Bumthang Bushman Trail
A Scenic Village-to-Village Hike Through the Countryside of Bumthang
The Bumthang Bushman Trail is a beautiful countryside hike that connects the rural villages of Tang with the historic heartland around Jakar. Away from the main roads and busy sightseeing spots, the trail offers travelers a chance to experience the quieter side of Bumthang, walking through traditional villages, forests, farmland and peaceful mountain landscapes.
The hike begins at Tang Bebzur village, in the Tang Valley, and gradually makes its way through the surrounding countryside toward the Jakar area. Along the way, the trail passes through a landscape shaped by traditional farming and village life, with beautiful views of the Bumthang valleys and surrounding mountains.
Depending on trail conditions, walking pace and the interests of the group, the hike can finish near Gongkhar village or around Kharchu Monastery (Lhodrak Kharchu Dratshang). This flexibility allows our local guide to choose the most suitable route on the day.
What to Expect
The Bushman Trail is approximately 9 km and generally takes around 3 hours, depending on walking pace and trail conditions. Although it is not a strenuous high-altitude trek, the route includes some uphill and downhill sections and can feel more challenging in places.
The trail combines natural scenery with an authentic glimpse into rural Bhutan. You may walk alongside farmland, through forested sections and past traditional settlements, while enjoying the changing landscapes of Tang and Bumthang.
Highlights of the Bushman Trail
- Start the hike in Tang Bebzur village
- Walk through traditional rural landscapes of Bumthang
- Experience Bhutanese village life away from the main tourist routes
- Enjoy forest paths and panoramic valley scenery
- Pass through farmland and traditional settlements
- Finish near Gongkhar village or Kharchu Monastery, depending on the route selected
- A rewarding way to experience Bumthang on foot
A Different Way to Experience Bumthang
For travelers who enjoy walking and want to experience Bhutan beyond its famous temples and monasteries, the Bushman Trail offers a refreshing alternative. Rather than simply driving between sightseeing stops, you spend several hours moving through the landscape at a slower pace, with opportunities to observe village life, nature and the everyday rhythm of rural Bhutan.
At OMSHA Travel, we can incorporate the Bushman Trail into a customized Bumthang itinerary according to your interests, fitness level and available time. Our local guide will also assess the trail conditions and choose the most appropriate finishing point on the day of the hike.
Approximate distance: 9 km
Approximate walking time: 3 hours
Starting point: Tang Bebzur Village
Possible finishing points: Gongkhar Village or Kharchu Monastery
Activity: Hiking
Location: Tang Valley, Bumthang, Bhutan