Buddhist Prayer Wheel, Bumthang, Bhutan

Bumthang

Central Bhutan includes some of the most significant historical and religious sites in the country. As it is seldom visited, it also contains much of its authentic charm.

The central region of Bhutan was largely inaccessible until the 1970s unless you were travelling by foot or on horseback. Times have changed with the improvement of the main highway from west to eastern Bhutan. However not as remote as it once was, it is still only accessed by travellers looking for a true off the beaten track experience.

Bumthang is accessed by travelling over awe-inspiring mountains and valleys. The journey can be arduous, windy and slow in places, but it is well worth the effort. Pass through the district of Trongsa, of great political importance to the leaders of Bhutan due to its commanding location. The road from Trongsa leads to the magnificent four valleys of Bumthang, a very mysterious area which yields stories of treasure hunters and is architecturally rich with fascinating monasteries and relics left by passing gurus.

The region’s best activity is hiking, as the mountains offer brilliant trekking paths which meander elegantly around the valleys showcasing what the region has to offer in all its glory. The landscape is separated by lovely forested scenes, which are considered to be the cultural heartland of this wonderful country and look like beautiful watercolour paintings that have come alive.

A rich and varied biodiversity awaits travellers who venture into the central region of Bhutan.

Experiences

What do you really love doing? We curate your itinerary especially for you.

Working Yaks, Bhutan

Bumthang Flights

If you are short on time and wish to avoid the long drives, take a short 20-minute flight from Paro to Bumthang. Alternatively, drive to Bumthang stopping off en route but then return to Paro by plane.

Prayer Flags on Brudge, Bumthang, Bhutan

The Bumthang Owl Trek

The Bumthang Owl Trek is short, yet fascinating. The trail takes you through dense forests of bamboo, juniper, blue pine and rhododendron trees, with gorgeous views of Mt. Gangkar Peunsum peak.

Prayer Wheels, Bhutan

Hike to the Sacred Cave of Shugdrak

Take a short 10-minute hike up to the sacred Guru Rinpoche cave. A series of ladders you past a lovely butter-lamp shrine to a rock-face chapel.

Sun Temple, Bhutan
Bhutan

An Introduction to Bhutan

This 13-day classic journey is the perfect holiday for anybody visiting Bhutan for the first time, taking in the main sites of Western and Central Bhutan whilst staying in a mix of traditional Bhutanese guest houses. 

13 days

from $10,185 pp

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Where to stay

Some of the wonderful places to stay that we frequently recommended.

Aman Bumthang £££££

  • Bhutan

Amankora Bumthang rests adjacent to the historical Wangduechhoeling Palace, within the town of Jakar in the Choekhor Gewog. This beautiful valley is sprinkled with an exotic mix of sloping pine forests, apple orchards and restful fields of farm produce. The 16 suites are located in one building and are identical in design to those of the Aman properties in Punakha and Paro. There is a library, well-appointed living room and an impressive dining room. Located in the courtyard between the lodge and Wangduechhoeling Palace is an informal bonfire area for pre-dinner drinks. The spa offers three treatment rooms and a steam room.

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Six Senses Bhutan £££££

  • Bhutan
  • Wellness and Spa

Six Senses Bhutan are the finest collection of remote lodges in Asia and a welcome addition to the other luxury-level accommodation on offer. Designed to be experienced as a circuit, a stay at each lodge provides a seamless experience between the five lodges. Each lodge is different, yet all share the same farm-fresh dining and extensive spa facilities.

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Meet our experts

A passion for travel runs right through every one of our experts - meaning they're always ready with first-hand insight about their specialist countries.

Kate Hitchen

My travels were first inspired by my love of the UK, which I take as much pleasure in exploring as countries far and wide. For me, travel is all about the adventure, the people I meet and the food I sample along the way.

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