Amankora Gangtey in central Bhutan lies in an awe-inspiring wide open glacial valley; the dark green floor stretches into wilderness, the end of which is covered with low mountain hugging clouds. The air is crisp and light, we are at 2,900m, but it is as fresh and sweet as drinking spring water. Once beyond the reach of roads and electricity, there is still peace here. The locals call it the Phobjikha Valley. For me it is the end of the world.
Gangtey Palace in Paro, built in the late 1800s, was home to the Penlops or governors of the region. Later, it was fortified to halt any Tibetan invasion from the North. In the early 20th-century, it was used by the king as his residence. In recent past, the Royal Grandmother resided here and other royalties include the first Prime Minister of India, Pundit Jawaharlal Nehru. Today, the hotel allows travellers to experience the authentic Bhutanese lifestyle and its medieval history.
Six Senses Gangtey, located in the pristine Phobjikha Valley of Bhutan, is a luxurious retreat that harmoniously blends contemporary design with traditional Bhutanese architecture. The resort’s architecture features clean lines and expansive windows, offering unobstructed views of the stunning valley and surrounding mountains. The use of natural materials like wood and stone enhances the connection to the landscape, creating a serene and inviting atmosphere that reflects the tranquillity of the Gangtey region.
Dewachen is a charming hotel, set outside the village of Gangtey, at the edge of Black Mountain National Park in Western Bhutan. The valley is home to endangered Black Neck Cranes that migrate every year from the Tibetan Plateau during the winter months. Revered by Buddhist, a special festival is held in mid-November after their arrival in the valley, where they stay until end March. Dewachan is located near the marshes where these beautiful birds stay in the valley.
Gangtey Lodge is a traditional stone farmhouse style hotel, set at the head of the beautiful long Gangtey valley in Western Bhutan. Situated on a pine wooded ridge, the double-height lobby-lounge with an entire wall of glass frames the 17th-century Gangtey monastery and the valley beyond, speckled with rice paddies and grazing yaks. Envisioned by Brett and Omar Melzer who run 'Balloons over Bagan', they have brought their successful model into this beautiful valley in Bhutan.
