Bhutanese cuisine is
influenced by Chinese, Tibetan and Indian culture. The main dish, which
generally includes white or red rice,
seasonal vegetables, and meat are often cooked. Famous Bhutanese dish is chilly
mixed with cheese which is common Bhutanese dish, it is hot and spices. Another
dish which is common as well potato mixed with cheese.
Chador Lakhang
Chador Lakhang |
Bartsham Drubdra, Bhutan
The Chador Lhakhang/Sangdha
Gyepay Ling, in Bartsham, originally built in the 12th century, is one of the
oldest and most sacred monasteries in eastern Bhutan. Located a top a ridge
that commands a spectacular view of villages in north Trashigang, the monastery
is a revered place of worship for the 700-household Bartsham Community and
devotees across the country. Also called ÅgGonpa-RingbooÅh in the local
dialect, the monastery is the custodian of one of Bhutan’s most highly regarded
religious treasures, a thumb-size replica of Chana Dorji that, legend has it,
reached Bartsham through a sacred divination. The origin of the replica, fondly
called Meme Chador by the local people, goes back to the Sangdha Tumpo (the
secret Treasure Teachings) revealed by the great treasure revealer Terton Pema
Lingpa. The foundation for the present-day Chador Lhakhang was laid in the
early 1940s by Lama Pema Wangchen (also known as Lama Nagpo) to transmit the
Dudjom Tersar tradition of his master Dudjom Jigdroel Yeshey Dorje (Dudjom
Rinpoche). After Lama Nagpo passed away, his disciple Lam Kunzang Wangdi (Lam
Nyingku) took over the monastery
For Khentse Rinpoche’s website
Thrumshingla National Park
Thrumshingla National Park
The
newest national park of Bhutan, ThrumshingLa National Park gained this status
in July 1998. Sprawling across 768 sq km, it is situated in central Bhutan.
Like all protected areas of Bhutan, it presents diverse climatic conditions,
habitats and altitudes that range from less than 1000 m to more than 4000 m.
This unique protected area presents vast biodiversity that includes alpine
forests, subtropical broadleaf forests and even rare plants. You may spot snow
leopards, red pandas and tigers prowling around in this National Park. It was
in this Park that an image of a tiger was captured at 3000 m by a WWF-supported
survey team in 2000. This photograph was the first evidence proving that tigers
do exist at such high altitudes too.
Birdwatchers and ornithologists will find a lot of bird species to catch their
attention and interest. There are about 341 species of birds here including the
endangered rufous-necked hornbill, beautiful nuthatch, ward's trogon,
white-naped yuhina and brown wood owl. Birdlife International has recognized
Thrumshingla National Park as an important Bird Area in the Sino-Himalayan
mountain forests. WWF supports the upkeep of the park to ensure that it has an
effective management plan and dedicated Park staff that can keep the pristine
ecosystem here intact for generations to come. The park has over 622 species
thriving here quite well. Out of it, 21 species are endemic to this National
park and region.
Over 68 species of mammals have been recorded in this wildlife sanctuary
including Bengal tiger, leopard, leopard cat, rare clouded leopard, Himalayan
black bear, red panda, musk deer, capped langur and Malayan giant squirrel.
Tourists and trekkers are attracted to Thrumshingla National Park for trekking,
chiefly because of its picture perfect scenery and it being one of the few natural
habitats of the world. Communities living within the confines of this Park earn
their livelihood from the tourism here. It is estimated that there are about
2000 people living within the park while 11000 people are estimated to live in
its buffer zone. Overgrazing and human interference have evolved as a serious
threat to the forests of the Park in the present scenario.
Manas National Park
Bhutan’s Crown Jewel, the Manas
National Park represents the largest example of tropical and sub-tropical
ecosystems in Bhutan. This park has only recently been opened to the public and offers
thousands of animal and plant species, many of which are globally
endangered, it is not only the most diverse protected area in the Kingdom but
also noted as one of the world’s biologically outstanding parks. Lying in south
central Bhutan, Manas is connected at the southern border with India’s Manas
Tiger Reserve, a World Heritage Site. To the north it borders the Jigme Singye
Wangchuck National Park. Royal Manas was designated a wildlife sanctuary in
1966 making it Bhutan’s oldest protected area. The area was upgraded to a
National Park in 1993. There are wide climate variations in Royal Manas. The
May-September monsoons bring up to 5,000mm of rain. Rainfall is negligible in
winter and the climate is extremely pleasant from November till March. Manas is
also extremely rich in wildlife species, including the highly endangered Royal
Bengal tiger, Asian elephant, greater one-horned rhinoceros, clouded leopard,
Himalayan black bear, gangetic dolphin and pangolin. Found virtually nowhere
else in the world is the especially rare golden langur, a primate of
extraordinary grace and beauty with its long, silky blond fur.
More than 365 species of birds
have been officially recorded in Royal Manas National Park with an additional
200 believed to be in residence. Species found here include the globally
threatened rufous-necked hornbill, Pallas fishing eagle, great white-bellied
heron, spotted wren-babbler, blue-headed rock thrush and emerald cuckoo. Many
of the park’s more than 900 types of plants have commercial, medicinal,
traditional and religious significance.
Chokyi Gatsho Monastery
Chökyi Gyatso Institute for the Study of Buddhist Philosophy
Chökyi Gyatso
Institute in Dewathang is one of Nyingma Monastery that practices the tradition
of Khyentse Wangpo and Longchen Nyingtik. The Institute offers a traditional
monastic curriculum for about 100 monks, equally emphasizing ritual and
philosophy. Four years of monastic ritual training are followed by nine years
of philosophical studies. To incorporate practice with the studies, the
institute annually holds six drupchens (extended group practices): Khandro
Sangdü, Gyalwa Gyamtso, Pema Tseyi Nyingtik, Vima Ladrup, Miniling Dorsem, and
Pama Nyingthik, along with other practices.
Tiger Nest Monastery
Taktsang Monastery at Paro: Bhutan |
The Fire at Taktsang Monastery
The Dubkhang, the most sacred sanctum of the Taktsang Monastery in Paro, has been found to be safe and a number of the most precious relics and treasures have been retrieved from the ruins of the main monastery, which was severely damaged by fire on Sunday, April 19, 1998.
The Tshennyi Lopon (Master of Dialectical Studies) of the Dratshang (Central Monk Body) explained that the sacred essence of Taktshang was the Dubkhang (also called the Pelphug), the holy cave in which Guru Rimpoche meditated in the 8th century (as did many other renowned saints), and the Kudung (relics) of his disciple, Langchen Pelkyi Singye, which had been placed deep in the rocks under the site of Kudung Chorten.
The sanctity of Taktshang cannot be destroyed by the natural elements, be it fire or water; the Tshennyi Lopon told Kuensel. On April 23, His Majesty the king visited Taktshang and saw the Dubkhang and the religious artifacts that had been recovered. His Majesty commanded the Dratshang, Rabdeys, Shedras and Drubdas, Gomdeys, and all the other religious institutions in the country to offer the Guru Soendoep Dungjor (the offering of 100 million prayers to Guru Rimpoche).
The Chairman of the Special Commission for the Cultural Affairs, Lyonpo Dago Tshering said that, as commanded by His Majesty the King, the government would reconstruct the monastery with its original aura, authenticity and architectural splendor.
The sacred essence of Taktshang, one of the most revered Buddhist nyes (sacred sites) in the world, was established in 8th Century by Guru Rinpoche. The Guru, in the wrathful from the Guru Dorji Drollo, subdues the evil spirits and then meditated in the Pelphug in Taktsang.
Other saints who mediated in the cave include the Milerapa, Phadampa Sangye, Machi Labdoenma, Thangtong Gyalpo and Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel.
The main Temple around the Pelphug in Taktsang was constructed in 1692 by the Great 4th Desi Tenzin Rabgyel in between 1961 and 1965 it was renovated by Je Sheldrup Yozer and the latest additions were made in 1982.
The Drupkhang is opened once a year during an annual ceremony. The Tshennyi Lopon explained that 71 members of the monk body performed the annual Guru prayers for 21 daysin the fifth Bhutanese month. As in the past, the prayers will be performed this year as usual in the Dubkhang.
The Tshennyi Lopon said that if the destructions of the Taktshang monastery was a deliberate evil deed then it was a reflection of the decline of the Dharma. But if the monastery was destroyed by natural causes then it is natural for people to perceive it as an inauspicious sign.
“However, what is most important is that the people should avoid superstition and doubt and place their faith in Guru Rimpoche and the Triple Gem,” said Tshennyi Lopon. “We can only safeguard our nation and spiritual heritage with genuine faith in Dharma.”
Bumdeling Wildlife Sanctuary
BUMDELING WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
Bumdeling Wildlife Sanctuary is located in north-western part of
Bhutan covering an area of 1,545 sq. km with 420 sq. km in Trashiyangtse,
Lhuntshe, and Mongar District. It shares international borders with the Tibetan
region of China and Indian border. The sanctuary is home to around 100 species
of mammals, including globally endangered species such as snow leopard, Royal
Bengal tiger and red panda. And also it is main habitant for Black Neck Crane
in winter. In winter more than 150 black necked cranes spend their lives in winter
in Bumdeling. The crane arrives in mid-November to early and first week of March
back to Tibet. And the place is scenic beauty and diversity many significant
religious and cultural places can be found inside the sanctuary, such as Rigsum
Gompa, the mystic Singye Dzong and Pemaling– maybe the most scenic in
the country.
ARCHERY GAME IN BHUTAN
Sport in Bhutan
Bhutan is a culturally rich country and as such, you can expect
them to have a lot of activities or traditional sports that are an integral
part of their society. The primary Bhutanese traditional sport is without any
doubt archery.
They also played Degor which is similar to Discuss, Pungdo is shot
put, Khuru is indoor sport dart, Soksum is Javelin-throwing and of course Keshi
which is call wrestling.
The Modern sports favorite is definitely football and cricket
which has increased in popularity among the Bhutanese
Pottery Making
Pottery Making |
Pottery Making Service in Guangzor
In the absence of a market for Bhutanese handmade earthen pots, and competition from ready-made imports, the traditional craft of pottery making in Bhutan is on the verge of extinction but in Gangzur in Lhuentse, it still survives in the hand of two women who continue to practice this ancient tradition.
Tshering Zangmo and her friend Tshewang who are in their mid 30s
make about 20 pots of different design, some as small as a teacup used to burn
incense to the biggest, about three feet in height, used to brew ara or local
wine. "There are five different types, each having its own specific utility,"
said Tshering Zangmo, who has been making pots for the past 15 years.
During
winter when there is no work in the field, the two women collect the red and
yellow sandy clay from the hill in front of their house and manually make the
earthen pots. They do not use a spinning lathe. Once stones and other granules
are removed from the clay it is kneaded and beaten into malleable dough. The
pots are shaped on a thatched wooden plank. The
inside of the clay ball is gouged out and the rough shell is left to dry for a
week. The pots are then put in a fire to make them firm and durable. Every
month villagers from other Geogs in Lhuentse buy pots from the two women and
also people from other part of the country and foreigners who visit the village
to see the two at work buy their product. In a month we earn about Nu. 500 said
Zangmo. It is enough to pay our land Tax, house insurance and livestock tax and
to buy the vegetable oil, sugar and salt.
Tshering Zangmo said during the Monsoon, the soil gets deprived of
its sticky natural gule and is therefore unsuitable to make pots. Two years
back Tshering and Tshewang sold five pots regardless of their sizes for just
one Ngultrum until the dzongkhag officials advised them to raise the rates
"We now sell a pot for about Nu. 45 each," said Tshewang.
The two women said the number of buyers had dropped with time.
Their main customers are now villagers from Khoma who bought the oversize pots
to brew ara while a few government officials and visitors bought the smaller
ones.
The people of Gangzur have no knowledge of how old the pottery
tradition is but Tshering Zangmo says that not very long ago people from eight
Geogs under Lhuentse used earthen pots to cook food, brew ara, and store water.
One of the traditional Bhutanese crafts, pottery is on the verge
of extinction in Paro and has completely disappeared in the villages above
Khasadrapchu in Thimphu. "The entire village used to make earthen pots in
the past," said Tshering Zangmo.
Bangchung
Bangchung |
Bangchung are made from special bamboo that
grows on the hills of Eastern Bhutan. This was originally used as plate for
eating rice in formal times and even today people in the east used to carrying
food and snacks during long travel. Although, people are now using more fancy
plates, Bangchungs are still widely used to carry offerings for the temples,
and other activities that needs to carry food without much hassle. It is now
most of the people used as organizers or decoration in home or as gift to the
friends and relatives.
Therefore, people from Thrimshing
Kangpar in Tashigang District and Kheng usually make this product and sell to
the Tourism Industries and also slowly to the global market.
Sightseeing in Wangdue
Wangduephodrang is the last town on the central highway before
central Bhutan. The town is not more than an enlarged village with a few
well-provided shops. Located in the south of Punakha, the higher reaches of the
Wangduephodrang valley provide rich pastureland for cattle. This district is
also famous for its fine bamboo products, slate and stone carvings.
Places of Interest in WANGDUEPHODRANG
Wangduephodrang Dzong
Sitting on top of the hill at the confluence of Punakha Chhu and Tang Chhu
rivers, Wangduephodrang Dzong is town's most visible features. The Dzong is
open for visitors during Wangduephodrang Tsechu celebrated in autumn.
Sightseeing in Trongsa
Trongsa forms the central hub of the
nation and is historically the place from where attempts at unifying the
country were launched. Both His Majesty King Ugyen Wangchuck, the Penlop of
Trongsa, who was elected the country's first hereditary monarch and his
successor, King Jigme Wangchuck, ruled the country from Trongsa ancient seat.
The Crown Prince of Bhutan normally holds the position of the Trongsa Penlop
prior to ascending the throne including the present King who was appointed
Penlop in 1972, shortly before his succession to the throne. The entire
landscape around Trongsa is spectacular.
Places of Interest in TRONGSA
Approximate four hours drive from Wangduephodrang is Chendbji Chorten, patterned on Swayambhunath temple in Kathmandu. It was built in 18th century by Lama Shida, from Tibet, to cover the remains of an evil spirit that was subdued at this spot.
Trongsa Dzong
Like almost all towns in the Kingdom, this Dzong architecture dominates the entire Trongsa horizon dwarfing the surrounding buildings. Built in 1648, it was the seat of power over central and eastern Bhutan. Both the first and second King ruled the country from this ancient seat. Protected from invaders by an impenetrable valley, Trongsa Dzong is an impregnable fortress. The Dzong itself is a labyrinth of temples, corridors and offices holding court over the local community. It is built on many levels into the side of the hill and can be seen from every approach to Trongsa heralding its strength as a defensive stronghold.
Ta Dzong
The Ta Dzong, a cylindrical stone structure rising five storeys, was built in 1652 by Chogyal Minjur Tempa, a task entrusted to him by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. After more than 350 years, it has been resurrected into a classy museum, that represents a tasteful blend of tradition and modernity. There are 224 items on display including a sacred image of Sung Joenma Dorji Chang (self spoken Vajradharna), a bronze statue of Pema Lingpa, made by himself, and a number of centuries-old treasures like dance and ritual costumes and objects, ancient prayer books, paintings and scrolls, and textiles. The Ta Dzong is a living museum and the main lhakhang in the Utse is dedicated to the Maitreya Buddha (Gyaltsab Jampa), also known as the Future Buddha). A Khesar Lhakhang is dedicated to Khesar of Ling. The tower has always been a place of retreat and there are hermits in practice, including two yogis, who are in life long meditation. The Ta Dzong is the only structure, that has been restored specifically to tribute the Wangchuck dynasty as Bhutan celebrates the centenary of the Monarchy
Excursions
around TRONGSA
Kuenga Rabten
It is about 23 km, one hour interesting drive from Trongsa. Kuenga Rabten was the winter palace of the second King and now looked after by National Commission for Cultural Affairs. It is pleasant afternoon trip from Trongsa and offers good insight into the early days of Bhutan monarchy.
Sightseeing in Thimphu
THIMPHU (alt. 2,400m)
The capital town of Bhutan and the centre of
government, religion and commerce, Thimphu is a unique city with unusual
mixture of modern development alongside ancient traditions. Although not what
one expects from a capital city, Thimphu is still a fitting and lively place.
Home to civil servants, expatriates and monk body, Thimphu maintains a strong
national character in its architectural style.
Trashichhodzong
Also known as 'fortress of the glorious religion', it was initially built in
1641 and later rebuilt in its present form by King Jigme Dorji Wangchuk in
1965. The Dzong houses, main secretariat building which houses the throne room
of His Majesty, the King of Bhutan. The National Assembly Hall is housed in a
modern building on the other side of the river from the Dzong. During the
warmer summer months, the monk body headed by His Holiness, the Je Khenpo,
makes its home in the Dzong.
Memorial Chorten
This stupa was built in 1974 in the memory of Bhutan's third King, His Late
Majesty, King Jigme Dorji Wangchuk, who is popularly regarded as Father of
modern Bhutan. The paintings and statues inside the monument provide a deep
insight into Buddhist philosophy.
Simtokha Dzong
Five miles from Thimphu stands the 17th century Simtokha Dzong standing on a
lofty ridge. Built in 1627, the oldest Dzong in the country, it now houses the
School for Buddhist studies.
National Library
The history of Bhutan lies imprinted in archaic texts, which are preserved at
the National Library. Besides thousands of manuscripts and ancient texts, the
library also has modern academic books and printing blocks for prayer flags.
Painting School
This school teaches the techniques of traditional thangkha paintings. On a
visit, one can see students at work producing intricate design on cloth.
Traditional Medicine Institute
The rich herbal medicines abundant in Kingdom are prepared here. The
Institute also imparts the art of herbal medicines to would be practitioners.
The Textile and Folk Heritage Museum
Established in 2001, these are fascinating testimony of the Bhutanese living
traditions reflecting Kingdom's rich cultural heritage.
Handicrafts Emporiums
There are various Handicrafts Emporiums in town displaying a wide assortment of
beautifully hand-woven and crafted products.
Weekend Market
Every Saturday and Sunday most of Thimphu's scant population and many valley
dwellers congregate on the banks of the river where weekend market is held. It
is an interesting place to visit and provides opportunity to mingle with the
local people.
Changangkha Lhakhang
It is a fortress like temple and monastic school perched on a ridge above
Thimphu, south of Motithang. The temple was established in 12th century on a
site chosen by Lama Phajo Drugom Shigpo, who came from Tibet. The central
statue here is Chenrezig in a manifestation with 11 heads. From temple
courtyard, there is fascinating view of Thimphu valley.
Tango Goemba
This monastery was founded by Lama gyalwa Lhanangpa in the 12th century and the
present building was built in the 15th century by the 'Divine Madman', Lama
Drukpa Kunley. In 1616 Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal visited Tango and meditated in
a cave near the monastery. His meditation helped ensure the defeat of an
invading Tibetan army. The head Lama, a descendent of Lama Drukpa Kunley
presented the goemba to Shabdrung, who carved a sandalwood statue of Chenrezig
which he installed in the monastery.
The picturesque three-storey tower and several surrounding buildings were built
in the 18th century by the eighth Desi, Druk Rabgye and Shabdrung Jigme
Chhogyel added the golden roof in the 19th century. chorten inside the
monastery holds the ashes of Shabdrung's father.
Cheri Goemba
This monastery was built by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1620. A silver goemba
is situated about half an hour walk from Dodena (alt. 2,600m). The trail
commences by crossing a lovely covered bridge that spans the Thimphu Chhun,
then climbs steeply to the monastery.
Phajoding Goemba
It is a 5 km uphill walk from Motithang. The monastery was built in 15th
century by Shagcha Rinchen who introduced the Drukpa Kagyupa school in Bhutan
in the 13th century. It was one time one of the richest monasteries in the
country.
Sightseeing in Tashigang
TASHIGANG
(Eastern Bhutan)
In the far east of Bhutan, on the bank of Gamri Chhu River lies
Trashigang, the country's largest district. Trashigang, once the centre of a
busy trade route with Tibet, is today the junction of east-west highway with
road connecting to Samdrup Jongkhar and then to the Indian States of Assam.
This town is also used as the market place for the semi nomadic people from Merak
and Sakteng whose costumes are unique in Bhutan.
Places of Interest in TRASHIGANG
Trashigang Dzong
Built in 1659, the Dzong serves as the administrative seat for the district as well as the home of the monk body. The Dzong commands a remarkable view over the surrounding countryside.
Built in 1659, the Dzong serves as the administrative seat for the district as well as the home of the monk body. The Dzong commands a remarkable view over the surrounding countryside.
Gom Kora
24 km from Trashigang, the temple of Gom Kora is set on a small alluvial
plateau overlooking the river. Surrounded by rice fields and clumps of banana
tress, it looks like an oasis in an arid landscape. It is one of the famous
places where Guru Rinpoche meditated in order to subdue a demon who dwelt in a
huge black rock.
Rangjung town is tiny
town which was located in Eastern part of Bhutan under Tashigang District. It
is about 18 km drive towards Northern part of Bhutan and town falls under the
Shongphu Geog and Sakteng, Merak, Phongmay, Radhi and Bidung of five other Geog
come to this town for shopping. In a small community people are very friendly
and kind hearted. The language they speak is Sharchop. In the same town there is very famous and well known of
the people of Bhutan and worldwide Monastery name call Rangjung Woesel Chholing
Monastery. The monastery was founded by
His Eminence Dungsey Garab Dorje Rinpoche in the year 1989 with few monks and
nuns. The objective of monastery is to provide a conducive haven for the study
of Buddha dharma as expounded in the Dudjom New Treasure Lineage and carry out
dharma activities for the benefit of the Buddhist community in and abroad the
country. It has a flourishing community with branches monasteries and retreat
centers. The Monastery traces its root to the Gelong Gonpa which was
established by Rinpoche and H.H. Dungse Thinley Norbu Rinpoche his father. Gompa
or Temple is situated in a mountainous region.
After H.H. Dungse
Thinley Norbu Rinpoche departed from Bhutan, the Bhutanese fervently requested
Rinpoche to remain and turn the dharma wheel of Dudjom New Treasure Lineage in
the monastery. Rinpoche, realizing the deep faith and genuine devotion of the
Bhutanese, accepted the heavy responsibility to continue the dharma activities
and welfare services for the Buddhist fraternity living in and around the
monastery.
Sightseeing in Yangtse
Trashiyangtse is a small village with
a garden aspect and a lovely place from where to launch couples of hours stroll
into surrounding countryside. The Dzong was built in the later 1990s when the
new district was created. A very interest art school is worth the visit. Also
Trashiyangtse is famous for its wooden containers and bowls
Places of Interest in TRASHIYANGTSE
Chorten Kora
Constructed near the river, it is based on the stupa of Bodhnath in Nepal and was built in 1740 by Lama Ngawang Loday. During the second month of lunar calendar there is an interesting celebration here, known as 'Kora'
Constructed near the river, it is based on the stupa of Bodhnath in Nepal and was built in 1740 by Lama Ngawang Loday. During the second month of lunar calendar there is an interesting celebration here, known as 'Kora'
Bomdeling
About one hour walk from Chorten Kora, Bomdeling is the winter resting place of a flock of black-necked cranes
About one hour walk from Chorten Kora, Bomdeling is the winter resting place of a flock of black-necked cranes
SAMDRUP JONGKHAR
The road from Trashigang to Samdrup Jongkhar was completed in 1960s and it enables the eastern half of the country to access and benefit from trade with the south as well as across the Indian border. There is little to see in this area but it was being used mostly as a convenient exit town however due to disturbances in adjoining Indian territory, the exit route has been closed
The road from Trashigang to Samdrup Jongkhar was completed in 1960s and it enables the eastern half of the country to access and benefit from trade with the south as well as across the Indian border. There is little to see in this area but it was being used mostly as a convenient exit town however due to disturbances in adjoining Indian territory, the exit route has been closed
Sightseeing in Punakha
Punakha served as the capital of
Bhutan until and still it is the winter seat of Je Khnep (the chief abbot).
Blessed with temperate climate and owing to its natural drainage from Pho Chhu
(male) and Mo Chhu (female) rivers, the Punakha valley produces abundant crops
and fruits. There are splendid views of the distant Himalayas at Dochula pas
(alt. 3,050m) on Thimphu - Punakha road.
Places
of Interest in PUNAKHA
Punakha
Dzong
Built strategically at the junction
of Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers in 1637 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal to serve as
the religious and administrative centre of the region, Punakha Dzong has played
an important role in Bhutan's history. Damaged by four catastrophic fires and
an earthquake, the Dzong has been fully restored by the present King. The Dzong
is open for visitors during Punakha festival and in summer months when the monk
body moves to Thimphu.
The Chimi Lhakhang, situated on a hillock in the centre of the valley, is dedicated to Lama Drukpa Kuenley, who in the late 15th century used humour, songs and outrageous behaviour to dramatise his teachings and due to this also known as 'Divine Madman'. This temple is also known as the temple of fertility. It is widely believed that couples who do not have children and wanting one, if they pray at this temple, they are usually blessed with a child very soon. It is about 30 minute walk across field from the road to the temple. The trail leads across rice fields to the tiny settlement of Pana, meaning 'field'. It then follows a tiny stream downhill to Yoaka and across more fields before making a short climb to Chimi Lhakhang.
Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten
A beautiful hike takes one to the regal Khamsum Yuelley Namgel Chorten, which was built to remove negative forces and promote peace, stability and harmony in the changing world. The Chorten dominates the upper Punakha Valley with commanding views across the Mo Chhu and up towards the mountainous peaks of Gasa and beyond.
Limbukha
Drive to Punakha Dzong which can be visited from the month of April to November when the Je Khenpo (chief abbot) moves to Thimphu. Walk across the suspension bridge (about 200m long) through absolutely fresh breeze and fascinating view of Dzong. Follow the farm houses gradually climbing towards Dompala hills. The view of Dzong, Pho Chhu, Mo Chhu rivers and surrounding village is superb amidst chirpine forests. The climb is another two and a half hours to Limbukha.
Limbukha farmers grow Bhutan's famous red rice which is supposed to have medicinal values. This particular rice needs clean mountain spring so that the taste is good and nutritional value maintained. Limbukha is also known for its love of peace and tranquility. Legends says that during medieval wars the 'limpus' or the people of Limbukha always volunteered as peace negotiators. This is also depicted during yearly festival called 'Serda' when the men are found carrying peace flags instead of swords and fireworks.
Talo
The village of Talo (alt. 2,800m) which is scattered along the hill slopes, known for its cleanliness and hygiene among Punakha villages. Talo Sangnacholing is built on a plateau and has majestic view of surrounding villages. The beautiful farm houses of the village have its own flower gardens and on the hill slope corns and sweet peas are grown in abundance. The women of Talo are particular known for their beauty.
Sightseein in Phuntsholing
The frontier town, it is a thriving commercial centre, situated
directly at the base of Himalayan foothills. It is a fascinating place where
different ethnic groups mingle prominently Indian, Bhutanese and Nepalese.
Being the border town, Phuentsholing serves as the convenient entry/exit point
for Bhutan and also the important link to visit the Indian state of West
Bengal, Sikkim and Assam.
Places of Interest in PHUENTSHOLING
Zangtho Pelri
Situated in city centre, this small temple represents the heaven of Guru Rinpoche. On ground floor there are statues of eight manifestations of Guru Rinpoche and paintings on Buddha's life while the next floor contains eight Bodhisattavas and statues of Avalokiteshvara and Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. On top floor, there is a main statue of Amitabha.
Kharbandi Goemba
Founded in 1967 by Royal Grand Mother, Ashi Phuntsho Choedron and situated at the altitude of 400m, this beautiful monastery contains paintings on the life of Buddha, statues of Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal and Guru Rinpoche. From the monastery garden there is a fascinating view of Phuentsholing town and surrounding plains.
Situated in city centre, this small temple represents the heaven of Guru Rinpoche. On ground floor there are statues of eight manifestations of Guru Rinpoche and paintings on Buddha's life while the next floor contains eight Bodhisattavas and statues of Avalokiteshvara and Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. On top floor, there is a main statue of Amitabha.
Kharbandi Goemba
Founded in 1967 by Royal Grand Mother, Ashi Phuntsho Choedron and situated at the altitude of 400m, this beautiful monastery contains paintings on the life of Buddha, statues of Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal and Guru Rinpoche. From the monastery garden there is a fascinating view of Phuentsholing town and surrounding plains.
Sightseeing in Phobjikha
The valley of Gangtey is one of the
most beautiful spots in Bhutan. The surprise of finding such a wide, flat
valley without any trees after the hard climb through dense forests is
augmented by an impression of vast space, and extremely rare experience in
Bhutan where most of the valley's are tightly enclosed.
A few kilometers beyond the Gangtey Monastery, on the valley floor lies the village of Phobjikha. This place is the winter home of black necked cranes that migrate from the arid plains in the north to pass winter winter in milder and lower climate. Phobjikha, at an altitude of 2900 m, falls under the district of Wangduephodrang and lies on the periphery of the Black Mountain National Park. The valley boasts two beautiful meandering rivers, Nakay Chhu (Chhu Naap-black water) and Gay Chhu (Chhu Karp-white water). According to a local legend, the two rivers actually represent a snake and a boar. The two animals once raced each other with an agreement that if the snake (Nakay Chhu) won, Phobjikha valley would be able to grow rice, but if the boar won, then rice could never be cultivated in the area. The snake lost since it had to meander all the way during its journey. Rice cannot be cultivated in the valley even today.
A few kilometers beyond the Gangtey Monastery, on the valley floor lies the village of Phobjikha. This place is the winter home of black necked cranes that migrate from the arid plains in the north to pass winter winter in milder and lower climate. Phobjikha, at an altitude of 2900 m, falls under the district of Wangduephodrang and lies on the periphery of the Black Mountain National Park. The valley boasts two beautiful meandering rivers, Nakay Chhu (Chhu Naap-black water) and Gay Chhu (Chhu Karp-white water). According to a local legend, the two rivers actually represent a snake and a boar. The two animals once raced each other with an agreement that if the snake (Nakay Chhu) won, Phobjikha valley would be able to grow rice, but if the boar won, then rice could never be cultivated in the area. The snake lost since it had to meander all the way during its journey. Rice cannot be cultivated in the valley even today.
Gangtey Gonpa
Gangtey was founded by Pema Trinley, the grand son of Pema Lingpa, the famous Nyingmapa saint of Bhutan. In 1613, Pema Trinley establish the monastery and became the first Gangtey Tulku. The religious traditions of Pema Lingpa still taught there. The second Tulku, Tenzin Legpa Dondrup (1645 to 1726), enhanced the size of Gangtey while keeping up good relations with Drukpas, and rebuilt the monastery in the form of a Dzong.
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