After breakfast, drive to Gangtey across Dochu-la pass (3,088m/ 10,130 ft) with brief stops to take in the view and admire the Chorten, mani wall, and prayer flags which beautify the highest point on the road. If lucky and the skies are clear, a number of peaks can be seen from this pass (left to right): Masagang (7,158m), Tsendagang (6,960m), Terigang (7,060m), Jejegangphugang (7,158 m), Kangphugang (7,170 m), Zongphugang (7,060 m), a table mountain that dominates the isolated region of Lunana-finally Gangkarpuensum, the highest peak in Bhutan at 7,497m.
Later in the afternoon, visit Gangtey monastery. Gangtey Gompa (monastery) which is balanced a top of a small hill that rises from the valley floor. The Monastery is surrounded by a large village populated mainly by the families of the 140 Gomchens who take care of the monastery. In winter these families, together with the monastery’s monks, moves to another monastery. Gangtey, which is now managed by the government, is the only Nyingmapa monastery on the western side of the Black Mountain’s and is also the biggest Nyingmapa monastery in Bhutan. It is directed by Gangtey Tulku, the ninth reincarnation (Tulku) to bear that name.
Later travel around the beautiful Phobjikha valley. Phobjika valley is the winter home of migratory Black-necked Cranes, who come all the way from the dry plains of Tibet to the warmer climate of Bhutan.
Overnight stay at the hotel in Gangtey.