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:

Image description
Bigger Group? Get special offers upto 50% off!
We create unforgettable adventures, customised for your group.
Connect with a group tour expert
Full Name
Email
Phone number
Travel Date
Traveller Count
Message
Best Bhutan Tour Packages Explore All (101)
Explore All (101)
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

Also Checkout - 
Bhutan Honeymoon Packages
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

Must Checkout - 
Bhutan Tour Packages From Mumbai
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

Book & Checkout - B
hutan Tour Packages From Kolkata
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

Also Checkout - 
Bhutan Family Tour Packages
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

Must Checkout - 
Bhutan Group Tour Packages
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

Must Visit - 
Places to Visit in Bhutan
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

Must Checkout - 
Resorts in Bhutan
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

Also Read - 
Trekking Places in Bhutan
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

Suggested Read - Places To Visit In Paro
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

Also Checkout - 
Things to do in Punakha 

People Also Ask About Bhutan

  1. What are the best temples in Bhutan?

    Some of the best Bhutan temples that you can visit include Punakha Dzong, Kyichu Lhakhang, Gangtey Monastery, Taktsang Temple and Tango Monastery. These monasteries are nestled amidst a picturesque setting and offer an insight into Buddhist culture. You can admire the beautifully built statues of Buddha and Guru Rinpoche as well as meditate inside the monastery for a relaxing experience.
  2. Is December a good time to visit Bhutan?

    Yes, December is indeed a good time to visit Bhutan. You will experience cold and dry weather with an average temperature dropping to 4-8 degrees Celsius. You will also get to experience snow at higher altitude regions like Paro and Thimphu. Additionally, you can enjoy activities like trekking, rafting, kayaking and stargazing.
  3. What is special about Bhutan?

    The country of Bhutan is known for its mesmerising natural beauty, rich culture and spirituality. You can witness the stunning landscapes of Bhutan in places like Paro, Bumthang, Haa Valley and Gangtey Valley. For a spiritual and cultural tour, visit places like Taktsang Palphug Monastery, Rinpung Dong and Kyichu Lhakhang.
  4. How many days are enough to explore Bhutan?

    Ideally, a minimum of 7-8 days are required to explore the major attractions and enjoy the popular activities of Bhutan. In these 7-8 days, you can explore places like Kyichu Lhakhang, Taktsang Temple, Punakha Dzong, Tango Monastery and Tamshing Lhakhang. Some of the best activities that you can try include trekking, bird watching, river rafting and mountain biking.
  5. How to reach Bhutan?

    The fastest and most convenient way to reach Bhutan is by air. You can book a direct flight to Paro International Airport which is around 3 km from the city centre of Paro. You can book direct flights from Indian cities like Delhi, Kolkata and Guwahati. Alternatively, you can plan a road journey to Bhutan from India. There are three border crossings in Bhutan, namely Phuentsholing, Gelephu and Samdrup Jongkhar. The most popular route is Jaigaon to Phuentsholing which requires a travel time of approximately 5-6 hours.
Newly Added Bhutan Experience

Bhutan Top Attractions

Places To Visit In Bhutan

More Bhutan Attractions

Tashichho Dzong, thimphu city Chele La, paro The National Memorial Chorten, thimphu city Rinpung Dzong Monastery, paro Punakha Suspension Bridge, bhutan National Museum, Paro Jigme Dorji National Park, punakha Dochula Pass, bhutan Gangtey Monastery, paro 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 Jhomolhari, bhutan Pho Chhu River, bhutan Karbandi Monastery, bhutan Wangdue Phodrang Dzong, bhutan Lhuntse Tshechu, bhutan Trashi Yangtse, bhutan Gangtey Valley, bhutan Zuri Dzong, bhutan Phajoding Temple, bhutan Mongar And Lhuntse, bhutan
18 November 2015
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.
16 August 2015
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.
10 October 2015
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.

Popular Nearby Places Around Bhutan

Popular Related Destinations

Places to Visit in India

Places to Visit in Delhi Places to Visit in Goa Places to Visit in Pune Places to Visit in Bangalore Places to Visit in Mumbai Places to Visit in Hyderabad Places to Visit in Jaipur Places to Visit in Chennai Places to Visit in Kolkata Places to Visit in Ladakh Places to Visit in Spiti Places to Visit in Andaman Places to Visit in Arunachal Pradesh Places to Visit in North East Places to Visit in Sikkim Places to Visit in Darjeeling Places to Visit in Meghalaya Places to Visit in Gangtok Places to Visit in Rajasthan Places to Visit in Uttarakhand Places to Visit in Kerala Places to Visit in Karnataka Places to Visit in Maharashtra Places To Visit In Himachal Pradesh Places to Visit in Madhya Pradesh Places to Visit in Kashmir Places to Visit in Manali Places to Visit in Dharamshala Places to Visit in Shimla Places to Visit in Mcleodganj Places to Visit in Nainital Places to Visit in Mussoorie Places to Visit in Dehradun Places to Visit in Rishikesh Places To Visit In Jammu Places to Visit in Srinagar Places to Visit in Chikmagalur Places to Visit in Munnar Places to Visit in Kodaikanal Places to Visit in Ooty Places to Visit in Pondicherry Places to Visit in Wayanad Places to Visit in Coorg Places to Visit in Mysore Places to Visit in Lonavala Places to Visit in Alibaug Places To Visit In Mahabaleshwar Places to Visit in Udaipur Places to Visit in Jodhpur Places to Visit in Jaisalmer Places to Visit in Mount Abu Places to Visit in Agra Places To Visit In South Goa Places To Visit In North Goa
Currency Picker
Commonly Used Currencies
INR -
Indian Rupee
USD - $
United States Dollar
EUR -
Euro
SGD - $
Singapore Dollar
AUD - $
Australian Dollar
GBP - £
British Pound
AED - د.إ
United Arab Emirates Dirham
All Other Currencies
ALL - L
Albanian Lek
AMD - դր.
Armenian Dram
ARS - $
Argentine Peso
AWG - ƒ
Aruban Florin
BBD - $
Barbadian Dollar
BDT -
Bangladeshi Taka
BMD - $
Bermudian Dollar
BND - $
Brunei Dollar
BOB - Bs.
Bolivian Boliviano
BSD - $
Bahamian Dollar
BWP - P
Botswana Pula
BZD - $
Belize Dollar
CAD - $
Canadian Dollar
CHF - CHF
Swiss Franc
CNY - ¥
Chinese Renminbi Yuan
COP - $
Colombian Peso
CRC -
Costa Rican Colón
CZK -
Czech Koruna
DKK - kr.
Danish Krone
DOP - $
Dominican Peso
DZD - د.ج
Algerian Dinar
EGP - ج.م
Egyptian Pound
ETB - Br
Ethiopian Birr
FJD - $
Fijian Dollar
GHS -
Ghanaian Cedi
GIP - £
Gibraltar Pound
GMD - D
Gambian Dalasi
GTQ - Q
Guatemalan Quetzal
GYD - $
Guyanese Dollar
HKD - $
Hong Kong Dollar
HNL - L
Honduran Lempira
HRK - kn
Croatian Kuna
HTG - G
Haitian Gourde
HUF - Ft
Hungarian Forint
IDR - Rp
Indonesian Rupiah
ILS -
Israeli New Sheqel
JMD - $
Jamaican Dollar
KES - KSh
Kenyan Shilling
KGS - som
Kyrgyzstani Som
KHR -
Cambodian Riel
KYD - $
Cayman Islands Dollar
KZT -
Kazakhstani Tenge
LAK -
Lao Kip
LBP - ل.ل
Lebanese Pound
LKR -
Sri Lankan Rupee
LRD - $
Liberian Dollar
LSL - L
Lesotho Loti
MAD - د.م.
Moroccan Dirham
MDL - L
Moldovan Leu
MKD - ден
Macedonian Denar
MMK - K
Myanmar Kyat
MNT -
Mongolian Tögrög
MOP - P
Macanese Pataca
MUR -
Mauritian Rupee
MVR - MVR
Maldivian Rufiyaa
MWK - MK
Malawian Kwacha
MXN - $
Mexican Peso
MYR - RM
Malaysian Ringgit
NAD - $
Namibian Dollar
NIO - C$
Nicaraguan Córdoba
NOK - kr
Norwegian Krone
NPR - Rs.
Nepalese Rupee
NZD - $
New Zealand Dollar
PEN - S/
Peruvian Sol
PGK - K
Papua New Guinean Kina
PHP -
Philippine Peso
PKR -
Pakistani Rupee
QAR - ر.ق
Qatari Riyal
RUB -
Russian Ruble
SAR - ر.س
Saudi Riyal
SCR -
Seychellois Rupee
SEK - kr
Swedish Krona
SLL - Le
Sierra Leonean Leone
SOS - Sh
Somali Shilling
SVC -
Salvadoran Colón
SZL - E
Swazi Lilangeni
THB - ฿
Thai Baht
TTD - $
Trinidad and Tobago Dollar
TZS - Sh
Tanzanian Shilling
UYU - $U
Uruguayan Peso
UZS - so'm
Uzbekistan Som
YER -
Yemeni Rial
ZAR - R
South African Rand
JPY - ¥
Japanese Yen
VND -
Vietnamese dong