Black-Necked Crane Information Centre

Top choice in Phobjikha Valley


Your first stop in Phobjikha should be the information centre of the Royal So­ciety for Protection of Nature (RSPN), which has informative displays about the black-necked cranes and the valley environment. You can use the centre’s powerful spotting scopes and check what you see against its pamphlet Field Guide to Crane Behaviour. If the weather’s iffy, you can browse the library and watch a 15-minute video.

Star of the centre is Karma, an injured black-necked crane who was discovered as an eight-month-old with a broken wing and now lives in a neighbouring enclosure. It's a rare chance to see these magnificent cranes up close. Donations are accepted for a project to build a bigger enclosure.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Phobjikha Valley attractions

1. Khewang Lhakhang

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On the east side of the Phobjikha valley, opposite Tabiting, is the 15th-century Khewang Lhakhang, one of the oldest in the valley. It features three…

2. Gangte Goemba

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Gangte Goemba enjoys prime real estate, on a forested hill overlooking the green expanse of the entire Phobjikha valley. The extensive complex consists of…

3. Damcho Lhakhang

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4. Kuenzang Chholing Shedra

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5. Nyelung Drachaling

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Travellers with a sense of the magical will want to visit this unassuming chapel, one of eight residences (ling) built by the 14th-century Nyingma…

6. Kumbhu Lhakhang

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7. Army Training Centre

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At the time of research this army base was the location for the Wangdue Phodrang tsechu in October, at least until the dzong is rebuilt.

8. Radak Neykhang

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By the tall cypress trees of the Wangdue district court is this timeless 17th-century temple dedicated to an ancient warrior king. The anteroom has a…