10 Things to Do in Gangtey Goempa, Wangdue Phodrang, Bhutan
Gangtey Goempa, located in the Wangdue Phodrang district of Bhutan, is a beautiful and tranquil monastery that has been a spiritual and cultural hub for centuries. With its stunning views of the Himalayas, Gangtey Goempa is the perfect place to experience the unique culture and beauty of Bhutan. Here are 10 things to do when visiting Gangtey Goempa:
1. Explore the Monastery: Gangtey Goempa is a 17th century monastery that is home to over 200 monks. The monastery is a great place to explore and learn about Bhutanese culture and history. The monastery also houses a sacred temple and a library filled with ancient Buddhist manuscripts.
2. Take in the Views: The views from Gangtey Goempa are absolutely breathtaking. From the monastery, you can see the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas, the lush green valleys, and the beautiful forests.
3. Visit the Black Mountain National Park: The Black Mountain National Park is located near Gangtey Goempa and is a great place to explore Bhutan’s natural beauty. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, and red pandas.
4. Go Trekking: Trekking is a great way to explore the beauty of Bhutan. There are many trekking routes that pass through Gangtey Goempa, including the popular Jomolhari Trek.
5. Attend a Festival: Gangtey Goempa is home to a number of festivals throughout the year, including the Gangtey Tsechu, which is held in December. The festival features traditional Bhutanese dances, music, and food.
6. Visit the Local Villages: The villages surrounding Gangtey Goempa are home to some of the oldest and most traditional Bhutanese communities. Visiting these villages is a great way to experience local culture and learn about Bhutanese customs.
7. Visit the Local Markets: The local markets in the area are a great place to find unique handicrafts, souvenirs, and traditional Bhutanese clothing.
8. Learn About Buddhism: Buddhism is an important part of Bhutanese culture and Gangtey Goempa is a great place to learn about the religion. The monastery offers classes and workshops on Buddhism and meditation.
9. Enjoy Local Cuisine: Bhutanese cuisine is unique and delicious. The local restaurants near Gangtey Goempa offer a variety of traditional dishes, including momos (dumplings), ema datshi (chili and cheese), and jasha maroo (spicy chicken stew).
10. Relax and Unwind: Gangtey Goempa is the perfect place to relax and unwind. Take a stroll through the monastery grounds or simply sit and admire the stunning views of the Himalayas.
Gangtey Goempa is a beautiful and tranquil place that is full of culture and history. Whether you’re looking to explore the monastery, take in the stunning views, or simply relax and unwind, there are plenty of things to do in Gangtey Goempa.