Overview
Bumthang is a district of four valleys in central Bhutan, at about 2,600 to 4,000 m, often called the spiritual heartland of the country. Many of its temples and monasteries are associated with the 8th-century teacher Guru Rinpoche and the 15th-century saint Pema Lingpa, and the area has a number of holy sites and festivals.
Jakar, the main town, is dominated by Jakar Dzong, the Castle of the White Bird, and sights include Jambay Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan, Kurje Lhakhang, and Tamshing Lhakhang. The valley is known for buckwheat pancakes, cheese, honey and apples, and has gentle walks between villages.
Highlights
- Jakar Dzong and the Bumthang valley
- Jambay Lhakhang and Kurje Lhakhang temples
- Walks between villages and monasteries
- The Bumthang Tshechu and other festivals
Best time to visit
March to May and September to November are the best times, with clear skies and festivals. Summer is mild and wet, and winter is cold, with snow. Plan to be in the valley during a festival if possible.
- JanJanuary: Not ideal
- FebFebruary: Good
- MarMarch: Best
- AprApril: Best
- MayMay: Best
- JunJune: Good
- JulJuly: Not ideal
- AugAugust: Not ideal
- SepSeptember: Best
- OctOctober: Best
- NovNovember: Best
- DecDecember: Not ideal
● Best · ○ Good · blank: not ideal. Conditions vary by year, so check local forecasts and access before you go.
Getting there
Fly to Paro (PBH), then drive about two days via Thimphu and Trongsa to Bumthang, or take a domestic flight to Bathpalathang airport, when running. Visitors travel through a licensed operator, who arranges the visa and transport. Check the current rules with an official source.
What to expect
Easy to moderate. Sights are close, and walks are gentle. The journey is long and winding. Altitude is moderate, and weather changes quickly.
Practical tips
- Arrange your trip through a licensed operator and check current rules and fees.
- Dress modestly and follow temple etiquette.
- Allow time for the long journey over the mountain roads.
- Take warm layers: nights are cold even in spring and autumn.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to Bumthang?
By road from Thimphu in about two days, or by domestic flight when available.
What is Bumthang known for?
Ancient temples, religious festivals and rural life.
When are the festivals?
Dates vary each year and follow the lunar calendar, so check with your operator.
Official sources
Rules, fees, permits and conditions change. Check the official pages below before you travel.
- Bhutan Travel, the official tourism website
- Bhutan visa information
- UK government travel advice: Bhutan
Last reviewed October 2026. Details are for planning only and can change; confirm access, permits and conditions with official sources before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Tell us. Photography: PgyamtshoBT (CC0) via Wikimedia Commons.
