
Nature and conservation festivals
Black-Necked Crane Festival
Welcome the Birds of Heaven

Black-Necked Crane Festival
Welcome the Birds of Heaven
Bhutan’s festivals are not only about religion.
In the beautiful Phobjikha Valley, the annual Black-Necked Crane Festival celebrates the arrival of endangered black-necked cranes that migrate to Bhutan for the winter. Held at Gangtey, the festival combines conservation education with traditional culture.
Children perform crane-inspired dances, communities participate in traditional activities, and visitors learn about the importance of protecting the birds and their habitat.
At the festival
Perfect for
- Birdwatchers
- Wildlife photographers
- Families
- Nature lovers
- Responsible travellers
Festival dates follow the Bhutanese calendar and change from year to year. Please confirm the current dates with our team before you plan your journey.
A wonderful example of how Bhutan connects its cultural heritage with its commitment to nature and conservation.
Festival Tours
More Bhutanese festivals
Festival calendarFestival by Season
Laya, Gasa · AutumnRoyal Highland Festival – Laya
Haa Valley · SummerHaa Summer Festival
Merak, Trashigang · AutumnMerak Festival
Sakteng, Trashigang · AutumnSakteng Festival
Paro · SpringParo Tshechu
Thimphu · AutumnThimphu Tshechu
Punakha · Winter / SpringPunakha Dromchoe & Tshechu
Bumthang · AutumnJambay Lhakhang Drup- SpringRhododendron Festival
Ura & Genekha · AugustMatsutake Festival
Request a custom tour
Plan your Black-Necked Crane Festival journey
Tell us how you would like to experience Bhutan. A local travel specialist will design a journey around your interests, pace and dates.