Bumthang, a land of ancient legends, comprising four distinct and breathtaking valleys—Chokhor, Tang, Ura, and Chhume. Known as the most sacred region in the Kingdom, Bumthang’s name carries a poetic duality. It is whispered to mean both the “Plain of the Holy Water Vase,” describing the physical grace of its landscape, and the “Valley of Beautiful Girls.”Whether you are seeking a profound spiritual pilgrimage or a “Swiss-style” culinary adventure, this region is Bhutan’s most diverse and fascinating destination.
From subtropical river valleys to the soaring, icy heights of the north, Bumthang’s geography is a marvel of nature.
Lowest Elevation: ~840m in the southern river valleys.
Average Town Elevation: 2,600m – 2,800m (8,530ft – 9,185ft).
Highest Peak: Gangkhar Puensum (7,400m+), famously known as the highest unclimbed mountain in the world.
Bumthang is accessible via domestic flights or scenic road journeys through the heart of Bhutan.
| Method | Origin | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Flight | Paro, Gelephu, or Yonphula | ~30–45 mins |
| Drive | Thimphu | ~7 hours 30 mins |
The Most Famous Landmarks
1. Kurjey Lhakhang
Visit the 8th-century temple where Guru Rinpoche meditated and left his body imprint on a rock. It is one of the most sacred sites in the Himalayas.
2. Jambay Lhakhang
Built in 659 AD, this is one of the two oldest temples in Bhutan. If you visit in autumn, it hosts the famous Jambay Lhakhang Drup festival with its midnight “naked fire dance.”
3. Tamshing Lhakhang
Founded by the great treasure-discoverer Pema Lingpa. You can try a unique ritual here: wearing a 25kg chain-mail coat (made by the saint himself) and circumambulating the temple three times to cleanse your sins.
4. Mebar Tsho (The Burning Lake)
A deep, sacred pool in the Tang Valley. It’s not actually “burning,” but it’s where Pema Lingpa famously emerged from the water with a burning lamp and sacred relics.
Best hikes to do in Bumthang
1. The Owl Trek
A moderate 3-day trek that offers incredible views of the Himalayas (including Gangkhar Puensum, the world’s highest unclimbed peak).
2. Bumthang Cultural Trek
A gentle 3-day hike through villages and temples – perfect if you want to see rural life without extreme climbing.
Special Event in Bumthang
1. Jambay Lhakhang Drup
This is Bumthang’s most famous festival. It features the Mewang(fire blessing) and the sacred Tercham (Naked Dance), performed at midnight to ward off evil spirits and bless the land.
2. Ura Yakchoe
Held in the picturesque Ura Valley, this festival is known for a sacred relic that is put on display and the unique “Ura Yakchoe” dance. It is a deeply communal, village-style celebration.
3. Kurjey Tshechu
Held at one of Bhutan’s most sacred temples, this festival honors Guru Rinpoche and features massive thongdrols (large religious tapestries) being unfurled for the public.