Bumthang holidays

What is there to do in Bumthang?

For an insight into rural Bhutanese village life, head out on a guided trek through the Ura Valley, where cobbled alleyways and traditional timber and stone houses dot the hillsides. The sacred Mebar Tsho (otherwise known as the Burning Lake), which is surrounded by fluttering prayer flags, can also be found here. Referred to as a lake, the sacred site is in fact a pool located along a river in the Tang Valley, named for the burning lamp used by Terton Pema Lingpa (one of Bhutan’s most important religious figures) to recover hidden holy treasure in the 1400s.

Aside from the superb walking, while in the region make sure to visit the Wengdichholing Palace, built in 1857 as Bhutan's first non-fortress palace and the home of Bhutan's first king. For those who appreciate a good view, a must-see sight involves climbing up to Jakar Dzong, a hilltop monastery with epic panoramic views of the Chokhor Valley. Tamshing Goemba is another monastery worth visiting, built by Pema Lingpa and still considered to be the most important Nyingma goemba in the kingdom. From here, you’ll find equally epic vistas across the river to Kurjey Lhakhang. In a country like nowhere else, Bumthang holidays showcase the best of Bhutan’s intriguing blend of ancient and modern, tradition and innovation.