Jambay Lhakhang

Bhutan

Founded, so legend tells, in a single day to pin a demoness beneath the Himalaya, this ancient temple has watched over the Bumthang valley for more than a thousand years.

Set in the sacred Bumthang valley, Jambay Lhakhang is among the oldest temples in Bhutan. Tradition holds it was built in the 7th century by the Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo, one of 108 temples raised across the Himalaya in a single day to subdue a demoness pinned to the earth. Age and holiness seem to settle over its worn timbers, butter-lamp glow and softly chanted prayers. It is famed too for the autumn Jambay Lhakhang Drup, whose dramatic midnight fire dance draws pilgrims from across the country. Among the most revered temples in Bhutan, Jambay Lhakhang Bumthang is central to things to do in Bumthang. Jambay Lhakhang Bhutan ranks high among places to visit in Bumthang. Plan your visit via the official Bhutan Tourism portal: bhutan.travel.

March to May and September to November; time an autumn trip for the Jambay Lhakhang Drup and its famous fire dance.

If the festival draws you, confirm the exact dates first as they shift each year with the lunar calendar — arrive early for the crowded fire-dance night, dress modestly and remove footwear to enter, and go with a local guide who can share the temple's ancient legend.

This attraction can be easily woven into BreakBag Holidays' customised Bhutan tour packages, pairing Jambay Lhakhang with Jakar Dzong, Kurjey Lhakhang and the Bumthang valleys.

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