Ura Lower Village

When entering Ura — the highest of Bumthang's four valleys — the neat three-story houses of the lower village cluster around the village's square lhakhang as if seeking warmth and protection against the valley's bitter winters. Locals throughout Bumthang know the Uraps as hard workers; many adhere to a traditional way of life, rising with the sun, coaxing barley and apples from the land, and relaxing with a cup of ara come evening. Here, life has changed little over the centuries. To wander the village's unpaved streets is to step back in time, making it one of the most fascinating villages in the region. Approaching the village from Jakar, energetic visitors can approach the village on foot from the 3,590m (11,778ft) Shertang La on a trail that leads straight to the village lhakhang, which sits slightly above the rest of the settlement like a gold-topped beacon glinting in the morning light. For a longer hike, one can also tackle the 9km (5.6 mile) Ura-Geyzamchu Walking Trail, an old mule trail that winds through pine forest and highland meadows.