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.
Hidden behind a forest, Amankora Gangtey is a different world. It is warm, comfortable and there is electricity. Cocooned behind huge glass windows, it is difficult to relate to the outside world of simplicity. The room is heated by a traditional wood burning stove they call ‘bukhari’. Find comfort in the terrazzo-clad bath before your evening at the bar, which is stocked with local and foreign beverages.
During the day, we take a hike up the hills with our guide, sometimes searching for the black-neck cranes. But it seems we are tool early to see the cranes. Between October and March, black-necked cranes migrate from the Tibetan Plateau to Bhutan, mostly to Phobjikha, the Himalayan Kingdom’s largest wetland area.
Stay Amankora Gangtey has only eight suites featuring an open-plan bedroom and lounge, with a king-size bed, a reading chair and a window banquette. A traditional bukhari is positioned between the bedroom and the bathroom. The suite’s interior features wood panelling and chocolate brown walls. The spacious bathroom opens from the bedroom and provides twin vanities, separate shower and toilet, hanging space and a terrazzo-clad bath with twin vanities and views across the valley.
ChildCare Children are welcome to stay at Amankora Gangtey but there are no specific facilities available. Although some of the trekking may only be suitable for older children, there is much to do in the surrounds. The local flora, fauna, handicraft centres and villages form interesting excursions.
Dine Restaurant ingredients are organic and locally sourced. Dining in Amankora Gangtey is on demand. In most cases you have a suggested menu but the chef discusses with you what you like and the cuisine is tailored to your liking. There are no fixed timings. You can eat when you like and where you like.
Relax The spa at Amankora Gangtey, offers treatments with a focus on relieving tensions from the drive by concentrating on joint flexibility and re-hydration through herbs and hot oil. Not only warming, a hot oil massage also includes Himalayan herbs targeted at relieving joint stiffness.
Experience The Phobjikha Valley is part of the Black Mountains National Park and one of Bhutan’s most important wildlife sanctuaries. It is home to about 350 endangered black-necked cranes which arrive here from the Tibetan plateau during winters. The best time to see the cranes is between November and March. Nature walks and treks at Amankora Gangtey, are offered throughout the Phobjikha valley. Other activities include archery, fishing, golf and white-water rafting.
Mar-May, Sep-Nov
17°C
PBH
GMT+ 6
Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN)
Location Amankora Gangtey is located in the Phobjikha Valley, a glacial valley that has been virtually untouched by modern civilisation.
Getting There Flights to Bhutan are either from Bangkok or New Delhi. Bangkok is the best place to connect if you are coming from North America, Australia or Asia. Delhi is the best place to connect if you are coming from Europe, Middle East or UK. Flights from Delhi fly via Kathmandu. We will arrange your flight tickets and visa clearance details. All flights arrive at Paro from where it takes about 1-hour drive to Thimphu.
When to go Winter in Bhutan lasts from November to March. The spring months of March, April and May, are best for treks, flora and the many birds of Bhutan. The Monsoon occurs between June and August. The two-month window between October and November are arguably the best months with clear skies and chilly nights. It is also a good time for trekking into the Himalayas, sitting around a camp fire and seeing the high Himalayas in the morning and evening golden light.
Hotel Group
AmanDestination
Western, BhutanHotel Type
Wellness RetreatLocation Type
Remote
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June 01 - 1, June 01, 2025
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