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Chokhor Valley
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The Chokhor Valley is the largest, most populous, and most developed of the four valleys in Bumthang. It is often referred to as the 'Bumthang Valley' proper. It is home to the town of Jakar, the administrative center of the Bumthang District, with the imposing Jakar Dzong perched on a ridge above the town. The valley is wide and flat, making it good for agriculture. It is known for the cultivation of buckwheat, barley, and wheat. The valley hosts some of Bhutan's most important temples and monasteries, including the 7th-century Jambay Lhakhang and Kurjey Lhakhang, built around the body imprint of Guru Rinpoche. It is also the center of local industry, including the production of Bumthang cheese (Emmental style), apple juice, and the famous Red Panda beers brewed at the Bumthang Brewery.
- Location: Bhutan
- Top sights: Jambey Lhakhang · Toktu Zamba · Chakar Lakhang
- Nearby: Zhemgang (8 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Sep–Nov.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 0 | 1 | 4 | 7 | 10 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 5 | 2 |
| Rain mm | 4 | 12 | 32 | 102 | 145 | 194 | 257 | 196 | 137 | 64 | 5 | 3 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
This most important valley of Bumthang is accessible via a long, extremely scenic drive over the mountain passes from central Bhutan. Travelers also frequently fly into the domestic Bathpalathang Airport, which is conveniently located right in this wide valley.
Best season
October and November offer clear, crisp weather, guaranteeing great conditions for attending festivals and taking leisurely hikes to the temples. Spring is also highly popular for its blooming rhododendrons, whereas summer frequently brings heavy monsoon rains.
Terrain & paths
Unlike many other steep regions of the country, this valley provides an unexpectedly flat, wide plain framed by gentle, forested slopes. It provides the well-suited terrain for leisurely walks and even relaxing bicycle tours from one ancient monastery to another.
What to bring
You will need comfortable, lightweight footwear that can be quickly and easily slipped on and off when entering the countless temples. A warm jacket for the chilly evenings above 2500 meters is just as advisable as respectful clothing for the sacred sites.
Parking
Since almost all tourists travel in the company of local travel agencies, the dedicated drivers completely handle the parking logistics in front of the monasteries. You generally step out of the vehicle directly in front of the major historical sights.
Safety
This is an incredibly peaceful and safe area where crime against tourists is practically completely unheard of. The biggest challenge is usually adapting to the altitude on the first day, so you should definitely drink plenty of water and avoid overexertion.
Time needed
To experience the rich history, ancient royal palaces, and important sanctuaries without feeling rushed, you should stay for at least two to three full days. Many travelers choose to stay even longer to attend a lively local Buddhist festival.
Geography
Facts
- Center for cheese and apple juice production.
- Home to the Jakar Dzong.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Chokhor Valley (7)
Jambay Lhakhang
Buddhist temple in Chokhor Valley, Bhutan, a place for religious gatherings and prayers.
Kurjey Lhakhang
Monastery in Bumthang, Bhutan, an important pilgrimage site with three temples.
Jakar Dzongkhag Administration🏰 castle
Administrative building in Chokhor Valley, Bhutan, seat of the local district administration.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Chokhor Valley located?
It is the central and most developed valley in Bumthang.
Which temples should be visited?
Kurjey Lhakhang and Jambay Lhakhang are among the oldest in the country.
Can bicycles be rented?
Yes, Jakar features rental stations for self-guided exploration.
How is the mobile coverage?
In this valley, reception is mostly good, and hotels have Wi-Fi.
What is the most important local product?
The region is famous for honey, cheese (Bumthang cheese), and apples.
Chokhor Valley: where is it located?
Chokhor Valley is located in Bhutan.
Chokhor Valley: what is there to see?
Highlights include Jambey Lhakhang, Toktu Zamba, Chakar Lakhang.
Chokhor Valley: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Sep, Nov.
Chokhor Valley: why is it worth visiting?
The Chokhor Valley is the largest, most populous, and most developed of the four valleys in Bumthang.
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History & landmarks
🗺️
Tharpaling Monastery
A peaceful monastery on a steep mountainside in the Chokhor Valley.
Bumthang (Chokhor Valley)
The Chokhor Valley in Bumthang is the spiritual heartland of Bhutan, dotted with ancient temples and sacred sites.
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Nature
More places
Kurjey Lhakhang
An important temple complex in the Bumthang Valley where Guru Rinpoche meditated in the 8th century, leaving his body imprint on a rock.
Jambay Lhakhang
One of the 108 temples said to have been built by the Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo in the 7th century.
Bumthang Apple Orchards
The cool valleys of Bumthang are famous for their fertile apple orchards, yielding delicious juice and cider.
Jakar Dzong
Also known as the "Fortress of the White Bird", it was built in the 16th century and dominates the Chokhor Valley in Bumthang.
Bumthang Valley
The spiritual heartland of Bhutan, consisting of four major valleys and home to numerous ancient temples.
Chamkhar Dairy Farms
In the Bumthang region, small dairy farms produce Bhutan's widely known Swiss cheese, inspired by development assistance.
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