breathtaking views of Himalayas.
The valleys along the trekking routes are home to Himalyan Black bears, leopards and red pandas.

Day 1 :

Arrival at Paro

Day 01 Arrival at Paro
When you arrive at Paro Airport, a representative from Tour Bhutan will be there to welcome you. They will assist in transferring you to your hotel. After enjoying a delicious lunch, your first stop will be at Ta Dzong, an ancient watchtower that now serves as the National Museum. Just below the museum, you’ll find the majestic Paro Rimpung Dzong, the heart of both civil and religious authority in this valley. A short stroll will lead you to the dzong’s base and a charming traditional cantilevered bridge. In the evening, you will proceed to Thimphu. You’ll spend the night in a hotel and enjoy a delightful dinner

Day 2 :

Paro to Thimphu Sightseeing

The day commences with a visit to the National Memorial Chorten, constructed in 1974 to honor the late King Jigme Dorji Wangchuk, and the Dupthop Lhakhang, one of the few remaining nunneries in Bhutan. Next on our itinerary is a stop at the National Library, home to ancient Buddhist manuscripts, and the Painting School, where the traditional art of Thangka painting (sacred Buddhist religious scrolls) is meticulously preserved and taught.

Following lunch, we’ll journey to the Traditional Medicine Institute, where medicines are crafted using age-old methods. Our exploration continues with visits to Changangkha Lhakhang, the Takin Preserve Center, and a scenic viewpoint. In the evening, we’ll pay a visit to the Tashichho Dzong, which serves as the seat of the national government and the Central Monastic Body. This remarkable structure also houses the summer residence of the Je Khenpo, the Chief Abbot of Bhutan.

Our day concludes with a trip to Simtokha Dzong, the oldest dzong in Bhutan, constructed by Shabdrung in 1627. Finally, we’ll explore the Handicrafts Emporium and have the opportunity for souvenir shopping in Thimphu’s charming shops before retiring for the night at our hotel.

Day 3 :

Thimphu to Phobjikha

After having breakfast, we will embark on a journey to Punakha via the scenic Dochula Pass. Along the way, we will make a brief stop to visit Chimi Lhakhang, also known as ‘the Temple of Fertility,’ where people seeking blessings for fertility come to pray.

Once we arrive in Punakha, our first destination will be Punakha Dzong, a magnificent structure built in 1637 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. For many years, it served as the seat of the Government, and it was named Druk Pungthang Dechen Phodrang, which means ‘Palace of Great Happiness.’ The dzong houses preserved war materials captured during the battle with Tibetans. Punakha continues to be the winter residence of Je-Khenpo, and it was here that King Jigme Dorji Wangchuk convened the new national Assembly in 1952.

After a satisfying lunch, we will drive for approximately 2 hours to reach Gangtey, where we will spend the night in a hotel.

Day 4 :

Gangtey trek Begins

The trail meanders upward, gently climbing through fields before reaching the Tselela Pass, where we’ll stop for lunch. Following the pass, the trail gradually descends through a forest featuring juniper, bamboo, magnolia, and rhododendron. After a brief final ascent, we’ll arrive at Gogona village. The residents of Gogona were originally nomadic people, and they speak a unique language called ‘Jopkha,’ which is the language of the nomads. Distance 15 km, about 6 – 7 hours.

Day 5 :

Gogona to Khotokha

In the morning, you will ascend a gradual slope to reach Shobjula, situated at an elevation of 11,155 feet, where we’ll pause for lunch. Subsequently, the trail descends into the spacious Khotokha valley, which serves as a summer retreat for the people of Sha, a district under Wangduephodrang. Distance 15 – 16 km. Time about 6 – 7 hours.

Day 6 :

Khotokha to Chazam- Wangdue

A short ascend leads to Mulaila pass (9200ft.) then the path descends through ever-changing vegetation till the bridge in Wangdi Phodrang. Your trek ends here at. Overnight at the guesthouse.

Day 7 :

Wangdi to Thimphu

Drive to Thimphu. Thimphu is about 2.5 hours drive from Wangdi. Thimphu is the most crowded capital in Bhutan with about 135000 people living in the city. If time permits we visit memorial chorten built in the memory of Third King, Folk Heritage museam and 13th Arts and Crafts School.

After Lunch, Excursion to Cheri Monastery. Dinner and over night in Hotel.

Day 8 :

Thimphu to Paro Airport and see off

Todays ends the Gangtye Trek. Our team from Tour Bhutan will assist you to Airport and see you off.

FAQs

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What is the best time to Trek Gangtye?

The best time to undertake the Gangtey Trek is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. These months offer stable weather conditions and clear skies, providing excellent views of the surrounding landscapes.

What are the unique destinations included in the itinerary for this tour?

Can i Trek Gangtye alone?

Yes you can trek Gangtye alone. Our staff and guide will give you the company for whole duration.

How long is the Gangtey Trek?

The Gangtey Trek typically takes around 2 to 3 days to complete. The actual duration may vary depending on the starting point and the pace of the trek.

What is the difficulty level of Gangtey Trek?

The Gangtey Trek is considered a moderate-level trek. While it is not extremely challenging, it does involve walking for several hours each day, and the trails might have some steep ascents and descents.

Are permit required for Gangtey Trek?

Yes, like all treks in Bhutan, you need a permit to do the Gangtey Trek. All foreign visitors must be accompanied by a licensed Bhutanese tour Guide, and the necessary permits will be arranged through them.

Are there any altitude related concern for Gangtye Trek?

The highest point on the Gangtey Trek is not at a very high altitude, so altitude sickness is not a significant concern. However, it’s always essential to acclimatize properly and stay hydrated during the trek.

What should i pack for Gangtey Trek?

Some essential items to pack include sturdy hiking boots, comfortable clothing suitable for layering, a warm jacket, a hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, a water bottle, a first aid kit, and personal toiletries. It’s essential to pack light as you’ll be carrying your belongings throughout the trek.