Ura Travel Guide

Explore the culturally rich and adventurous travel destination of Ura, Bhutan. Plan your trip with our comprehensive travel guide featuring top attractions, activities, accommodations, and more.


Introduction to Ura

Ura is a small town located in the Bumthang district of central Bhutan. Nestled amidst pristine natural landscapes and stunning panoramic views, Ura is a hidden gem and the perfect off-the-beaten-path destination for travelers seeking adventure and cultural immersion.

List of Places to Visit in Ura

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Ura Lhakhang - a 17th-century temple considered one of the most important religious sites in Bhutan
  • Jambay Lhakhang - a stunning ancient temple and a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Tang Rimochen Lhakhang - a unique temple built in the 14th century featuring a bronze statue of Guru Rinpoche

Natural Attractions of Ura: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Ura Valley - a picturesque valley boasting stunning landscapes and serene natural surroundings
  • Burning Lake - a sacred lake believed to be blessed by Guru Rinpoche with hidden treasures and visited by Bhutanese pilgrims
  • Ura Yakchoe Festival - a yearly festival celebrated in Ura featuring vibrant masked dances and traditional cultural performances

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ura

For adventure enthusiasts, Ura offers several hiking and biking trails that lead to some of the most stunning natural landscapes and cultural sites in the region, such as:

  • Ura to Bumthang valley trek
  • Ura Lhuntse trek
  • Ura to Phobjikha trek

Best Things to Do in Ura: Activities and Tours

  • Attend traditional festivals and cultural events
  • Explore the stunning natural landscapes through hiking and biking trails
  • Visit the ancient temples and museums to learn about Bhutanese culture and history
  • Taste the local cuisine and try traditional Bhutanese dishes
  • Buy unique souvenirs and handicrafts made by local artisans

Week-Long Itinerary for Ura

Day Activities
1 Arrive in Ura and explore the town
2-3 Hike or bike along the trails to Bumthang valley and visit local temples and museums
4-5 Visit the Burning Lake and attend the Ura Yakchoe Festival
6-7 Go on a day trip to the Phobjikha valley and witness the magnificent black-necked cranes

Food and Drink Scene of Ura

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ema Datshi - a spicy Bhutanese dish made with cheese and chili peppers
  • Jasha Maroo - spicy chicken dish with a blend of Bhutanese and Tibetan flavors
  • Phaksha Paa - pork cooked with spicy red chilies and mountain vegetables

Local Beverages

  • Suja - a traditional salted butter tea served in Bhutan
  • Ara - a local alcoholic beverage made from fermented rice, maize, or wheat

Where to Stay in Ura: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

What to Buy in Ura: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handicrafts made by local artisans such as carved wooden bowls and woven textiles
  • Handmade paper products
  • Bhutanese traditional dress

Local Culture and Customs of Ura

The Bhutanese people are known for their unique customs and traditional lifestyle. Some of the cultural practices that visitors might experience while visiting Ura are:

  • Traditional festivals and celebrations
  • Traditional dress, known as the Gho for men and Kira for women
  • Religious customs such as offering prayers and lighting butter lamps

Best Time to Visit Ura

The best time to visit Ura is from March to May and from September to November. During these months, the weather is mild, and visitors can enjoy clear skies and stunning natural landscapes.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ura

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions
  • Dress modestly while visiting religious sites
  • Try the local cuisine and embrace the local culture

Don’t:

  • Disrespect the local customs and traditions
  • Take photographs without asking for permission
  • Engage in any activities that could harm the environment or wildlife

Safety and Health

Safety in Ura

Ura is a safe travel destination, with a low crime rate and friendly locals. However, visitors should be mindful of their belongings and take precautions to keep themselves safe.

Health in Ura

Visitors to Ura should take precautions to avoid altitude sickness, as the town is located at 3,100 meters above sea level. It is also advisable to drink bottled water and to bring any necessary medications with them.

Getting to Ura: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Ura

The nearest airport is the Paro International Airport, located approximately 197 kilometers from Ura.

Bus Stations Near Ura

There are regular bus services that run from Thimphu to Bumthang, from where visitors can take a cab or bus to Ura.

Other Options

Visitors can also hire a private car or take a taxi to Ura from nearby towns such as Bumthang or Jakar.

How to Get Around in Ura

The town is small enough to explore on foot, but visitors can also hire a car or bike to explore the surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Ura: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Bumthang - a cultural and historical hub where visitors can explore ancient temples and monasteries
  • Punakha - a former capital city and a home to the stunning Punakha Dzong, the second oldest and largest dzong in Bhutan
  • Paro - a picturesque valley and the location of the famous Paro Taktsang, also known as the Tiger’s Nest monastery

Conclusion

Ura is a hidden gem in Bhutan that offers a unique blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a hiker or a cultural enthusiast, Ura has something for everyone. From ancient temples to scenic valley views, Ura is a travel destination that deserves a spot on your bucket list.