Black-Necked Crane Festival
A one-day festival at Gangtey Monastery each November, celebrating the black-necked cranes that return to the Phobjikha valley for the winter.
Overview
The Black-Necked Crane Festival is held every year on 11 November in the courtyard of Gangtey Monastery, above the Phobjikha valley. It celebrates the return of the black-necked cranes, which spend the winter on the wetlands of the valley floor.
The highlight is the crane dance, performed by local schoolchildren in crane costumes who mimic the birds’ movements. The day also includes folk songs, mask dances and talks about protecting the cranes and their habitat.
Festival dates
| Dates | Status | Note |
|---|---|---|
| 11 Nov 2026 | Tentative | |
| 11 Nov 2027 | Tentative |
Festival dates follow the Bhutanese lunar calendar and change every year. Dates shown are tentative, from the Association of Bhutanese Tour Operators festival lists (2026 list updated 23 January 2025; 2027 list updated 14 February 2025). We confirm dates with the organisers before you book. Last checked 27 September 2026.
History and meaning
The festival was started by the Royal Society for Protection of Nature as part of its conservation work in the valley, to raise awareness of the cranes and to share the benefits of tourism with local people.
How to attend
The festival takes place in the monastery courtyard. Dress smartly and modestly, arrive early, and bring warm layers: November mornings in Phobjikha are cold. If you go to see the cranes, keep your distance and follow your guide's advice.
Travel and accommodation
Hotels near the big festivals fill months in advance. If you want to attend, tell us your dates as early as possible so we can secure rooms and plan the rest of your route around the festival days.