Overview

A journey through the enchanting landscapes of Bumthang and Ura Valley offers a mesmerizing glimpse into the heart of Bhutan’s cultural and natural treasures. This unique tour seamlessly also blends historical sites, stunning scenery, and authentic cultural encounters, creating an unforgettable experience that showcases the essence of Bhutan.

Bumthang, often referred to as the “spiritual heartland,” boasts a tapestry of ancient monasteries, temples, and traditional Bhutanese architecture. The tour begins in Jakar, the main town of Bumthang, where the grandeur of Jakar Dzong and Jambay Lhakhang temple exemplifies Bhutanese craftsmanship. As you explore further, Kurjey Lhakhang and Tamshing Lhakhang unveil intricate murals and sacred relics, embodying the nation’s spiritual heritage.

The journey also meanders through pristine valleys and ascending landscapes to the lesser-explored Ura Valley. This remote gem is renowned for its unique circular stone houses and vibrant festivals. The Ura Yakchoe Festival, a highlight of the trip, offers a rare opportunity to witness traditional masked dances and immerse in the local festivities.

Tranquil Beauty and Cultural Immersion: Exploring Bumthang and Ura Valley

Nature enthusiasts will find solace in the lush meadows, dense forests, and crystalline rivers that paint the backdrop of both valleys. The sacred Mebar Tsho (Burning Lake) near Bumthang adds an air of mystique with its fascinating legends and serene beauty. The Ura Valley’s landscapes are equally breathtaking, with terraced fields and the Jangphu Lhakhang perched on a hilltop, granting panoramic views.

Delving into Bhutan’s cultural tapestry, the tour includes interactions with the warm-hearted locals. Engaging with artisans practicing age-old crafts, such as weaving and woodcarving, provides insight into Bhutan’s living heritage. The trip also allows a chance to savor authentic Bhutanese cuisine, with dishes like Ema Datshi (chili and cheese) and traditional butter tea.

Bumthang and Ura Valley also embody Bhutan’s commitment to preserving its traditions amidst modern influences. The tour strikes a balance between exploration and reflection, as visitors can partake in meditation sessions or simply relish the tranquility of sacred sites.

Conclusion and Summary

In summary, the Bumthang and Ura Valley tour is a captivating journey that transcends time and takes you to the heart of Bhutan’s spiritual and natural beauty. It also encapsulates the country’s rich heritage, picturesque landscapes, and the hospitality of its people, leaving travelers with cherished memories of an authentic Bhutanese experience.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 01: Arrival Paro (2250m) – Thimphu (2350m)

Arrive Paro by the Bhutanese National Carrier flying over the world’s highest mountains and finally landing at the lush green Paro valley. A cool and clean fresh air greets the visitor as stepping down from the plane, the first gift of Bhutan. After clearing customs and visa formalities, meet the representatives and the Bhutanese guide, and a short tour brief by the guide then transfer to Paro town for lunch. Then drive towards Thimphu (the capital of Bhutan) for about an hour.

In Thimphu, visit Buddha point for a stunning view of Thimphu city and Takin Compound- on the way to the viewpoint over Thimphu is the home of Bhutan’s national animal, the Takin. Then continue to Tashi Choe Dzong- the fortress of the glorious religion was initially constructed in 1641 and rebuilt by King Jigme Dorji Wangchuk in the 1960s, Folk Heritage Museum – a 300 year old traditional house converted into a museum, Centenary Farmers Market, the new authentic craft bazaar. Overnight at Hotel (Lunch/Dinner included)

Day 02: Thimphu – Wangdue (1310m) – Gangtey (2320m)

After breakfast, drive towards Gangtey via Wangdue. The road climbs steeply through a forest of pine and cedar, festooned with hanging lichen high up near Dochula pass (3,050 m). This pass also often offers panoramic views of the Himalayan mountain ranges in a clear day. After stopping for a tea, descend along a series of hairpin bends to the fertile valley of Wangdue. Wangdue Phodrang Dzong is dramatically located on the spur of a hill at the confluence of the Tsang Chu and Dang Chu rivers. Then a gradual climb goes into the valley of Gangtey (Phobjikha). There is also an old monastery of Gangtey Gompa dating back to the 17th century. A few kilometers past the Gompa on the valley floor are the fascinating valley of Phobjikha. The gentle sloping hillsides of Phobjikha are described as “the most beautiful valley in the Himalayas”. Overnight at Hotel (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner included)

Day 03: Gangtey – Trongsa – Bumthang (2800m)

Early start with drive to the central valleys of Bhutan. The drive to Bumthang via Trongsa is about six hours crossing over Pelela Pass (3,300 m) and Yotongla Pass (3,400 m). The road climbs steadily passing through semi-tropical vegetation and then to Pelela Pass(3,300m) with an alpine environment of rhododendrons and dwarf bamboo. This pass is traditionally considered the boundary between west and east Bhutan. If the weather is clear, particularly the peak of Jhomulhari (7314 m) to the west can be spotted. En-route cross Chendebji Chorten built to suppress a demon. After lunch, go out to view the impressive Trongsa Dzong, ancestral home of the ruling dynasty. In olden days the Dzong commanded the passage between east and West Bhutan. Finally drive towards Bumthang valley (described as “one of the most beautiful spot in the Himalayas” across the Yotongla Pass (3,400 m) Overnight at Hotel (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner included)

Day 04: In Bumthang- Sightseeing

In the morning visit Kurje Lhakhang, one of the most sacred places in the kingdom as Bhutan’s “patron saint”, Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) meditated here. From Kurje monastery, a tarmac road also heads south along the right bank of the river to Jambey Lhakhang. This temple, erected by the Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo in the 7th century, is one of the two oldest in Bhutan (the other being Kyichu Lhakhang in Paro). After lunch, hike to Tamshing Lhakhang, founded in 1501 by Pema Lingpa. It contains interesting and ancient Buddhist wall paintings. Later, visit Jakar Dzong, “the castle of the white bird”, and then take a stroll through Bumthang’s market area before returning to the hotel. Overnight at Hotel (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner included)

Day 05: Bumthang – Ura (2850m) – Bumthang (2800m)

After breakfast, drive towards the Ura valley which is 42 kilometers from Bumthang. The road also reaches the Ura Shelthangla from where a magnificent view of Bhutan’s highest peak, Gangkhar Puensum (7,500 m) can be spotted. The road then descends into Ura valley by long loops across fields and pastures. Ura’s main occupation is raising sheeps, yaks and the introduction of potato farming has brought a certain degree of prosperity of people. In Ura, visit Ura Lhakhang and picnic lunch will be served at one of many inviting spots. Afternoon: drive back to Bumthang. Overnight at Hotel (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner included)

Day 06: Bumthang – Gangtey (2320m)

After breakfast, re-trace the same route back towards Gangtey and the road journey today is bit longer with 8 hours of drive. Upon arrival at Gangtey, check-in hotel. Overnight at Hotel (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner included)

Day 07: Gangtey – Punakha (1310m)

After early breakfast, drive towards Punakha for about 3 hours. En-route take a short hike through beautiful rice fields to Chimmi Lhakhang, a temple dedicated to Drukpa Kuenley, who as a favorite saint of the Bhutanese people is also known affectionately as “the Divine Madman”. And Punakha Dzong located at the confluence of the Pho-chu (male-river) and Mo-chu (female-river), the Punakha Dzong is arguably the most impressive dzong in the country. Overnight at Hotel (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner included)

Day 08: Punakha – Paro (2250m)

After breakfast, trace the route back to Paro. In Paro, visit Rinpung Dzong built in 1646 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the first spiritual and temporal ruler of Bhutan; the Dzong continues its age-old function as the seat of the district administration, district court and the monastic body. The southern approach to the Dzong also has a traditional roofed cantilever bridge called Nemi Zam. Overnight at Hotel (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner included)

Day 09: Paro – Hike to Taktsang Monastery ‘Tiger’s Nest’ (3120m)

After breakfast drive towards the base camp of Taktsang for the hike up to the Taktsang Monastery-Tiger’s Nest. It’s about two hours hike up the cafeteria. From this point, enjoy the spectacular view of the monastery, where Guru Padmasambhava landed on the back of a tigress in 8th century. Then visit the Taktsang Monastery and hike back to the road point then drive to Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest and most sacred shrines in Bhutan. Afterwards, back to hotel. Overnight at Hotel (Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner included)

Day 10: Paro depart

After breakfast, transfer to the airport to catch the onward flight. Also Bid farewell to the remote and legendary Dragon Kingdom disappearing again behind its guardian mountains. (Breakfast only included)