Overview:

Gangtey Monastery, also known as Gangtey Goenpa or Phobjikha Valley Monastery, is one of the most important and oldest Nyingmapa monastery of Bhutan. Founded in 1613 by Gyalse Pema Thinley, of the Drukpa Lineage, it is a place for the practice and dissemination of Buddhist knowledge and wisdom. Located in the beautiful Phobjikha Valley, the monastery is a fascinating landmark surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. It is also home to the sacred black-necked cranes (Grus nigricollis), the symbol of peace and prosperity. The Gangtey Monastery offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the ancient Bhutanese Buddhist and culture, which has been preserved in its current form since the 17th century. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Bhutan
Prominent Features:

1. Location: The Gangtey Monastery is located in the Phobjikha Valley of Bhutan among the mountains of Black Mountains. 2. History: The monastery was built in the 17th century and is thought to be built by Pema Lingpa, the famous Bhutanese saint. 3. Architecture: The monastery is ornately decorated with traditional Bhutanese paintings and sculptures. 4. Spiritual Importance: The monastery serves as a major spiritual hub for the Buddhist followers of Bhutan and is one of the spiritual centers in the country. 5. Religious Teachings: The monastery follows the teachings of the Nyingma Buddhist School of Tibetan Buddhism. 6. Description: The 10th largest Monastery in the country, Gangtey Monastery has several temples and shrines including two prominent ones, the Peling Lhakhang and Gangtey Goemba. 7. Other Activities: The monastery is also visited by tourists to engage in walking and hiking in the beautiful valley. This national monument of Bhutan portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

Gangtey Monastery, also known as Gangtey Gompa, is located in the Phobjikha Valley in the Wangdue Phodrang District of Bhutan. It is an important monastery of Nyingmapa, the oldest school of Tibetan Buddhism. The temple was founded in 1613 by Gyalse Pema Thinley, the son of Ngagi Wangchuk, the ruler of the area at that time. The monastery is the most important regional Buddhist monastery in western Bhutan. It also serves as the spiritual center for the local population of Bhutan and surrounding areas. Gangtey Monastery is home to some of the most exquisite and oldest paintings in Bhutan. These paintings deck the walls of the temple. They depict the life of the Buddha himself, along with various scenes from past lives of the present incarnations of the Drukpa Lineage’s teachers. Gangtey Monastery also has a fascinating collection of sacred texts, statues and other religious artifacts. The monastery also serves as the center of an annual festival called ‘tsechu’. The festival is accompanied by colorful masks and costumes and is celebrated with much enthusiasm. Gangtey Monastery also offers spiritual retreats and meditation classes to the public. The monastery and surrounding area are known for its spectacular nature. The beautiful landscape is surrounded by valleys, meadows, forests and rivers, and is home to black-necked cranes and other rare species of wildlife. Gangtey Monastery is definitely a must-visit destination for those seeking to explore the wonders of the Himalayas. You must visit one of these historical places in Bhutan on your Bhutan tour

Interesting facts:

1. The Gangtey Monastery is located in Phobjikha Valley - which is one of the most beautiful places in the country of Bhutan. 2. The Monastery was founded in the 17th century by the famous Terton Pema Lingpa and it is home to around 100 monks. 3. It is the largest Nyingmapa monastery in western Bhutan and is located at an altitude of about 2900 meters. 4. Gangtey Monastery is renowned for the special mask dances and festivals that take place every year as part of the religious ceremonies. 5. The Monastery has a unique architectural style with traditional motifs, depicting various symbols of Buddhism. 6. Every year in late November and early December the Black-necked Cranes arrive in the Phobjikha valley and settle in the marshy areas below the monastery. Therefore the Gangtey Monastery is one of the best spots to watch these rare birds. Visit one of the famous monuments of Bhutan with your friends and family.