The Gangtey Trek offered by Imperial Lotus Tours is a mesmerizing journey that takes trekkers through one of the most beautiful valleys in Bhutan. This trek is perfect for those looking for a moderate-level trekking experience that combines stunning landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, and cultural immersion. The trek starts from the serene Phobjikha valley, known for its stunning scenery and the endangered black-necked cranes that migrate here during the winter months. The trek takes trekkers through lush forests of rhododendron and oak trees, passing through remote villages where they can experience the traditional way of life of the local people. With Imperial Lotus Tours, trekkers can also visit the iconic Gangtey Monastery, which is an important religious site in Bhutan and is believed to have been built in the 17th century. The trek ends with a visit to the Punakha Dzong, one of the most majestic fortresses in Bhutan and an architectural masterpiece. Imperial Lotus Tours provides experienced guides and high-quality camping equipment to ensure that trekkers have a safe and comfortable experience. The Gangtey Trek is an exceptional way to explore the natural beauty and culture of Bhutan and is suitable for trekkers of all levels. With Imperial Lotus Tours, trekkers can have a memorable and enriching experience that will leave a lasting impression. The tour operator also ensures that visitors have the opportunity to interact with the local communities, supporting sustainable tourism practices and contributing to the socio-economic development of the region.
Day 1: Arrival in Paro
Welcome to Bhutan! Upon arrival at Paro International Airport, you will be received by your Bhutanese guide from Imperial Lotus Tours and escorted to your hotel. After lunch, visit the Ta Dzong, an ancient watchtower, which now houses the National Museum of Bhutan. Then visit the Paro Rimpung Dzong, a fortress built in 1646 that overlooks the Paro valley. Overnight in Paro.
Day 2: Paro
After breakfast, take a hike to Taktshang Monastery, also known as the Tiger’s Nest. The monastery clings to a cliff more than 3,000 meters above sea level and is considered one of the most sacred sites in Bhutan. After lunch, visit the ruins of Drukgyal Dzong, a fortress that was built to commemorate Bhutan’s victory over Tibetan invaders in the 17th century. Then visit Kichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest and most sacred temples. Overnight in Paro.
Day 3: Paro – Thimphu
After breakfast, drive to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. On the way, stop at the Sangaygang view point for a panoramic view of the Thimphu valley. Visit the Takin Preserve Centre, where you can see Bhutan’s national animal, the takin. Then visit the Drubthob Lhakhang, a nunnery that is one of the few surviving nunneries in Bhutan. After lunch, visit the National Memorial Chorten, built in honor of the late King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, the National Library, and the Zorig Chusum, the School of Thirteen Arts. Then visit the Traditional Medicine Institute and the Folk Heritage Museum. In the evening, visit the Tashichho Dzong, a fortress that is the seat of the National Government and the Central Monastic Body. Overnight in Thimphu.
Day 4: Thimphu – Punakha
After breakfast, drive to Punakha, the ancient capital of Bhutan. On the way, stop at Dochula Pass to enjoy a panoramic view of the Himalayas. Visit the Chimi Lhakhang, a temple that is also known as the Temple of Fertility. After lunch, visit Punakha Dzong, a fortress that was built in the 17th century and is one of the most beautiful and historically important fortresses in Bhutan. Then explore the Punakha valley and town. Overnight in Punakha.
Day 5: Punakha – Gangtey
After breakfast, visit Wangduephodrang Dzong, a fortress that overlooks the Punatsangchu River. Then drive to Gangtey, a beautiful valley that is home to the endangered black-necked cranes. After lunch, visit Gangtey Gompa, a monastery that was founded in the 17th century. Explore the Phobjikha Valley, one of the most beautiful glacial valleys in the Himalayas. Overnight in Gangtey.
Day 6: Gangtey Gompa – Gogona
The trail winds up on a slow climb through field and then ascends the Tselela Pass for your lunch stop. Then the trail descends gradually for some time trough forest of juniper, bamboo, magnolia and rhododendron. After the last short climb you will reach Gogona village. The people of Gogona were originally nomads and they speak a language, “Jopkha” (language of the nomads). Distance 15 km, about 6 – 7 hours.
Day 7: Gogona – Khotokha
In the morning you will climb up a gentle slope to Shobjula (11,155 ft.) for your lunch stop. Then the path leads down to a wide valley of Khotokha, a summer place of the people of Sha (under district of Wangduephodrang) Distance 15 – 16 km. Time about 6 – 7 hours.
Day 8: Khotokha – Chazam – Wangdue
A short ascend leads to Mulaila pass (9200ft.) then the path descends through ever-changing vegetation till the bridge in Wangdi Phodrang. Fill your water bottles, as water is scarce. Your trek ends here at. Overnight at the guesthouse.
Day 9: Chazam – Thimphu
Farewell to your trek and start driving towardsThimphu. Driving via Dochula, stop for coffee or tea at the cafeteria and have another breathtaking panoramic view of the Himalayan peaks. Before lunch visit the weekly market where the farmers display their cottage industry goods. After lunch visit some of the left over sights and handicraft stores. In the evening visit Tashichhodzong. The seat of the spiritual and temporal administration, (built 1641 A.D). Over night in Hotel
Day 10: Thimphu – Paro
After breakfast, sightseeing in Thimphu. After Lunch, drive to Paro. Over night in Hotel.
Day 11: Departure
Early morning, drive to the airport and farewell.
Included Services
Imperial Lotus Tours is delighted to offer you an exceptional journey through the enchanting kingdom of Bhutan. To ensure complete clarity about the services included in your tour package, please review the following terms and conditions regarding inclusions:
Note*
(Please note that the services mentioned above are exclusively included in your tour package. Any additional services, activities, personal expenses, or purchases (e.g. Airfare, Any expenses of personal nature such at laundry, table drinks, telephone calls etc.) not explicitly listed as included in this agreement will be at your own cost.)
Imperial Lotus Tours is committed to providing you with an enriching and seamless travel experience in Bhutan. We hope you enjoy your stay in this extraordinary kingdom and make unforgettable memories.
Imperial Lotus Tours offers a range of value-added options to enhance your travel experience in Bhutan.
1. Cultural Immersion:
Imperial Lotus Tours offers a range of cultural immersion experiences, including;
1. Traditional Bhutanese cooking classes.
2. Archery lessons.
3. Dance performances.
These activities provide a deeper understanding of Bhutanese culture and traditions, and are a great way to connect with the local people.
2. Wellness Activities:
Bhutan is known for its focus on wellness and mindfulness, and Imperial Lotus Tours offers a range of wellness activities to help you relax and rejuvenate. These include;
1. Yoga and meditation sessions.
2. Traditional hot stone baths.
3.spa treatments.
3. Adventure Activities:
Bhutan is a great destination for adventure activities, and Imperial Lotus Tours offers a range of options, including;
1. Trekking.
2. Mountain biking.
3. White-water rafting.
These activities provide an opportunity to explore Bhutan’s stunning natural beauty and challenge yourself physically.
4. Customized Itineraries:
Imperial Lotus Tours can customize your itinerary to suit your interests and preferences. Whether you want to focus on cultural experiences, wellness activities, adventure activities, or a combination of all three, Imperial Lotus Tours can create a personalized itinerary that meets your needs.
