Insider Journeys: Gangtey Lodge, Bhutan

Overview

Gangtey Lodge is a small luxury hotel in Bhutan’s Phobjikha Valley (also known as Gangtey Valley), perched on a hillside above a pristine nature reserve. Featuring just 12 suites, the property incorporates a large restaurant and lounge that opens onto a panoramic terrace. There is also a small lawn for playing Bhutanese darts, and a traditional hot stone bath can be prepared in a standalone spa hut.

The dining at Gangtey Lodge is a highlight, with most journeys including breakfast, lunch and dinner along with freshly baked afternoon tea in the lounge. Evening drinks are also included, which can be enjoyed by the roaring fire on cold valley nights, or on the terrace in summer.

What we loved

Gangtey Lodge was one of our favourite hotels in Bhutan. There was truly a lot to love. Let’s start with the setting, which is one of the best positioned hotels in the Phobjikha Valley. It offers direct access to the Gangtey Nature Trail, the Gangtey Goenpa and the Shedra (discussed below), whilst also commanding one of the most picturesque viewpoints over the entire valley. The large terrace off the main restaurant and lounge is one of the best places I have ever watched a sunrise.

This leads me to the design of the property, which strikes just the right balance between modernity and tradition. Based on a Bhutanese farmhouse structure, Gangtey Lodge is enhanced with luxury touches and quality furnishings creating a sophisticated space while retaining a clear sense of place. We particularly loved our suite, which was so warm and inviting with its freestanding bathtub by the window and in-room fireplace.

Another highlight of our time at Gangtey Lodge was the food. We appreciated the thoughtful menus which celebrated local dishes and were tailored to the environment (Gangtey Lodge sits around 3,000m, with Phobjikha being the highest of Bhutan’s five valleys frequented by travellers). Meats and heavier items were served at lunch, while lighter menu options were recommended in the evenings; dark chocolate was also promoted throughout our stay as a way to help our bodies acclimatise – we were happy to oblige!

Finally, the lodge team must be mentioned - they were a wonderful caring bunch, and helped us create such special memories of our time in the Phobjikha Valley. More on this below.

What surprised us

The Gangtey Lodge team excelled at weaving little moments of delight into our time at the lodge. Without giving too much away, it all started on our arrival at the lodge with the very special welcome we received from the entire hotel team. My lips are sealed on this one, but you might want to have your camera handy…

After dinner, we would return to our room and discover a thoughtful personal note or small gift had been left as part of the evening turndown service. We were also gifted our own prayer flags to hang somewhere in the valley when we left. One evening the lodge team offered to help us get ready for dinner in the Bhutanese national dress – the Kira (for ladies) and Gho (for men). Another day we were invited to play Bhutanese darts on the lawn with some of the team before dinner.

Each of these moments were a fun way to get to know the Bhutanese people and culture, and they were delivered with such authenticity that we couldn’t help but fall in love with this beautiful property and its wonderful team.

Recommended experiences

Just 5 minutes’ walk from the lodge is a local Shedra (Buddhist Monk’s college), which guests of Gangtey Lodge can visit. Options include watching the evening prayer service (filled with chanting and drums) and joining in a short meditation led by a monk where you can ask questions at the end. This fascinating place offers a glimpse into the Bhutanese culture and monk way of life.

There are two must-do hikes in the Phobjikha Valley. The first is the 360-degree hike, so named for the view it offers over the valley. Incorporating a section of the Longtey Lomey trail, this walk can be paired with a pop-up lunch on the hillside for a special moment of contemplation.

The other experience we recommend is a walk on the Gangtey Nature Trail ending with a visit to Gangtey Goenpa. On the walk you’ll learn about the black-neck cranes annual migration to the valley – and spot some if you are visiting from late-October to mid-February – and the bird’s significance for Gangtey Goenpa when visiting the monastery.

What’s Nearby?

Many guests choose to combine their stay at Gangtey Lodge with a visit to COMO Uma Punakha, a peaceful riverside retreat surrounded by rice terraces and forested hills - perfect for unwinding after time in the high valleys.

For a touch of indulgence closer to Paro, Amankora Paro offers elegant suites and a world-class spa, ideally located for exploring Tiger’s Nest and the surrounding trails.

If your travels take you to Thimphu, Six Senses Thimphu - often called the “Palace in the Sky” - is a breathtaking finale to any Bhutan journey, blending mountain views, contemporary comfort, and mindful luxury.