Day 1 – Arrival in the Bumthang Valley
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.
You’ll arrive at Jakar, your final destination, in the late afternoon. The Bumthang Valley is actually a region made up of four valleys — Chokhor Valley, Tang Valley, Ura Valley and Chhume Valley — which sit close together. Chokhor is the main valley and home to the town of Jakar, where you’ll base yourself for the next four days. If you’re not too tired after a long travel 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 – Explore the Bumthang Valley
Over the next few days, you can decide with your guide and driver what you’d like to do. A not-to-be-missed highlight is Jakar Dzong – one of the largest and most important dzong in Bhutan. We also recommend visiting Jambay Lhakhang, which is 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 the Bumthang region and we suggest spending a day there. You’ll find one of the most interesting villages in Bhutan here, with 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.
Optional spiritual experiences
During your stay in the Bumthang Valley we can for you to take part in a traditional monastery ritual for a deeper insight into Bhutanese Buddhism (at a supplement). These may include a Tshewang blessing ceremony led by a senior lama, joining monks during daily chanting, or witnessing Thrusel, an early morning purification ritual. Taking place inside local monasteries and monastic schools, these experiences offer a rare opportunity to observe – and sometimes quietly participate in – Bhutan’s living spiritual traditions. Visitors are asked to dress modestly, remove shoes and maintain silence inside the prayer halls.
If this sounds of interest, ask your Travel Specialist to include in your travel plan
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.
Accommodation
