The Gangtey Trek is a short and relatively easy trek that provides a wonderful introduction to Bhutanese landscapes and culture. Ideal for those new to mountain trekking, it meanders through picturesque villages and ancient monasteries, offering a gentle hiking experience. The trail takes you through lush forests of juniper, bamboo, magnolia, and rhododendrons, crossing clear mountain streams along the way.
While the trek can be enjoyed year-round, the best times to undertake it are between March-May and September-November. These periods offer optimal weather conditions and clear views of the stunning scenery. This trek’s accessible nature and scenic beauty make it a great choice for travelers seeking a less strenuous but equally rewarding Himalayan adventure.
The tour begins with your arrival in Paro and a drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s vibrant capital. You’ll have the opportunity to explore several cultural highlights, including the grand Buddha Point, the King’s Memorial Chorten, and the local handicraft markets. The following day offers a deeper dive into Thimphu’s rich heritage with visits to the National Library, the Institute for Zorig Chusum, and the Takin Preserve. You’ll also explore the majestic Trashichhoedzong, a center for government and religion, before spending a leisurely evening in the city.
The adventure continues with a drive to Punakha, where you’ll visit the Punakha Dzong and the fertility temple Chimi Lhakhang. The journey then leads to the stunning Phobjikha Valley, known for its beautiful landscapes and black-necked cranes. The trek itself begins in the valley, winding through diverse terrains including meadows, forests, and mountain passes, offering breathtaking views and cultural experiences. After the trek, you’ll return to Paro for a hike to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery and visits to additional local sites before departing. This comprehensive itinerary provides a balanced blend of cultural immersion, scenic trekking, and historical exploration.
Day 01: Arrive Paro by Druk Air & transfer to Thimphu (55km, approx. 1.1/2 hour drive)
Arrive Paro International airport and drive to Thimphu, the capital town of Bhutan. On arriving to Thimphu check into the hotel and later in the day visit Buddha Point (Kuensel Phodrang). The largest seated Buddha statue(169ft) in the country Located at a short drive from Thimphu city. Then, visit King’s Memorial Chorten and towards evening go for a walk in Coronation Park & stroll through the government-run Handicrafts Emporium and local crafts bazaar.
Overnight stay at the hotel in Thimphu (Altitude 2,320m)
Day 02: Local sightseeing in Thimphu
After breakfast drive to visit National Library and Institute for Zorig Chusum (Commonly known as Arts & Crafts School or Painting School) then drive to Takin Preserve – Takin is national animal of Bhutan, Later in the afternoon visit Trashichhoedzong, “fortress of the glorious religion”. This is the center of government and religion. Also visit The simply Bhutan museums and to National Textile Museum.. Evening time can be spent strolling the Thimphu City..
Overnight stay will be in Thimphu (Altitude 2,320)
Day 03: Drive to Punakha (75km, approx 2 ½ hr drive.)
After breakfast, drive to Punakha across Dochu La. Located at a height of 3,088m/ 10,130 ft, Afternoon visit Punakha Dzong or (Palace of Great Happiness), built in 1637 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal at the junction of the Phochu and Mochu rivers. Later in the day go for excursion to Chimi Lhakhang (the temple of fertility).
Overnight stay will be at hotel in Punakha (Altitude 1,300m)
Day 04: Punakha to Phubjikha/Gangtey valley (Altitude 2900m/65 km approx 3 hrs drive)
After breakfast, embark on a fascinating excursion to Gangtey. The valley of Gangtey is one of the most beautiful spots in Bhutan. The surprise of finding such a wide, flat valley without any trees after the hard climb through dense forests is augmented by an impression of vast space, an extremely rare experience in Bhutan where most of the valley’s are tightly enclosed.
Visit the Gangtey Gompa : Perched on a small hill that rises from the valley floor on the western side of the Black Mountain.Then explore the fascainting Phobjikha Valley. This place is the winter home of black necked cranes that migrate from the arid plains in the north to pass their winter in milder and lower climate.
Also visit Black Neck Crane Information Centre. Situated on the edge of the forest and wetland along the main road of Phobjikha valley, the Centre well equipped and also offers display information that outline the natural and cultural history of the area. Later
Overnight stay at the hotel in Phubjikha. (Altitude 3000m)
Day 05: Phobjikha – Zasa. (Distance 15 km, 6-7 hours, 610 m ascent, 410m descent, camp altitude 3,130 m)
The Trek starts near the village of Tabiting. The trail winds through meadows and fields and the climb takes you through a mixed forest of juniper, bamboo, magnolia and rhododendron to Tsele La (3430m). From here you descend into the Juge Kangkha Chhu valley. Further on, the path leads to Gogona, well known for its “Gogona Cheese” production. The campsite is a bit further on besides a small stream in a yak pasture called Zasa.
Day 06: Zasa – Chorten Karpo. (Distance 16 km, 5-7 hours, 450 m ascent, 860 m descent, camp altitude 3,330 m)
A gentle climb leads to Shobe La pass (3,480m). The descent from the pass leads to a wide valley, surrounded by beautiful mountain ranges. Below the route one can see Khothokha, a village with about 60 houses. You finally reach the campsite by climbing gently up till you see four chortens in a forest of blue pine.
Day 07: Chorten Karpo- Tikke Zampa. (Distance 12km, four to five hours, 120m ascent, 1,340m descent)
From the camp you climb till you reach a forest road. From here it’s an easy walk up to a little ridge at 2,800m. The walk down back into the valley leads you through Bhutan’s best bird watching areas. Gangtey trek ends when you reach Tikke Zampa.
Overnight stay at the hotel in Phubjikha. (Altitude 3000m)
Day 08: Gangtey to Paro (190km, approx 6 hrs drive)
After breakfast drive back to Paro across Dochu la pass via Thimphu. On your way visit Tachog lhakang & Suspension Bridge which was built around 1420 by Thangtong Gyalpo who was great architect and saint of Bhutan. Then drive further to paro and after checking into hotel, proceed to visit Ta Dzong, then walk down the trail to visit Rinpung Dzong (“fortress of the heap of jewels”).
Overnight stay at the hotel in Paro. (Altitude 2,280m)..
Day 09: Hike to Tiger Nest (approx 6 hours hike).
After breakfast hike to Taktshang Monastery (Tiger’s next) approx 6 hours round trip hike. It is one of the most famous of Bhutan’s monasteries, perched on the side of a cliff 900m above the Paro valley floor. After the Hike drive back to the hotel refresh and relax.
On arrival back to paro after hike visit Drukgyel Dzong, along the way, visit the 7th century Kyichu Lhakhang one of the 108 temples built in the Himalayas by Tibetan King, Songtsen Gampo.
Evening an exploratory walk around the market area and hang out in some renown coffee shops…
Overnight stay will be at hotel in Paro. (Altitude 2,280m)
Day 10: “Final Adieu” – Farewell & Departure
After the hearty breakfast check out of the hotel and transfer to Paro Airport enjoying the and there your team will bid you the final adieu with an undying hope of your visiting our country again to explore the unvisited parts and regions with many more adventures together. We bid you farewell with picturesque memories of Bhutan.
For your accommodation, we have selected Department of Tourism-approved 3-star hotels, ensuring you have a comfortable and enjoyable stay throughout your trip. These hotels offer great services and amenities to enhance your experience in Bhutan.
If you would like to make any changes to the hotel selections or upgrade your stay to a higher category, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Our team is happy to assist you in customizing your accommodations to better suit your preferences.
We are here to ensure that your tour is tailored to your needs and expectations. Looking forward to hearing from you!
Day 1: Thimphu – Overnight stay at Hotel Dharla
Day 2: Thimphu – Overnight stay at Hotel Dharla
Day 3: Punakha – Overnight stay at Hotel Kingaling
Day 4: Phubjikha – Overnight stay at Phubjikha Resorts
Day 5: Trekking – overnight stay at Zasa campsite – Altitude approx 3130 m
Day 6: Trekking – overnight stay at Chorten Karpo campsite – Altitude approx 3330 m
Day 7: Phubjikha – Overnight stay at Phubjikha Resorts
Day 8: Paro – Overnight stay at Riverfront Resort
Day 9: Paro – Overnight stay at Riverfront Resort
Trekking Inclusion
Please note that the type of vehicle will be, SUV, Ertiga, Innova, H1 Bus, HiAce Bus, or Coaster Bus—will be arranged based on the number of travelers in group before and after the trek including pick from trekking starting and ending point.
N/A
Booking policy:
Payment Policy:
10Days/9 Nights
Bhutan
Error: Contact form not found.