‘Is Bumthang Valley Worth Visiting?’ Absolutely Yes, why not? Bumthang Valley which lies in Central Bhutan at an elevation of 2800 m is the ‘Land of the Sacred Valleys’. Bumthang Valley boasts abundant ancient temples and sacred sites which is why it is rightly called the ‘Cultural Heartland Bumthang Valley’. Bumthang translates to the ‘beautiful field’ which is comprised of the four valleys: Chumey, Choekhor, Tang, and Ura. The most iconic and significant valley in Bhutan as it is the first place where Buddhism was introduced.
Bumthang Valley is also prominent for its wide valleys, lush greenery, serene rivers, scenic landscapes, and cultural events and festivals and pristine. Don’t miss out on trying breweries including local beer and a variety of Swiss cheese in Swiss Farm. The winters are dry while summers are mild in the Bumthang Valley. Spring (Mar-May) and Autumn (Sep-Nov) are the best seasons to travel to the Valley. As mentioned earlier, it comprises 4 unique valleys with numerous attractions and great cultural significance. It is worth visiting place to see Bhutan’s diverse rich culture and heritage.
4 Valleys of Bumthang
Choekhor Valley
Choekhor Valley is a cultural hub that houses numerous sacred Dzongs, fortresses, and monasteries holding rich cultural and historical significance. Numerous festivals are celebrated annually which displays the rich culture and tradition of Bhutan. The beautiful surroundings of the valley along with traditional Bhutanese life mesmerizes the visitors. Not only sacred sites the valley is also popular for breweries and Swiss Farm where Swiss cheese is produced. That’s why, the valley is also called ‘Little Switzerland’. Don’t miss out on visiting Jambay Lhakhang, the oldest temple in Bumthang. Other popular attractions are Jakar Dzong (Castle of the White Bird), Kurje Lhakhang, Tamshing Lhakhang, Bumthang Brewery, Swiss Farm, etc.
Ura Valley
Ura Valley lies in the eastern part of Bumthang renowned for its terraced hills and rolling hills. Ura Village has well-preserved traditional Bhutanese architecture. Observe the rural Bhutanese life that has its unique charm. The traditional farming and handicraft practices in Ura Valley display the traditional lifestyle. Some popular attractions in Ura Valley are Ura Lhakhang, Ura Yakchoe Festival, the Ura Valley trekking route, etc.
Tang Valley
Tang Valley lies northeast of Bumthang and attracts visitors with its natural beauty and rough terrain. The locals practice traditional farming and live in traditional Bhutanese houses. The valley has several sacred monasteries and Dzongs including the remarkable Mebar Tsho (Burning Lake). Visitors get attracted to the valley’s peaceful environment which is ideal for trekking. Explore nature through hiking as the Tang Valley trekking route offers scenic views. Some prime attractions in Tang Valley are Tang Rimochen Lhakhang, Tang Ugyen Choling Palace, Mebar Tsho, etc.
Chumey Valley
Chumey Valley lies in the south of Bumthang and is popular for its beautiful natural landscape and traditional Bhutanese textiles. The natural trails and several ancient monasteries are prime attractions. Traditional farming practices can be seen in the valley’s fertile land. The hand-woven textile especially using Yathra Fabric is this valley’s highlight as well as identity. Chumey Valley’s popular attractions are Chumey Lhakhang, Yathra Weaving Centers, Chumey Nature Trail, Chumey Drubchen Festival, etc.
How can we get to Bumthang Valley?
There are two ways to get to Bumthang Valley i.e. Airways and Roadways.
By Air
There is a seasonal domestic flight from Paro to Bumthang which takes approx. 30 minutes. During the flight, get rewarded by the scenic mountain views. Airway is the fastest way to get to Bumthang Valley.
By Road
Private Vehicle and Taxi services are two options while traveling to Bumthang by road. For a comfortable travel experience, we suggest driving on a 4WD/SUV vehicle. On the way to Bumthang, get a chance to see Trongsa Dzong and the clock tower. The travel duration from Thimphu to Bumthang takes about 9-10 hours. We stay at Thimphu, Punakha before traveling to Bumthang.
(Travel Route: Thimphu-Punakha-Trongsa-Bumthang)
Why Bumthang Valley is Worth Visiting?
Wide Valley
Bumthang Valley has an elevation of 2800 m which comprises 4 valleys and is wide. Visitors can easily access from one valley to another and explore freely. The 4 valleys have many similarities and few dissimilarities but offer diversity for visitors which is memorable to experience while touring this valley. Choekhor Valley is the most-visited among the 4 valleys. But, a day trip is possible to Tang, Ura, and Chumey Valley.
Rich Cultural Heritage
Bumthang Valley houses abundant ancient temples, monasteries, and Dzongs and hosts several traditional festivals that directly represent Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage.
Picturesque Beauty
The picturesque beauty of the Bumthang Valley is pristine as it is the least explored region. Visitors are fascinated with the wide valley, dense forests, scenic landscapes, fertile lands, lush greenery, and natural running streams.
Spiritual Importance
The valley houses numerous ancient Dzongs which hold great spiritual significance along with historical & cultural significance
Vibrant and Cultural Festivals
The valley organizes several vibrant and cultural festivals as it has several prominent ancient temples, monasteries, and Dzongs. More than half of the festivals of Bhutan are organized here. A great opportunity for visitors to experience Bhutan’s rich culture and traditions.
Local Lifestyle
The people of the valley live the local lifestyle with traditional agriculture practices. They reside in ancient Bhutanese houses. Experience the actual Bhutan’s local life where agriculture and handicrafts are their source of living.
Traditional Crafts
The traditional crafts using hand-woven goods such as Yathra Fabric textiles are perfect examples of the well-preserved tradition in Bumthang Valley. It is supporting the locals as well as promoting & preserving the ancient tradition.
Connect with Nature
The peaceful and pristine environment of the Bumthang Valley is ideal for connecting visitors with nature. Several trekking and hiking routes in Bumthang are perfect for experiencing scenic views that promote eco-friendly tourism.
Spiritual Sanctuaries
The numerous ancient monasteries and Dzongs in Bumthang are also taken as spiritual sanctuaries. Visitors can experience spiritual awakening through spiritual reflection and meditation in these sacred sites.
House of Brewery and Swiss Farm
Bumthang Valley has Bhutan’s first brewery and Swiss Farm that produces a variety of Swiss cheeses. It is the first of its kind in Bhutan which is a small family-run enterprise. Visit the place and try out on local brewery including flavorful beers and Swiss cheese at Swiss Farm.
Friendly Locals
Meet and interact with the friendly locals where visitors can foster cultural exchange and learn deeply about the local culture and lifestyle. Try local cuisine, and support the rural economy by purchasing and promoting local hand-woven goods.
Limitations to visit Bumthang Valley
Remote Location & Limited Infrastructure
Bumthang Valley is far from the capital Thimphu and is considered remote with limited transportation options. The remote location and limited infrastructure can be challenging for visitors. There are infrastructures but only fewer high-end accommodations and medical facilities as compared to the major cities.
Weather
The weather of the Bumthang Valley is normally dry in winter and mild in summer but it is subject to unpredictable. So, we suggest traveling during the Spring and Autumn seasons as the weather is stable and the temperature is moderate.
Limited Modern Facilities
The authentic culture and tradition are still prominent in Bumthang Valley which means there are modern limited facilities. Visitors have limited choices which can be a little inconvenient for some visitors.
Long Travel Distance
Bumthang Valley travel distance is long via roadways which can be a little challenging for travelers having carsickness. Also, the windy and narrow roads with most of the jungle views can be tiring and boring for visitors.
Limited Seasonal Flights
There are only limited seasonal domestic flights to Bumthang from Paro. The flights can be packed during the season and the flight cost is also high which may not be reasonable for some visitors.
Extra Nights, Extra SDF
The Bumthang Valley is far from the capital city of Bhutan which automatically adds up to extra nights during the tours. Additional night means extra SDF which is USD 100 per person per night. At least 2 nights are recommended for the Bumthang tour which adds up to the expenses and some visitors might find it very expensive.
Limited Luxury Hotels
In Bumthang, there are very limited luxury hotels (Available only at Amankora and Six Sense resorts) that have very high room fares (more than USD 2000 per night per room). Except for 2 luxury hotels, there are only 3-star hotels in Bumthang, their services might not meet the luxury traveler’s expectations.
Abundant Sacred Sites
Bumthang Valley has abundant sacred sites which can be monotonous or boring for visitors to explore while in Bumthang. As an alternative, visitors can go for nature trail hiking but make sure to plan properly considering altitudes/elevation.
Conclusion
A visit to Bhutan’s cultural heartland Bumthang Valley is truly worthwhile as it is a perfect amalgamation of culture and natural beauty. This valley is evidence of the local Bhutanese lifestyle where the culture and tradition are well-preserved. The several monasteries and Dzongs are the symbol of the valley’s historical and cultural significance. The peaceful environment of the Valley is also ideal for trekking and hiking as it has numerous trekking trails that take visitors close to nature.
