Monasteries in Bhutan – Finding Solace in the Divine monasteries

Bhutan is not just known of its serene beauty of unspoilt Himalayas, but also for its Buddhist Monasteries. Located far beyond the hustle and bustle of the city life, these Monasteries in Bhutan takes you into a peaceful journey. When it comes to; Things to do in Bhutan; visiting these monasteries surely holds an important place. These monasteries in Bhutan are no less when compared to the beauty of the country. Visiting these monasteries especially during the festival time is altogether an amazing experience.

Taktsang Monastery, Paro Valley

Situated at about 3120 m above the Paro valley, the Taktsang Monastery in Paro is also known as the Tiger’s Nest Monastery. It is one of the 13 small monasteries, where the Buddhist monk Guru Rinpoche also known as the Padmasambhava, is believed to have meditated. It is also believed he defeated all the evil spirits that ruled the Paro Valley. The monastery is one of the many amazing attractions in the region of Paro.

This tiny monastery sitting on a clifftop has beautifully decorated golden roofs. The very sight of this monastery and the breathtaking view of the valley will put you in awe. You will have to trek all the way to this monastery to witness this beauty. The time taken to reach this monastery from the ground is around 2 hours. Trekking to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery is one of the few things that you can definitely not miss on your next visit to Bhutan.

Kyichu Lhakhang Monastery, Paro Valley

Kyichu Lhakhang Monastery is a jewel of Bhutan. This monastery is called as LHO Kyerchu or Kyerchu, is one of the oldest Buddhist Monasteries in Bhutan. The temple was built overnight at the left foot of ogress (demoness), who prevented the spread of Buddhism across the place. It is believed that this Monastery is one among the 100 Monasteries that was built to overpower her. This monastery was initially a small compound but is extended in size with the visits of sacred Buddhist saints such as Phajo Dugom Zhigpo, Lam Kha Nga and Guru Rinpoche in the 8th century.

Rinpung Dzong Monastery, Paro Valley

Rinpung Dzong Monastery is a large Drukpa Kagyu monastery in the Paro District, Bhutan. Just outside the monastery, you will also get to see a fortress. It is fondly called as the  Paro Dzong and it also houses the administrative offices of the Paro Valley.  The towering walls, marvellous wall paintings, and 14 shrines are some of the fascinating elements in this monastery. 

Cheri Monastery, Thimphu

The Cheri Monastery is one of the most beautiful monasteries, located near the Ceri mountain – about 14 km away from Thimphu. To reach the Cheri Monastery, you will have to trek for about an hour. The trek up to Cheri Monastery is fascinating and different from the one of the Tiger’s nest monastery. Here you will have to Trek through lush green pine and rhododendron forests. This monastery has a fine collection of Buddhist paintings and is known for its stunning views from above. While trekking, do not forget to visit the Pangri Zampa Lhakhang Temple, an old temple – also the national centre of astrology and the painting of Guru Rimpoche.

Tango Monastery, Thimphu

The Tango Monastery is one of the most important educational institutions of Buddhism. It also located near the Cheri Mountain. Buddhists from across the world visit this monastery. Within its premises are six different Buddhist temples. The Trulku Lhakhang is the main temple and along with it are 5 the other temples namely, Choeku Lhakhang, Guru Lhakhang, Longku Lhakhang, Gonkhang, and Namsey Lhakhang. The best time to visit this monastery is during Tshechus; when the entire communities come together to witness religious mask dances, folk dances, receive blessings and socialize.

Memorial Chorten, Thimphu

This Tibetian Style Stupa is a large white structure with Golden spires above it. It is one of the iconic attractions in Thimphu. It is located close to the city’s centre and also serves to be a daily place of worship for most of the locals residing across Thimphu. And so, the best time to visit this Memorial Chorten is early mornings. 

The Memorial Chorten is also fondly called as Thimphu Chorten or Memorial Stupa. The Chorten means ‘Seat of Faith’ and Buddhists believe such places to be the ‘Mind of Buddha’. This Chorten is an extraordinary example of Buddhist architecture and is also known for its artwork; with its gorgeous paintings and intricate sculptures.

Kurjey Lhakhang Monastery, Bumthang

The Kurjey Lhakhang Monastery is one of the most sacred sites for Buddhists. It has three temples within its complex, with the Lhakhang being the oldest. The Lhakhang is believed to have been constructed on the rock that Guru Rimpoche meditated. All these three temples are surrounded by 108 Chorten walls. The second temple is called the Sampa Lhundrup Temple and it houses a statue of Guru Rinpoche. The third temple is called  Ka Gon Phur sum Lhakhang and it is dedicated to the happiness of all living beings in Bhutan. 

Punakha Dzong Monastery, Punakha

The Punakha Dzong is the second oldest Dzong and is also the second-largest Dzong in Bhutan. This the most beautiful Dzong and is the most visited attraction in Bhutan. This Dzong served as the capital and seat of government until the late 1950s. Every King of Bhutan was crowned here. This Dzong still serves to be the Winter Residence of the Dratshang (monastic body). There are several works of art all over the Dzong. The Royal Court of Justice is also located inside.

These aren’t the only monasteries in Bhutan. Be it breathtaking views or quaint and comforting monasteries, Bhutan has lots to offer! The other monasteries that are worthy of a visit on your trip to Bhutan are,  

• Tamshing Lhakhang Monastery, Bumthang
• Lhuentse Dzong Monastery, Lhuntse
• Jambay Lhakhang Monastery, Jakar
• Gangteng Monastery, Phodrang

Visiting the Buddhist monasteries in Bhutan is just not mere sightseeing, it’s a whole new experience. Are you ready to witness the beauty of Bhutan? Reach out to us at Pickyourtrail to get amazing packages for your trip to Bhutan.

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