Breathtaking Bumthang
On your own, with friends, family or with your partner, a trip to Bumthang in central Bhutan can rejuvenate your senses in more ways than you can imagine. The spiritual heartland of the country, Bumthang will surely comfort and pamper you, and take you on a medieval odyssey. Here are our reasons why Bumthang is the perfect getaway.
a) It offers a unique regional experience
Bumthang comprises of the four mountain valleys of Ura, Chumey, Tang and Choekar. The name ‘bum’ means vessel and ‘thang’ means field. The Bumtaps are hard-working, friendly and extremely hospitable people. You could explore the valleys and the Bhutanese way of life by staying in one of the many topnotch resorts or by simply putting up in a traditional Bhutanese farmhouse. Either way, you are in for an experience of a lifetime.
b) It is a religious & spiritual heartland
Bumthang being the religious heartland of Bhutan is home to some of the country’s oldest Buddhist monasteries and temples. Some of the prominent religious landmarks there are Kurje Lhakhang, Jambay Lhakhang, Jakar Dzong, Tamshing Lhakhang and Meybar Tsho (burning lake) where sacred scriptures hidden by Guru Rinpoche in the 8th century were later recovered by Terton Pema Lingpa in the 15th century.
c) The hotel & resort experience is unique
Whether you’re traveling on a budget or looking for a luxurious resort experience, you’ll have a wide range of options to choose from in Bumthang. Bumthang has over 60 hotels, lodges and resorts scattered throughout the valley thereby providing the intrepid traveler a unique space of their own with a unique experience.
d) Exquisite Local Handicrafts & textile
Bumthang is known for its many local textile producing communities. Enter Chumey and you’ll find rows of local textile displayed while women sit and weave on traditional handlooms. Of the most popular textile in the region is the Yathra – a hand woven fabric made from the wool of yak and sheep which is a specialty of Bumthang.
e) An array of local produce
A trip to Bumthang is incomplete without a taste of the valley’s local produce. Bumthang is a storehouse of some of Bhutan’s most exquisite local culinary innovations. From local cheese, honey and apple cider, the valley has a lot to offer. You’ll also find the ever-popular red panda beer, peach and honey wines and so much more. A breakfast spread with the local cheese, honey, whole wheat bread, local eggs and a mug of hot butter tea is the perfect way to start your day.
f) Breathtaking landscape
The beautiful plateaus around the towns are a perfect haven for hikers, bikers, lovers and solo or group travelers. The view at dawn or dusk encapsulates the scenic beauty of the valleys and makes it known why it the most sought after holiday destination in Bhutan.