Uncover the Legends of Bumthang

Bite-sized trip

Itinerary:
Bumthang Valley
Duration:
4 days / 3 nights (flexible)
Price:
from £ 809.- per person (excluding flights)

Bumthang is the cultural and spiritual heartland of Bhutan, known for its impressive fortresses and colourful festivals where religious dances are performed in elaborate, traditional dresses. Formed by four vast valleys, this less-visited region will impress you with its history and traditions. You’ll spend 4 days uncovering the mysterious legends and holy temples of this sacred area.

Day 1 – Arrival in Bumthang

Today you’ll embark on a long drive into Bhutan’s central heartland passing through stunning landscapes and impressive temples. At around halfway you’ll stop in Trongsa, a small town with distinct Tibetan influence and a picturesque location above a gorge. Here you’ll stretch your legs and take in the spectacular vistas of the Trongsa Dzong (monastery fortress) perched in the distance. Your journey will continue through the stunning valleys and into Gangtey, where West and East Bhutan meet and the famous black-necked cranes come to winter. And on a clear day, you can see the snowy peak of the sacred Jhomolhari glistening in the sun.

In the afternoon you’ll reach Jakar in the heart of Bumthang region, a town rich in stories and innumerable legends. You’ll stay in a cosy hotel outside the centre. In the living room, there’s a warm stove and even a small library. If you aren’t too tired after a long day, head out into town to explore the surroundings and walk down the suspension bridge across the river. A little further, perched on the edge of the hill you’ll see Lhodrak Kharchhu Goemba (monastery) where you can see young monks polishing their debating skills in the courtyard.

Days 2-3 – Free time

Over the next few days, you can decide with your guide and driver what you’d like to do. If you didn’t get a chance yesterday you can visit Jakar Dzong and your guide will tell you all about the first legends of Bumthang, one of the holiest places in Bhutan. The next legend awaits you in Jambay Lhakhang one of the oldest temples in Bhutan, built in the 7th century. It’s believed to be one of the 108 temples built by the Tibetan king in one day to fight a demon. You’ll quickly notice that Buddhism is very much alive and thriving in this part of the country.

Ura valley is one of the highlights of Bumthang region and we’d recommend spending a day there. You’ll find one of the most interesting villages in Bhutan here. The village features clusters of traditional-style Bhutanese homes and winding cobbled streets. The surrounding valley is a great spot for a hike and a picnic. The area is famous for the Ura Yakchoe, a characteristic local festival that usually takes place in May. Once you’ve finished exploring you’ll get back in your private car and be taken to your next location before returning to Jakar for the final night in the region.

Day 4 – Departure from Bumthang

After breakfast, you’ll get back in your private car and be taken to your next location. As always, you’ll be accompanied by your local guide who’ll be showing you more of Bhutan on the way.