Gangtey – Experience Bhutan’s wild frontiers on horseback
Providing a restful base with eight suites, Amankora Gangtey is located in the seldom-visited valley of Phobjikha near the quaint village of Gangtey. From its forested knoll, the lodge boasts panoramic views across the gorge to the regal Gangtey Goemba, a 16th-century monastery, and easy access to the winter habitat of the rare, black-necked crane.
A new way to explore Gangtey’ s pristine corners and relive the early days of Bhutan’s wild frontiers, is on Yuta horseback. A distinct Himalayan breed known for their mild temperament and impeccable sense of balance, begin the expedition from the lodge grounds, passing through scenic traditional farming villages, wooden bridges and charming farmhouses before completing the hour-long loop passing through fields littered with prayer poles gently flowing with the breeze.
Bumthang – A naming ceremony in the Choekhor Valley The eastern-most lodge, 16-suite Amankora Bumthang rests adjacent to the First and Second King’s palace, Wangdichholing, in the Choekhor Valley. This region of sloping pine forests, apple orchards and fertile farmland is known for its cottage industries that produce the sought-after Bumthang butter, cheese, honey and a variety of fruit spirits and brandies.
New for 2023, guests to Bumthang lodge are invited to be blessed with a new Bhutanese name from Sey Lhakhang, the valley’s most important name-giving institution. A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, names in Bhutan are given by Lamas and Rinpochhes from the temples, and in this special ceremony names can be given to guests through an intimate ceremony with a Lama.
Taking place in the private altar room of the monastery, the ceremony begins with a declaration of date of birth before the Lama performs a Buddhist name calculation using a unique method of Buddhist astrology. Following the name presentation, explanation and blessing, guests are invited to light butter lamps for wishes of wellbeing in the weeks and months that follow.
