Tourist Attractions in Wangdue Phodrang

Wangdue Phodrang valley is on the way to Gangtey and is the last town before entering central Bhutan. Punakha valley and Wangdue Phodrang town are just 14 Kilometers apart. It is a small town with a prominent landmark, Wangdue Phodrang Dzong which sits on a hillock. The Dzong was built in 1639 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal on a ridge that looks like a sleeping elephant. The beautiful Gangtey valley is 60 kilometers away from Wangdue as you drive towards Trongsa. The upper part of the valley is called Gangtey and lower part is called Phobjikha. This valley is famous for the rare black necked cranes in winter. This valley hosts Gangtey Gompa, the only Nyingmapa monastery in the western part of the country. This district is famous for Bamboo products, Stone carvings and Slates. This valley is the highlight of our 7 days Bhutan Itinerary.

Wangdue Phodrang Dzong was built in 1637 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal on a hillock that looked like a sleeping elephant. The Dzong is located between Punatshang chu and Dang chu with a commanding view of the valley. The Dzong was destroyed by accidental fire in 2012. In the 17th century, the Governor of Wangdue Phodrang was the third most powerful after Trongsa and Paro valley.

The Black necked crane information Centre is located in Phobjikha valley near the forest. The center has information related to the cranes’ habitats, cultural and natural history of the valley. A small gift shop inside the center sells the wooden and bamboo handicrafts produced by the local people. The center also has an observation room equipped with a high powered telescope to watch the black necked Cranes.

This is the only Nyingmapa school in the west of Black mountain and is surrounded by the Gangtey village. It was built in the late 15th century as per the prophesies of the well known Saint, Pema Lingpa. The Monastery is on a hill top overlooking Phobjikha valley, roosting ground of the Rare Black necked Cranes. In November, an annual festival is held in the courtyard of this monastery which is almost similar to Thimphu festival. This beautiful glacial valley lies at an altitude of 3000 m. Gangtey and Phobjikha valley in Wangdue Phodrang are the best places to visit in Bhutan.

This is an easy hike and is one of the most beautiful hikes. The Trail starts from Gangtey Gompa passing through Semchubara village. A short walk though coniferous forest takes you through the valley and ends near the Kewang temple. You can see the beautiful view of the Gangtey / Phobjikha valley, marshy wetland and the rare black necked Cranes. A highly recommended hike if you are staying in Gangtey for a full day.