Famous Monasteries in Bhutan

Bhutan is the most serene and beautiful tourist destination which is known for offering the unspoilt views of the Himalayas and for housing spectacular Buddhist monasteries. The monasteries in Bhutan are nestled far away from the bustling and crowded towns and assure the tourists a peaceful journey. Bhutan is one of the much loved destinations amongst the monastery lovers as this destination houses numerous spectacular monasteries including stunning Taktsang Monastery to gorgeous Tango Monastery. Moreover, tourists planning to explore the monasteries of Bhutan should plan a visit during the festivals of Bhutan to have better and memorable experience of discovering the monasteries.

Monasteries in Paro, Bhutan

Taktsang Monastery in Paro Valley

Taktsang Monastery is a famous monastery in Bhutan. It is situated on an altitude of 3120 meters in upper Paro Valley and this monastery is a serene abode of the guru Rinpoche. The white monastery building with gold plated dome, colorful flags, golden prayer wheels and a cave temple attracts numerous tourists & devotees. However, this monastery was once demolished in fire and re-constructed in the year 1998. Trek up to this monastery and enjoy the serene view or to try the tempting Bhutanese food at Taktsang Café.

Kyichu Lhakhang Monastery, Paro Valley

It is another religious structure in Paro after the famous Taktsang. This monastery of Bhutan is known for offering peace and will rejuvenate you with its peaceful aura. Moreover, elderly pilgrims can be easily seen in this monastery. Majority of the monasteries in Bhutan resemble Buddhist monasteries in India.

Rinpung Dzong Monastery, Paro Valley

This monastery of Bhutan is locally called as “fortress on heaped jewels” and is nestled on a hill slope. Rinpung Dzong Monastery offers the most spectacular view of the surrounding and this Bhutanese monastery is also the administrative headquarters of Paro. The magnificent walls, spectacular paintings and shrines and chapels are the key attraction of this monastery. Outside this monastery is the majestic fortress known as Ta Dzong, which is another famous attraction in Bhutan and houses the National Museum of Bhutan.

Monasteries in Thimpu

Cheri Monastery, Thimpu

This monastery can be reached by an hour trek up to the scenic Dodena Hill. This scenic monastery was constructed in 1620 by Ngwang Namgyal and is currently the chief learning and retreat hub of southern Drukpa descent. Tourists visiting this monastery have to trek through a scenic path filled with lush green pine and rhododendron trees. Moreover, the monastery building is encircled by bright prayer flags swinging in air, peaceful prayer room and a beautiful Buddhist temple with paintings and that’s what makes this monastery unique. It is one of the best monasteries one should definitely visit while on Bhutan trip.

Tango Monastery, Thimpu

This amazing Butan monastery is built on the meditation cave of Ngawang Namgyal and was named after horse-head shaped rock which was found inside the cave. Tango Monastery was built in 13th century and is one of the chied Buddhism educational institutes in Bhutan. Tourists visiting Tango Monastery of Bhutan can also explore the 6 beautiful temples namely Choeku Lhakhang, Trulku Lhakhang, Guru Lhakhang, Gonkhang, Longku Lhakhang and Namsey Lhakhang. These temples are nestled in the same premises and Trulku Lhakhang is the main temoke which also houses a gorgeous gold and copper statue of Buddha. If you’re planning for Bhutan tour then book Bhutan tour package during Yarney- summer retreat festival of Bhutan.

Memorial Chorten, Thimpu

Fondly called as Memorial Stupa and Thimpu Chorten, this scenic holy abode has golden spires, bells, paintings, assembly halls and also a famous picture of Druk Gyalpo in ceremonial attire. This monastery is unlike other monasteries of Bhutan and it does not enshrine human residues. The scenic garden surrounding the stupa, statues, murals and slate carvings of this monastery attracts the tourists in large number.

Monasteries in Bumthang

Kurjey Lhakhang Monastery, Bumthang

It is one of the ancient monasteries of Bhutan and it is believed that Guru Rinpoche left his body print in the cave temples of the monastery. This monastery is also the resting place of the three kings of Bhutan. Moreover, it is also believed that the tall cypress tree which is located beside the main temple was the walking stick of the Guru Rinpoche.

Tamshing Lhakhang Monastery, Bumthang

This monastery is the place of Buddhist sacred mask dances and Tsechus festival. It is another famous monastery in Bhutan which is visited by numerous locals and devotees to perform prayers and religious ceremonies. Moreover, it is one of the few monasteries of Bhutan which has preserved the teachings of Pema Lingpa.

               Monasteries in Other Towns of Bhutan

Punakha Dzong Monastery, Punakha

It is the second Buddhist monastery in Bhutan and currently it is the winter house of Dratshang-the head monk. This monastery also boasts of sanctified remnants of Drukpa period, Ngawang Namgyal and Terton Pema Lingpa. Moreover, there are other attracting elements nestled in the monastery which includes glowing white stupa, Bodhi tree, hundred pillar assembly hall and chapel for queen of Nagas.

Lhuentse Dzong Monastery, Lhuntse

Enjoy the spiritual aura at this monastery which is the perfect place if you want to spend some time in the peaceful and stunning aura. This Buddhist monastery of Bhutan was built by Kuenga Wangpo originally but was revamped in 1654 by Mingyur Tenpa. The main temple is dedicated to Lord Padmasambhava. Tourists willing to explore Khoma village have to trek for an hour from this Bhutan monastery.

Jambay Lhakhang Monastery, Jakar

It is one of the 108 temples built by Songstan Gampo who was the mighty Tibetan King. This monastery magnetizes numerous tourists every year during its grand long annual festival of mid night sacred naked dances. The monastery is located on the borderland of Tiber and is a famous vintage monastery of Bhutan which comprises of wall paintings, murals and small temples.

Gangteng Monastery, Phodrang

This monastery is an important lineage of Pema Lengpa and belongs to the Nyingmapa school of Buddhism. It is one of the must visit tourist attraction nestled in Bhutan which comprises of scenic temples, Shedra’s Assembly Hall, 11 faced Avalokitesvara Lhakhang and exclusive collection of armory and weapons. So, what are you waiting for? Book your flight tickets with EaseMyTrip and explore more.