"an occasion for the locals to rejoice & celebrate the arrival of this majestic bird"

The Bhutan annual bird watching festival tour known as the black-necked crane festival is organized to generate awareness and understanding on the importance of conserving the endangered Black-necked cranes; to strengthen the linkages between conservation, economic welfare, and sustainable livelihoods of the community; provide an avenue for the local community to renew their commitment to the conservation of the black-necked cranes, and to showcase their cultural heritage and skills.

The festival includes cultural programs such as folk songs and dances (some with black-necked crane themes) and mask dances performed by the local people, crane dances, and environmental conservation-themed dramas and songs by the school children. The program usually starts at 9:30 am and lasts till late afternoon.

Nestled in the inner Himalayas at about 3000 meters above sea level, Phobjikha Valley is a wide alpine wetland valley that is considered the largest and the most significant wetland in the country. It is often cited for the harmonious existence of its inhabitants with nature and the valley also holds great cultural significance. The valley is the most significant wintering ground of the rare and endangered Black-necked cranes in Bhutan and has been protected since time immemorial by the local people’s traditional respect for all living beings. Every year, over 300 of the estimated 500 cranes that migrate to Bhutan spend their winter months in this valley. Additionally, the highly revered Gangtey Monastery that overlooks the wetlands surrounded by subsistence farms and natural forest areas makes Phobjikha a stunningly beautiful and sacred valley. Today, this glacial valley is an attraction not just to tourists but also to pilgrims.

Note: For groups of less than three, the Royal Government of Bhutan imposes surcharges; surcharges are separated from minimum daily tour prices. You can also visit Tourism Department official website http://www.tourism.gov.bt/plan/minimum-daily-package

Tour Itinerary