Gantey Gompa
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- Kim Indresano
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- Destination: Thimphu | Bhutan
- Topics: Religion | Traditions | Architecture
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Gantey Gompa is the monastery of Phobjika Valley. Its golden roof has particular significance for the revered black neck cranes who migrate here from Ladakh for the winter and use the roof as a point of reference. It is said that the cranes circle three times before landing in the valley, and repeat the circling when they leave in the spring. And here's another thing that we love about the Bhutanese people and their ecological mindedness: Recently, when electricity was considered for the valley the locals became concerned that the power lines would disrupt the cranes' flight path. They opted for solar technology instead.
Monks of all ages live in the gompa to study and carry out important religious functions for the community. As we leave the monastery, a young monk comes down the path with his friend while playing a reed flute.
Published on 2/12/04
