Bumthang Travel Guide

Discovering the Beauty and Culture of Bumthang: A Travel Guide

Bumthang is a region located in central Bhutan known for its beautiful natural scenery, rich culture, and historical significance. The area is home to a number of important temples and monasteries, as well as several picturesque valleys. Some popular attractions in Bumthang include the Jambay Lhakhang temple, the Kurjey Lhakhang temple, and the Tamshing Lhakhang temple.

When visiting Bumthang, a popular activity is to take a trek through the beautiful valleys and forests of the region. The best time to visit is from September to November, when the weather is mild and the landscape is at its most picturesque.

If you're interested in learning more about Bhutan's rich cultural heritage, be sure to visit the local museums and cultural centers in Bumthang. The region is also home to a number of traditional Bhutanese handicrafts, which make for unique souvenirs and gifts.

Overall, Bumthang is a beautiful and fascinating destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you're interested in nature, culture, or history, you're sure to find something to enjoy in this beautiful region of Bhutan.

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Best Places To Visit In Bumthang

From historical cities to natural wonders, come see the best of Bumthang.

Tamshing Lhakhang

Formally called Tamshing Lundup ChÃ¶ling, or "Temple of the Good Message", Tamshing Lhakhang is a small one-storey temple-cum-monastery located in the Cho Khor Valley of Bumthang District in Bhutan. The shrine was built by Pema Lingpa in the early 16th century, on the inner walls, there are eight expressions of Guru Rinpoche and some old religious images are believed to have been painted by Pema Lingpa himself. These paintings are still in their original condition and are of great interest to historians and culture lovers. The Lhakhang further extends to the first floor which houses about 100,000 old images of Shakyamuni Buddha. It is said that a large collection of masks engraved by Pema Lingpa is also present on this floor.

Mebar Tsho The Burning Lake

Mebar Tso also known as the Burning Lake in the Tang Valley, takes about 40 minutes to reach from Bumthang. It is considered a holy site for pilgrimage as it is said that Pema Lingpa found the hidden treasure of Guru Rinpoche. It holds great spiritual significance for the pilgrims, marked by colorful prayer flags and butter lamps offered by them. There is a small wooden bridge over the gorge that gives a panoramic view of the sacred Lake Maybartsho

Kurje Lhakhang

One of the most sacred Buddhist pilgrimage sites, Kurje Lhakhang, also known as Kurje Monastery Complex, is located in the ancient valley of Bumthang in Bhutan. Perched on the side of a hill, surrounded by 108 Croten walls, the complex houses three revered temples, namely Guru Lhakhang, Sampa Lhundrup Lhakhang and Ka Gon Phor Sum Lhakhang. Kurje Lhakhang is the place where the Kurje Tshechu festival takes place in summer.

Jambey Lhakhang

Jambe Lhakhang is considered to be one of the oldest and most sacred temples in Bhutan and is also the place where many festivals are held. Situated between Khurje Lhakhang and Jakar Dzong, it is a 10-minute drive from Jakar city. It was built by King Songsten Gampo in the 7th century and is one of 108 that he built and contains relics and statues of deities. One can witness the sacred rituals and dances performed by the monks and the local people in colorful and vibrant costumes.

Jakar Dzong

The Jakar Dzong in Bhutan is the Siddhant Dzong or a Tibetan/Bhutanese style fort overlooking the city of Jakar in Bumthang District. Perched on a ridge above the Chamkhar Valley, the present fort was built by Ralung Hirak Yongzin Ngi Wangchuck upon his arrival in Bhutan. The Jakar Dzong is in a picturesque location overlooking the Chokhor Valley; The current structure was built in 1667. Its official name is Yule Namgyal Zong in honor of the victory over the army of Tibetan ruler Phuntsho Namgyal. An unusual feature here is that the utse (central minaret) is located on an outer wall.

Kenchosum Lhakhang

Established in the 8th century by Pema Lingpa, Konchogasam Lhakhang is located to the south of Tamshing Lhakhang. Believed to be over 1000 years old, it was rebuilt after a horrific fire accident in February 2010. The mesmerizing paintings and sculptures of Buddhist gurus are striking. The modern architecture and serenity of this place is what makes it beautiful and worth visiting. Kenchosum Lhakhang, also known as Tsilung, is a Bubist monastery in Bumthang. According to Saint Pema Lingpa, Lhakhang was founded in the 8th century. In 1039 Bonpo Dragatsel, a terton, discovered the texts that were buried by Padmasambhava at this place.

Ogyen Choling Palace Museum

The gem of the Tang Valley in Bumthang, the Ogyen Choling Palace Museum holds great significance for both Bhutanese and Tibetans. It is a wonderful place that preserves and displays the rich history and values â€‹â€‹of Bhutan. The heirs of the Choling family decided to convert their ancestral home into a museum to share their history. It houses artefacts and traditional household items and gives a good insight into the heritage of this Himalayan kingdom. A paradise for history lovers, the museum provides an insight into the rural life of the country.

Ura Valley

One can catch a glimpse of Mount Gangkhar Puensam, the highest mountain peak of Bhutan. The route is marked with wonderful views of the valley, sheep pastures and occasional forests. The valley itself differs from other areas in that it is home to the village of Ura, which consists of houses separated by cobblestone streets, which is unusual in the country. For the avid hikers and trekkers, Ura Valley offers the 9 km long Gizamchu Walking Trail, which is a 5-hour hike, during which one can cross the Geezam Chu and cross the Wangthang La pass. Ura Lhakhang is a popular place in the region that hosts the festival of Ura Tsechu in May.