The valleys of Trongsa and Bumthang are separated by Yutola Pass (Alt 11,500ft). Bumthang has an individuality that separates it from all other regions. Composed of four smaller valleys ,Chumey, Choekor,Tang ,Ura . The spiritual region of Bumthang is shrouded in religious legend. Bumthang is also famous for yathra which is a unique material woven from coarse sheep wool, intricately designed and colored to form breathtaking patterns. Bumthang Tsechu (festival) along with the Paro and Thimphu Tsechu are the most popular festivals in Bhutan. The town of Jakar is the largest between Thimphu in the west and Trashigang in the east. Jakar is famous for its honey, cheese, apples and apricots.

Jambey Lhakhang
This monastery was built in the 7th century by the Tibetan king, Songtsen Gampo. It is one of 108 monasteries, which he built to subdue evil spirits in the Himalayan region. Its present architectural appearance dates from the early 20th century.

Kurjey Lhakhang
Located further along the valley, Kurjey Lhakhang comprises three temples. The one on the right was built in 1652 against the rock face where Guru Padmasambhava meditated in the 8th century. The middle temple is built on the site of a cave containing a rock with the imprint of the Guru’s body, and is therefore considered to be the most holy. The temple on the left was built in the 1990s by H.M. Ashi Kesang, the Queen Mother. These three temples are surrounded by a 108-chorten wall.

Tamshing Lhakhang
Terton Pema Lingpa, a re-incarnation of Guru Padmasambhava founded this lhakang in 1501. It is located across the river from Kurjey Lhakhang. There are very old religious paintings around the inner walls of the temple, which was restored at the end of the 19th century.

Jakar Dzong
Constructed in 1549 by the great grandfather of the first Shabdrung, the Dzong was initially built as a monastery. It was upgraded in 1646, after the Shabdrung had firmly established his power. Jakar Dzong is now used as the administrative center for Bumthang valley, and also houses the regional monk body.