Bumthang is a group of beautiful valleys in central Bhutan and contains some of the country’s oldest temples and sacred sites. The region’s forests, farms, monasteries and traditional villages create a peaceful environment for cultural exploration.
Places to visit in Bumthang
- Jakar Dzong: Known as the “Castle of the White Bird,” this fortress overlooks Chamkhar Valley.
- Jambay Lhakhang: One of Bhutan’s oldest temples and the site of an important annual religious festival.
- Kurje Lhakhang: A sacred monastery complex associated with Guru Rinpoche.
- Tamshing Lhakhang: A historically important temple founded by the Buddhist master Pema Lingpa.
- Mebar Tsho: Also called the Burning Lake, this sacred river gorge is associated with Pema Lingpa’s discovery of religious treasures.
- Kencho Sum Lhakhang: An ancient temple located near Tamshing village.
- Ura Valley: A scenic highland valley with clustered houses, potato fields and a traditional village atmosphere.
- Tang Valley: A remote and beautiful valley with villages, monasteries and walking trails.
- Ogyen Choling Palace Museum: A privately maintained museum presenting the history and daily life of a noble Bhutanese household.
- Tang Rimochen Lhakhang: A sacred site associated with Guru Rinpoche and distinguished by its natural rock formations.
- Bumthang Farms and Local Products: Visitors can sample locally produced cheese, honey, buckwheat dishes and other regional products.
Bumthang is perfect for pilgrimage, temple visits, village walks, cultural festivals, trekking and spiritual retreats.
Food
Bumthang has one of Bhutan’s most recognisable regional cuisines. Because of its high altitude, buckwheat has traditionally been more important than rice.
Visitors should try:
- Puta: Traditional Bumthang buckwheat noodles, often served with egg, vegetables and chilli.
- Khuli: Soft buckwheat pancakes eaten with vegetable or meat dishes.
- Ema datshi: Chillies and cheese.
- Bumthang cheese: Locally produced cheese made from the region’s dairy products.
- Bumthang honey: Honey collected from the region’s forests and flowering plants.
- Red rice and seasonal vegetables: Served in restaurants and homestays.
- Suja: Salted butter tea.
- Ara: A traditional grain-based alcoholic beverage.
- Local apple products: Seasonal apples, juice and other locally produced items.
Farmhouses and family-run restaurants are excellent places to experience authentic Bumthang food.
Language
The regional language is Bumthangkha, while Dzongkha is also widely understood. English is commonly spoken by guides, hotel staff and people working in the tourism sector.