Attractions

At Your Doorstep

A Valley Full of Wonders

The Bumthang Valley holds more ancient temples per square kilometre than almost anywhere in Bhutan. Many are built over pilgrimage sites that are over a thousand years old — and all of them are within easy reach of Hotel Jakar View.

Attraction 01

Jakar Dzong

The “Castle of the White Bird” dominates the hillside above Jakar town, its whitewashed walls and golden rooftops glowing amber at sunset. Originally built in 1549, the dzong is home to the district’s administrative offices and Bumthang’s main monastic body. Visitors can stroll its ancient corridors, watch monks at morning prayers, and take in sweeping valley views from the ramparts — a living fortress where history and daily life still intersect.

Attraction 02

Jambay Lhakhang

One of 108 temples constructed in a single day by the Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo in the 7th century to pin down a demoness said to be lying across the Himalayan landscape. Dedicated to the Future Buddha (Maitreya), Jambay Lhakhang is one of the holiest sites in Bhutan. Its annual tsechu (festival) in October — featuring the naktsang fire dance performed by torch-bearing monks — draws pilgrims from across the kingdom.

Attraction 03

Kurjey Lhakhang

Named after the body-print (kur = body, jey = print) that Guru Rinpoche left imprinted in a rock after meditating inside a cave here in the 8th century, Kurjey Lhakhang is among the most sacred sites in all of Bhutan. The complex consists of three temples built against a cliff face, draped in colourful prayer flags, and shaded by ancient cypress trees. A steep flight of stone steps leads to the cave where Guru Rinpoche subdued the local demon.

Attraction 04

Wangdichholing Palace

Built in 1857 by Jigme Namgyel — father of the first king — Wangdichholing was the first palace in Bhutan constructed in a residential style rather than as a fortress dzong. It served as the winter residence of the early Bhutanese kings and is now a national monument undergoing careful restoration. Wander its quiet corridors, admire the faded murals of the royal apartments, and imagine the councils of state once held in these rooms.

Attraction 05

Mebar Tsho

Hidden in a narrow gorge carved by the Tang River, Mebar Tsho — the “Burning Lake” — is one of the most spiritually charged sites in Bhutan. The name recalls the 15th-century saint Pema Lingpa who, to prove his divine powers, leapt into the lake holding a butter lamp and emerged from the depths still aflame, a treasure text in each hand. Pilgrims today release tiny floating butter lamps into the dark water, watching them drift away into the current.