Nestled in the lush valleys, Bhutan is home to many ancient monasteries that are the perfect emblem of Buddhism. They are reminiscent of the spiritual heritage of the country. These edifices are not just architectural wonders but are the designated spots to worship for the Buddhists. Every year, tourists and pilgrims book the best Bhutan travel packages to explore these monasteries. If you too want to visit these monasteries, you can book one of the affordable Bhutan tours and head to Bhutan. Here are the best monasteries that you can visit while you are in Bhutan:
Tiger’s Nest Monastery
Also known as Paro Taktsang, this monastery is unique in its way. This is one of the most sacred spots to visit in Bhutan. Situated at 900 meters above the Paro Valley, this monastery is the perfect example of the architectural brilliance of the bygone era. It has great religious significance, due to which more and more people want to visit it during their Bhutan tours. There is a legend associated with the monastery. According to it, Guru Rinpoche (Second Buddha) visited the actual site where the monastery was built. Due to this, it has become one of the most famous places to explore in Bhutan.
Tango Monastery
This monastery is known for its serene environment and religious importance. Situated in Thimphu, this is one of the best learning centers for Buddhists. One of the striking features of the monastery is Yarney, which is an annual festival held in the monastery. Monks celebrate this festival with full enthusiasm. They visit the monastery in large numbers and take special vows there. This festival is for the monks who feel delighted after taking part in the festival. The whole aura of this place is magical, which leaves you refreshed.
Phajoding Monastery
It is also one of the most famous monasteries of Bhutan, which you can visit during your Bhutan tour. It is the residence of several monks who live here peacefully. Constructed in the 13th century, this is one of the most beautiful monasteries in the whole world. From the monastery, you can enjoy a beautiful view of Thimphu. If you are an adventure seeker, you must visit the monastery. Hiking to Phajoding Monastery will offer you the thrill and enjoyment you are looking for. This is a 5 km long hike, which you can complete in approximately 3 hours.
Cheri Monastery
This is also one of the famous monasteries in Bhutan that you can explore during your Bhutan tour. Constructed in the year 1620, this monastery is an important learning center for Buddhists. Trekking to Cheri Monastery will be fascinating for the adventure seekers as they can enjoy the lush forests on the way. You will find many prayer rooms here, which provide the desired tranquility to the spiritual seekers.
Kurjey Lhakhang
This monastery is also worth visiting when you are on your Bhutan tour. Located in the Bumthang district, it is believed to be the holiest site in Bhutan. This is the reason why a large number of people visit it every year. The monastery has 3 temples, which are Sampa Lhundrup Lhakhang, Ka Gon Phor Sum Lhakhang, and Guru Lhakhang. All these temples are uniquely beautiful and known for their intricate wood carvings and hand paintings. There is a legend associated with this monastery. According to it, Guru Rinpoche left his body print here.
Gangtey Monastery
Constructed in the year 1963, Gangtey Monastery is one of the most famous monasteries in Bhutan. You will be spellbound to see the beauty of the monastery. The monastery is an architectural marvel of Bhutan due to its unique architecture. The surroundings of this monastery are extremely beautiful. This place is famous for the Black-Necked Crane festival, which is organized here with great enthusiasm. On this day, the locals perform beautiful dances to welcome the arrival of the black-necked crane. You can explore other places if you visit Gangtey Monastery. Some of the nearby spots that you can explore include Gangtey Nature Trail, Kumbu Lhakhang, Kilkorthang Trail, etc.
Punakha Dzong Monastery
Situated in Punakha, this monastery is also one of the most visited monasteries in Bhutan. Constructed in the year 1637, it is the largest dzong in Bhutan. It has the remnants of the Drupka age and is an important site to visit in Bhutan. This monastery also served as Punakha’s administrative center. It has witnessed many historical events in the past and is a great place to explore during your Bhutan tour with the best Bhutan tour packages.
Lhuentse Dzong Monastery
It is also one of the important sites to visit when you are on a Bhutan tour. Constructed by Kuenga Wangpo, this Buddhist monastery is a worthwhile place for tourists. It was originally a temple that was constructed on the exact place where Ngagi Wangchuk meditated in the year 1551. This Buddhist monastery was revamped in the year 1654 by Mingyur Tenpa. The monastery is known for its unique Bhutanese architecture. Once you are here, you will get to see complex wooden carvings and beautiful murals. You can also enjoy breathtaking views of the monastery after visiting it.
Cheri Gompa
Founded in the year 1620, Cheri Gompa is one of the sacred spots to visit in Bhutan. It was founded by Zhabrung Ngawang Namgyal, who was a great spiritual personality of Bhutan. Once you are here, you will be spellbound to see the natural beauty surrounding this monastery. One of the important attractions of Cheri Gompa is the silver chorten, which has the ashes of Zhabrung’s father. This is also a great meditation hub for the people who visit this monastery. The trekking trail takes you to the Tango Monastery, which will then lead you to Cheri Gompa.
Conclusion
Apart from the above-listed monasteries, you can see other monasteries during the Bhutan tours. You can go through the best Bhutan tour packages online and find the one that suits your needs and budget. You will enjoy the best time of your life after exploring the beautiful monasteries in Bhutan.
