Things to do in Bumthang Valley
Discover the best attractions and experiences Bumthang Valley has to offer
Historic Monuments
Bumthang's ancient fortresses and sacred sites reveal Bhutan's history and spiritual heart.
Jakar Dzong
A dramatic fortress overlooking the Chamkhar River, guarding the valley for centuries.
Kurje Lhakhang
A revered monastery housing Guru Rinpoche's imprint and a sacred meditation cave.
Jambay Lhakhang
An ancient temple central to Bumthang's religious life.
Tamshing Lhakhang
The 'Lhouse of the Noble Teacher', founded by Pema Lingpa with historic paintings.
Mebartsho (Burning Lake)
Sacred Tang Valley lake where treasure was revealed by Pema Lingpa.
Museums
Local heritage exhibits that shed light on Bumthang's life and crafts.
Bumthang Heritage Museum
Displays on the region's culture, crafts, and traditional ways of life.
Ura Cultural Museum
Showcases weaving, rural life, and local traditions from Ura.
Religious Monuments
Spiritual landmarks that draw pilgrims and curious travelers alike.
Kurje Lhakhang
A revered monastery housing Guru Rinpoche's imprint and a sacred meditation cave.
Jambay Lhakhang
An ancient temple central to Bumthang's religious life.
Tamshing Lhakhang
A historic monastery founded by Pema Lingpa with vibrant wall paintings.
Mebartsho (Burning Lake)
A sacred site where Pema Lingpa discovered treasure; a pilgrimage favorite.
National & Theme Parks
Natural landscapes and protected areas surround Bumthang's valleys.
Coming Soon!
We're currently working on adding national & theme parks recommendations for Bumthang Valley. Check back soon for curated suggestions in this category.
Neighborhoods
Vibrant centers and scenic valleys where you can observe local life.
Jakar (Chamkhar) Town
The valley's bustling hub with temples, shops, and markets.
Ura Valley
A high-altitude village known for its traditional architecture and weaving.
Tang Valley
A remote valley famed for monasteries and hillside trails.
Free Things to Do
Low-cost ways to experience Bumthang's beauty and culture.
Walk around Jakar Dzong exterior
Admire the fortress from the riverbank and take in the views.
Hike to Mebartsho (Burning Lake)
A serene pilgrimage site accessible on foot.
Stroll along the Chamkhar River in Jakar
Easy riverside walk with temple silhouettes.
Gastronomy
Tasty Bhutanese dishes and local specialties you can sample in Bumthang.
Ema Datshi
The iconic chili and cheese stew, a Bhutan classic.
Phaksha Paa
Pork with spicy chili sauce, a hearty Bumthang favorite.
Hoentoe
Spinach and cheese-filled dumplings, fried to golden perfection.
Nightlife
Low-key evenings with local tea houses and cultural ambiance.
Evening tea-house gathering
Relax with hot tea and light local tunes in Jakar.
Starlit strolls in the valleys
Peaceful night-time walks under clear skies.
Entertainment
Cultural performances and festival atmospheres that light Bumthang's evenings.
Jambay Lhakhang Drub (festival)
Colorful masked dances and religious rites during the festival.
Jakar Dzong Tshechu
Traditional Tsechu celebrations with dances and rituals.
Tamshing Lhakhang festival events
Local religious performances within a historic monastery.
Sports
Active ways to explore Bumthang's landscapes on foot or hoof.
Valley hiking between Bumthang's valleys
Scenic day hikes through Tang, Jakar, and Ura valleys.
Horse riding in Bumthang
Guide-led rides through villages and fields.
Bird watching in rural Bumthang
Quiet mornings spotting alpine and valley birds.
Off the Track
Hidden gems and authentic experiences beyond the main sights.
Village homestays in Ura Valley
Stay with families to learn daily Bumthang life.
Visit remote monasteries in Tang Valley
Quiet spiritual sites off the main tourist trails.