A few kilometres before reaching Trongsa, the splendid Phobjika valley is perhaps the most beautiful place in Bhutan. Located on the western slope of the Black Mountains, this protected area lies next to Black Mountains National Park. The park is home to numerous animals, including Himalayan black bears, sambar deer, foxes and even leopards.
Phobjika valley is renowned for sightings of the famous black-necked cranes that migrate here each winter. These birds hold great significance in Bhutanese culture. Watch the moving display as they return to the valley at dusk. Gangtey monastery sits at the heart of this dreamlike landscape. Each year on 11 November it hosts the Gangtey Tshechu, the Black-Necked Crane Festival, which aims to raise awareness and protect this rare species. Numerous masked dances take place. For hikers, set off on the Gangtey Trek, journeying through the untouched heart of Phobjika valley all the way to Wangdue Phodrang.
