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Steep slopes covered in pine trees lead down into the secluded valley of Gangtey where you'll find endangered black-neck cranes in their numbers and a tiny village at its centre. With a view of it all, Gangtey Lodge is perched on a private ridge, its own luxury version of a mountain hut. On arrival, you're presented with a white scarf to symbolise respect and care, accompanied by a rendition of the national song and followed by a neck massage - the tone for your stay is more than set. Think hot stone baths and hiking to reach glorious panoramic views and you're on the right track.
From $310 person/night
Bathtime is quite the occasion at Gangtey Lodge. Next to wide windows and views to dream about, enjoy a soak in a medley of Himalayan salts and essential oils!
Partake in one of the lodge's destination meals, choosing between breakfast with a Buddhist tulku (teacher) or a BBQ dinner at the Khewa Lhakhang temple.
With a home in one of Bhutan's most isolated valleys, the road to Gangtey is not the fastest or the easiest - but it has improved in leaps and bounds since first being built.
With robust red columns, dry-stone walls and large murals of the landscape, the joint lounge and dining room feels rather traditional. Locally-grown ingredients are used to whip up three-course dinners including specialties like the yak burger with local Gouda. Although there's no official bar, the wrap-around verandah serves wine and tea along with lovely views of the valley. Enjoy a soak in the Bhutanese hot stone bath or indulge in the menu of treatments from the comfort of your suite.
Dotted across the grounds, the 12 suites have a soft and unfussy design. The king-size bed is decked out in muted colours with pops of red and heated pads are added at turn-down. The living area has a large corner couch facing the deep bathtub. A separate bathroom has a walk-in shower and wardrobe. In winter, the sleek fireplace bathes the room in warmth and the black slate floor is heated too. You might miss having a balcony but there are plenty of other spots to enjoy the view.
There are a multitude of ways to enjoy the landscape including cycling into the valley or braving the challenging route to Lawa Pass. Head out on a solo walk or a guided Gangtey 360° hike, which leads you through dense forest and flower-laden fields to reach heights of 11,100 feet. There are myriad temples to visit where you can share in a butter lamp lighting ceremony, take a tour of the monastery and receive a personal blessing. Join the staff in an afternoon of archery or see how injured birds are cared for at the Black-necked Crane Centre.