Bumthang is a district located in central Bhutan that has many stories. Picture a valley formed by a vessel of holy water, and the beautiful fields of the valley are believed to attract gods. This is the mystical Mebartsho or the Burning Lake, where the famous treasure discoverer Pema Lingpa found the centuries-old scriptures. Bumthang Bhutan has the ancient temple of Jambay Lhakhang, which was constructed in the 7th century. The place’s spiritual aura, along with beautiful landscapes, attracts travellers from all over the world.
About Bumthang Bhutan
Image Credit: Christopher J. Fynn for Wikimedia Commons
Bumthang Bhutan is a district famous for the region’s valleys, temples and culture. The name Bumthang has been coined from ‘bum’, which is a girl, and ‘thang’, which is a field, hence a valley of beautiful girls. The region is an agricultural area whose main products include buckwheat, dairy, apples, and potatoes. The language used here is Bumthang Kha, which is similar to Dzongkha, Bhutan’s national language. The district comprises four gewogs: Chhume, Choekor, Tang, and Ura. Bumthang has valleys inhabited by endangered species, is a part of the protected areas of Bhutan, and is a perfect combination of nature and culture.
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Things To Do In Bumthang Bhutan
While Bumthang in Bhutan is a complete travel destination in its own right, if you are looking to round up your trip and do some fun activities, you can check out some of the following things to do in Bumthang Bhutan:
1. Explore Jambay Lhakhang
Jambay Lhakhang is one of the oldest temples in Bhutan, which was constructed in the 7th century by King Songtsän Gampo of Tibet. It is a place of religious importance and has two festivals that are held every year, attracting both pilgrims and tourists. The structure and design of the temple, along with the calm and peaceful environment of the place, gives an insight into Bhutanese religious history. During the festivals, the visitors are privileged to watch the religious ceremonies and the dances. The beautiful paintings and sculptures inside the temple enhance the religious feel of the temple, making it one of the top attractions in Bumthang Bhutan.
Distance from Bumthang: 13 kms
Entry Fee: 1000 Nu
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2. Visit Kurjey Lhakhang
Kurjey Lhakhang, located in the Choekhor Valley, is the shrine of the first three kings of Bhutan. This is a sacred monastery that comprises three temples with their own history. Kurjey Lhakhang is a quiet temple near the forest of tall cypress trees. The structure of the temple and the surrounding area are quite special, which makes the atmosphere of the place rather calming. It is also famous for the Tsechu festival that is held yearly and during which mask dances and rituals are conducted. The religious importance and serene environment make Kurjey Lhakhang one of the top attractions in Bumthang, Bhutan.
Distance from Bumthang: 11 kms
Entry Fee: 1000 Nu
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3. Discover Tamshing Lhakhang
Image Credit: Christopher J. Fynn for Wikimedia Commons
Tamshing Lhakhang was built in 1501 by the Buddhist saint Pema Lingpa and is filled with old paintings and religious items. It is one of the most significant Nyingma institutions in Bhutan and provides information about the country’s spiritual life. The monastery’s location in the beautiful valley makes it even more beautiful. Tourists can walk through the holy chambers and be one with the history and the religiousness of Bumthang Bhutan. It is also an interesting visit as the temple allows people to join the traditional ceremonies and observe the monks’ activities.
Distance from Bumthang: 21 kms
Entry Fee: 1000 Nu
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4. Visit Membartsho (Burning Lake)
Image Credit: Prof Ranga Sai for Wikimedia Commons
Membartsho, or the Burning Lake, is a place where, according to the legend, Guru Rinpoche concealed the terms in the 8th century. In the later 15th century, Pema Lingpa found these texts and thus enhanced the legends surrounding the lake. Located in the middle of myths and legends, Membartsho is charming and beautiful. The water is so clear, and the place is so calm that it is ideal for meditation and other such activities. They can also watch the prayer flags swaying in the wind and listen to the sound of water, which enhances the religious feel of the lake.
Distance from Bumthang: 27 kms
Entry Fee: 1000 Nu
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5. Stroll Through Jakar Dzong
Located in the town of Jakar, Jakar Dzong is a fortress built in the 17th century. It was used to protect the region from invaders, and today, it is the administrative headquarters of Bumthang. The dzong is a beautiful structure, and the view of the valley is very picturesque for tourists. The fortress also has an annual festival where people go and dance and sing traditional dances and songs. Visiting Jakar Dzong is an opportunity to learn about the history of Bhutan and the significance of the Bumthang Bhutan region.
Distance from Bumthang: 16 kms
Entry Fee: Free entry
Bumthang Bhutan Hotels
Bumthang Bhutan Hotels provides a perfect retreat, combining traditional Bhutanese architecture with modern comforts. From charming boutiques to luxurious lodges, many accommodations meet the visitors’ needs depending on their tastes and their pockets. Here are some of the options that you have: Here are some of the options that you have:
1. The Village Lodge, Jalikhar Bumthang
A 3-star hotel located in Bumthang, Bhutan, in the very beautiful Bumthang valley, The Village Lodge has only nine rooms, which gives the place a homely atmosphere. The staff is very friendly and articulate, making sure that the guests are well taken care of. The guests have a lot to say about the heated bathroom floor and the warm ambience of the common areas. The delicious dinners, which include local specialities, are among the best you can get in Bhutan. Though it is a little off from the bazaar area, the convenience and the warmth of the place make it a good choice.
Average room cost/night: Starting from INR 3,200 onwards
Check-in and Check-out time: 2 pm to 12 pm
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2. Bhutan Boutique Residency
Bhutan Boutique Residency is close to the clock tower and handicraft market, so guests can enjoy their stay in the hotel’s comfortable atmosphere. The rooms are spacious and offer mesmerising views of Thimphu. The warm and attentive service from the staff further makes your stay hassle-free. There is a lot of variety in the breakfast menu, which is a plus to the homely nature of the hotel. However, the location of the hotel is a bit complicated. Still, the staff is friendly, the Indian buffet is delicious, and the rooms are clean which makes it a perfect stay for anyone who is visiting Bumthang.
Average room cost/night: Starting from INR 1,400 onwards
Check-in and Check-out time: 2 pm to 12 pm
3. Kichu Resort Bumthang
Located next to the ancient Tamshing Monastery, Kichu Resort Bumthang offers 17 meticulously designed rooms, each equipped with its own private bathroom. If you are looking for a warm, cosy, and traditional stay, Kichu Resort is the place for you. Each of these rooms has decorated crafts, clean bed linens, necessary toiletries, and other essentials. Apart from these, there is a lush garden within the premises for relaxation, while the on-site restaurant serves scrumptious Indian and Chinese delicacies.
Average room cost/night: Starting from INR 2,500 onwards
Check-in and Check-out time: 2 pm to 12 pm
Further Read: Bhutan Travel Tips
With its captivating landscapes, sacred temples, and serene lakes, Bumthang Bhutan is a great vacation destination for all tourists. The place combines natural beauty, rich history, and cultural experiences that will leave you spellbound. Plan a trip to Bhutan today and visit this enchanting region for a refreshing and nature-filled adventure.
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Cover Image credit : By Jean-Marie Hullot for Wikipedia.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bumthang Bhutan
When is the most appropriate time to go to Bumthang Bhutan?
The ideal time to visit Bumthang Bhutan is during the months of March to May and September to November because of the favourable weather and active celebrations.
What are the ways to get to Bumthang Bhutan?
To get to Bumthang, one has to fly from Paro which is a domestic flight or else take a road trip through the beautiful terrains of Bhutan.
Which are some of the fun places to see in Bumthang Bhutan?
Some of the top picks are Jambay Lhakhang, Kurjey Lhakhang, Tamshing Lhakhang, Membartsho, and Jakar Dzong.
What are the specialties of Bumthang Bhutan that one should not miss out on?
Yes, you should taste local food like buckwheat pancakes, apple cider, and some local Bhutanese food.
Is Bumthang Bhutan good for trekking?
Yes, Bumthang Bhutan has several trekking trails that enable one to tour the valleys and the natural scenery.
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