The 14 BEST things to do in Bumthang, Bhutan

Introduction

Welcome to The Journey Seeker! Find out all about best things to do in Bumthang, Bhutan!

Welcome to Bumthang, Bhutan, the land of breathtaking mountain views, delicious dumplings, and endless adventures! If you’re looking for a destination that will make your Instagram followers jealous and your heart full, then Bumthang is the place for you.

Atmosphere / Vibes

Bumthang has a laid-back and friendly atmosphere that will make you feel right at home. The locals are known for their warm hospitality and will go out of their way to make sure you have a memorable trip. Plus, with a population of just over 10,000 people, you won’t have to fight crowds of tourists to get that perfect Instagram shot (but if you do, we won’t tell).

Weather throughout the year

Bumthang has a temperate climate, with warm summers and cold winters. The best time to visit is from September to November, when the weather is mild and the autumn colors are in full bloom. If you’re a fan of snow, then you’ll want to visit in the winter months, when the peaks of the mountains are dusted with a layer of powdery white. No matter what time of year you visit, be sure to bring a jacket, as the evenings can get chilly.

Why Bumthang, Bhutan is the best place to be

There are so many reasons why Bumthang is the best place to be! For one, it’s one of the most picturesque destinations in the world, with its rolling hills, verdant forests, and sparkling lakes. But Bumthang is more than just a pretty face; it’s also a cultural treasure trove, with centuries-old temples, monasteries, and festivals that will transport you back in time. And if you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of opportunities for hiking, white-water rafting, and other outdoor activities.

Cost of Travel

Bhutan is not the cheapest destination to visit, but it’s definitely worth it. The government has implemented a “high-value, low-impact” tourism policy, which means that tourists are required to pay a daily fee that includes their accommodation, meals, transportation, and a guide. This fee starts at around $250 per day, depending on the season. It might sound steep, but it’s a small price to pay for the opportunity to experience all that Bhutan has to offer.

Top 14 best things to do in Bumthang, Bhutan

1. Visit the Jambay Lhakhang Temple, one of the oldest and most sacred temples in Bhutan
2. Go on a hike to the Tang Valley, where you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the mountains and valleys
3. Try your hand at archery, Bhutan’s national sport
4. Take a dip in the warm waters of the Chumey Hot Springs
5. Sample some of Bhutan’s delicious cuisine, including ema datshi (chili and cheese) and momos (dumplings)
6. Visit the Tamshing Lhakhang Monastery, which is home to some of the oldest and most valuable Buddhist texts in the country
7. Go white-water rafting on the Mangde Chhu River
8. Take a trip to the Bumthang Brewery, where you can sample some of Bhutan’s locally-produced beer
9. Visit the Kurje Lhakhang, a temple that is home to a series of caves where Guru Rinpoche (also known as Padmasambhava) meditated in the 8th century
10. Go on a wildlife safari and see some of Bhutan’s unique animals, such as the takin (Bhutan’s national animal) and the golden langur
11. Take a walk through the Jakar Dzong, a fortress that was built in the 17th century and now serves as the administrative center of the Bumthang district
12. Relax and unwind at the Ugyen Chholing Palace, a 19th-century palace that has been turned into a museum
13. Join in the celebrations at the annual Bumthang Festival, which takes place in October and features traditional music, dance, and games
14. Visit the Mebar Tsho (Burning Lake), a holy site where the treasure revealer Terton Pema Lingpa is said to have retrieved sacred texts from the lake in the 14th century

Conclusion

Bumthang, Bhutan is a truly special place that has something for everyone. Whether you’re a nature lover, a culture vulture, or just someone who likes to have fun, you’ll find plenty to do in this beautiful and magical kingdom. So pack your bags and head to Bumthang for an unforgettable adventure!

Have you thought about staying in Bumthang for a little longer and working remotely? Here is another blog post about becoming a Digital Nomad in Bumthang

Did you like this post? Have a look at our other blog posts about living in Bhutan, such as Punakha, Thimphu or Mongar.