Jakar – Day excursion Bumthang Valley
Today, you explore the cultural attractions of Bumthang- the cultural hub of Bhutan. Start from the Jambay Lhakhang-the first Buddhist temple built by the Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo in the 7th century, even before the arrival of Guru Padmasambhava. Nearby is an interesting Chakar temple (iron castle) at the site of the palace of the Indian King Sindhu Raja who first invited Guru Rinpoche to Bumthang. A little further drive brings us to the Kurjey Lhakhang that covers a cave where Guru Rinpoche meditated and left the imprint of his body on a rock! Kurjey Lhakhang is among the holiest places in Bhutan.
This afternoon, enjoy your lunch in a farm-house. After lunch, you take a gentle leveled walk across the suspension bridge over the Chamkhar Chu River to Tamshing Lhakhang. It is one of the essential Nyingma Goemba and is a treasure house of interesting religious Buddhist paintings. Just 400m below Tamshing is a small but rural looking temple called Kunchoksum temple that has some interesting stories. You will continue walking through the farmlands to a Swiss cheese farm area
There are more to see: The new monastery of Namhai Nyingpo, the traditional hospital, Jakar Dzong, Lamay Gompa and other sights as per available time and your interests.
Late afternoon, take a relaxed stroll in the town. The town of Jakar is a bustling one-street town with a goldsmith, tailors, butchers, cafes, restaurants, and handicraft stores. It's worth taking a stroll around town in the evening.