Description
The picturesque Phobjikha Valley is located on the Western slopes of the Black Mountains at an elevation of 2,900m. It is one of Bhutan’s few glacial valleys and is a designated conservation area as it is the winter home of the endangered black-necked crane. Around 350 of these beautiful birds migrate from the Tibetan Plateau to Gangtey every October and can be spotted until March, when they circle the Gangtey Goemba before flying back to their summer homes in Tibet. The 16th century Goemba that dominates the quaint village is also worth a visit and includes a school, meditation facilities and quarters for monks. The Gangtey Valley is also fantastic for nature walks and treks of varying difficulty.
Positioned on a forested knoll close to the valley floor is Amankora Gangtey. A winding track leads guests through the forest and descends to the lodge that enjoys sweeping views of the stunning valley landscape and fields of dwarf bamboo and potato crops.
The lodge accommodation and guest areas are encompassed in one rammed-earth building. The combined living and dining room is appointed with cosy chairs and sofas and communal dining tables, providing views through floor to ceiling windows of the valley and surrounding mountains. The eight suites are identical to those of Amankora Thimphu, offering an open plan bedroom and bathing area. The aesthetics combine wood panelling and chocolate brown walls, the traditional bukhari, terrazzo-clad bath, shower and vanity, and day bed offering views across the valley. Suites are individually heated during the cold winter months. The Spa is made up of two massage treatment rooms and changing areas.
Accommodation
The 8 suites are identical to those of Amankora Thimphu, featuring an open plan bedroom and bathing area. Each room contains a traditional bukhari, terrazzo-clad bath, shower, vanity, and daybed offering views across the valley.
Childcare
Children welcome at Amankora Gangtey but there are no specific facilities. They will love the varied flora, fauna and spectacular mountain terrain Bhutan has to offer. Some of the trekking however will only be suitable for older children.
Facilities
Facilities at Amankora Gangtey include a spa offering oil massages to dissolve tension around the joints, and a restaurant serving both Western and Bhutanese cuisines.
Activities
The Gangtey village is home to the ancient altars and ramparts of the massive Gangtey Goemba. The Phobjikha Valley is part of the Black Mountains National Park, one of Bhutan’s most important wildlife sanctuaries. Each winter it is home to a flock of 300 rare and black-necked cranes which arrive from Tibet. Nature walks and treks are offered throughout the valley. Other activities include archery, fishing, golf and white-water rafting.
Services
Book seven nights in Amankora properties throughout Bhutan and receive a complimentary car, driver and guide and one spa wellness treatment per journey.
When to travel
In the western, central and eastern Bhutan you will mostly experience cold European-like weather. Winter lasts here from November to March. Spring and autumn are the best season to visit Bhutan.
There are four distinct seasons similar in their divisions to those of Western Europe. The Monsoon occurs between June and August when the temperature is normally between 8° and 21°C (46°-70°F).
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Best time to visit
Good time to visit
Average time to visit
Not applicable
Location and directions
Gangtey, Bhutan
Amankora Gangtey is located in the Phobjikha Valley, a glacial valley that has been virtually untouched by modern civilisation.
How to get there
11.5hr flight (1 change) then an 8hr drive (as part of an itinerary).
