Zhu Bhutan Travels Harvard Students and Alumni Trek to Bhutan, Since December, 2017
Zhu Bhutan Travels Harvard Students and Alumni Trek to Bhutan, Since December, 2017
A region of four magnificent valleys, filled with ancient temples, sacred sites, and breathtaking natural scenery.
Bumthang is often referred to as the spiritual heartland of Bhutan. It is a vast district comprising four main valleys: Chokhor, Tang, Ura, and Chumey. The name Bumthang literally translates to "beautiful field," a fitting description for its wide, gentle valleys and rolling hills covered with lush forests and cultivated fields. This region is a repository of ancient Buddhist history, home to some of the country's most significant and oldest temples and monasteries, many of which are associated with Guru Rinpoche and the "treasure discoverer" Pema Lingpa.
Also known as the "Castle of the White Bird," this fortress is located on a ridge above the Jakar town. It is one of Bhutan's largest dzongs and plays a vital role in the region's administration and defense.
This revered temple complex contains a body imprint of Guru Rinpoche, who meditated here in the 8th century. It is a significant pilgrimage site and also serves as the final resting place for the first three kings of Bhutan.
Believed to be one of the 108 temples built by the Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo in 659 AD, this is one of Bhutan's oldest temples. It hosts the famous Jambay Lhakhang Drup festival, known for its unique 'naked dance'.
Founded in 1501 by Pema Lingpa, this temple is renowned for its ancient wall paintings. It is one of the most important Nyingma monasteries and is a living testament to Bhutan's rich spiritual and artistic heritage.
A sacred pilgrimage site where Pema Lingpa is said to have discovered religious treasures from the lake's depths with a lit butter lamp that miraculously remained lit. It is a tranquil and deeply spiritual place.
A popular spot for travelers, this microbrewery produces unfiltered Red Panda beer using local ingredients. Visitors can take a tour of the facility and sample the beer and other local products.
The first palace in Bhutan to be built without using a fort-like structure. It was the principal residence of the first King of Bhutan and served as a summer residence for the second king.
Adjacent to the Red Panda Brewery, the Swiss Farm produces Emmenthal and Gouda cheese, along with apple brandy. It is an interesting place to see local dairy production and purchase delicious products.
Located in the Chumey Valley, this center showcases the traditional art of weaving Yathra, a colorful wool fabric. You can see skilled artisans at work and purchase these unique Bhutanese textiles.