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No.1 Tiger's Nest Monastery: Bhutan's Most Iconic Sacred Site
- Chinese Name: 虎穴寺
- Location: Paro Valley, 12KM from Paro city.
- Altitude: 3,120 meters (10,236 feet)
- Opening Time: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Recommend Visiting Time:1-2 hours for the monastery and one day for the round-trip Hiking tour.
Tiger's Nest Monastery, also known as Paro Taktsang, is one of Bhutan's most revered and iconic landmarks. Perched on the side of a cliff 900 meters (2,953 feet) above the Paro Valley, it is a stunning testament to Bhutanese architectural and spiritual beliefs.
Its history dates back to the 8th century when it is said that Guru Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche), who brought Buddhism to Bhutan, flew to this location on the back of a tigress and meditated in a cave for years. The monastery was built around the cave in 1692.
To reach Tiger's Nest, visitors embark on a challenging hike through a scenic forest trail. The trek typically takes about 2 to 3 hours for the ascent and is considered to be of moderate difficulty. Horseback rides up to the cafeteria area are available for those who require assistance for the first part of the trek.
Tiger's Nest also offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Paro Valley from its vantage point, allowing you to appreciate the natural beauty of Bhutan while experiencing a sense of awe-inspiring spirituality.
It is important to note that out of respect for the monastery's sanctity, photography is not allowed inside the temples. Additionally, visitors are required to dress modestly and remove their shoes before entering the sacred spaces.
No.2 Kyichu Lhakhang: A Sacred Temple in Bhutan's Paro Valley
- Chinese Name: 祈楚拉康
- Location: Paro Valley, 7KM from Paro airport.
- Altitude: 2,280 meters (7,480 feet)
- Opening Time: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Recommend Visiting Time:1-2 hours
Kyichu Lhakhang is a revered Buddhist temple situated in the breathtaking Paro Valley of Bhutan. It holds immense spiritual and historical significance, making it one of the most visited and revered temples in the country.
Believed to have been built in the 7th century, Kyichu Lhakhang is one of Bhutan's oldest and holiest temples. It is said to be one of the 108 temples built by the Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo (松赞干布) in the 7th century AD to subdue a demoness(魔女) that was hindering the spread of Buddhism. The temple itself features traditional Bhutanese architecture with intricate woodwork and colorful murals depicting Buddhist deities and mythological stories.
One of the most significant features of Kyichu Lhakhang is the orange tree in its courtyard, said to bear fruit throughout the year. It is believed that the oranges from this tree have special blessings and are considered auspicious. Visitors often partake in the tradition of circling the temple and spinning the prayer wheels, seeking blessings and good fortune.
No.3 Chimi Lhakhang: The Fertility Temple of Bhutan
- Chinese Name: 切米拉康
- Location: Situated amidst the rice fields of Punakha, near the village of Lobesa,10KM away from the Punakha Dzong.
- Altitude: 1,500 meters (4,921 feet)
- Opening Time: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Recommend Visiting Time:1 hour
Nestled amidst the picturesque Punakha Valley, Chimi Lhakhang is a unique temple in Bhutan that is known for its association with fertility and blessings. Also called the "Temple of the Divine Madman," it holds a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike.
Chimi Lhakhang is dedicated to Drukpa Kunley, a revered Buddhist saint known for his unorthodox teachings and unconventional methods. The temple is adorned with colorful murals and phallus symbols, which are believed to bring good luck and fertility. It is a popular pilgrimage site for couples seeking blessings for fertility, childbirth, and harmonious relationships.
To reach Chimi Lhakhang, you'll embark on a pleasant walk through beautiful rice fields and rural villages. The journey itself is a delightful experience, offering glimpses of traditional Bhutanese life and stunning natural surroundings.
Upon entering the temple, visitors are often greeted by resident monks who perform special fertility rituals and offer blessings. It is customary for visitors to receive a wang (blessing) from the temple's lama, who uses a symbolic phallus as a blessing instrument. This unique tradition adds an element of lightheartedness and joy to the spiritual significance of the temple.
No.4 Gangtey Monastery: A Tranquil Haven in the Phobjikha Valley
- Chinese Name: 岗提寺
- Location: Phobjikha Valley in the Wangdue Phodrang
- Altitude: 3,000 meters (9,842 feet)
- Opening Time: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Recommend Visiting Time:1-3 hours
Gangtey Monastery, also known as Gangtey Gonpa or Gangtey Goemba, is situated in the Phobjikha Valley in the Wangdue Phodrang District of central Bhutan. Established in the 17th century, Gangtey Monastery is one of the main seats of the Nyingma school of Tibetan Buddhism, one of the oldest lineages of Buddhism.
The monastery overlooks the vast and beautiful Phobjikha Valley, a glacial valley known for its stunning landscapes especially for hiking and as the winter home of the black-necked cranes.
The Phobjikha Valley is a designated conservation area and the winter habitat for the black-necked cranes, providing visitors with an opportunity to observe these birds in their natural habitat. The annual Black-Necked Crane Festival held in November is a significant event that celebrates the arrival of the cranes and is a time of cultural celebration with dances and performances at the monastery. Visitors can witness sacred mask dances and other religious ceremonies during the Gangtey Tshechu Festival in September. The surrounding area offers numerous trails for hiking and exploration, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the tranquil beauty of Bhutan's countryside.
No.5 Tachog Lhakhang (Paro)
- Chinese Name: 唐邱拉康
- Location: Located along the Paro-Thimphu highway, 18km from Paro and 35km from Thimphu.
- Altitude: 2,200 meters (7,218 feet)
- Opening Time: During daylight hours
- Recommend Visiting Time:1 hour
Tachog Lhakhang is a notable Buddhist temple in Bhutan, known for its architectural beauty and spiritual significance. Founded in the early 15th century by the Tibetan saint Thangtong Gyalpo, it has since been a place of reverence and pilgrimage.
The temple is strategically positioned along the Paro-Thimphu highway. It is perched on a hilltop across the Pa Chhu River and is accessed by a traditional iron chain bridge, which is itself a significant cultural landmark. This bridge, originally built by Thangtong Gyalpo, has been renovated with steel cables but retains its ancient aesthetic and design.
The temple complex itself consists of several buildings, including the main temple, prayer halls, and living quarters for the resident monks. The main prayer hall houses statues and religious artifacts, and visitors can participate in prayer and meditation sessions.
No.6 Karpo Lhakhang & Nagpo Lhakhang (Haa Valley)
- Chinese Name: 白庙和黑庙
- Location: Haa Valley in northwest Bhutan
- Altitude: 2,670 meters (8,760 feet)
- Opening Time: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Recommend Visiting Time:1-2 hours
The Karpo Lhakhang (also known as the White Temple) and the Nagpo Lhakhang (also known as the Black Temple) are located in the Haa Valley of Bhutan. Haa Valley, one of the least visited valleys in Bhutan, is situated in the northwest of the small landlocked country, near the border with Tibet. These two temples are part of a cluster of temples known as the Meri Puensum, along with the Haa Gonpa.
The Karpo Lhakhang, also known as the White Temple, is known for its distinctive white exterior, which represents purity. The temple follows traditional Bhutanese architectural style and serves as a place of worship for the local community. Karpo Lhakhang is dedicated to the local deity, Ap Chundu, who is considered the guardian of the Haa Valley. The Karpo Lhakhang offers a serene and spiritual atmosphere, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Haa Valley.
The Nagpo Lhakhang, also known as the Black Temple, is another Buddhist temple located in the Haa Valley of Bhutan. It is called the Black Temple due to its dark exterior. The temple is dedicated to the deity Nagpo Chenpo, who is associated with protection against negative forces. The Nagpo Lhakhang holds religious significance and is believed to have been built in the 7th century. It offers visitors an opportunity to experience the spiritual ambiance of the Haa Valley and learn more about Bhutanese Buddhist traditions.
No.7 Kurjey Lhakhang (Bumthang)
- Chinese Name: 古杰寺
- Location: Town of Jakar in Bumthang, 5km from Jakar Dzong
- Altitude: 2,600 meters (8,530 feet)
- Opening Time: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Recommend Visiting Time:1 hour
Kurjey Lhakhang is a sacred monastery located in the Bumthang district of Bhutan. It sits in the picturesque Choekhor Valley, near the town of Jakar, also known as the "Castle of the White Bird." The temple complex is perched on the banks of the Chamkhar River and is surrounded by a landscape of lush trees and rolling hills, which is typical of the region's stunning natural beauty.
Kurjey Lhakhang holds immense religious significance in culture. It is considered one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the country because it is associated with the introduction of Buddhism to Bhutan. The name "Kurjey" translates to "Body Imprint," and it is said that Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava), the 8th-century sage who brought Buddhism to Bhutan, left an imprint of his body when he meditated there to subdue a local demon.
Kurjey Lhakhang consists of three main temples, each with its unique architectural style and historical significance because it houses the remains of Bhutan's first three kings in its three main temples. The oldest temple, Guru Lhakhang, dates back to the 8th century and is the main focus of devotion. The second temple, Sampa Lhundrup Lhakhang, was built in the 18th century and houses sacred relics and statues. The third temple, Ka Gon Phur Sum Lhakhang, was constructed in the 1990s and is dedicated to the body, speech, and mind of Guru Rinpoche.
One of the highlights of a visit to Kurjey Lhakhang is the annual Kurjey Tsechu held in June, a vibrant festival celebrated in honor of Guru Rinpoche. During this festival, masked dances, music, and religious rituals are performed, attracting both locals and tourists.
No.8 Jambay Lhakhang (Bumthang)
- Chinese Name: 简培寺
- Location: Town of Jakar in Bumthang, 4km from Jakar Dzong, 1km from Kurjey Lhakhang
- Altitude: 2,600 meters (8,530 feet)
- Opening Time: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Recommend Visiting Time:1 hour
Jambay Lhakhang, also known as Jamphel Lhakhang, is located in the central district of Bumthang in Bhutan. It is situated in the fertile valley of Choekhor, close to the town of Jakar.
Jambay Lhakhang is of great historical and religious importance in Bhutan. It is said to be one of the 108 temples built by the Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo in the 7th century AD on a single day, to subdue a demoness lying across the Himalaya. These temples were constructed to spread Buddhism and to pin down parts of the demoness's body. Jambay Lhakhang is believed to have been built on the left knee of the demoness.
Jambay Lhakhang showcases traditional Bhutanese architecture with its intricate woodwork and detailed carvings. The temple complex consists of several buildings, including the main temple, three sanctuaries, and a courtyard. The main prayer hall houses sacred relics and statues, including a statue of Maitreya (the future Buddha) and Guru Rinpoche.
The annual Jambay Lhakhang Drup, held in the temple's courtyard in October, is a vibrant and colorful celebration that draws both locals and tourists. The festival features traditional mask dances, music, and religious rituals performed by monks and laypeople, creating a festive and spiritual atmosphere.
No.9 Changangkha Lhakhang (Thimphu)
- Chinese Name: 昌冈拉康
- Location: Thimphu, on a ridge overlooking Thimphu Valley, 3km from Tashichho Dzong
- Altitude: 2,400 meters (7,874 feet)
- Opening Time: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Recommend Visiting Time:1 hour
Changangkha Lhakhang was built in the 12th century on a ridge overlooking Thimphu Valley. The temple is dedicated to Avalokiteshvara (观世音菩萨), the bodhisattva of compassion. It is believed that the temple was constructed to ward off evil spirits and bless the valley and its inhabitants.
Changangkha Lhakhang is known for its strong spiritual ambiance and is a popular destination for locals and tourists seeking blessings, particularly for newborn babies and expectant mothers. It is a common tradition for Bhutanese parents to bring their infants to the temple to receive the blessings of the resident lama (spiritual teacher) and to have their child's name chosen based on religious astrology.
The temple also attracts visitors who come to seek guidance, meditate, or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The hilltop location offers panoramic views of Thimphu city, adding to the charm of the temple.
No.10 Tango Monastery & Cheri Monastery: Trekking to the Deep Forest
- Chinese Name: 丹戈寺 切里寺
- Location: Northern Thimphu, 16km from Tashichho Dzong
- Altitude: 2,800 meters (9,186 feet)
- Opening Time: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Recommend Visiting Time:1-2 hours for the temples, and 6-7 hours for a round-trip trekking.
Tango Monastery and Cheri Monastery are two significant Buddhist monasteries located in northern Thimphu. They are perched on a hillside, surrounded by peaceful forests and scenic views.
Tango Monastery is situated around 14 kilometers north of Thimphu. It was founded in the 13th century by Lama Gyalwa Lhanampa and is now one of the most important Buddhist learning centers in Bhutan.
Cheri Monastery, also known as Chagri Dorjeden Monastery, is another important religious site located in the vicinity of Thimphu. It was founded in 1620 by the third Druk Desi, Ngawang Namgyal, who was also the founder of the unified Kingdom of Bhutan.
Trekking to Tango Monastery and Chagri Dorjeden Monastery is a popular activity for both locals and tourists. The trails leading to these monasteries offer beautiful natural landscapes, tranquility, and a chance to experience Bhutan's spiritual heritage.
Explore Bhutan with Local-based Asia Odyssey Travel
Asia Odyssey Travel is a local-based travel agency that offers Bhutan Group Tours and customized tours in Bhutan. Our team of experienced local guides ensures that you have an immersive and insightful journey, sharing our deep understanding of Bhutanese culture, history, and spirituality.
Bhutan, known as the "Land of the Thunder Dragon," is a captivating destination with its stunning landscapes, ancient monasteries, and rich Buddhist traditions. Asia Odyssey Travel can help you discover the highlights of Bhutan, including Paro, Punakha, Thimphu, Bumthang, and Gangtey.
Whether you're interested in trekking through pristine mountain trails, participating in vibrant festivals, or exploring remote villages, Asia Odyssey Travel can tailor Bhutan Trekking Tour and Bhutan Festival Tour itineraries to suit your preferences.
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