Solo Wildlife Adventure in Bhutan's Phobjikha Valley

Soaking and Exploring: A Perfect Day in Phobjikha

Today was a day of contrasts, blending the soothing warmth of Bhutanese tradition with the raw, untamed beauty of its natural landscapes. It was a day to recharge both my body and my spirit, a reminder of why I embarked on this solo journey in the first place.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Ugyen Gaki Pelzom Shop. It's a small, unassuming place, but the food was delicious and the atmosphere was warm and welcoming. I had a simple but satisfying meal of *kewa datshi* (potato and cheese) and red rice, fueling up for the day's adventures. It's amazing how such simple ingredients can come together to create something so comforting. It reminded me of the simple, hearty meals Liam makes back in Banff.

With a full stomach and a sense of anticipation, I set off for the Kuenga Hot Stone Bath. The walk there was lovely, a gentle stroll through the valley with the crisp morning air invigorating my senses. The valley was alive with the sounds of nature, birds chirping and the distant bleating of sheep. The views were breathtaking, the rolling hills a patchwork of green and gold under the clear blue sky.

Reaching the hot stone bath, I was immediately struck by the tranquility of the setting. The bathhouse was a simple, rustic structure, blending seamlessly into the natural surroundings. The air was filled with the earthy aroma of wood smoke and the faint scent of herbs. I changed into a traditional *gho* (for men) and prepared myself for the experience.

The hot stone bath itself was an experience like no other. The water was heated by fire-roasted river stones, which were carefully placed into a wooden tub. As I lowered myself into the water, I felt the tension melt away from my muscles. The heat was intense but soothing, and the mineral-rich water left my skin feeling soft and rejuvenated. It was incredibly relaxing to soak in the warm water, surrounded by the sounds of nature and the stunning views of the valley.


Discover tranquility and wellness at Kuenga Hot Stone Bath, where traditional Bhutanese bathing rituals meet stunning natural landscapes.

The true journey of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes.

After the bath, feeling completely refreshed, I decided to explore the Jigme Khesar Strict Nature Reserve. The reserve is a vast, protected area, home to a diverse array of flora and fauna. I was particularly interested in seeing some of the local wildlife, especially the takin, Bhutan's national animal, and maybe even a glimpse of a snow leopard, though I knew that was a long shot. I packed my camera gear, grabbed a quick lunch at Ghalleynee Restaurant, and set off.

The drive to the reserve was stunning, the road winding through dense forests and alongside gushing rivers. The landscape was dramatic, with towering mountains and deep valleys stretching as far as the eye could see. I stopped several times along the way to take photos, capturing the beauty of the Bhutanese countryside.

Once inside the reserve, I embarked on a hike, following one of the well-marked trails. The forest was alive with the sounds of birds and insects, and the air was thick with the scent of pine and damp earth. I kept my eyes peeled for wildlife, scanning the trees and undergrowth for any signs of movement.

I wasn't disappointed. I spotted several species of birds, including colorful pheasants and cheeky Himalayan monals. I also saw a group of langurs, playful monkeys with long tails, swinging through the trees. Unfortunately, I didn't see any takin or snow leopards, but the experience of being in such a pristine natural environment was reward enough.


Discover the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity of Jigme Khesar Strict Nature Reserve, a must-visit destination for nature lovers in Bhutan.

As the sun began to set, casting long shadows across the valley, I made my way back to Phobjikha. I decided to treat myself to dinner at the Phobjikha Resort. I wanted to try a restaurant that sources its ingredients locally. The food was delicious, a mix of traditional Bhutanese dishes and international cuisine, and the service was impeccable. I enjoyed a leisurely meal, savoring the flavors and reflecting on the day's experiences.

Before heading back to my guesthouse, I stopped by Tshang Lhaye General Shop to pick up a few essentials. It's a small, local shop, but it had everything I needed. I chatted with the owner for a few minutes, learning a little about his life and the local community. It's these small interactions that make traveling so rewarding, the opportunity to connect with people from different cultures and backgrounds.

Back at my guesthouse, I sat down to write in my travel journal, recording the day's events and impressions. It's important to me to document my experiences, to capture the sights, sounds, and smells of each place I visit. These journals are a treasure trove of memories, a way to relive my adventures long after I've returned home.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore Kabji-Hoka Tsho and Samtengang Lake, continuing my exploration of this beautiful region. Perhaps I'll even stop by Avenue 28 Club for a drink in the evening, though I suspect I'll be too tired from another day of hiking and exploring. It's nice to know there are options though!

It's moments like these, surrounded by nature's beauty and the warmth of Bhutanese hospitality, that make me feel so grateful for this journey. I’m so happy to have taken this time for myself before Liam and I start trying for children. It’s important to me to have this time to focus on myself and my passions.

Goodnight from Phobjikha!