Buddhism and spirituality are an integral part of Bhutan’s identity. So, it is no surprise that the most magnificent woodwork and stonework can be found in religious architecture. There are dzongs (fortresses), goembas (monasteries) and lhakhangs (temples) dotted throughout the Himalayan landscape – on top of hills, in hidden valleys, and perched on cliffs – with each having its own historical significance and beauty. With more temples and monasteries that could be explored in a lifetime, it is hard to choose only a few to visit. However, you should definitely visit our 5 favourite dzongs and temples of Bhutan described below.
Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Taktsang), Paro
The impressive temple complex that has become one of the most iconic sites in the country appears as if it was miraculously placed on an almost vertical cliff 900 meters above the valley of Paro. Getting to the monastery requires some effort but the 2-hour hike that leads through old juniper and rhododendron forests filled with colourful prayer flags, providing beautiful views over the valley and hiding numerous Buddhist mythical stories and legends. Hike at your own pace and stop at any of the various benches and cafeterias on the way up. Alternatively, you can also arrange a pony ride up to the monastery for a fee.
The monastery was built on top of the cave where Guru Rinpoche, a Tibetan monk who is credited with having introduced Buddhism to Bhutan, meditated for 3 years, 3 months, 3 weeks, 3 days and 3 hours. To visit the four-temple complex, you must cover your shoulders and knees (as with any other Buddhist temple and monastery). The temples house ornate paintings depicting Buddhist mythology and ancient artifacts. One of the most important artifacts, the sacred ritual dagger used by Guru Rinpoche is stored behind an intricate gilded door in the inner cave of the complex.
Tip: For a spectacular view of the valley which few visitors enjoy, continue hiking up to Machig-phu Lhakhang, a small temple where pilgrims come to pray for their children.
Tip: For photography enthusiasts and those trying to avoid the crowds, it is the best to visit the temple in the early morning hours (usually before sunrise). However, the sun does not reach the temple till around noon, so it might be worth staying around to see it bathing in the sunlight.
Jangtsa Dumtseg Lhakhang, Paro
One of the oldest temples in all of Bhutan, the unusual circular temple of Kyichu Lhakhang dates back to the 7th century. The temple is built on the site where King Songtsen Gampo of Tibet pinned down the legs of a demoness who tried to prevent the spread of Buddhism. The interior is richly decorated with detailed paintings depicting the story of how the King managed to subdue the demoness and helped spread Buddhism throughout Tibet. The temple has numerous small passages and is only dimly lit, adding to the mysterious charm of this place.
Tip: Behind the temple you can find people throwing rocks, trying to reach the top of a small wall. If you manage to keep your rock on the top without it falling down, your wishes will come true.
Punakha Dzong, Punakha
The dzong sits right on the river banks of the Pho Chhu (male) and Mo Chhu (female). Such location, together with the intricate carvings in its interior make it one of the most stunning in the entire country. Its beauty is such that the King and Queen chose this as the venue for their wedding ceremony in 2011, and the Je Kenpho (the spiritual leader of Bhutan) calls this fortress his home during the winter months. The monastery interestingly consists of three courtyards, instead of two like other dzongs. The first courtyard hosts administrative offices. The second courtyard, which is also the smallest, is the site of the utse (central tower). The third and innermost courtyard houses one of Bhutan’s holiest sites: Machey Lhakhang, where the embalmed remains of Ngawang Namgyal (the lama who unified Bhutan) are kept. The impressive murals on the southernmost end date back to the 16th century and depict the life of the Buddha. To make this place even more mysterious, lamas from all over the world visit the temple and occasionally perform miracles – some are even believed to have turned rice grains into small gold nuggets.
Tip: While visiting this dzong, don’t forget to walk over the second longest suspension bridge in the world that is located only a few hundred meters from the dzong.
Trongsa Dzong, Trongsa
If Punakha claims the most beautiful dzong in Bhutan, Trongsa’s dzong is one of the largest and most impressive with its more than 25 temples. The 17th century impenetrable fortress overlooking a steep gorge is a labyrinth of temples, corridors and offices holding court over the surrounding area. Ta Dzong, the former Watch Tower, now serves as a museum housing more than 200 artifacts that were used throughout the history of this unconquerable fortress. The best time to visit is during the 5-day festival known as Trongsa tsechu in December/January, which features colourful masked dancers.
Tip: In the surrounding forests live many curious monkeys, so keep an eye out for them in the nearby trees.
Khewa Temple, Phobjikha Valley
Bigger is not always better, and Khewa temple is an example of this. This small structure, located at the bottom of the valley in Phobjikha among the grazing cows and goats, houses an impressive Buddha statue which, according to local beliefs, speaks to enlightened monks. Beside the temple, there is also a small ‘incense factory’ where you can learn about the process of making the monastery incenses (the lama needs to be present to open this area of the temple). The best time to visit the valley is November, when the fields host the graceful black necked cranes that migrate all the way from Siberia.
Tip: Try some of the local dishes made with the famous potatoes that grow here.
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