Bumthang

This fascinating valley is the religious heartland of the nation & home to some of the oldest Buddhist temples & monasteries. Its gentle sloping hills offer plenty of walking opportunities to the many temples that dot this valley. The valley is also famous for its production of honey, cheese, apple & yathra- a woolen material that has multiple uses.

Jambay Lhakhang: It is one of the 108 monasteries built by King Songtsen Goenpo in the 8th century to subdue evil spirits in the Himalayan region. In October one of the most spectacular festival, “Jambay Lhakhang Drup” is staged here.

Kurje Lhakhang: Kurje Lhakhang named after body print of Guru Rimpoche which is located just a few meters beyond Jambey Lhakhang. It is dedicated to the saint Guru Padmasambhava who was supposed to have meditated there in 8th century.

Tamshing Lhakhang: Literally meaning the Temple of the good message, this monastery lies on the other side of the river opposite the Kurje Lhakhang. It was built in 1501 by Terton Pema Lingpa, a re-incarnation of Guru Padmasambhava. The temple was restored at the end of the 19th century.

Jakar Dzong: Literally meaning the Castle of White Bird. The Dzong was initially built as a monastery in 1549 by the great grand father of the Zhabdrung. It is now used as the administrative center for the Bumthang district. The Bumthang Tsechu is one of the most popular festivals. It is held mostly at night & is said to bring fertility to any woman wanting a child.

Mebar Tsho (Lake of Burning Fire): This is a sacred lake of the Bhutanese who believe that Pema Lingpa discovered religious treasures from this lake in the 12th century. On auspicious days many Bhutanese offer butter lamps on this fresh water lake.

Ura Village: Ura lies in the Tang valley, a one & a half hours drive from Bumthang town. The drive is mainly through sheep pastures & along the way one can glimpse magnificent view of the Mount Gangkar Puensum from Ura la. The main characteristics of this village is the closely cluster houses of weavers and villagers. It is the last settlement before the climb to the highest road pass at Trumsingla.