Bhutan is known for its uniqueness and rich culture. It offers numerous activities to the tourists such as exploring the fascinating Buddhist sites. Right from the breathtaking natural beauty to the monasteries, tourists have plenty of things to enjoy. The architectural works of the Buddhist monasteries grab the attraction of visitors to beautiful Bhutan.
It is essential that while exploring Bhutan, individuals should not miss the most prominent Buddhist sites. Otherwise, your trip will be incomplete for sure. So, here comes the list of the most popular Buddhist sites in Bhutan that you must visit while traveling.
List of the Top 10 Famous Buddhist Temples in Bhutan:
1. Taktsang Monastery
An ideal way to commence your religious journey is to explore one of the prominent monasteries of Bhutan that is Taktsang Palphug Monastery. It is also known as the “Tiger’s Nest”. This temple was built in 1962 by the Gyalse Tenzin Rabgye. In this cave Divine, Sage Padmasambhava did worship while the 8th century for three years, three months, three weeks, three days, and three hours.
Additionally, Padmasambhava blessed Bhutan with the incredible Buddhism culture. Vehicles are restricted to the doorsteps and roads are also not navigable. The closest destination is Paro and you can reach it by car. Hence, do not miss the chance to explore the beauty of this historical monastery.
2. Kyichu Lhakhang
It comes under the category of the oldest temple in Bhutan that was constructed by Tibetan King Songsten Gampo during the 7th century. As per the individual belief, this temple was among 108 temples that were established by the Tibetan King Songsten Gampo. It has numerous relics that consist including a 7th-century statue. It is situated in Paro, Bhutan.
You can hire a cab from any location in Paro to reach Kyichu Lhakhang. Entry into this oldest temple is free of cost.
3. Jokhang Temple
Devotees from different parts of the world come to Jokhang Temple for seeking blessings. It showcases the Buddhist décor and beauty of Buddhism culture. But, one cannot click the photographs here as this is strictly prohibited. You will find an immense crowd in this temple. There are numerous accommodation options available nearer to this location.
To reach Jokhang Temple, take the flight from Paro for Bumthang. Additionally, you have the option of roadways. It is up to you which commuting mode you will choose.
4. Tango Monastery
To get the unique experience of the cave, you must explore Tango Monastery. It is situated in the cave and prominent temple of Bhutan.
It is covered by the six other temples that include:
- Trulku Lhakhang
- Choeku Lhakhang
- Guru Lhakhang
- Longku Lhakhang
- Gonkhang Lhakhang
- Namsey Lhakhang
The tourists will have to entry fee to explore this beautiful and astonishing temple. Along with this temple, you can pay obeisance to the above-mentioned six other temples too.
5. Kurjey Lhakhang Monastery
One of the largest, most active, and essential temple complexes of the Buddhist temple incorporates three temples that include:
- Guru Lhakhang
- Sangay Lhakhang
- Sampa Lhundrup Lhakhang
By exploring this place, tourists get the opportunity to explore their knowledge about the Guru Rinpoche, culture, and many more. Additionally, enjoy the different sorts of paintings beauty, statues, and images.
6. Tamshing Lhakhang
Tamshing Lhakhang had been constructed in the prominent terton Pema Lingpa near about in the 15th century. It is not a well-visited place but you must add this place to your traveling list. You will get a unique kind of peace by exploring this temple.
There are various key attractions near Tamshing Lhakhang such as:
- Kurjey Lhakhang
- Jakar Dzong
- Jambay Lhakhang
- The Burning Lake
- Mebar Tsho
There is no fee for exploring this beautiful and peaceful place. You can reach Bhumthang by bus and then visit this temple.
7. Punakha Dzong
The major highlight of this temple is idols placed in this temple do not have any kind of damage yet. It is 600 years old temple that experienced numerous destructions including different fire incidents, three major floods, and many more. The surroundings of this temple include the Mochu River.
Right from the suspension bridge to Samtengang Winter Trek, you have plenty of options to explore. You need to pay approximately three hundred rupees or more to get entry into this temple.
8. Tashichho Dzong
It is a most stunning Hindu temple that is located in a large green area and provides shelter to various ministries. There are specific times to explore this temple in a day.
Hence, it is quintessence to confirm the timings of this place before visiting it. If you miss the chance to explore this beautiful temple, you will surely regret it.
It is because along with this temple, you have the option of exploring nearby attractions that include:
- National Library and Archive of Bhutan
- Royal Textile Academy of Bhutan
- Bhutan Wonderland
- Buddhist Imagery
- Magnificent Carvings and many more.
To reach this location, firstly commute to Paro by plane and hire the taxi service. Additionally, another thing you need to check is the entry fees of this temple.
9. Changangkha Lhakhang
Another oldest temple in Bhutan is Changangkha Lhakhang. It is popular as the “name-giving temple”. Parents bring their newborn baby to this temple and the astrologer gives the accurate name to that baby as per the date and timings of birth after viewing the astrological context.
This temple has the beautiful eleven-headed statue of Lord Avalokiteswara. There is Bhutan Museum nearer to this place that you can explore.
10. Chimi Lhakhang
It was constructed in 1499 for commemorating the Lama Drukpa Kuenley. This temple is a blend of plenty of colors and enormous prayer flags. These flags are fluttering because of strong winds.
You should never miss the chance to explore this iconic temple. The vibrant environment of this temple fills you with positive vibes.
The Bottom Line
So, these are the best Buddhist sites that you must visit in Bhutan. Check the weather, make a great plan, and enjoy your trip to Bhutan with your kith and kin. In the accurate weather, you will enjoy this trip for sure.
More Information on Bhutan:
- 16 Top Reasons to Visit Bhutan
- 20 Best Places to Visit in Bhutan 2022
- Bhutan’s 10 Best Places to Visit in April 2022
- 10 Best Places to Visit in March in Bhutan 2022
- 10 Most Famous Festivals Celebrated in Bhutan
- 10 Best Places to Visit in Bhutan in February
- Bhutan in January: Places to Visit and Things to Do
- Top 10 Famous Monasteries in Bhutan
- Bhutan Famous Hill Stations to Visit
