Phobjikha Valley
Phobjikha Valley is widely regarded as one of the most breathtaking regions in Bhutan. After a strenuous climb through dense forests, you’ll be rewarded with an expansive, flat valley devoid of trees—an extraordinary experience in the country. Unlike other areas of Bhutan, where modern development is noticeable, Phobjikha remains a haven of natural beauty, pristine landscapes, and deeply rooted traditions and culture. The valley offers unparalleled tranquility, and wherever you go, you’ll be surrounded by stunning views. To ensure you make the most of your time here, we’ve compiled a selection of activities and hikes that will allow you to fully appreciate the valley’s natural wonders.
The paths throughout Phobjikha have been primarily created by locals and animals as they travel between pastures. For your safety and comfort, it’s best to stick to well-trodden footpaths and roads while wearing sturdy footwear or trekking boots. Keep in mind that the paths can become muddy and wet during the rainy season. Due to the high altitude, the sun is stronger during the summer, so we recommend bringing sunscreen for outdoor activities.
Visit to Gangtey Goemba:
Gangtey Goemba, a 16th-century monastery, sits majestically atop a hill on the edge of Gangtey village, making it the most prominent landmark in the Phobjikha Valley. This monastery is the spiritual center for the Pedling tradition of Buddhism in Western Bhutan, and it was built as a place for spiritual teaching. According to legend, Pema Lingpa prophesied that his next reincarnation would establish a monastery on this hill for the promotion of the Pedling sect. His first reincarnation, Gyalse Pema Thinley, fulfilled this prophecy by building the first small temple in the area. The current Goemba was founded in 1613 by the second reincarnation, Tenzin Lekpai Dendup. Today, the monastery houses about 60 monks and includes several buildings, such as monks’ quarters, meditation rooms, an altar room, and a school. The Goemba reopened in September 2008 after undergoing significant renovations.
Visit to Yak Herder Camp:
In Bhutan’s high-altitude regions, above 3000 meters, yak farming is the primary source of livelihood for the nomadic communities known as Joabs and Brokpas. Often called the “camel of the snows,” yaks provide milk, meat, warmth, and manure, and are used for transportation and riding in these rugged terrains. From November to March, yak herders set up camps in the valley to care for their livestock. These camps, located below the Lawola Pass, offer a chance to experience the yak herder lifestyle firsthand. During a visit, you’ll have the opportunity to sample yak products like cheese, butter, and milk, while learning about the nomadic life of these herders.
Feeding the Monks:
The Gangtey Shedra is home to 160 monks, ranging in age from 15 to 40. They come from diverse backgrounds, with some seeking spiritual fulfillment, others participating in Nyingma Buddhism courses, and many because their families cannot afford to support them. The Shedra is funded by sponsors, including Gangtey Trulku Rinpoche and local villagers who offer food in exchange for prayers. Each day, the monks are served three meals, typically rice with butter tea (suja) and chili dip (ezay) for breakfast, and rice with curry for lunch and dinner. If you wish, you can personally get involved by donating meals, helping purchase rice and vegetables from local shops, and even assisting with meal preparations in the Shedra kitchen. A donation of USD 300 can provide a generous meal for all the monks.
Gangtey Khenpo Lecture:
For those interested in deepening their understanding of Buddhism, we can arrange a lecture with the Gangtey Khenpo. He has been the head lama of the Shedra for the past year and has worked on numerous improvements to both the monastery and the education of the monks. He has also taught Buddhism in India and Tibet. During the lecture, you’ll have the chance to engage with the Khenpo over a cup of tea and ask any questions you may have about Buddhist philosophy.
Price: USD 150 per lecture.
Gangtey Shedra Debate Sessions:
Each evening, from 5 pm to 6 pm, the 160 monks at the Gangtey Shedra participate in lively debate sessions, where they discuss various topics in Dzongkha, Bhutan’s local language. While the formal language may be challenging to understand, the debates are captivating and often humorous as the monks argue passionately to defend their viewpoints.
Time: 5 pm – 6 pm, most evenings.
Visit to the Royal Society for Protection of Nature:
The Royal Society for Protection of Nature, also known as the Crane Centre, is located just above Phobjikha Valley. This center focuses on the conservation of the black-necked cranes, which hold a special place in Bhutanese culture and folklore. The center provides valuable information on these rare birds, as well as on the surrounding environment. The RSPN also runs campaigns to raise awareness about the cranes and the importance of protecting them.
The Black-Necked Cranes:
Every year, the black-necked cranes migrate from Tibet in late autumn, signaling the end of the harvest season and the time when farming families move to warmer areas. Around 450 of these rare birds spend the winter in Phobjikha Valley, from late October to early March.
Buddhist Fumigation:
In Bhutan, it is believed that every place has its own protective spirit or deity. To honor and appease these spirits, Bhutanese people practice fumigation, especially during special religious ceremonies. This ritual is also considered a form of self-cleansing to remove bad spirits and bring good fortune. Fumigation involves burning selected herbs inside a special fumigation stupa.