Gangtey Lodge

Well, where to start. This hotel averages 5.0 Stars on TA and I fully concur with this. Having been to many 5* and luxury hotels before, I can say this fully meets even the highest expectations. Everything from the welcome (they will call the guide before to understand when you arrive) to the departure (here are some snacks for your journey) is planned carefully and tailored to each guest. Many hotels in this category have staff everywhere to ensure flawless service, but I have rarely seen the level of management engagement - the general mgr and the chef were always around, knew each guest, asked about ‘how their day is going’ and to make sure all wishes were taken care of. They were also accommodating to offer the hot stone bath without the massage package and I really appreciated the way they were able to tailor to each guest. Perhaps unique, but the owners were around and engaged with guests through dinner and breakfast and shared their excitement for the country and their guest’s experience at the lodge. While Bhutan is now taken off my bucket list and I rarely think about ‘returns’ before visiting other places, this lodge definitely has me thinking about how I could somehow add a longer stay in the near future - this rarely happens. A unique place where you won’t question the value for what you paid - just go.

There are so many things that impressed us, I don’t know where and how to begin this review. This is a really beautiful twelve-room cosy lodge in which every customer is treated like royalty. Not jarringly instagrammable, the mood created everywhere is mixed modern-rustic, and it’s extremely clean and tidy. Upon arrival, you will be greeted with a nice cold towel, seated down in a plush sofa and served a lovely welcome drink. A team of staff will sing a welcome chorus, followed by an introduction by the lodge manager, then the spa manager and the chef (maybe the order may differ). Finally you will be treated to a five minute head and shoulder massage before being led to your room. There are six rooms split over two levels on each side of the main living/dining hall. The room exudes luxury and charm. The best part is the tub which directly faces the valley. In winter, they will turn up the fireplace (or upon request); for now, they place a hot water bottle beneath the sheets at turndown service. Bathrobes, albeit small, are very comfy. The attendants make up your room throughout the day. Whenever you return to your room, it is magically made up - water is refilled, towels are replenished etc etc. Make sure you get the full board for meals. Everything is ala carte, though you may order more if you feel peckish. Everything is fantastic in taste and presentation. Drinks can be customised. Find time to sit outside in the balcony and just stare at the views. Each balcony already has a blanket, but the staff quickly comes to you to offer hot water bottle and neck warmer - which I greatly appreciate. Get a lovely cup of ginger mint too. The whole experience is simply divine. Also do the spa treatment. They will set up the equipment in your room (that’s how large your room is) - and the room still looks roomy. I also had a very enjoyable bath soak in my room - you can DIY with the salt provided, or order one of three specialty soaks. Very very good. Complimentary one time laundry is available. Do ask for their traditional costume which you may wear for dinner - they will come to dress you up!! And yes, there are games (archery, darts etc) to play too if you wish. We gave it a slip as we just played the games in the Punakha resort. In most evenings at six, if you wish, you can arrange for a little guided walk to the monastery to watch the chantings. All in all, it was such a memorable stay. Do yourself a favour and stay for at least TWO nights - you won’t regret it. .

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Pure magic in the Phobjikha Valley Gangtey Lodge totally blew me away. From the moment I arrived, I felt so welcomed and cared for — the staff are incredibly kind and thoughtful, and the whole vibe is warm, peaceful, and inviting. The views are unreal (seriously, you could just sit on the terrace all day), and the lodge itself is beautiful — cozy fireplaces, gorgeous rooms, and little touches that make everything feel extra special. The food was amazing, too — fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented. Whether you’re out exploring the valley or just relaxing with a cup of tea, everything feels intentional and serene. It’s the kind of place that makes you slow down, breathe deeply, and just be. Can’t recommend it enough — one of the best travel experiences I’ve ever had! Thank you, Gustine for all the caring 🙏✨❣️ I’m looking forward to go back to watch the black neck cranes