More about Bumthang District
Discovering the Hidden Gems: Fun Facts About Bumthang, Bhutan
Bumthang is a district located in the central part of Bhutan, often referred to as the spiritual heartland of the country. This region is known for its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and unique traditions. Bumthang is also home to some fascinating fun facts that are worth discovering. Did you know that the district is the only place in Bhutan where you can find yathra, a hand-woven woolen fabric? Or that Bumthang is the birthplace of Pema Lingpa, a famous saint and treasure discoverer? Visitors to Bumthang can explore these hidden gems and many more.
10 Reasons Why Bumthang Should Be Your Next Travel Destination
Bumthang is a must-visit destination for travelers looking for a unique and authentic experience. Here are ten reasons why you should add it to your travel bucket list:
1. The breathtaking natural beauty of the valley, surrounded by lush green forests and snow-capped mountains.
2. The rich cultural heritage of the region, with numerous ancient temples, monasteries, and fortresses.
3. The unique traditional practices of the local people, including the famous Bumthang Nakey, a naked dance performed during festivals.
4. The opportunity to witness the making of yathra, a hand-woven woolen fabric, and purchase some as souvenirs.
5. The chance to taste authentic Bhutanese cuisine, including traditional dishes like ema datshi (chili and cheese stew) and phaksha paa (pork with red chili).
6. The variety of outdoor activities available, such as hiking, trekking, and birdwatching.
7. The peaceful and serene atmosphere of the valley, perfect for relaxation and meditation.
8. The friendly and welcoming local people, always ready to share their culture and traditions with visitors.
9. The chance to witness some of the most colorful and vibrant festivals in Bhutan, such as the Jambay Lhakhang Drup and the Kurjey Tsechu.
10. The opportunity to learn about Buddhism and its influence on Bhutanese culture and way of life.
Traveling to Bumthang: Your Ultimate Guide
Getting to Bumthang is an adventure in itself, as the district is located in a remote and mountainous region of Bhutan. However, with some planning and preparation, visitors can reach Bumthang and enjoy all that it has to offer.
The most common way to reach Bumthang is by road, either by private car or public bus. The journey from Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan, takes around 10-12 hours, depending on road conditions. Visitors can also fly to Bumthang's domestic airport, which has regular flights from Paro, Bhutan's international airport.
Once in Bumthang, visitors can explore the valley on foot or by car, with many attractions located within walking distance of each other. Local taxis and rental cars are also available for hire. It is important to note that the roads in Bumthang are narrow and winding, so visitors should be prepared for some bumpy rides.
Unleashing the Adventure: Fun Things to Do in Bumthang
Bumthang offers a variety of outdoor activities for adventure seekers and nature lovers. Here are some of the fun things to do in the district:
1. Hike to the Tiger's Nest Monastery, one of the most iconic landmarks in Bhutan, located on a cliff 900 meters above the Paro valley.
2. Trek through the pristine forests of the Bumthang valley, with stunning views of the Himalayan mountains and the surrounding landscapes.
3. Visit the Jakar Dzong, an ancient fortress and monastery that dates back to the 17th century, and learn about Bhutanese history and culture.
4. Explore the Ura Valley, a picturesque village located at an altitude of 3100 meters, famous for its unique architecture and traditional way of life.
5. Birdwatch in the Thrumshingla National Park, home to over 400 species of birds, including the rare and endangered black-necked crane.
6. Attend a traditional Bhutanese festival, such as the Jambay Lhakhang Drup, and witness colorful dances, rituals, and ceremonies.
7. Visit the Burning Lake, a sacred site where Pema Lingpa, a famous Bhutanese saint, is said to have discovered hidden treasures.
8. Learn how to make yathra, a hand-woven woolen fabric, at the Chumey Yathra Weaving Center.
9. Relax and rejuvenate in one of Bumthang's hot springs, known for their healing properties and therapeutic benefits.
Why Book Your Hotel in Bumthang with Agoda.com
Agoda.com is the perfect platform to book your hotel in Bumthang, offering a wide range of accommodations to suit every budget and preference. Here are some of the benefits of booking with Agoda.com:
1. Best price guarantee: Agoda.com offers the best prices on hotels in Bumthang, with no booking fees or hidden charges.
2. Extensive selection: Agoda.com has a wide range of accommodations in Bumthang, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury resorts.
3. User-friendly website: Agoda.com's website is easy to use, with detailed information and photos of each hotel.
4. Secure payment: Agoda.com's payment system is safe and secure, with various payment options available.
5. 24/7 customer support: Agoda.com's customer service team is available 24/7 to assist with any queries or issues.
The Best Time to Visit Bumthang: A Seasonal Guide
Bumthang's climate is temperate, with four distinct seasons. The best time to visit the district depends on your preferences and interests.
Spring (March to May) is a popular time to visit Bumthang, with mild temperatures and blooming flowers. This is also the time for the famous Paro Tsechu festival, where visitors can witness colorful dances and rituals.
Summer (June to August) is the monsoon season in Bhutan, with heavy rainfalls and occasional landslides. However, this is also the time for the Haa Summer Festival, a unique event that showcases the region's culture and traditions.
Autumn (September to November) is the peak tourist season in Bhutan, with clear skies and pleasant temperatures. This is the time for many festivals, including the Jambay Lhakhang Drup and the Black-Necked Crane Festival.
Winter (December to February) is the coldest season in Bumthang, with occasional snowfalls and freezing temperatures. However, this is also the time for the Punakha Tsechu festival, one of the most popular festivals in Bhutan.
Travel Tips: What You Need to Know Before Visiting Bumthang
Here are some useful tips for travelers planning a trip to Bumthang:
1. Dress appropriately: Bhutan is a conservative country, and visitors are expected to dress modestly, especially when visiting temples and monasteries.
2. Respect local customs: Bhutanese people are friendly and welcoming, but visitors should be respectful of their culture and traditions.
3. Bring warm clothing: Bumthang's weather can be unpredictable, so visitors should bring warm clothing, especially during the winter months.
4. Stay hydrated: Bumthang's high altitude can cause dehydration, so visitors should drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol.
5. Carry cash: Many shops and restaurants in Bumthang do not accept credit cards, so visitors should carry enough cash for their expenses.
6. Get travel insurance: Visitors to Bhutan should have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation.
7. Book in advance: Bumthang's accommodations can fill up quickly, especially during the peak tourist season, so visitors should book their hotels in advance.
Where to Stay in Bumthang: A Guide to the Best Accommodations
Bumthang offers a variety of accommodations to suit every budget and preference. Here are some of the best places to stay in the district:
1. Chumey Nature Resort: Located in the heart of the valley, this resort offers comfortable rooms, stunning views, and excellent service.
2. Wangdicholing Resort: This resort is situated in a peaceful and serene location, with spacious rooms and beautiful gardens.
3. Jakar Village Lodge: This lodge is located in the town center, with easy access to shops, restaurants, and attractions.
4. Amankora Bumthang: This luxury resort offers a unique and authentic Bhutanese experience, with spacious suites, fine dining, and spa services.
5. Swiss Guest House: This guesthouse offers budget-friendly rooms, with a cozy and homely atmosphere.
Indulging in Bumthang's Cuisine: What to Eat and Where to Find It
Bhutanese cuisine is known for its spicy and flavorful dishes, with a mix of meat, vegetables, and dairy products. Here are some of the must-try dishes in Bumthang:
1. Ema datshi: This is Bhutan's national dish, made with chili and cheese stew, served with rice or noodles.
2. Phaksha paa: This is a popular pork dish, cooked with red chili and served with rice or buckwheat noodles.
3. Jasha maru: This is a spicy chicken dish, made with ginger, garlic, and chili, served with rice or roti.
4. Momos: These are steamed or fried dumplings, filled with meat or vegetables, served with a spicy dipping sauce.
5. Suja: This is a butter tea, made with tea leaves, yak butter, and salt, a traditional drink in Bhutan.
Visitors can find these dishes and more at local restaurants and cafes in Bumthang, such as the Swiss Bakery and the Yugharling Resort.
Getting Around Bumthang: A Transportation Guide
Bumthang is a small district, and most attractions are located within walking distance of each other. However, visitors can also use local taxis and rental cars to get around. Here are some transportation options in Bumthang:
1. Walking: Visitors can explore the town center and nearby attractions on foot, with many scenic trails and paths available.
2. Taxis: Local taxis are available for hire, with fixed rates for popular destinations and attractions.
3. Rental cars: Visitors can rent cars from local agencies, with or without drivers, depending on their preferences.
4. Buses: Local buses run between Bumthang and other towns and cities in Bhutan, with regular schedules and affordable fares.
It is important to note that the roads in Bumthang can be narrow and winding, with steep inclines and declines, so visitors should be prepared for some adventurous rides.