Gangtey Trek
Bhutan Trekking

Gangtey Trek

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Trip Facts

  • Max Altitude N/A
  • Grade N/A
  • Duration 10 Days
  • Group Size N/A

Overview

Gangtey Trek is one of the most exciting treks in Bhutan. The Gangtey valley also called Probjikha valley is a remarkably attractive glacial valley in Bhutan. The valley is at an elevation of about 3,000m on the west side by the black mountain range.

The valley covers most of the Phobjikha and Gangtey Gewongs and contains Gangtey Monastery, which is the oldest School of Tibetian Buddhism. The monastery lies at the head of the valley offering exceptional views of the valley. Furthermore, The valley is home to a group of globally rare black-necked cranes ‘Grus ni Grxicollis’. On the other hand, this crane migrates to this valley in winter from the Tibetan plateau. The valley is even famous for draft bamboo and this bamboo is used by the crane during the roosting season. Gangtey Valley is famous for drawing a lot of attraction from tourists because of its diverse culture and monasteries. 

Gangtey Trek is mostly favourable for average trekkers as it is one of the easiest treks with low altitude (3000m). Thus, trekking each day is cosy and pleasant. The trail takes you to the sumptuous U shaped glacial at an altitude of 3000m. The valley consists of marshy land and grassy pasture where cattle and horses graze. Likewise, remote villages, picturesque meadows, vast fields and grasslands and ancient monasteries are the prime attractions of the Gangtey valley trek. The trek is also known as the Ganthey Gagona trek as it leads you to the outlying valley of Gogona, Gangtey Gompa and Phobjikha. Similarly, the trials let you explore some cultural Dzongs and museums in Paro along with the capital of Bhutan Thimphu. One can even visit  Taktsang monastery also known as tiger’s nest monastery, an ancient monastery in Bhutan. 

Gangtey Trek

The journey to Gangtey begins with the scenic flight to Paro. After Paro, the trial proceeds to Thimphu, Gogona, Khotokha, Tikke Zampha and Punakha. Ultimately the trek starts from Phobjikha valley and ends at Tiki Zampa passing through various mixed forests of juniper, magnolia and rhododendron fields. The treks take you to the Gangtey monasteries established in the 17th century. Besides, there are several historical and religious sites to visit such as Punakha Dzong, Kyichu Lhakhang, Chimi Lhakhang. In addition, the suitable season for this trek is from March to May and September to November. The fair and clear climate during this season provides splendid views of the Himalayas and lush valleys. Consequently, the Gangtey Valley trek is one of the most life-changing experiences for most tourists seeking cultural exploration and having a keen interest in history and monasteries.  

Hence, this trek covers the area of scenic grandeur and cultural specificity displaying the best of Bhutan. The splendour and cultural uniqueness that the valley offers amaze the visitors. 

Trip Facts:

Trip Name: Gangtey Trek

Duration: 10 Days

Country: Bhutan

Max Altitude: 3000m

Transportation: Flights and Comfortable rides

Best season: March-May and Sept-Nov

Itinerary

Day 01

Arrival

On the very first day of the Gangtey Valley trek. Your journey starts with the scenic flight from Kathmandu to Paro International Airport. The flight offers you a splendid view of the Himalayas along with the green lush valleys. Our Airport representative will pick you up from the Airport and transfer you to the designated hotel in our private jeep. After arriving at the hotel, we will hold a pre-trek meeting where we will introduce you to your guides. Similarly, We will be giving you a short briefing about the trek preparation. Paro is a wonderful place that offers you the typical life of Bhutanese people along with the uniqueness in culture.  After lunch, we will visit Rinpung Dzong- a Buddhist monastery and fortress. Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the temporal ruler of Bhutan built it in 1646 

Tshechu, an annual festival is held in Rinpung Dzong from the eleventh to fifteenth days of the second month of the Bhutanese  Lunar Calendar. In the evening you can either rest in the hotel or go for the market walk. Overnight at a hotel in Paro.

Day 02

Drive to Thimphu

Today we will be exploring the capital of Bhutan, Thimphu. Thimphu has a lot to offer to the visitors as the city is known for its Buddhist sites. Indeed, Thimphu is home to approximately 100000 inhabitants including the Royal family. Early morning after breakfast we will drive to Thimphu following Parchu downstream. The drive offers the beautiful scenario of the river stream along with the lush green valleys. Thimphu is around 55 km away from Paro which takes about an hour of continuous drive. The Parchu river confluence with Chuzom passing several villages such as Bondey, Shaba, Isuna. From Chuzom, the trail follows the Wangchu river through villages and suburbs to the capital, Thimphu.

The capital city is rich in Buddhist tradition. The very first thing you can do in Thimphu visits Buddha point for the stunning view of the city. However, you can even spare some time for Takin- home of Bhutan’s national animals. Similarly,  you can visit Tashi Choe Dzong-the castle of the illustrious religion. It was originally constructed in 1641 and later rebuilt by King Jigme Dorji Wangchuk in the 1960s. In addition, you can explore Centenary farmer’s markets, craft bazaars, and institute traditional medicine in Thimphu. There is that 300-year-old traditional house which is now converted into a museum. Therefore, Thimphu is the main center of commerce, religion, and government. Overnight at the hotel in Thimphu.

Day 03

Visit Gangtey Gompa

Early morning after breakfast we will drive to Gangtey valley. The drive will be longer than any of the days as it will be a 7-8 hour drive. Basically our drive today will be divided into two parts. We will drive over Dochula Pass to Wangdue (3150m ) during the first half of our drive which takes about 3 hours. On the way, you will be rewarded with the wonderful panorama of the highest peak in Bhutan Gangkhar Puensum (7541m). At the same time, descend through the forest of Rhododendron emerging into the semi-tropical zone of orange, bananas, cactus to the highly cultivated valley of Wangdue. Wangdue Phodrang is one of the largest Dzongkha in the country ranging from 800-5800m in altitude. With its diverse climate and rich natural resources, it is home to many rare animals such as Red pandas, Tigers, and leopards.

After lunch, the second phase of our driving starts for another 3 hours towards Gangtey Gompa. The gompa is located on the hillock amidst the Gangtey village and was established by Gyalse Rigdzin Pema Thinley. The monastery is surrounded by a small village with traditional houses. Every year several festivals take place in this monastery. You will spend your night at the farmhouse at Tabiting(2830m). Overnight at Lodge/camp

Day 04

Gogana

The trek in Gogana is particularly for nature lovers as it offers the stunning scenario of blooming Rhododendron and Magnolia. It is a moderate trek with the highest elevation of 3440m. Starting the trek from Tabiting at 2830m, the trail passes through meadows and fields towards Gogana. The trail winds up through fields and ascends the Tselela at 3440m pass where you will stop for lunch. You can get a great view of nature from Tselela Pass. Then the trials descend through a mixed forest of Juniper, bamboos, Rhododendron, and Magnolias and reach Gangak(3020m). Gangak is a beautiful hilltop valley. After a short climb from Gangak we reached Gogana. Gogana is a small village where people are nomads and have their own dialect called Bjop-Kha. The village has an outstanding monastery under the care of Gangtey Gompa.

In Gogana villagers will welcome you warmly. You will not only explore nature but learn the cultural values and identity of Bhutan. Similarly, Gogana let you explore the typical village life in Bhutan. Overnight at Gogana

Day 05

Khotokha

In the morning after breakfast, we will make our way to another village in Bhutan, Khotokha. The trail ascends up a gentle slope from Gogona Village to Shobjula. On your way to Shobju La, you will pass through the forest of fir and Rhododendron, Oak, Spruce, Cypress, and Juniper. Then after a gradual climb, we will reach Shobju La Pass which is at an altitude of 3410m. This pass offers a splendid view of the wide-open valley. After lunch at Shobju La pass, we will descend down from the pass-through rocky and muddy road, entering the forest and crossing a small stream. However, the trail meets a rough trail used by the tractors to collect woods from the forest. We will then reach a woodcutter camp at Dolonaga (2830m) following the same path.

Likewise, The trail again descends down to the broad Khothangkha Valley and in the end, reaches Chorten Karpo. Chorten Karpo is a temple of four Chortens and was dedicated to four Je Khepns who belong to this area. Therefore, you will spend your night in the beautiful village of Khothangkha. You can either set a camp beside a forest of large blue pines or even have a homestay.

Day 06

climb to Tikke Zampha

Today we will trek for about five hours to Tikke Zampha. Early morning after breakfast, we will climb along a well-known path that takes us to Tashi La(2800m). Tashi La is the upper station of a cable car that transfers wood to Chhuzomsa 1300m. The trail descends through a beautiful forest of magnolia and dwarf bamboo. In Particular, this trail is one of the finest bird watching places in Bhutan where species of birds like Shrike, Laughing Thrush, magpie, and woodpecker can be spotted.  Then the trail fell down steep terraced wheat fields to a cluster of houses at Whachay meeting road near Tikke Zampa at 1500m. Eventually, you will head back to Punakha which is 30 minutes drive from Tikke Zampha. In the evening you can explore around Punakha market. Overnight at Hotel in Punakha.

Day 07

Visit Punakha Dzong

After breakfast, you can start your day by visiting Punakha Dzong. It is located at the convergence of Pho-Chu(male river) and Mo-chu(female river) like an anchored ship. Similarly, take a short hike through the beautiful rice field to Chimi Lhakhang. It is a temple dedicated to Kuenley, who is affectionately known as” the Divine Madman”. Moreover, this temple is located on the hillside and has become a pilgrimage site mostly for the childless people. After lunch, you can drive to the capital of Bhutan-Thimphu. On your way to Thimphu, you can climb up to the Mt. road at Dochula La from where you will be rewarded with the wonderful panorama of the eastern Himalayas as well as the lush green valley. Overnight at Thimphu

Day 08

Thimphu Excursion

Haa Valley is one of the must-see places in Bhutan. If you are a nature lover then this is a perfect spot for you. Early in the morning, drive over the Chelela pass(3899m). From Chelela pass, you can see the wonderful view of Mt. Chomolhari and Jichu Drakey. Afterward, continue to drive towards Haa. Haa is surrounded by the Himalayas and one would be touched by the simplicity of the local people in this small city. You can enjoy excellent local food here. Haa valley was opened to the outside world only after 2002. On the other hand, you can visit Wangchuck Dzong and Lhakhang Nakpo-built-in the 7th century by King Songsten Gampo. After an excursion to Haa valley, we will drive back to Paro. Overnight at Hotel in Paro.

Day 09

Taktsang Monastery

Today you will explore one of the finest monasteries in Bhutan -Taktsang monastery, also known as Tiger’s nest monastery(3120m). It is one of the ancient monasteries in Bhutan which is a sacred site of Buddhists. The temple is located on the cliffside of the upper Paro valley in Bhutan. It was first built in 1692 carrying its own significance. However, it is believed that Guru Padmasambhava meditated in this cave in the 8th century. After Taktsang Monastery you can hike back to the road and drive to Kyichu Lhakhang-most sacred shrine in Bhutan. Overnight at Hotel in Paro

Day 10

Departure

Today you will be bidding farewell to your Gangtey Valley Trek in Bhutan. Our representative will drop you off at the Paro International Airport and wish you your safe journey.

Note: B L D = Breakfast, Lunch;
Please let us know whether you would like to make your itinerary shorter or longer. It can be designed according to your preferences.

Pricing

Price for Gangtey Trek in different currency as follows:

Currency Pricing USD Euro AUD CAD Indian Rupees
Price per person N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

WANT TO KNOW LATEST DEALS ?
For latest offers & pricing for group & individual, please contact us.

Service Includes and Excludes

Service Included in this Trip

  • Private transportation
  • Necessary Bhutan travel permits
  • English speaking Bhutanese guide and Driver
  • Accommodation on Twin sharing/ Single room basis.
  • Sightseeing and monastery entrance fees as per the itinerary
  • Meal plan: Full Board Basis
  • Bhutan Government Royalty fee ($ 65 per person / per day)
  • Bhutan Visa fee
  • Flight fare for Kathmandu- Paro- Kathmandu or from other destination.

Service Excluded in this Trip

  • Insurance of any kind.
  • Additional cost due to natural calamity and unforeseen circumstance
  • Personal expenses such as drink, guide tips & etc.

Trip Info

Short Description Mode Of The Packages: What Are Included In The Packages

Hotel accommodation in Kathmandu with breakfast at 2 to 3 stars level, Twin sharing comfortable and clean private room in trekking, both ways domestic flight tickets from KTM/Lukla/KTM, necessary permits, all the ground transportation by tourist vehicles, an experienced guide and porter and all the necessary permits.

Grade A: Easy *

Trekking is essentially day hiking and doesn’t require any special training. However, good physical condition, a love of walking, and a desire to enjoying the spectacular views of the mountains and encounter village life are essential. We offer a diverse range of easy treks. Categorizing a trek as easy means that no difficult climbing or ascents to high altitudes is involved. They take usually no more than a week and are suitable for anyone. Be assured that a loss of altitude in no way means a loss of interesting things to see and experience. While our more challenging treks get you closer to a small number of mountain ranges, lower altitude treks often provide better viewpoints from which to enjoy the colorful horizons of a whole series of ranges. The duration of a trek can be from 4 to 9 days with an average of 4 to 5 hours walking per day. The elevation of the trail will be between 800m/2624ft and 2800m/ 9240ft above sea level.

Grade B: Moderate **

These treks are suitable for any walker looking for something a little more challenging and energetic. They are a combination of some longer and shorter walks and hill-walking experience is desirable. The duration is usually from 10 to 15 days. Following the up and down terrain of Nepal and walking to higher elevations contrasts these treks to those in the easy classification. However, you will be rewarded for your efforts with spectacular close-up views of glaciers and of the high Himalayas. Although the terrain is not difficult, some vigorous hiking experience is useful. There may be up to 6 hours a day on the trail and the elevation rises and falls from 800m/ 2624ft to 4000m/13210ft above sea level.

Grade C: Fairly Strenuous ***

Since the terrain can be hard and the days long, hikers on these treks should be in good physical condition and have some previous mountain walking experience. Steep climbing may be involved, although it is never necessary to use ropes. Treks at this level can he arranged for periods of 16 to 21 days. Typically, a gradual ascent through a green river valley will lead you up to a number of high passes, where you will reach the altitude of 5416m. Often times, you will get a close insight into the Tibetan culture. Participants should except to trek above 5416m/17872ft.

Grade D: Strenuous ****

These real adventure treks are both technical and highly strenuous. Excellent physical condition is essential and mountaineering experience is preferable. Following rough terrain, they involve steep ascents to high altitudes with the possibility of some rope climbing. Stamina is needed to complete one of these treks, as it can take from 20 to 28 days to reach the heart of the wildernesses that they transverse. Participants should except to trek above 5600m/18480ft

EQUIPMENTS & GEARS

EQUIPMENTS, GEARS AND GUIDES

Nepal is one of the best places in the world for river rafting. Numerous fine rivers offer excellent opportunities for rafting, canoeing and simply immersing oneself in the magnificent landscape. Nepal’s thundering waters, coming from the glaciers of the mighty Himalayan, provide unmatched thrills.

Clothing

Down Or Fiber Filled Waterproof Jacket And Trousers 1
Fleece Jacket Or Pullover 1
Warm Cotton Trousers 2 Pairs
Shirts And T-Shirts 4 Pieces
Lightweight Cotton Long Pants 3 Pairs
Long Under Wear 2 Pieces
Short Under Wear 4 Pieces
Sun Hat Or Scarf 1
Woolen Hat 1
Sunglasses 1
Lightweight Gloves 1
Rain Coat 1
Heavyweight Gloves Or Mittens With A Waterproof 1

Footwear

Trekking Boot 1 Pair
Thick Socks 4 Pairs
Light Socks 3 Pairs
Camp Shoes 1 Pair
Sandals 1 Pair

Other Equipments

Sleeping Bag(4seasons) 1
Down Jacket 1
Daypack 1
Water Bottle 1
Sun Cream, Sunglasses
Flashlight With Spare Bulbs, Batteries, Lip Salve, Gaiters.

Optional

Insect Repellent Toilet Articles Note Book & Pen Toilet Roll
Laundry Soap Pocket Knife Towel Sewing Kit
Plasters Binoculars Camera Film
Cards And Personal Medical Kit

Travel insurance is compulsory for all Clients undertaking any tour. It should provide adequate protection for the full duration of the tour to cover personal injury, medical expenses, repatriation expenses, helicopter evacuation, loss of luggage, etc.

For your kind information, we would like to give a list of the insurance companies, please go through the links below:

For Canadians And Americans

  1. http://www.travelguard.com
  2. http://www.worldnomads.com
  3. http://www.mondial-assistance.ca
  4. http://www.travelassistnetwork.com
  5. http://www.travelex-insurance.com
  6. http://www.travelite.com
  7. http://www.travelunderwriters.com
  8. http://www.hccmis.com/atlas-travel-insurance

For Australians And New Zealanders

  1. http://www.covermore.com.au
  2. http://www.allianz.com.au
  3. http://www.worldnomads.com.au
  4. http://www.bupa.com.au
  5. http://www.itrektravelinsurance.com.au
  6. http://www.1cover.com.au

For British

  1. http://www.travel-guard.co.uk
  2. http://www.worldnomads.co.uk
  3. http://www.thebmc.co.uk
  4. http://www.direct-travel.co.uk
  5. http://www.essentialtravel.co.uk

For Europe And Slovenia

  1. http://www.coris.si
  2. http://www.europaeische.at

For South-Africa

  1. http://www.travel-guard.co.za
  2. http://www.tic.co.za

For Indians

  1. http://www.internationalsos.com/en/asia-pacific_india.htm

Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is common at high altitudes sickness. In general may occur when people ascend too quickly normally in altitudes of over 3000 m. The symptoms of altitude sickness are due to lower air pressure at high altitudes, which results in lower oxygen levels as you breathe the air in. The air is under less pressure and this makes it harder for your body to get the oxygen out of the air and into the circulation. It’s this extra strain on the body that causes altitude sickness.

Symptoms tend to be worse at night and include headache, dizziness, and lethargy, loss of appetite, nausea, breathlessness and irritability. Difficulty sleeping is another common symptom.

MAJOR SYMPTOMS OF ALTITUDE SICKNESS

INITIAL SYMPTOMS

  1. Periods of sleeplessness
  2. Runny nose.
  3. Extra tiredness
  4. Occasional loss of appetite
  5. Feeling laziness
  6. Wish to vomiting
  7. Periodic breathing

Above are normal symptoms which may occur into your body that you should not be worried. Every trekker will experience some or all of these, no matter how slowly they ascend.

ADVANCE SYMPTOMS

  1. Headache and vomiting
  2. Dizziness
  3. Racing heartbeat
  4. Exhaustion
  5. Nausea
  6. Diarrhoea
  7. Loss of apatite
  8. Weakness
  9. Hard to breath
  10. Extra tired
  11. Dry Raspy cough
  12. Sleeplessness

When above symptoms will occur into your body, these symptoms usually resolve by spending one or two extra nights at the same altitude or using medicine. Even you are resting at the same altitude or using medicine, if symptoms are becoming worse, then it is necessary to descend.

SERIOUS SYMPTOMS

  1. Worsening headache and vomiting
  2. Swelling of hands and face
  3. Reduced urine output
  4. Walking with a staggering gait
  5. Confusion
  6. Increased tiredness
  7. Breathing irregularity
  8. Visual hallucinations (seeing things that are not real)
  9. Changes in the ability to think
  10. Changes in normal behavior

If above serious symptoms will occur into your body, these extremely dangerous symptoms are called High Altitude Cerebral Edema (or HACE). They can lead to unconsciousness and death within 12 hours. Increasing shortness of breath, cough and tiredness may also be signs of High Altitude Pulmonary Edema or HAPE. HAPE can also be rapidly fatal if ignored.

TO PREVENT ACUTE MOUNTAIN SICKNESS

  1. If possible, don’t fly or drive to high altitude. Start below 3,000 metres (10,000 feet) and walk up.
  2. If you do fly or drive, do not overexert yourself or move higher for the first 24 hours.
  3. If you go above 3,000 metres (10,000 feet), only increase your altitude by 350 to 500 metres (1,000 feet) per day
  4. Climb high and sleep low! You can climb more than 300 to 500 metres in a day as long as you come back down and sleep at a lower altitude.
  5. If you begin to show symptoms of moderate altitude sickness, don’t go higher until symptoms decrease.
  6. Drink plenty of water, tea or juice etc (at least three to 4 liters per day). Urine output should be copious and clear to pale yellow.
  7. Eat high-carbohydrate foods (rice, pasta, cereal) for more energy.
  8. Take it easy and don’t overexert yourself when you first get up to altitude. But, light activity during the day is better than sleeping because respiration decreases during sleep, exacerbating the symptoms.
  9. Avoid alcohol as it may increase the risk of dehydration, and don’t smoke.
  10. Don’t push yourself when climbing up to passes, rather take plenty of breaks.
  11. Avoid taking sleeping pills.
  12. Avoid active movements and try to relax in the first one or two days upon arrival at the high altitude areas.
  13. Bring adequate medicine.
  14. If nothing else works, return to the areas with the lower elevation.
  15. Allow sufficient time for acclimatization (After 3000 meters).
  16. Don’t make rapid Ascent. Don’t go too far too fast.
  17. Do not trek/travel alone, take guide/porter.
  18. Follow the advice from your guide, hotel, local, guide book.
  19. Descent if mild symptoms rapidly getting worse.
  20. Never leave or descent sick person along.
  21. Avoid getting cold.
  22. Take an easy and comfortable trekking route even if its longer

MEDICINE

Following is a list of items you should consider including in your medical kit – consult your pharmacist for brands available in your country.

  1. Aspirin or paracetamol – for pain or fever
  2. Antihistamine – for allergies, eg hay fever; to ease the itch from insect bites or stings; and to prevent motion sickness.
  3. Antibiotics consider including these if you’re traveling well off the beaten track’ see your doctor, as they must be prescribed, and carry the prescription with you.
  4. Loperamides or Diphenoxylate ‘blockers’ for diarrhea’ Prochlorperazine or metaclopramide for nausea and vomiting.
  5. Rehydration mixture to prevent dehydration, eg due to severe diarrhea; particularly important when traveling with children.
  6. Insect repellent, sunscreen, lip balm and eye drops.
  7. Calamine lotion, sting relief spray or aloe vera-to ease irritation from sunburn and insect bites or stings.
  8. Antifungal cream or powder – for fungal skin infections and thrush.
  9. Antiseptic, such as povidone-iodine for cuts and grazes.
  10. Bandages, band-aids or plasters and other would dressings.
  11. Scissors, tweezers and a thermometer (note that mercury thermometers are prohibited by airlines)
  12. Cold and Flu tablets, throat lozenges and nasal decongestant.
  13. Multivitamines – consider for long trips, when dietary vitamin intake may be inadequate.