Bumthang
Mebar Tsho
A small fresh water lake that is a sacred pilgrimage site. It is also known as the “Burning Lake” because according to legend, Terton Pema Lingpa, a buddhist saint discovered religious treasures hidden by Guru Rinpoche in the lake’s depth and emerged from its waters holding a chest and a scroll of paper with the butter lamp that miraculously stayed lit.
Kurje Lhakhang
The temple is built around the rock where Guru Rinpoche meditated in the 8th century and left his body imprint and therefore giving it its name “Kurje” meaning body imprint.. Kurje is one of the holiest and sacred sites in Bhutan. It consists of three temples, each symbolising different periods in bhutanese history and is surrounded by 108 chorten walls. The Cyprus tree here is said to have been grown out of Guru Rinpoche’s walking stick.
Jakar Dzong
Perched on a ridge overlooking Chokhor valley, the Dzong historically played a pivotal role as a fortress of defence for the whole eastern districts of Bhutan. It was also the seat of the first king of Bhutan and now serves as a centre for administrative and monastic activities. The fortress is known for its stunning architecture, large courtyard and scenic views of the surrounding valley making it great for photography.
Tamshing Lhakhang
A major Nyingma monastery famous for its collection of paintings that exemplify the region’s style. The Lhakang contains a 25kg suit of chain-mail armour, and it is believed that If you carry it around the Lhakhang three times you are cured of all sins.
Bumthang Brewery and Swiss cheese shop
A local micro-brewery located near the Bathpalathang domestic airport. Established by a swiss brewer Fritz Maurer in the 1960’s, it is the country’s first local beer called Red Panda. The brewery runs on old school style and manufactures only a small batch of beer at a time. Visitors can take a tour of the brewery which includes a complimentary bottle of beer. Savouring the beer alongside local cheese is a unique experience offering a delightful alternative to exploring the region’s main attractions like Dzongs and Lhakangs. The swiss cheese shop offers a selection of locally produced swiss style cheese and also features wines and apple cider made from local fruits grown in the region’s valley. A visit to the shop provides a glimpse into the blend of swiss and bhutanese culinary traditions.
Walking trails to 5 key spiritual and cultural sites
Bumthang as the cultural heartland of Bhutan, is awash with Buddhist temples, and a gentle hike from one to the other means you can see a little bit of local life on the way. This can of course be done on bikes making the whole experience a little quicker. You can spend a few moments or immerse yourself longer depending on your interest. Start at Jambay Lhakhang and then walk past fields and meadows to Kurjey Lhakhang, built around a cave where the Guru Rinpoche meditated. Continue to Kurjey Drupchhu, said to contain the holiest water in Bhutan. The Tamshing Lhakhang is located across the river and finally, the Kenchosum Lhakhang dates from the 7th century. It is said when the bell is rung here, it can be heard in Lhasa in Tibet.