Wangdi Phodrang Dzong

Wangdiphodrang Dzong

Wangdue Phodrang Dzong overlooks the convergence of two river the Dangchhu and Punatsangchhu.

When Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel was in Chimi Lhakhang at Punakha, an old cripple approached him and told him that if he built a dzong in Wangdue Phodrang on a ridge that resembled a sleeping elephant, he would unite the country. Zhabdrung concluded that the old man was Yeshey Goenpo (Mahakala) and sent a noble to study the location. The noble reported that he saw four ravens circling the ridge, which flew away in four different directions when he approached. Taking this to be a good omen, Zhabdrung constructed the dzong in 1638.

Phobjika Valley:

Beautiful Phubji Kha valley, with wintering ground for Black-necked Crane

Just below Gantey Gompa lies the beautiful glacial valley of Phobjika. Nestled in the inner Himalayas at about 3000 metres above sea level, Phobjikha is a wide alpine marshland valley that is considered the largest and the most significant wetland in the country. The valley is the most significant wintering ground of the rare and endangered Black‐necked cranes in Bhutan and has been protected since time immemorial by the local people’s traditional respect for all living beings. Every year, over 300 of the estimated 500 cranes that migrate to Bhutan spend their winter months in this valley.

The annual black-necked crane festival is performed in the grounds of Gantey Gompa.

Gangtey Goenpa

Gangtey Goemba ia an old 16th Century monastery that belongs to a reincarnate (Gangtey Trulku). Inside the monastry are ancient artifacts of Tantric Buddhism (like the mummified body)

The Phobjikha valley is the roosting grounds of the black-necked cranes (grus nigricollis). There are myths, legends and songs about them; a clear indication of longlasting familiarity with and affection for the cranes.