Often called the “Switzerland of Bhutan,” Bumthang is a collection of four lush valleys — Choekhor, Tang, Ura, and Chhume — rich in spiritual history and ancient temples. This is where Bhutanese Buddhism truly took root, and visiting Bumthang feels like stepping back in time to a quieter, more mystical Bhutan.
The region is home to some of Bhutan’s oldest and most revered temples, including Jambay Lhakhang, built in the 7th century by Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo. Don’t miss Kurjey Lhakhang, where Guru Rinpoche meditated and left his body imprint on a rock. These sites are not only sacred but also deeply atmospheric, with flickering butter lamps, chanting monks, and prayer flags fluttering in the alpine breeze.
Beyond spirituality, Bumthang is known for apple orchards, honey production, and a mellow way of life. Try arra, a local spirit made from wheat or rice, and indulge in some of Bhutan’s best cheese and buckwheat pancakes. Festivals like the Jambay Lhakhang Drup offer vibrant masks, fire rituals, and all-night dances under the stars.
For culture seekers, pilgrims, and slow travelers, Bumthang offers a soulful connection to Bhutan’s spiritual core.