Be Happy at Gangtey Lodge in Bhutan
Where Joy is a Way of Life
Quote of the Week
“Bhutan teaches us that true wealth lies not in material possessions but in the richness of our relationships, the depth of our experiences, and the joy in our hearts.”
Unknown
Dear Postcard Travellers,
‘Don’t worry, be happy’— you’ve probably heard this catchy tune countless times. Now imagine a place where those lyrics aren't just words, but a way of life. Welcome to Bhutan.
In this Himalayan haven, the only carbon-negative country in the world, happiness is a national treasure. Enter Gangtey Lodge, a sustainable sanctuary perched high above a 17th-century monastery in the misty folds of Phobjikha valley. Here, joy reigns supreme through the Five Keys to Wellbeing: Nature, Wellness, Spirituality, Dining and Culture.
Together, let’s find bliss in Bhutan.
Karen Hastings
Editor-in-Chief, Postcard Travel Club
Explore Gangtey Lodge
At Gangtey Lodge, a world of awe-inspiring beauty and cultural richness awaits. With breathtaking views of the 17th-century monastery and Himalayan blue pine forests, every moment here is a feast for the senses.
Gangtey Lodge embraces Bhutan's ethos of Gross National Happiness, prioritising nature, culture and sustainable development. This luxury escape offers meaningful experiences, connecting you with the landscape, spirituality and local community.
Hike scenic trails, explore ancient monasteries, soak in a hot stone bath, learn how to cook traditional Bhutanese cuisine and delve into centuries-old traditions.
Gangtey Lodge will create cherished memories as you reconnect with yourself and loved ones immersed in the beauty of Bhutan.
Unique Activities
Hike through the Gangtey Valley
Head out on a soul-stirring journey through the breathtaking landscapes of the Gangtey Valley. Explore ancient trails in the pine-scented air or stroll along the valley floor to the roosting grounds of the endangered black-necked crane.
You can also book the breathtaking ‘Gangtey 360°’, a 30- to 40-minute hike to the meditation cliff at 3,400 meters through towering bushes of jade-hued bamboo. When you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with unobstructed views of the Gangtey Valley far below and Himalayan peaks to the north.
Celebrate with a breakfast or lunch with spectacular views before taking a gentle hour-long walk back down to the lodge.
Find Spiritual Serenity
Gangtey Lodge offers a host of enriching spiritual experiences. Join monks at the Shedra for the Thrusel ritual, cleansing your spirit and invoking good fortune.
Attend morning or evening prayers at Gangtey Shedra, where 300 monks study, and engage in enlightening discussions with lamas. Experience tranquility in meditation classes led by qualified lamas, or participate in the Lung Dhar ceremony, raising prayer flags for happiness and offering karmic merit to all beings.
You can also take part in a Butterlamp Ceremony at the 17th-century Gangtey Geonpa, illuminating your path to enlightenment.
Your journey to spiritual renewal awaits at Gangtey Lodge.
Sign Up for a Cooking Class
Delve into Bhutanese culture through a cooking class at Gangtey Lodge. Discover the history and traditions of Bhutanese cuisine as you explore and prepare local delicacies.
Gather ingredients like homemade cheese and butter from nearby villages or accompany chefs to the local market.
Conclude your culinary adventure by dining in the atmospheric Woodshed, savouring the dishes you've crafted with your own hands. This is a rewarding experience for both adults and children alike.
Accommodation
Sleep Like a Baby in Your Spacious Suite
Gangtey Lodge’s Bhutanese Farmhouse Suites offer 46 square meters of cosy comfort. Soak in a luxurious freestanding bath and cosy up by the Swiss wood-burning fireplace, surrounded by warm fabrics and soothing earth tones.
Enjoy panoramic views of the valley from your private oasis, complete with underfloor heating for added comfort. Each suite exudes Bhutan's rich cultural heritage, providing a serene retreat after your adventures.
With half- or full-board options, your stay promises unparalleled relaxation and rejuvenation.
Dining
Feast on Bhutanese Cuisine
At Gangtey Lodge, you can savour the exotic flavours of Bhutanese regional cuisine or feast on your favourite comfort food. The chefs delight in tailoring dishes to individual tastes.
Elevate your dining experience with intimate settings and breathtaking views. Relax by stone fireplaces on plush sofas, or opt for a unique meal in a traditional woodshed overlooking the Gangtey Valley.
Imagine sipping your morning coffee on the panoramic terrace at the main lodge in the pine-scented air or indulging in a private breakfast or lunch in the monastery.
You can also enjoy a hilltop picnic surrounded by the serene beauty of the Gangtey Valley.
Meet the People
The genesis of Gangtey Lodge traces back to a transformative adventure in 2003 led by owners Khin Omar Win and Brett Melzer. As the pioneers of Balloons over Bagan and Malikha Lodge in Myanmar, their journey to Bhutan was initially to explore ballooning. However, the untouched beauty of the Gangtey valley captivated them, sparking a vision to create a sanctuary preserving Bhutanese rural life.
Drawing on their expertise and passion, they embarked on a three-year odyssey, blending luxury with heritage. Architect Mary Lou Thomson joined the effort, sharing their commitment to reflect Bhutan's cultural richness. Together, they crafted Gangtey Lodge, a testament to their dedication to community, tradition and spirituality.
Sustainability Story
At Gangtey Lodge, sustainability means nurturing both nature and community.
The Green Team plants trees, combats litter and partners with the Royal Society for the Protection of Nature to enhance biodiversity. The lodge sources wood from sustainable forests and meticulously manages waste, recycling and treating water for reuse. Energy usage is optimised daily.
Menus champion local producers and empower the community through employment and skill development, combating rural-urban migration. Over 95 percent of the team is Bhutanese, and guest fees support community initiatives.
Together with local partners, Gangtey Lodge ensures that success contributes to the prosperity of all.
Discover More Immersive Experiences at Gangtey Lodge
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