Bumthang has a distinctive charm that entices the visitors and separates it from the other cities, towns and districts of Bhutan. It is composed of 4 small valleys i.e. Chumey, Tang, Ura and Choekhor. Since, all the important temples and the dzongs are found in the Choekhor, is is often referred to as the Bumthang valley. The profound spiritual region of this city is rooted in this religious land. This city is also the traditional home to the renowned Buddhist philosopher and teacher Pema Linga. The present day dynasty traces its origin to the descendants of Pema Linga.
Legends give 2 key notions on the name of this place. One, the canyon here is supposedly in the shape of Bumpa which is the container of pious water usually found on the shrine of a lhakhang. Thang here stands for a flat place or an open field. Another but rather a less respectful translation of the name relates particularly to the beautiful women residing here as bum stands for ‘girl’.
Besides, the pristine beauty of the four valleys, Bumthang also has numerous other places to see along with a few of the oldest Buddhist temples of the kingdom. Bumthang is definitely one of the best tourist places in Bhutan which can be well explored on foot with walks to suit everyone.
Get a travel or medical insurance before you get here. You can easily enquire about all the formalities of insurance from the Royal Insurance Corporation of Bhutan
INR denominations of 500 and 1000 are unacceptable in Bhutan.
Do not carry with you cash more than necessary. You can find ATMs everywhere so make use of them and avoid any mishap.
Money can be withdrawn here via VISA or Master Card only.
You can easily withdraw a traveler’s cheque to get the requisite local currency.
Carry flat to round pin converters with you for charging your electronics here.
It may be typically cooler than the surrounding areas so do carry with you warmer layers of clothing.
Trekkers must bring with them the kit that may be needed by them during the adventure.
Check with your guides whenever you film or take pictures inside the monasteries, temples or the Dzongs. There may be a fair chance that filming or photography maybe prohibited there so kindly respect the same.
Make sure you dress appropriately.
Nudity is illegal here.
Never befriend a stranger or a person you barely know.
There is no ban on alcohol in Bhutan. Moreover, drinking the traditional alcohol of this place is believed to be a tradition.