The picturesque Bumthang Valley lies in the southeastern part of Bhutan. The Bumthang Valley, apart from its spectacular natural beauty, is noted for its many Dzongpas, or temple complexes, and palaces. Jakar is the main town in Bumthang Valley. It has narrow, small streets with shops selling everything from apple brandy to yak cheese and silver ornaments.
The Kurjey Lakhang Complex, built in 1652, rules over the surroundings from a height of 9000 feet. It is one of the most revered pilgrimage sites for the devout Buddhists of Bhutan. The Kurjey Complex houses numerous temple pagodas, monasteries and chortens, or Royal memorials.
The Wangdichholing Palace, built in 1857, is a simple structure with no grand embellishments or vast halls. The view of the Bumthang River from the Palace is magnificent, as it meanders far below in the valley. A water powered prayer wheel stands outside the Palace entrance.
The Bumthang Valley is dotted with large and small monasteries. The Tamshing Monastery is over 5 centuries old. It houses many stone image of the Guru Rimpoche. As you trek through the Valley, you will come across many water mills used by the locals to grind wheat. The unusual water mill at the Wangdichholing Palace is also used for turning a large prayer wheel.
And of course, the majestic mountains, the invigorating mountain air and the tall pine forests add to the charms of the paradise called Bumthang Valley.
