Jakar

A bustling two street town, Jakar is a wonder in itself. Also, officially referred to as Bumthang, Jakar is situated in the central-eastern region of Bhutan. Jakar is the district capital of Bumthang District and the location of Jakar Dzong, the regional dzong fortress. Jakar roughly translates as “white bird” in reference to its foundation myth, which states that a roosting white bird signaled the auspicious location to have found a monastery around 1549. Jakar also serves as a great base for easy day trekking to nearby monasteries where you can enjoy the stunning scenery.

Attractions
Jakar Dzong - The current structure of the Dzong was built in 1667, and its official name is Yuelay Namgyal Dzong. Built in honour of the victory over the troops of Tibetan ruler Phuntsho Namgyal, an unusual feature here is that the utse (central tower) is situated on an outside wall.

Wangdichholing Palace - Built in the year 1857 on the site of a battle camp of Trongsa, the Wangdichholing Palace was the first palace in Bhutan which was not designed primarily as a fortress. The grand building is used as a monastic school. According to sources, the Bhutan Foundation plans to convert it into a museum.

Lhodrak Kharchu Goemba - On the hill to the east of Jakar this large Nyingma monastery was founded in the 1970s by Namkhai Nyingpo Rinpoche and has about 400 monks in residence. The Tshokhang (Assembly Hall) has massive statues of Guru Rinpoche, Chenresig and Sakyamuni.

Cheese Factory - Bhutan’s only commercial cheese factory let’s you tour for free cheese tasting.

How to reach
By Air - A flight from Paro to Bumthang shall land at Bathpalathang Aiprort situated right in the town of Jakar. Tashi Air and Druk Air both provide domestic flights.