Top Things to Do in the Jakar | Must-See Attractions & Experiences

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Places To Visit In Jakar

Chakhar Lhakhang

Located at a short distance away from Jambey Lhakhang, Chakhar Lhakhang was the site of the palace of the Indian King Sindhu Raja who invited Guru Padmasambhava to the province of Bumthang. It was originally made of iron and is hence also known as the Iron Palace. The place makes for a good visit and is said to have stood nine storeys tall and has a number of masks and hats on display which are used during festivals. Another site to visit would be the Lhodrak Kharchhu Monastery, situated about 3 km from Chamkhar (Jakar). Built-in 14th century by Dorji Lingpa, the Chakhar Lhakhang stands quietly beyond Jampey Lhakhang. Giving its viewers the first impression of a house, the massive statue of Guru Rinpoche is of utmost significance here. There is a display of unique masks and hats, which are used in Jampey Lhakhang Drup festival. This iron-made monastery is worth visiting to get an insight into the history of the place. Read More

The Jakar Dzong, also known as the "castle of the white bird" was initially built as a monastery by the great grandfather of the first Shabdrung but is now the centre of administration of Bumthang District and also houses the regional monk body. It overlooks the Chokhor Valley, is visible from almost everywhere in Chokhar town and offers a good view of the Bumthang Valley as well. It is the site of the festival of Jakar Tshechu in which sacred masked dances take place. Read More

Founded in the 8th century by Pema Lingpa, Konchogsum Lhakhang is situated south of Tamshing Lhakhang. Known to be over a 1000 years old, it was rebuilt after a severe fire accident that took place on February 2010. The mesmerizing paintings and statues of Buddhist Gurus are striking. The modern architecture and the serenity of this place are what makes it beautiful and worth visiting.

A 45 min hike up the Drangchel village, will take you to the Kunzangdrak Goemba. Nestled between Jakar and the Tang Valley its location is what makes its constructions so marvellous, built against the steep rock face of the mountain amidst the wilderness of Bhutan. A site of many important relics of Bhutanese Buddhism, the shrine is believed to have been built in the 15th century by Pema Lingpa, a famous figure in Bhutanese Buddhism.

Lhodrak Kharchu Goemba is a massive monastery known for its grandeur and is home to about 400 monks. Located 3kms above the town of Chamkhar in Jakar, the Goemba is known for preserving Tibetan culture. Namkhai Nyingpo Rinpoche founded it in 1984 sanctifying it with the marvellous structures of Buddhist saints. Debates, prayers, dance performances and poetry including the practice of tantric Buddhism; this eccentric monastery witnesses it all.

Built-in 1857 over the valley beside Chamkhar River, the Wangdicholing Palace is the birthplace of the first king of Wangchuk. It was used as the summer residence by the Second King Jigme Wangchuk. Flaunting an aesthetic Bhutanese architecture, the Palace is home to priceless and rare murals, sculptures and textiles. It has a chief central tower, periphery buildings, prayer wheels, a stupa and an archery ground. Currently, it's been undergoing restoration and will be converted to a museum, however it is open to visitors. Read More