Buitengewoon Bhutan

The lodge offers a variety of guided or unguided hikes and bike riding trails, which range from a more leisurely 1 hour to a more strenuous full days expedition up to altitudes of 3,600m. We will be happy to suggest a trail or route that may best suit your liking and fitness level.

The lodge has several traditional bows and sets of darts available in case you are inclined to challenge any of the team. There are some very accomplished archers within the lodge staff members, who are happy to teach the basics. This is a complimentary activity

The Shedra, located a 3 minute walk above Gangtey Lodge, offers a unique opportunity for spiritual immersion. and is home to approximately 250 monk students ranging in age from 12 – 40 years old. Mainly Buddhist religious studies as well as basic English courses are taught. The monk students are also responsible for the day-to-day housekeeping tasks such as cooking, cleaning and laundry.

The Morning Prayer takes place every morning from 05:15-06:15 (except Sundays). The day starts very early at 05:00, in preparation for the morning prayers; these prayers are referred to as the Tara Ceremony. Prayers are offered in the early morning as the Buddhists consider the body and mind to be most pure at this time of day. After the prayer session, you are invited to accompany one of the monk teachers in their morning rounds. This will offer you the opportunity to converse with the teacher while the monk novices are getting ready for their studies.

The Evening Prayer takes place every evening from 18:30-19:15. After the prayer session the monks have free time before retiring to the rooms. It is possible to combine the 17:30 meditation class with the evening prayer. After the prayer session, you are invited to discuss any topics you wish with the monks.

The experience starts from the lodge, when the guests are escorted to the Monastery to participate with the monks and lamas in the Tshewang prayer ceremony (a prayer for personal empowerment, wish fulfilment and a healthy life)

The prayer lasts approximately 30 minutes, during which guests participate in the lighting of butter candles. At the end of the prayer, guests will receive a personal blessing from the Tulku (a reincarnated Master) and an exclusive tour of the Monastery. Afterwards guests will be able to enjoy an exceptional private breakfast or lunch experience within the monastery.

This activity is a charged optional extra and can be booked once in Gangtey Valley or in advance.

The Shedra is an institute where the monks learn the Buddhist philosophy, poetry, logic, meditation and debate. In addition to the regular academic practice and classes for monks, the Shedra provides a meditation class for guests, mainly on Compassion and Shamata (tranquility and calm abiding meditation) by highly qualified teachers with an English, French or Hindi translator. This meditation practice will help to overcome all stresses, develop a peaceful mind and to generate kindness. Prior to the class there will be time for a discussion with the instructor on meditation or any other aspect of Buddhism.