Gangtey Monastery

The Gangteng Monastery or the ‘Gangtey Gonpa’ or ‘Gangtey Monastery’ or ‘Gangteng Sangngak Chöling’ is one of the most important monasteries for the Nyingmapa sect of Buddhism in Bhutan. This particular Buddhism sect considers this monastery as the main seat of Pema Lingpa tradition.

Located in Wangdue Phodrang region of the Land of Thunder Dragons, this is the monastery where the migrating black-necked cranes visit every year; once during their arrival and the other while flying back to Tibet. Surprisingly, when these rare birds fly to Bhutan, they assemble at this monastery and circles three times; they also repeat the same while flying back. Though sound strange, but this happens every year during the migrating season.

Founded in 1613 by Je Kuenga Gyaltshen, Gangteng Monastery is located at an elevation of 2,800m, and is backed by the magical Black Mountains towards its western side. The monastery site also serves as a befitting spot to witness and enjoy commanding views of the nearby Phobjika Valley.