At Gangtey Lodge, guests feel ever so far away. More than three hours from the capital city of Thimphu, along the National Highway and ultimately beyond the single road that leads into the once-hidden, glacial-carved Phobjikha Valley, the 12-room property nestles into the farmland. Here, potatoes, herbs, and turnips grow. And the black-necked crane of Tibet comes to settle for winter, after circling the Gangteng Monastery Bhutan. In Bhutan, value is derived from effort. If effort can be defined as the planning, time expenditure, and rough ride out to Gangtey Lodge, the value here is splendid serenity.
Upon approach, the edifice of Gangtey Lodge hints at the monastic design found inside, delicately blended with farmhouse aesthetics. Rich wooden accents and structural components compliment layered stone and white walls. An all-glass wall in the lobby, dining room, and common area (one joint space) separates inside from out. Fireplaces intermittently divide this partition—the flames are visible from both sides.
The back porch offers exquisite, peaceful views down into the valley and up toward the hills. Out here, one can take breakfast or simply sip tea. Blankets and neck warmers are brought for guests during the colder months. Binoculars are on tables and a brass telescope stands in one corner. It’s quiet, spacious, and accommodating—and one of the hotel’s irreplaceable standouts.
Inside the glass, a row of four tables and a smattering of comfy furniture comprises the social space, all of which are beneath cathedral ceilings. Here, one dines on the ever-changing menu by chef Adrian Broadhead. Critiques of Bhutanese hotel food come when menus try to tackle Western cuisine only. Chef Broadhead cooks with top-quality ingredients and local herbs.
There’s a great success to his amalgamation of nation and culture, bringing global food together with that of Bhutan’s. After dinner, one can sidle up to the fire and sip house-made ara (moonshine rice wine) or play the local Tiger and Cows stone board-game. It’s worth mentioning that the hotel’s water is potable (quite uncommon in the nation), as the staff filters it no less than five times.
Undeniably, the guestroom is a highlight. A free-standing, slipper bathtub overlooks the valley. A wood-burning stove rises in one corner. Staff will fill the bath (complete with herbs of your choice) and light the stove upon request. Heated, hand-cut tiles line the floor, occasionally covered with hand-woven carpets. Across from the king-size bed (or two single beds) sits a corner couch. A second room in the suite functions as a walk-in wardrobe. Spaciousness is not an issue in this valley—or at this lodge. From linens to the wall color, there’s a warm earthiness emanating from the space.
Perhaps the most luxuriant amenity, the docha (or traditional hot stone bath experience) at Gangtey Lodge involves roasting local river rocks over an open fire for hours and then depositing them at the foot of a local pinewood tub. There, they heat the water, as well as fronds of the herb artemisia. Guests (one or two per session) then soak alone in the medicinal water, known as “Menchu” Iced tea can be found in the room, along with ice water and small, sweet bites. It’s private, relaxing, and recommended after a massage—which happens one room away.
To gaze out at the valley, one severs their connection to time and place. With black-necked cranes above, it only becomes more mystical. From Gangtey Lodge, one can embark on plenty of hikes for various skill levels. The property also offers free archery lessons for guests. And free Bhutanese dress, for dining. Of course, there’s also free, reliable WiFi and so many other amenities that luxury travelers require these days. But the spirituality many speak of when talking about their time in Bhutan can be inhaled here. With it comes peace of mind—and the staff does everything, both seen and unseen, to make sure it’s sustained.
all Images by David Graver
Write-up by David Graver is COOL HUNTING’s Editor in Chief. His areas of expertise include art, film, fashion, travel, and hospitality, with further specialization in watches and spirits. David represents COOL HUNTING around the world at events including Baselworld, Milan Design Week, Miami Art Week, Tales of the Cocktail, and New York Fashion Week, as well as gallery openings, product launches, and cultural happenings.
Nearby Gangtey Lodge sightseeing places
Gangtey Goenpa
Gangtey Goenpa is very near to the lodge and it is one of the oldest monastery in Bhutan.It is located on the hilltop at an elevation of 2800m under the Wangdiphodrang district of Bhutan. It was built in 1613 by the first Peling Gyalsé Rinpoche or Gangteng Tulku, Rigdzin Pema Tinley, who was the grandson of the great Bhutanese “treasure revealer” Terchen Pema Lingpa.
Before you reach Phubjikha glacial valley you will be visiting the Gangtey Monastery Bhutan. It is an important monastery for the Nyingmapa school of thought.
Gangtey Trail
Gangtey Trail which starts from Gangtey goenpa area to the Phubjikha glacial valley. It is easy hiking. The Gangtey Nature allows you to catch hold of the beauty of the Phobjikha Valley. The two-hour trail will take you beautiful rural village and the deep forest of Pines. Hikers will make their way from the Gangtey Monastery through dense pine forests, flower meadows, and grasslands to reach the bottom of the Phubjikha Glacial valley.