Solo Wildlife Adventure in Bhutan's Phobjikha Valley

A Day of Reflection in the Valley

The seventh day of my solo adventure in Bhutan brought a sense of profound peace and connection to the natural world. Leaving Banff behind, I sought solace in the remote landscapes of Phobjikha Valley, and today, that quest was richly rewarded. The valley unfolded before me, a tapestry of green and gold, promising moments of quiet reflection and stunning vistas.



The morning began with a hearty breakfast at ST WiFi- Tourist Lunch Place. The name might not scream authenticity, but the meal was a comforting start to the day. I fuelled up with traditional Bhutanese fare, preparing myself for a day of exploration. It’s funny; Liam always teases me about my need for a good breakfast, but he knows it sets the tone for my adventures. It’s a small comfort of home I bring with me, no matter where I am in the world.


Discover delightful dishes at ST WiFi - Tourist Lunch Place in Sopsokha; where local flavors meet global cuisine.

My first stop was the Phobjikha View Point Chorten. The walk to the chorten was a gentle ascent, the air crisp and clean. Prayer flags fluttered in the breeze, their vibrant colors a stark contrast to the serene green landscape. Reaching the top, I was rewarded with panoramic views of the valley. The valley floor stretched out before me, dotted with traditional Bhutanese farmhouses and the meandering river. It was a moment to breathe deeply and appreciate the sheer scale and beauty of nature. The reviews I'd read online didn't lie; it truly was a serene viewpoint, perfect for capturing the essence of Phobjikha Valley. I spent a good hour there, simply soaking it all in and snapping photos, trying to capture the feeling of utter tranquility. I could almost hear Liam saying, Take it all in, Astrid! He always knows how much these moments mean to me.


Discover the breathtaking views and serene ambiance of Phobjikha View Point Chorten, a must-visit attraction in the heart of Bhutan's stunning landscapes.

Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished.

Afterward, I ventured towards the Gangtey-Phobjikha eco camp. This wasn't just any campsite; it was a community-driven initiative managed entirely by women. Their story is one of empowerment and sustainability, a perfect blend of conservation and community development. The eco-camp was thoughtfully designed with sustainability in mind, showcasing the potential of women's entrepreneurship in contributing to environmental stewardship and societal progress. It was inspiring to see how these women had transformed a simple culinary training program into a thriving eco-tourism venture.


Experience the tranquil beauty of Gangtey-Phobjikha Eco Camp, where sustainable living meets the stunning landscapes of Bhutan's Phobjikha Valley.

Lunch was at Tou Zaiga Restaurant by BIHT, run by a hotel management school. It was fascinating to see students honing their skills while serving up delicious local and international dishes. The restaurant sources most of its ingredients from local farmers, ensuring fresh and organic products. The panoramic view of the lower Paro valley added to the experience, making it a delightful culinary stop. I made a mental note to tell Liam about this place; he’d be impressed by their commitment to supporting local agriculture.


Experience authentic Bhutanese cuisine in the heart of Paro at Tou Zaiga Restaurant - where every meal tells a story.

In the afternoon, I decided to explore the local culture a bit more and visited the Junkeri shop. It was a small, unassuming store, but it was filled with unique Bhutanese crafts and souvenirs. I picked up a few small trinkets, thinking of what my friends back in Banff might appreciate. It’s always nice to bring back a little piece of the places I visit. I even found a small, hand-knitted item that reminded me of the traditional Norwegian patterns I love to knit back home. I smiled, thinking of how much Liam would tease me about finding a piece of Norway in Bhutan.


Explore Junkeri Shop in Karshong Village for unique Bhutanese crafts and souvenirs that reflect the rich culture and artistry of this beautiful region.

As evening approached, I found myself at Chh'a Bistro and Bar for dinner. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, and I enjoyed a hearty meal while reflecting on the day’s adventures. It was a perfect way to wind down and savor the memories I had made. I even tried a local hot pot, which was surprisingly delicious and comforting.


Discover the flavors of Bhutan at Chh'a Bistro and Bar in Thimphu – where local meets global cuisine in a vibrant setting.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore Lawa La and Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Choeten. I’ve heard that Lawa La offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, and I’m eager to capture those vistas with my camera. Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Choeten, with its unique architecture and serene location, promises to be another highlight of my journey.



Today in Phobjikha Valley was more than just a day of sightseeing; it was an immersive experience that touched my soul. The stunning landscapes, the ancient chorten, the inspiring eco-camp, and the warmth of the local people all combined to create a day I will long remember. As I settle in for the night, I feel a deep sense of gratitude for this solo adventure and the chance to connect with nature and myself in such a profound way. I can’t wait to share all these stories with Liam when I get back to Banff. He might even be inspired to join me on my next wildlife photography trip! Perhaps we'll explore more of Bhutan together, discovering its hidden gems and capturing its breathtaking beauty, side by side. For now, though, I'll dream of tomorrow's adventures and the promise of more beauty and tranquility in this magical kingdom.



Phobjikha Valley has truly captured my heart, and I know it will stay with me long after I leave its serene embrace. This journey has been a reminder of the importance of slowing down, appreciating the beauty around us, and connecting with the natural world. And as I drift off to sleep, I can almost hear Liam’s voice, saying, “You’ve found your peace, Astrid.” And he’s right; I have.