Spiritual Retreat
KinGyel Activities: Spiritual Retreat
Bhutan, an untouched Himalayan paradise, is renowned for its awe-inspiring landscapes and tranquil Buddhist temples. Sacred monasteries perch precariously on sheer cliffs, fluttering prayer flags line the high ridges, and red-robed monks chant day and night, giving the kingdom an ethereal atmosphere that feels from another time.
Far from the bustling cities, Bhutan offers a unique opportunity for peace and spiritual immersion. Meet a Bhutanese monk on a secluded mountaintop and discover the sacred Vajrayana teachings. You can participate in meaningful rituals like hoisting prayer flags, lighting butter lamps, and practicing meditation with an authentic Buddhist master.
Whether you choose a day excursion, stay for a day or two, or fully immerse yourself in monastic life, Bhutan invites you to connect with the tranquility and wisdom of its spiritual heritage.
Dra-Karpo
Perched on a hilltop in Paro Valley, Dra Karpo Monastery (Split Rock) is one of Bhutan’s holiest sites, blessed by Guru Padmasambhava and other spiritual masters. The monastery is known for its mystical tranquility, with handprints, footprints, and symbols believed to have supernatural origins. According to legend, Guru Rinpoche split the rock to subdue a demon. It’s believed that circumambulating the monastery 108 times will wash away even the gravest sins.
Phajoding-Monastery
Phajoding Monastery, located above Thimphu, is accessible via a 3km trek. Once a prominent temple, it is now in decline and was listed among the Top 5 Endangered Monuments by the World Monuments Fund in 2010. The monastery contains ancient artifacts and a State Monastic School for young Buddhists. It is spiritually significant as the site where Phajo Drugom Zhigpo meditated, had a vision of Chenrezig, and placed his walking stick into a cliff, causing water to flow from the rock. This sacred water, known as drub chu, is believed to cure speech impediments.
Chagri-Monastery
Chagri Monastery is located 16 km from Thimphu, accessible via a 45-minute drive through Begana village. After crossing an ancient wooden bridge, visitors can hike to the hilltop monastery, surrounded by nature and wildlife. The hike offers views of various bird species. Founded in 1620 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel, the monastery is a retreat site for monks and was built at the spot where Phajo Drugom Zhigpo meditated. Its name "Chagri" combines "Iron" and "Mountain," symbolizing its spiritual significance.
Tashigang-Goemba
Trashigang Goemba, built in the 18th century, is located 30 km from Thimphu on a mountain top, offering a peaceful retreat away from modernization. It can be accessed via a 10 km dirt road from Dochula or a 3-hour hike through forests of Hemlock and rhododendrons. The monastery serves as an important meditation center, housing about 16 monks and a few nuns, with several meditation houses nearby. Inside, statues of Je Khenpos who meditated there add to the monastery’s spiritual aura.
