BHUTAN & BEYOND
Trek – III: Gangtey Trek
This trek in Phobjikha valley (3,000m) is in one of the few glacial valleys in Bhutan. The region is the chosen home of the rare black-necked cranes who migrate here during the winter months from the Tibetan plateau. This moderate trek passes through fascinating villages, meadows and forests of juniper, bamboo, magnolia and rhododendrons. The best time for this trek is March to May and September to November.
Day 01:
Gangtey
– Gogona, distance – 15 km, time – 6 / 7 hours. The trek commences from Gangtey
village (2,830m) traversing through meadows, fields and mixed forests of
juniper, bamboo, rhododendrons and magnolia, later ascending to Tselela pass
(3,400m). After passing through several meadows, the trail reaches Gogona
village (3,100m), the beautiful hilltop campsite situated among fluttering
prayer flags.
Overnight tented campsite.
Day 02:
Gogona – Khotokha,
distance – 16 km, time – 6 / 7 hours. The route further passes through forests
of fir, oak, spruce, dwarf rhododendron, cypress and juniper leading to Shobjula
pass (3,400m) and later to Chhorten Karpo (group of four chortens dedicated to
previous chief abbots). Campsite is at an altitude of 2,790m, near forests of
large blue pine overlooking the valley and village of Khotokha.
Overnight tented campsite
Day 03: Khotokha – Chazam, distance – 12 km, time – 5 hours. A short steep ascent leads to Tashila pass (2,800m) leading downhill through beautiful forests of rhododendron, magnolia, ferns and dwarf bamboo. This trail is also one of the most interesting bird watching areas in the country and few species in this region include; laughing thrush, shrike, magpie and woodpecker. Later the route traverses further along the west ridge crossing the Tang Chhu River, reaching to the district of Wangduephodrang.
On completion of the trek you will be met and transferred by road to your overnight accommodation.
Bhutan & Beyond
James & Nicola Irving
Lic TAG: 1611, PO Box 691 Robina
DC, QLD 4226,
Australia
Tel: 1300 365 688 x 176, Fax (07) 5522 9734, Mob: +61413 598669 A/hours (07)
5525 2845
Email:
enquiries@bhutan.com.au Web:
www.bhutan.com.au