Listen up! Bumthang is no detour sidetrack for your Bhutan trip - it's the real deal! And suppose you are considering activities to do in Bumthang. In that case, this one has the most splendid temples you can ever imagine, such as Jambay Lhakhang (completely ancient!) and Kurjey Lhakhang, where a guru left a body impression inside a cave. No Jokes!
Jakar town is where you will want to fill your belly. The buckwheat noodles? Absolutely mad! And do not even speak of the cheese - it's lethal! There is this Swiss Farm nearby where you can get excellent yogurt and knock back some apple brandy.
If you enjoy hiking, the Bumthang valleys are perfect - not too challenging but with beautiful scenery. Spring has these wild purple flowers everywhere, and autumn turns everything golden.
Honestly, if you're checking out places to visit in Bhutan, you'd be nuts to skip Bumthang! Get it on your Bhutan Tour Packages list - you won't regret it!
Suggested read: Bhutan in December
5 Facts about Bumthang: Know More
Want to explore this beautiful place virtually? Get to know the 5 facts about the place and see how amazing the location can be.
- It is located in central Bhutan and is a district renowned for its cultural heritage and mesmerizing natural beauty. People traveling to Bhutan should cover this beautiful gem.
- This place is home to some of the sacred temples and monasteries in Bhutan, where people can witness the cultural heritage of the place.
- Bumthang is the very popular “spiritual heartland” of Bhutan, which attracts a lot many pilgrims and devotees from all over. The people come here to seek solace and enlightenment from the place.
- The valley is full of outdoor activities, such as trekking, hiking, and cycling, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the greatest beauty of mountains and greenery. There are so many places to see in Bumthang that you should not miss. Immerse yourself in the different adventure activities in Bhutan and make the most out of it.
- The traditional craftsmanship can be found here! If you are keen on high-quality textiles and intricate woodwork, then you should definitely visit the place to witness something unique.
Best Things to Do in Bumthang: Explore the magical Valley
Talking about this mesmerizing location, you should know about the best things to do in Bumthang if you are planning to visit this place soon.
So, without any further ado, let’s get started!
1. Explore Kurjey Lhakhang
This village is located in the picturesque Jakar valley. Kurjey Lhakhang is one of the most revered religious sites in Bumthang. It is popularly known for its three temples, the complex houses sacred relics and ancient murals that depict the life of Guru Rinpoche, who is the founder of Tibetan Buddhism.
Location: Jakar Valley, Bumthang
Best time to visit: All year
2. Visit Jakar Dzong – The Fortress of the White Bird
One of the most important Bumthang tourist attractions, Jakar Dzong sits high above the valley, offering a stunning view of the town and surrounding mountains. Also called “Castle of the White Bird,” it has a deep spiritual meaning. The fortress was built in the 17th century and still plays a big role in Bhutanese culture today.
Walking through the large courtyard and exploring the old halls, you will feel the calm and strong spiritual energy of this place. It’s one of the best things to do in Bumthang if you love history and culture.
Location: Jakar Valley, Bumthang
Best time to visit: All Year
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3. Visit Tamshing Lhakhang – Home of Sacred Arts
While traveling to this place, you can step into a world frozen in time. It is a gem that is known for preserving Bhutan’s ancient religious traditions.
The temple is renowned for its ancient wall paintings and murals that depict the life and teachings of Guru Rinpoche, also known as Padmasambhava.
It is one of the most popular temples in Bhutan that you must visit during your trip. These artworks provide a glimpse into Bhutan's rich spiritual heritage and are considered some of the oldest surviving frescoes in the country. Tamshing Lhakhang continues to be a place of pilgrimage and a living testament to Bhutan's deep-rooted Buddhist traditions. For those interested in Buddhist art and history, visiting Tamshing Lhakhang is one of the most meaningful things to do in Bumthang.
Location: Jakar Valley, Bumthang
Best time to visit: All Year
Get ready for an amazing spiritual journey through the beautiful place of Mebar Tsho, popularly known as the Burning Lake. It is said that Guru Rinpoche, the patron saint of Bhutan, has concealed treasures in the depths of this lake.
You can embrace solitude and soak in the tranquil atmosphere while getting a chance to witness the flickering butter lamps which lighten up the dark waters and make a surreal view for the people to see. This is one of the top things to do in Bumthang for both locals and visitors.
Location: Tang Valley, Bumthang
Best time to visit: All year
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5. Trekking in Bumthang Valley
One of the best ways to enjoy the natural beauty of Bumthang is by trekking. The valley offers several easy-to-moderate treks that take you through villages, forests, and sacred sites.
Popular trekking routes include the Ngang Lhakhang Trail and the Tang Valley trek. Along the way, you can visit ancient temples, meet local people, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the countryside.
Trekking in Bumthang Valley is not just about walking; it’s about experiencing Bhutan in its most natural and spiritual form. This is also one of the top Bumthang adventure activities for those who love nature and the outdoors.
Location: Bumthang Valley, Bhutan
Best time to visit: April to May, September to October
The natural wonders of this beautiful valley are bound to leave you in awe. The snow-capped mountains, clear rivers, and green forests will definitely mesmerize you wholly. The stunning views of the Choekhor valley from the Tharpaling monastery, or you can witness the picturesque Swiss farm area, where rolling hills and meadows would make a great setting. Also, there are some very well-known hill stations in Bhutan, and you must not miss that surreal beauty.
The tourists and visitors shall experience the magical beauty of the place. You would have a heavenly feeling after witnessing this. There are some best places to visit in Bumthang, but seeing the beauty of every small valley would make you feel wholesome.
Location: Bumthang Valley, Bhutan
Best time to visit: All year
7. Experience a Local Festival – Feel the Spirit of Bhutan
Bumthang is known for its vibrant festivals. The most famous one is the Jambay Lhakhang Drup, which includes traditional mask dances, cultural shows, and spiritual rituals.
Another beautiful festival is the Tamshing Phala Choepa, held at Tamshing Monastery. During these events, locals wear traditional clothes, monks perform sacred dances, and the whole valley comes alive with color and music.
Joining a festival is one of the best ways to understand the local way of life and Bhutanese beliefs. If you're planning your trip during festival time, attending one is surely one of the best things to do in Bumthang.
Location: Bumthang Valley, Bhutan
Best time to visit: April to June, September to November
8. Sheep Breeding farm in Bumthang
If you are interested in seeing the agricultural heritage, it is one of the best places to visit in Bumthang. You have the chance to learn about the intricacies of sheep farming, see skilled herders in action, and even try your hand at the practice of wool weaving.
It is a way of experiencing the rural lifestyle, which is surrounded by rolling meadows and the gentle bleating of sheep. The beautiful landscapes define the beauty of this place and how natural beauty can make a difference in a place.
Location: Bumthang Valley, Bhutan
Best time to visit: All year
The place is popularly known for its high-quality handicrafts, and the B-COOP shops have this great opportunity to support local artisans. There are intricately woven textiles and handmade wooden crafts, which are the finest examples of the craftsmanship of Bhutan. When one thinks of things to buy in Bhutan, he/she would think of this unique traditional shopping.
You would love to shop in places like these, where there is a sense of heritage and contribution to the preservation of traditional arts and crafts. If you want to explore the markets of the valley, don’t miss out on these B-COOP shops.
Location: Jakar Valley, Bumthang
Best time to visit: All year
The clean environment of Bumthang and abundant flora make it an ideal destination for beekeeping. They are renowned for their high-quality honey production, benefiting from the region’s rich biodiversity and pristine environment.
The bees play an important role in pollinating the diverse flora, resulting in not only exceptional honey but also a harmonious ecosystem.
These honey mix farms in Bumthang are a delightful experience for tourists who are here to explore the beauty of the valley in Bhutan.
Location: Numerous bee farms in Bumthang
Best time to visit: All year
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You must have heard about the festivals in Bhutan, but let us talk about this nomad festival! The Bhutanese culture has this nomadic herder at the Nomad festival in Bumthang Valley. It is a vibrant celebration of their unique lifestyle and traditions. Different activities are happening in the joyous festival, like horse riding competitions, archery contests, and colorful masked dances.
Great festivities are happening where you also have to interact with the locals, and also maintain a good understanding of the nomadic culture that goes on in the Bumthang valley. It is one of the best things to do in Bumthang while traveling to Bhutan.
Location: Bumthang Valley, Bhutan
Best time to visit: February or March
12. Red Panda Brewery and Cheese Factory
Hey foodie! If you are finding something delicious, head straight to this Red Panda Brewery and cheese factory in Bumthang. Here, the flavours of Bhutan come alive with several different locally brewed beers and delectable artisanal cheese made from fresh ingredients.
You can take a tour to learn and know more about the brewing process and a unique tasting experience.
Location: Jakar Valley, Bumthang
Best time to visit: All year
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13. Visit Ogyen Choling Palace Museum
Located in the Tang Valley, the Ogyen Choling Palace is now a museum that tells the story of Bhutanese nobility and village life. The museum has been kept simple and authentic. It displays old furniture, clothing, religious texts, and tools used in daily life.
The palace is also a guesthouse, so you can even stay overnight and enjoy the peaceful village life. This is a great spot for those who want to learn more about Bhutan’s past.
14. Visit Tharpaling Monastery – A Hidden Gem
High up in the Chumey Valley lies Tharpaling Monastery. The journey to the monastery is steep but offers rewarding views of the valley. This peaceful monastery is perfect for meditation and quiet reflection.
Few tourists come here, so you’ll often have the place to yourself. It’s one of those spots that leave a lasting impression and is one of the hidden things to do in Bumthang.
15. Enjoy the Silence – Let Bumthang Heal You
One of the most special things about Bumthang is the silence. It’s not the silence of emptiness, but a peaceful kind that fills you with calm.
Just sitting by the river, walking alone on a trail, or looking at the stars at night – these simple moments are also some of the most powerful. This is what makes Bumthang Bhutan Tourism so unique. It’s not just about what you see, but how the place makes you feel.
Conclusion
There are so many amazing things to do in Bumthang, and each one offers a chance to connect with Bhutan’s deep spiritual traditions, kind-hearted people, and stunning nature. From ancient temples and exciting treks to delicious food and peaceful monasteries, Bumthang welcomes you with open arms.
Whether you're a history lover, adventure seeker, or someone looking for peace, this valley has something for everyone. Add Bumthang to your Bhutan itinerary and let the valley's charm leave a lasting mark on your heart.
