10 Temples in Bhutan For A Spiritual Visit in 2024

Temples In Bhutan

Bhutan is a magnificent country, known for its surreal landscapes, rich culture and spirituality. The majority of the attractions in this country include monasteries, dzongs and temples. Bhutan temples are known for their eye-catching architecture and soothing atmosphere. It is a place where you can meditate as well as learn in-depth about Buddhist culture. A lot of these monasteries are not just a religious site for the Bhutanese people but also an educational centre.

One of the most famous monasteries that you should visit is the Paro Taktsang. It is a beautiful temple, built on an end of a cliff and displays ancient statues, relics, and texts. Another one of the popular monasteries is the Rinpung Dzong which is built like a fortress and displays illustrations of Buddha’s life. Some of the other popular monasteries that you can include in your itinerary of Bhutan tour packages are Tamshing Lhakhang, Tango Monastery, Punakha Dzong and Gangteng Monastery.

Some of these monasteries are centuries old and were built to capture demons and evils as per the folklore. Some of the monasteries were recently built as a means to grow tourism in Bhutan. A common factor in all of these monasteries is that they were built to promote Buddhism and peace.

Here are some of the best Bhutan temples:

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Explore All (106)

01

Kyichu Lhakhang

Situated in the Paro Valley, Kyichu Lhakhang is one of the oldest and most sacred temples of Bhutan. Built in the 7th century by Tibetan Emperor, Songtsen Gampo, it is believed that it was built to capture a giant female ogre. Initially, it was a small temple but gradually several Buddhist saints kept on adding to this structure, creating a masterpiece that stands today.

Inside the temple, you will get to see stunning wall paintings based on Buddhist legends and an 8-year-old figure of Gautam Buddha. Kyichu Lhakhang is nestled amidst lush greenery and offers a soothing and serene atmosphere to its visitors.

Location: C9RG+F62, Bhutan

Timings: 9 AM - 12 PM and 1 PM - 5 PM

Entry Fee: Free

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02

Jambay Lhakhang

Jambay Lhakhang was built in 659 by Songtsen Gampo, on the same day as Kyichu Lhakhang. Inside the temple, there are three steps made of stone, representing the past, present and future. The main statue of this monastery is Jampa which is believed to be the future form of Gautam Buddha.

Additionally, the monastery includes a statue of Guru Rinpoche, sacred texts, artefacts and ancient murals. The four corners of the monastery have four chortens, built in the colours of white, red, blue and yellow. One of the most popular festivals of Bhutan, Jampey Lhakhang Drup is celebrated here during which locals perform traditional dances and rituals.

Location: HPGM+4CR, Jakar, Bhutan

Timings : 8 AM - 5 PM

Entry Fee: Free

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03

Changangkha Lhakhang

Built in the 12th century, Changangkha Lhakhang is a beautiful structure made with bronze and plating of gold. It is a popular tourist destination and a magical site for the locals as it is believed that it fulfils all your wishes. Parents visit this temple to wish for the well-being of their children or to name their infant.

The temple has giant prayer bells as well as two beautifully engraved prayer wheels. Changangkha Lhakhang has authentic Bhutanese architecture and stunning murals that are worth witnessing.

Location: FJFH+988, Changangkha Lhakhang Footpath, Thimphu, Bhutan

Timings: 8 AM - 6 PM

Entry Fee: Free

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04

Taktsang Temple

Located at an altitude of 900 metres, Taktsang Temple is also known as Tiger’s Nest Monastery. As per the folklore, Guru Rinpoche came to meditate in a cave here, around which the monastery has been built. It requires a challenging three-hour trek to reach this temple which is situated at the end of a cliff.

Once you reach the temple, you will get to witness mesmerising views of snow-peaked mountains, gushing rivers and lush green fields. The structure consists of several temples and caves where you will get to see the statues, sacred texts, relics and murals.

Location: Paro, Bhutan

Timings: 8 Am - 1 PM and 2 PM - 6 PM

Entry Fee: Free

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05

Tango Monastery

Tango Monastery is one of the most important religious institutions and education centres for Buddhist monks in Bhutan. Established in the 13th century by Lama Gyalwa Lhanampa, it got its name from the sacred Tango Cheri Mountain. The attractive architecture of this Tango Monastery includes white walls, golden roofs and detailed wooden work.

Nestled amidst a picturesque setting, this monastery offers gorgeous views of the surrounding valleys, lush green forests and huge mountains. It hosts the annual Tango Tsechu festival, during which locals dance wearing colourful masks and perform religious rituals.

Location: Thimphu Valley, Thimphu District, Bhutan

Timings: 9 AM - 6 PM

Entry Fee: Free

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06

Kurjey Lhakhang Monastery

Kurjey Lhakhang is a huge monastery which is divided into three temples, built in three different years. Guru Lhakhang is the oldest temple which was built in 1652 by Mingyur Tenpa, the first governor of Trongsa and a secular head of Bhutan. It includes a secret passageway, a meditation cave, a cypress tree, the main statue of Guru Rinpoche along with his thousand small statues.

Built in 1900, Sampa Lhundrup Lhakhang is the second temple where you can find a 10-metre-tall statue of Guru Rinpoche and paintings of Guardians of the Four Directions. Zangto Pelri Lhakhang is the third temple which has a 3D depiction of Guru Rinpoche’s paradise and murals of Ashi Wangchuk, a princess of Bhutan.

Location: HPPJ+R4R, Jakar, Bhutan.

Timing: 8 AM - 5 PM

Entry Fee: Free

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07

Tamshing Lhakhang

Tamshing Lhakhang was built in 1501 and was originally known as Tamshing Lhendup Chholing. It is a beautiful single storey monastery which was built by Pema Lingpa, a spiritual master and a great Buddhist saint. The monastery has a unique interior with a long courtyard, a huge prayer wheel and a main altar.

Inside the temple, you will get to see statues of Jampa, Sakyamuni and Guru Rinpoche which is the primary statue of the temple. It is home to over 100 monks and hosts the annual Phala Choepa festival which includes ceremonial dances and religious rituals.

Location: HPQQ+246, Jakar, Bumthang Valley, Bhutan.

Timing: 6 AM - 6 PM

Entry Fee: Free

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08

Gangteng Monastery

Established in 1963, Gangtey Monastery was built by Pema Lingpa, a great and well-known Buddhist saint. It is one of the most well-known temples in Bhutan known for its exquisite Bhutanese craftsmanship, including stunning woodwork and murals. This monastery is surrounded by beautiful mountains and offers breathtaking views of the nearby Phobjikha Valley.

You will also get to see the Tibetan architectural style at the central temple which is supported by eight pillars and decorated with colourful murals. It also hosts the Black Necked Crane Festival to welcome the seasonal birds with their sacred dances.

Location: F5M7+WV9 Phobjikha Valley, Nubding, Bhutan.

Timing: 8 AM - 5 PM

Entry Fee: Free

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09

Punakha Dzong

Built in the 17th century, the Punakha Dzong is the second-largest and the second-oldest temple in Bhutan. Also known as the ‘Palace of Great Bliss’, it is situated at the meeting point of two eminent rivers, Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu. Inside the monastery, you will get to see Buddhist manuscripts, sacred figures, religious paintings and lifelike portraits of saints.

There is a huge central courtyard which consists of the remains of the founder of the country of Bhutan, Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. This temple holds great religious significance for the locals and is a must-visit place in Bhutan in June.

Location: HVJ7+V6Q, Punakha Valley, Bhutan.

Timing: 9 AM - 5 PM

Entry Fee: Free

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10

Tashichho Dzong

Established in the 13th century, Tashichho Dzong is one of the most well-known temples in Bhutan. Situated at an elevation of 2500 metres above sea level, it is placed on the banks of the Wang Chhu River. Apart from being a monastery, it is also the government central and a summer residence of religious leaders, secretariat and ministers.

The monastery has a stunning garden, home to various plants and flowers and an ideal place for relaxing. It has remarkable architecture with white-washed walls and golden roofs, providing it with a luxurious appearance.

Location: Thimphu, 11001, Bhutan.

Timing: 9 AM - 5 PM

Entry Fee: Free

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Buddha Dordenma

One of the largest Buddha statues in the world, Buddha Dordenma is a masterpiece of architectural wonder. The massive bronze statue is more than 50 meters in height and is gilded in gold. Apart from this it also houses 125,000 other Buddha statues that are placed surrounding the Buddha Dordenma statue. Sitting royally atop a great meditation hall, this Buddha statue exudes peace and tranquillity, so make sure to include on your Bhutan trip.The project has been believed to be prophesized as early as eight century in a sacred treasure kept by Guru Padmasambhava. It is a representation of manifestation of human faith and everlasting peace and happiness for all human beings.

More Bhutan Attractions

Chele La, paro Tashichho Dzong, thimphu city The National Memorial Chorten, thimphu city Rinpung Dzong Monastery, paro National Museum, Paro Jigme Dorji National Park, punakha Dochula Pass, bhutan Phobjikha Valley, paro Chimi L Hakhang Temple, punakha Royal Manas National Park, bhutan Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, punakha Drukgyel Dzong, paro National Folk Heritage Museum, thimphu city Motithang Takin Preserve, thimphu city Jomolhari Laya Gasa Trek, paro Simply Bhutan, thimphu city Haa Valley, paro Jangtsa Dumtseg Lhakhang Temple, paro Tango Goemba, thimphu city Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek, bhutan Samdrup Jongkhar Dzongkhag Weekend Market, thimphu city National Library, thimphu city Clock Tower Square, thimphu city Namgay Artisanal Brewery, paro Changangkha Lhakhang, thimphu city Wangchu River, paro Choki Traditional Art School, thimphu city Jungshi Handmade Paper Factory, thimphu city Druk Path Trek, paro Bumdrak Monastery, paro Zuri Dzong Fort, paro Bumthang Valley Torsa Strict Nature Reserve, punakha Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary, trashigang National Institute For Zorig Chusum, thimphu city Handicrafts Market, thimphu city Bumdeling Wildlife Sanctuary, bhutan Wangchuck Wildlife Sanctuary, trongsa Nyamai Zam, paro Ugyen Pelri Palace , paro Kila Goemba , paro Ura Yakchoe Festival, bumthang Salt Trek Route, trashigang Lhuntse Tshechu, bhutan Trashi Yangtse, bhutan Gangtey Valley, bhutan Zuri Dzong, bhutan Phajoding Temple, bhutan Mongar And Lhuntse, bhutan

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Bhutan Reviews

18 November 2015

Kali Ahluwalia Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek, Bhutan @

Excellent

Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek was a great experience. It passes by picturesque lakes, Alpine meadows and villages set to a backdrop of magnificent mountainous landscapes. The experience was amazing and brilliant. We had a really great trek. It was sheer brilliance.

+3

16 August 2015

Dhanpati Khatri Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek, Bhutan @

Excellent

The trekking experience was great. I had a really nice trek here. It was an inexpensive and a really nice trek. I had a great time.

+2

10 October 2015

Satyen Asan Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek, Bhutan @

Excellent

Dagala Thousand Lakes Trek is something that every trekker must take in his life. It is so poignant and brilliant. I totally loved this. WOW can be an understatement. The crystal clear, poignant lakes just give me goosebumps. The pristine lakes are so beautiful that you will forget yourself here. The trek is difficult, but nevertheless it is an amazing and a beautiful experience to say the least. I totally loved this trek and I just still can’t get enough of this trek. The experience would not have been this nice if the planning was bad. Special cheers to the team for handling the organization and planning of this tour in such a beautiful manner. If you are planning to have heartfelt trek, then look no further than here.

+2

Kailash Kaul Bhutan Tour Package From Kolkata

Excellent

I had been always thinking to make a trip to Bhutan with my friends for a long time but we could not make it. because we didn't find any best trip planner sometimes we are okay with the plan but the price was too way expensive which is why our trip is pending... But we are so lucky enough that this time we found it with Thrillophilia we go through the website and even call the company and we get the full info about the tour with details...The price they offer too was affordable and the itinerary is very satisfying... The booking was easy, mode of payment was secure, and instantly shared the voucher and with important details in it about the operator contact number, locations, and all...We are a party of 4 adults who went on this trip and really we are so impressed by the way they organized, it is exactly as in the itinerary...The place was very rich with culture, heritage, architecture, and art, all over it surrounded by beautiful sceneries...good photograph we took at each...Excellent accommodations, on-time picked-up, and dropped-off, very welcoming, friendly, and well-spoken English guide... Overall we had the most brilliant tour with Thrillophilia.

Mandakini Kapoor Bhutan Package From Bangalore

Excellent

A well-organized trip from start to finish...The entire Thrillophilia team was helpful and always available at any time we need any help or queries, the arrangement of accommodations was great along with nice service and also they served good breakfast during our stay. The private cab was well-maintained, spacious, and clean along with an experienced and well-behaved driver who took us to all the popular places and even shared the history, stories, and religion of the place we visited. The main hightlight of our trip was the 5-hours trekking we had a team-leader with us who was kind and helpful with good knowledge about the place...Easy trek but yes tiring once reach the top we were impressed by the breathtaking views of the place...Overall the team made a great effort to ensure that we managed to experience everything we wanted to and what we supposed to get from the itinerary.

Sanya Abbott Bhutan Tour Package From Mumbai

Excellent

I booked this tour package all inclusive from our arrival till our departure, the hotels, the transportation and everything. In love with the way you work would definitely plan again.

Udai Varrier Bhutan Tour Package From Delhi

Excellent

I booked this tour to Bhutan from Delhi. The places we covered were pious and had attractive and eye-catching Buddha statues. Also we gained a whole new experience by exploring through the markets on our own like locals. was exceptionally well planned and executed, right from our timely pick-up from the airport till drop, the driver was friendly and supportive and the breakfast served was delicious. Thanks team.

Suman Ganaka Bhutan Package From India

Excellent

We booked this trip to Bhutan as a family trip. And it was amazing and exciting to get to know their culture and traditions in a completely understandable manner. The people were welcoming and loving. Enjoyed the trip.

Draupadi Varma Bhutan Tour Package from Ahmedabad

Excellent

I booked this tour for a solo trip from Ahmedabad to Bhutan and everything was up to the mark and as expected. Brilliant team and execution of the plan.

Apsara Deshpande Bhutan Package From Bangalore

Excellent

We booked this complete pre-planned tour to Bhutan, and it was exactly how it was described. Being it all the visiting or the services and facilities provided were all good. Loved it.