Six Senses Bhutan welcomes its 4th lodge, Six Senses Gangtey

Six Senses Bhutan welcomes its 4th lodge, Six Senses Gangtey, where relaxation and bird-watching come together

November 22, 2019: As intrigue towards Bhutan increases, travel options are gaining steam as well. Following the successful launch of three lodges in Paro, Thimphu and Punakha earlier in 2019, Six Senses Bhutan has now opened its fourth lodge, Six Senses Gangtey.

Launched in October, this is when black-necked cranes arrive from Tibet to enjoy the clear skies and pleasant weather. Indeed, the new lodge is called the “Traditional Bird Watching Bridge” due to its cantilevered bridge-like building and floor-to-ceiling windows. This prime perch sits at an elevation of 9,843 feet (3,000 meters) and offers unobstructed, 180-degree views of the cranes’ nesting grounds and valley below. Characterized by rolling hills, pine forests and grassy marshlands dotted with rural villages, the glacial Phobjikha valley is a designated conservation area.

The design is inspired by Bhutanese farmhouse architecture and incorporates local stone and hand-hewn timber. It uses traditional building techniques to blend with its natural setting. Dining areas along with a library and games room have been incorporated.

The lodge is furnished with eight suites, each with a valley-facing, panoramic view, and a private outdoor balcony equipped with daybeds as well as binoculars for bird watching. There is also a two-bedroom villa with its own private spa treatment facilities. Interiors are subtle with uncluttered lines and a natural palette of earth tones and warm fabrics. Weathered timber floors and textured walls set the backdrop, while comfy leather armchairs and footstools invite guests to unwind after days spent trekking and exploring. Bukhari stoves and locally-woven throws add extra warmth.

Six Senses Gangtey boasts a dedicated spa featuring two swedana rooms designed specifically for herb-infused steam therapies. The inclusion of a sodalite crystal sets positive intentions through breathing and meditation. This is followed by Bhutanese chanting and singing bowls, promoting stillness, happiness and well-being.

The lodge’s signature restaurant Baa Zam – “bridge” in Dzongkha – features hearty western and locally-influenced dishes, such as the Charred Pumpkin Risotto made with local short grained white rice and Bjobchee Takthuk, a signature Bhutanese pasta-like dish of organic potatoes and buckwheat from the valley.

While trekking and hiking, you can decide to stay at Six Senses Gangtey for the entire visit. Six Senses, however, offers the option of planning a tailor-made circuit of all four lodges. Six Senses Bhutan anticipates the opening of its fifth lodge in Bumthang in March 2020.

Adding further encouragement, Six Senses Bhutan is offering a special preferred rate for Indian residents only, from October 13, 2019 to February 29, 2020.