Spiritual Heartland of Bhutan
Discover the sacred four valleys of Bumthang - home to ancient Buddhist temples, Guru Rinpoche's meditation sites, and Switzerland-like landscapes. Experience spiritual pilgrimage tours, cultural heritage, and alpine farming in Bhutan's most revered valley.
Explore Bhutan's spiritual heartland - four sacred valleys where ancient Buddhism flourishes amid alpine beauty
Bumthang Valley, known as the spiritual heartland of Bhutan, comprises four distinct valleys: Jakar (Chamkhar), Tang, Ura, and Choekhor. Located in central Bhutan at altitudes ranging from 2,800 to 4,500 meters, this region holds profound spiritual significance as the meditation ground of Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava).
The valley's landscape resembles the Swiss Alps with rolling hills, apple orchards, cheese farms, and traditional red-roofed houses dotting the countryside. Ancient Buddhist temples, dating back to the 7th century, house some of Bhutan's most sacred relics and meditation sites where great Buddhist masters achieved enlightenment.
Bumthang is home to some of Bhutan's oldest and holiest temples including Jambay Lhakhang (built in 659 AD by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo), Kurje Lhakhang (where Guru Rinpoche left his body imprint), and the magnificent Jakar Dzong overlooking the valley like a fortress of the white bird.
Choose from our carefully crafted spiritual pilgrimage and cultural heritage tours
Find all you need to know before planning your dream trip to Bumthang Valley, Bhutan.
The best time to visit Bumthang is from April to June and September to November, when the weather is pleasant and festivals are celebrated across the valley.
Yes, international tourists must travel through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator who arranges the tourist visa and travel permits under Bhutan’s SDF (Sustainable Development Fee).
We recommend spending 3–4 days in Bumthang to explore monasteries, valleys, and local life. For a complete Bhutan trip, plan a 7–8 day itinerary.
Packages usually include visa & permits, hotels, meals, transportation, English-speaking guide, and sightseeing. Flights and personal expenses are extra.
Bumthang has a small domestic airport (Bathpalathang) with limited flights from Paro or Yonphula. Road journeys are also scenic and popular among tourists.
Absolutely! The region is peaceful and comfortable for families, seniors, and children. Your itinerary can be adjusted to a relaxed pace with short drives and easy sightseeing.
Carry warm layered clothes, good walking shoes, sunglasses, and a jacket. Evenings can be chilly. Always dress modestly while visiting monasteries.
Yes, you can! Bumthang hosts Tshechu festivals and short hikes to sacred monasteries. Custom itineraries can be made easily with your Bhutan tour operator.