Cranes
In the marshes.
Phuentsho — CC BY-SA 4.0 · stull17 — CC BY 2.0 · David Broad — CC BY 3.0
A broad U-shaped glacial valley in central Bhutan at about three thousand metres, ringed by pine-forested mountains, with marshes, meadows and farming villages on its floor; it is one of the country's most beautiful and peaceful valleys. The valley is famous as the winter home of the endangered black-necked crane, which arrives from the Tibetan plateau in late October and stays until February or March, seen grazing in the marshes. A festival is held for the cranes each November, and power lines were laid underground so as not to harm them. Above the valley on a small hill stands the venerable Gangteng Monastery with golden roofs, looking over the whole valley. An easy nature trail crosses the valley through forest, villages and meadows, and a crane information centre explains the birds. The valley is free; it is cold, especially in winter. Keep your distance from the birds and stay out of the marshes. The mountain passes lie above 3,000 metres, so go slowly and drink water; it is cold most of the year. Most visitors to Bhutan pay a Sustainable Development Fee of USD 100 per person per night, fixed until August 2027, and a licensed guide is required at dzongs and major temples.
In the marshes.
Above the valley.
Between villages.
Central Bhutan, about three hours by car from Punakha, at about 3,000 metres
From late October to February or March, best around their festival in November.