Phobjikha Valley

The Phobjikha Valley, a vast, U-shaped glacial valley in central Bhutan, is situated at an altitude of around 3,000 meters and is one of the country's most important conservation areas. It is internationally renowned as the largest and most significant wintering ground for the rare black-necked cranes, which migrate here annually from the Tibetan Plateau between October and February. The valley is part of the Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park and is managed by the Royal Society for Protection of Nature (RSPN). The landscape is characterized by gentle hills, expansive grasslands, and wetlands, through which the Nakay Chhu and Gay Chhu rivers meander. In addition to its unique birdlife, the valley features insights into rural Bhutanese life with traditional farmhouses and the imposing 17th-century Gangtey Monastery perched above the valley.

Nearby cities

Trongsa

Trongsa is located geographically in the center of Bhutan and was historically crucial for controlling the kingdom.

Damphu

Damphu is the administrative center of Tsirang district, famous for its mild climate and rich agricultural yields.

Sarpang

Sarpang is the administrative center of the Sarpang district, situated at the edge of the Indian plains and surrounded by dense jungle.

Barisal

A major river port city in the south, often called the 'Venice of the East' due to its intricate network of rivers and canals.

Mymensingh

Located on the Brahmaputra River, this city is a major center for education and agriculture in central Bangladesh.

Jamalpur

A northern city known for its nakshi kantha (embroidered quilt) handicrafts and agricultural production.

Tangail

A district famous for its traditional handloom sarees and its scenic rural landscape north of Dhaka.

Khuruthang

Khuruthang is a planned new town serving as the commercial hub for the Punakha district, just south of the historic dzong.

Daga

Daga, also known as Dagana, is a historic fortress town founded in the 17th century to defend against hostile forces.

Narayanganj

An industrial hub near Dhaka, historically significant for its jute trade and river transport.

Faridpur

A district in central Bangladesh, historically significant and known for its jute production and river trade.

History & landmarks

Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery

An impressive temple and nunnery complex situated on a ridge.

Nature

Mangde Chhu

A strong river that cuts through the steep terrain of central Bhutan, forming deep valleys around the Trongsa region.

Thorthormi Tsho

A rapidly expanding glacial lake in the High Himalayas, under strict scientific observation due to climate change.

Puna Tsang Chhu

This wide river is formed by the confluence of the Mo Chhu and Pho Chhu, powering important hydroelectric plants in the country.

More places

Black Mountains

A massive mountain range that physically and culturally divides Bhutan into a western and an eastern region.

Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park

A centrally located national park in Bhutan, encompassing extensive coniferous forests and vast alpine pastures.

Basochhu Hydropower Plant

A smaller but efficient hydroelectric plant built with Austrian assistance.

🗺️

Punatsangchhu Project

Two massive hydroelectric megaprojects under construction on the Punatsangchhu river.

Ta Dzong (Trongsa)

A historical watchtower that guarded the Trongsa Dzong.

Trongsa Dzong

The largest fortress in Bhutan, strategically located above the Mangde Chhu gorge.

Samcholing Tea Estate

A picturesque tea estate in Trongsa that produces high-quality Bhutanese green tea and supports local communities.

RSPN Black-Necked Crane Visitor Centre

An interactive and educational center for children and adults, teaching the biology and conservation of black-necked cranes.