Bumthang Valley

The country’s cultural heartland is the beautiful Bumthang Valley, 250km east of Thimphu. Bumthang directly translates as ‘beautiful field’; for many visitors, this sacred region of the kingdom is the highlight of their stay. With a magical landscape dotted with ancient temples, spectacular mountain views, secluded villages, and excellent hiking opportunities, it is easy to see why.

The best base for exploring Bumthang is the small town of Jakar. An important trading centre for the region, the town is the district capital and home to one of Bhutan’s largest monastic colleges, Lhodrak Kharchhu Monastery, and also Wangdichholing Dzong, which, despite its title, was the first structure of its kind in the country to be built that was not primarily designed as a fortress.

Although often referred to as Bumthang Valley, the territory consists of four valleys. Chokhor, where Jakar is situated, is packed to the rafters with monasteries and gompas, while Ura, 50km southeast of Jakar and located at an altitude of 3,100m, is Bumthang’s highest valley and, some believe, home to Bhutan’s earliest inhabitants. Situated in a narrow gorge, Tang is the remotest valley in Bumthang and where Mebartsho (Burning Lake), a prayer-flag-strewn pool of water that is one of the holiest spots in the region, is situated. Finally, Chhume is the widest of the four valleys. It’s sprinkled with traditional villages and temples and is known for its brightly coloured woven textiles and other handicrafts.

Each valley that comprises this beguiling part of Bhutan can be visited as day trips from Jakar, and, as is the norm in this tiny Himalayan kingdom, there are numerous occasions to stretch the legs and explore the area on foot.

Although not as well known as the tshechus in Thimphu and Paro, Bumthang has more festivals than in any other part of Bhutan. They are spread out throughout the year, so the chances of witnessing one are relatively high.