In Search of the Black-Necked Cranes

Overview

Each winter, the endangered black-necked cranes fly south from the high plateau of northern Tibet to roost in the glacial valleys of Bhutan — and nowhere do they gather in greater number than Phobjikha. This seven-night journey is built around witnessing that spectacle, combining a stay in the bowl-shaped Phobjikha valley with the cultural highlights of Thimphu, Punakha and Paro. The cranes are typically present from late October through mid-February. The journey can be extended to include other regions of Bhutan or timed to coincide with a festival.

Highlights

• Phobjikha valley — winter roosting ground of the black-necked cranes
• Gangtey Monastery and the Royal Society for Protection of Nature centre
• Tiger's Nest (Taktsang) Monastery
• Punakha Dzong and the Khamsum Yuelley Namgyel Chorten
• Thimphu's museums, arts institutes and cultural landmarks
• Traditional farmhouse visit and hot stone bath