Bumthang is a region in the north-central part of Bhutan that is known for its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and abundant wildlife. This area is home to some of the most beautiful and interesting places in the country, including ancient temples, monasteries, and villages. From dramatic mountain peaks to lush valleys and crystal-clear lakes, Bumthang has something for everyone. Here are the top 20 places to see in Bumthang, Bhutan.
1. Jakar Dzong: This impressive fortress is one of the most important and iconic landmarks in the region. Built in the 16th century, the fortress is perched atop a hill overlooking the Chokhor Valley. It is also home to the administrative center of the Bumthang district.
2. Kurjey Lhakhang: This ancient temple complex is one of the most important religious sites in the region. It is home to three temples, the oldest of which dates back to the 8th century. The main temple is dedicated to Guru Rinpoche, the founder of Tibetan Buddhism.
3. Jambay Lhakhang: Built in the 7th century by the Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo, this temple is one of the oldest in Bhutan. It is home to several important religious relics, including a statue of the Buddha that is said to have been blessed by the king himself.
4. Tangbi Goemba: This beautiful monastery is perched high on a hilltop and offers stunning views of the surrounding valley. It is home to a valuable collection of religious artifacts and is a popular pilgrimage site for Buddhists.
5. Ura Valley: This picturesque valley is home to some of the most stunning landscapes in the region. It is known for its traditional Bhutanese villages, rolling hills, and crystal-clear lakes. It is also home to the Ura Lhakhang monastery, which is said to be one of the oldest in the country.
6. Chumey Valley: This beautiful valley is home to several traditional villages and is known for its stunning landscapes. It is also home to the Chumey Goemba monastery, which is said to be the oldest in Bhutan.
7. Yathra Weaving Centre: This weaving centre is located in the heart of the Chumey Valley and is home to some of the most skilled weavers in the country. Here, visitors can watch the weavers at work and learn about the traditional Bhutanese art of weaving.
8. Ngang Lhakhang: This ancient temple is located on a hilltop overlooking the Chokhor Valley. It is home to several important religious artifacts, including a statue of Guru Rinpoche that is said to have been blessed by the king himself.
9. Yathra Textile Museum: This museum is dedicated to the traditional art of weaving and is home to some of the most impressive textiles in the country. It is a great place to learn about the history of weaving in Bhutan.
10. Thangbi Goemba: This monastery is located in the Tang Valley and is home to some of the most impressive religious artifacts in the region. It is also a popular pilgrimage site for Buddhists.
11. Mebar Tsho: This sacred lake is located in the Ura Valley and is said to be the home of a powerful deity. It is a popular pilgrimage site for Buddhists and is known for its stunning views.
12. Lhodrak Kharchu Monastery: This monastery is located in the Lhodrak Valley and is home to some of the most impressive religious artifacts in the region. It is also a popular pilgrimage site for Buddhists.
13. Chokhor Valley: This beautiful valley is home to some of the most stunning landscapes in the region. It is known for its traditional Bhutanese villages, rolling hills, and crystal-clear lakes.
14. Kurjey Monastery: This ancient monastery is located in the Kurjey Valley and is home to some of the most impressive religious artifacts in the region. It is also a popular pilgrimage site for Buddhists.
15. Jigme Dorji National Park: This national park is home to some of the most stunning landscapes in the region. It is also home to a variety of wildlife, including snow leopards, red pandas, and black-necked cranes.
16. Ura Lhakhang: This ancient temple is located in the Ura Valley and is home to some of the most impressive religious artifacts in the region. It is also a popular pilgrimage site for Buddhists.
17. Bumthang Cultural Museum: This museum is dedicated to the history and culture of the region and is home to a variety of artifacts and artworks. It is a great place to learn about the history of the area.
18. Mebar Tsho Nature Reserve: This nature reserve is home to some of the most stunning landscapes in the region. It is also home to a variety of wildlife, including snow leopards, red pandas, and black-necked cranes.
19. Jakar Village: This traditional Bhutanese village is located in the Chokhor Valley and is home to some of the most stunning landscapes in the region. It is also home to several important religious sites, including the Jakar Dzong fortress.
20. Tamshing Monastery: This monastery is located in the Bumthang Valley and is home to some of the most impressive religious artifacts in the region. It is also a popular pilgrimage site for Buddhists.