The Phobjikha Valley is a bowl shaped glacial valley situated on the western slopes of the Black Mountains. Bordering the Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park, the Phobjikha Valley is one of the most important wildlife preserves in the country. The large flock of black-necked cranes that winters here make this place popular among the tourists.
In addition to the cranes there are also muntjacs (barking deer), wild boars, sambars, serows, Himalayan black bears, leopards and red foxes in the surrounding hills. The Nakey Chhu drains the marshy valley, eventually flowing into the lower reaches of the Punak Tsang Chhu. Some people refer to this entire region as Gangte (or Gangtey), after the goemba that sits on a ridge above the valley. The valley is also popular as being the best known marshland in Bhutan, and renowned for its cultural uniqueness as well. The valley has a special protected area dedicated for the protection of nature which is run by the Royal Society for the Protection of Nature (RSPN).
Let’s look at some of the attractions in and around Phobjikha Valley -
Gangtey Goemba This 450 year old monastery is a popular attraction of the Phobjikha Valley housing the central goemba, monks' quarters and serene meditation hubs. It is extremely serene and is an ideal hub to meditate. Built in Tibetan style with 8 great pillars encircling a three-storey inner atrium, this place will take you away from all your stress and chaos of the city life.
Kumbhu Lhakhang Kumbhu Lhakhang is dedicated to a deity of the ancient Bon religion Sipey Gyalpo. This place is considered as a spiritually refreshing spot to visit, as it also doubles as a meditation centre. What is also advisable here is to follow a decent clothing etiquette. During rainy season, the dirt track around the Kumbhu Lhakhang might become impassable by car.
Nyelung Dechenling This chapel is one of the eight residences of Nyingma Dzogchen master Longchen Rabjam (Longchenpa) and is located near Amankora Gangtey Resort. Another chapel nearby is dedicated to the Dzogchen protector Rahula. The water from a spring near to this place is said to cure disease and illness of the mind. There are also two other springs nearby whose water is said to be holy. It is advisable to follow proper clothing etiquette when visiting the chapel.
Khewang Lhakhang Khewang Lhakhang is situated on the eastern side of the Phobjikha Valley and was built by a Tibetan sculptor in authentic Tibetan style. Inside the Lhakhang there are 3 statues of past, present and future Buddhas. This monastery celebrates its own festival on the third day of the ninth month of the lunar calendar, in which the locals dance to mark the celebration. It is advisable to follow proper clothing etiquette when visiting this Lhakhang.
Gangtey Nature Trails and Hikes This place offers a wonderful option for bird watchers and hikers alike. There are various trails that can be traversed upon wide range from easy to tough. Many bird sightings are said to occur along the hiking trail from Phobjikha to Kheylaykha. The Phubja trek is a popular trek that takes about three days and is a part of the religious tourism and ecotourism programme of the Government of Bhutan and other NGOs.
South Asia is home to solid one-third of the world’s population. The region is home to the highest and the second highest mountain peaks of the world Everest and K2. Housing marvels such as the Taj Mahal, Ajanta, Sigiriya, Timpu, and Taxila, the heritage and cultures of the region date back thousands of years.
Whether you are interested in a Sight Seeing Tour, Season Special Tour or you are on a look out for a Pilgrimage Tour, these pocket friendly tour packages will make your journey to this majestic land worth remembering.
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