April 23, 2025
THIMPHU – Wangdue-Once a favourite among biking enthusiasts, the Gangtey-Phobji Biking Trail is gearing up for a much-anticipated comeback.
Stretching nearly 53 kilometres, the trail begins near the Gangtey Gewog Centre and weaves through the scenic Phobjikha Valley—an area famed for its rich biodiversity and cultural heritage. Over time, however, the trail had fallen into disuse, largely due to the absence of basic infrastructure and visitor amenities.
That may be about to change.
Under a new initiative titled Reviving the Gangtey-Phobji Biking Trail, the trail is being restored to once again welcome cyclists and tourists alike. The planned route will cover the entire Gangtey Gewog and a substantial portion of Phobjikha Gewog, passing through five to six villages in each area. This revival is expected not only to breathe life back into outdoor tourism but also to provide fresh momentum to the local economy.
Rinzin Wangchuk, planning officer with the Wangdue Dzongkhag Administration, said the valley’s existing popularity offers a solid foundation for the trail’s success.
“Gangtey-Phobjikha is already a well-known destination. With this initiative, we hope to double the current economic output of the two gewogs. We want to attract a wide range of cyclists—from international and regional biking communities to the growing number of domestic riders,” he said.
While the original budget proposal sought Nu 10 million, only Nu 4.2 million has been approved for the initial phase. As a result, the administration is prioritising the development of essential infrastructure. Secondary amenities will be considered later—based on the level of interest and usage by visitors.
“This phased approach helps us use our current resources wisely, while also giving us room to grow based on actual demand,” Rinzin Wangchuk added.
To build interest and generate excitement around the trail, the Dzongkhag is also investing in promotional events. A major attraction is the annual Valley Race, held every November 10—just ahead of the famous Crane Festival.
First introduced in 2004 with 54 participants, the race has steadily grown in popularity and now draws cyclists from across the country and beyond.
Set at an elevation of 3,000 metres, the Phobjikha Valley offers more than a test of endurance. It is a place of rare natural beauty and ecological importance. The valley serves as a winter home for the endangered black-necked crane and is celebrated for its wide, open meadows, traditional village landscapes, and sweeping views of the Himalayas.
For cyclists, photographers, and nature lovers alike, the Gangtey-Phobji Trail presents a unique opportunity to experience Bhutan’s natural and cultural wonders in one journey.
As the trail finds its second wind, it carries with it the promise of renewed adventure, rural prosperity, and a model for sustainable tourism—right in the heart of one of the country’s most beloved valleys.