To the east of Trongsa lies the
Bumthang valley at an altitude of 2,600m, has an individuality that
charms its visitors and separates it from other regions. Comprised
of four smaller valleys, the deeply spiritual region of Bumthang
is shrouded in religious legend. Here tales of Guru Padmasambhava
and his reincarnation known as Tertons still linger in most nooks
and corners. The town of Jakar is the largest between Thimphu in
the west and Trashigang in the east. Jakar is famous for its honey
production, cheese, apple juice and apricots. Visitors to Bumthang
should plan to spend a few days taking advantage of the valley’s
relatively gentle slopes to walk nearby medieval temples and glimpse
Bhutan’s mostly rural population. It is also known for its
woolen material (yathra) which can be seen hung outside of houses
for sale. Further east there is the Ura valley with the village
of Ura in its centre. A small but old dzong and cobblestone paths
give the village a medieval feel. Many excursions can be done at
this valley like Tharpaling monastery, Kunzangdra, Tang Mebrtso
and many more….
Jambey Lhakhang: built in the 17th century by
a Tibetan King Songtsen Gempo believed to be the reincarnation
of the Buddha of compassion. This temple is one of the 108 temples
built by him to subdue a large demon which was stopping the spread
of Buddhism.
Kurje Lhakhang: located above Jambey Lhakhang
consists of three temples. The one on the right was built in 1652
on the rock face where Guru mediated in the 8th century. Second
temple is built on the site of a cave where Guru Padmasambhava
left his body imprint on the rock. The cave is not visible as
it is concealed by a large statue of the Guru Rinpoche. The third
temple was recently built by the present Royal Queen mother and
these three temples are surrounded by 108 stupa wall symbolic
of each joint of the Human body.
Tamshing Lhakhang: located opposite Kurje Lhakhang
on the other side of the river was founded in the beginning of
the 16th century by Terton Pema Lingpa, the reincarnation of Guru
Padmasambhava. The monastery has very interesting religious painting
like 1,000 Buddhas and 21 Taras (female form of Buddhisatawa).
The temple was restored at the end of the 19th century.
Jakar Dzong: founded by the great grandfather
of Shabdrung. The dzong was initially built as a monastery in
1549 but was upgraded after the Shabdrung had firmly established
his power in 1646. The Dzong is now used as the administration
centre for Bumthang valley.
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