Chorten Nyingpo Lhakhang: A Timeless Beacon of Faith, Folklore, and Tranquility
Resting on the lap of a quiet hill in Kabesa Gewog, Punakha, Chorten Nyingpo is one of Bhutan’s hidden spiritual treasures. This four-storeyed Punakha temple, built in the 17th century by the esteemed Gyalsey Tenzin Rabgye, is not only a center of religious devotion but also a living narrative of Bhutanese folklore and mysticism. If you’re looking to explore a place where spirituality, history, and nature converge, Chorten Nyingpo deserves a special spot on your Bhutan tour itinerary.
The Historical Significance of Chorten Nyingpo
Constructed around the mid-1600s by Gyalsey Tenzin Rabgye (1638–1696)—the Fourth Desi of Bhutan—Chorten Nyingpo is a monument of great cultural and spiritual value. It served as his winter residence, a tradition that continues to this day with the current Gyalsey Tenzin Rabgye using the temple seasonally.
The name Chorten Nyingpo, which means “Sacred Stupa of the Heart,” is derived from the original stupa erected by the beloved Buddhist saint Lam Drukpa Kuenley, also known as the Divine Madman. His influence is deeply woven into the fabric of this site, making Chorten Nyingpo not just a historical site, but a living spiritual heritage.
A Temple Born of Divine Encounter
What sets Chorten Nyingpo apart from other temples in Bhutan is the rich legend tied to its location. According to folklore, Lam Drukpa Kuenley, while meditating at Bjiligang, spotted an assembly of demons and malicious spirits. In his trademark eccentric style, he hurled a burning oak log at them. The log struck the heart of the gathering, destroying the demons and sanctifying the spot as one of divine significance.
The oak tree that now stands beside the temple is said to have grown from the log that Drukpa Kuenley threw. It remains a powerful symbol of spiritual victory and continues to draw visitors who wish to witness this living relic of Bhutanese legend.
How to Reach Chorten Nyingpo
Reaching Chorten Nyingpo Lhakhang requires a small diversion from the main Gasa district road. Travelers must take a 10-kilometer turn from Sirigang toward the left and drive along a scenic route that climbs gently through forested hills and quaint villages. The road may be narrow in parts, but it is navigable and offers breathtaking views of the Punakha valley.
Despite being off the beaten path, the journey to Chorten Nyingpo is well worth the effort, especially for spiritual seekers, pilgrims, and travelers interested in Bhutan’s sacred heritage.
The Architecture and Spiritual Relics
Chorten Nyingpo is a four-storeyed temple built in traditional Bhutanese style, complete with whitewashed walls, ornate wooden carvings, and a tiered golden roof. The interior, however, holds its greatest treasures.
The main relic is an awe-inspiring statue of Maitreya Buddha, the Buddha of the Future. Crafted from medicinal clay, the statue spans two storeys in height and radiates a sense of serene compassion. This representation of Maitreya is not only spiritually significant but also a masterpiece of religious craftsmanship.
Adjacent to the main shrine is the Goenkhang, a protector chapel housing fierce deities that serve as guardians of the Dharma. Butter lamps flicker constantly here, offering both light and devotion to the divine protectors.
Monastic Life at Chorten Nyingpo
Chorten Nyingpo is not merely a historical site; it is a living center of Buddhist practice. The Central Monastic Body has established a monastic school at the temple. A lama oversees around 25 young monks who reside and study here.
Their daily chants, rituals, and prayers bring the temple to life, ensuring that its walls echo not only with the past but also with the living rhythms of faith. Visitors can often witness the monks in prayer adding a genuine spiritual dimension to the visit.
Revival and Conservation
Today, Chorten Nyingpo is undergoing restoration and revival efforts. The temple is being carefully preserved with the help of the local community, religious bodies, and the ongoing presence of the reincarnated Gyalsey Tenzin Rabgye, who continues to use the temple as his seasonal residence.
These efforts ensure that Chorten Nyingpo will remain not just a monument of the past but a vibrant spiritual destination for future generations.
Plan Your Visit to Chorten Nyingpo
If you’re planning a trip to Bhutan and seeking authentic spiritual experiences, be sure to include Chorten Nyingpo in your journey. Whether you’re drawn by the legends of Drukpa Kuenley, the spiritual serenity of Maitreya Buddha, or the natural beauty of Kabesa Gewog, this sacred temple in Punakha offers an experience unlike any other.
Here are a few tips:
- Ideal for: Spiritual travelers, pilgrims, history enthusiasts, photographers
- What to bring: Modest clothing, camera, prayer scarf (optional), and a respectful heart
A Place for Spiritual Reflection and Pilgrimage
Although Chorten Nyingpo is not as widely known as other temples in Bhutan, it has quietly become a beloved pilgrimage site for many Bhutanese and spiritually inclined travelers. Its seclusion and sacred history offer an ideal environment for meditation, prayer, and quiet reflection.
The temple also has a small guest house that can accommodate 2 to 3 people, making it ideal for those seeking a peaceful retreat. If you’re interested in meditation, Buddhism, or monastic life, you can stay for one or two nights and immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere while interacting with the resident monks.
During your stay, you’ll have the opportunity to engage in meaningful spiritual and cultural activities such as:
- Joining the monks for morning and evening prayers
- Participating in a guided evening meditation session
- Hoisting prayer flags for good fortune and blessings
- Making offerings such as smoke, wine, or butter lamps
- Engaging in conversations with monks, and even volunteering to teach English
- Attending a Dharma talk to deepen your understanding of Buddhist philosophy
- Arranging a private audience with the abbot (Khenpo) of the monastic school (Shedra)
- Making a meal donation and personally serving food to the monks
Please note that the guest house is subject to availability. Early coordination is recommended for those wishing to enjoy this unique and spiritually enriching experience.
Google Reviews
Jenny Chua
In Nov 24, we had the privilege of exploring Bhutan with the guidance of an exceptional tour guide, Kinlay Dorji & Jigme Tshering from Bhutan Best Inbound Tour agency and I couldn’t be more impressed with the experience. From the moment we arrived, they ensured every detail of our trip was perfectly planned and executed, making it truly stress-free and enjoyable. Their deep knowledge of Bhutan’s history, culture, and traditions was remarkable, and they shared stories and insights that brought the country’s rich heritage to life. Whether we were visiting iconic landmarks like the Tiger’s Nest Monastery or strolling through serene villages, their passion for Bhutan was evident and contagious. What truly stood out was their dedication to providing personalized service. They were always attentive to our needs, ensuring we were comfortable, well-fed, and immersed in the beauty of Bhutan. Their warm hospitality, patience, and ability to adapt to our preferences made the journey unforgettable. If you’re planning a trip to Bhutan, I cannot recommend this tour guide enough. They truly go above and beyond to ensure you experience the heart and soul of the Land of the Thunder Dragon. An absolute five-star experience!
Reviewed on: 1/14/2025
Terri KimOur first time in Bhutan couldn’t have been as amazing & memorable as it was without the wonderful team behind Bhutan Best Inbound Tour who were with us every step of the way. We decided (very last minute) to go to Bhutan with only weeks to spare. I decided to go with Bhutan Best Inbound Tour based on online reviews, responsiveness (via WhatsApp), and reasonable pricing. Because our trip was short (5 days/4 nights) and we already rushed to book our flights/accommodations, we were mainly looking for a dedicated tour guide/driver to explore Thimphu, Punakha, and Paro. Deki, who planned our itinerary, was responsive and accommodating to all my inquiries and requests. She answered my questions, and put my mind at ease when it came to our visas. She was lovely to work with, and made us feel prepared before our trip. But what she couldn’t have prepared us for was how amazing Bhutan would be and how much we would love our trip. We arrived at Paro International Airport early in the morning, and were greeted outside with white scarves by our guide and our driver who were patiently waiting for us. Our guide, Phub, was fantastic. Not only was he like a walking encyclopedia about his country, the culture, and Buddhism, he was personable and so funny. He was also quite the photographer, capturing the best angles and even directing us on how to pose. Phub was also very flexible with our daily schedule, and accommodating to our requests, which we appreciated immensely. He also shared tips & tricks that only locals would be privy to, which made this trip much more intimate and fulfilling than if we decided to go without a tour guide. I HIGHLY recommend a tour guide if you are thinking of going to Bhutan for the first time. We had two drivers, both very humble and excellent drivers. I felt very safe in the car despite impatient drivers, the occasional cow and dog, and landslides. On our day trip to Punakha from Thimphu, a landslide extended our trip by an hour each way, but our driver was patient and made sure we were comfortable. The breathtaking views (and company) made the delays worth it. We were so fortunate to have such wonderful drivers who prioritized our safety. From the kindness of the people to the delicious food, from the beautiful weather to the rich culture, and of course, Tiger’s Nest (which left us breathless, both figuratively and literally), Bhutan is truly a special country that left us with so many beautiful memories. We plan to visit Bhutan again, and when we do, we can’t wait to work with Bhutan Best Inbound Tour for all our needs. If you’re looking for a tour guide, I highly recommend reaching out to Bhutan Best Inbound Tour for a seamless experience
Reviewed on: 12/24/2024
Suresh KaruI had an amazing 7 nights 8 day trip to Bhutan, Phub my guide and driver Nima made it a memorable vacation. They were professional , kind and always helpful , also their local knowledge made it an experience unforgettable to me. The hotels they choose had excellent service, the cook made my favourite dish Idli. The home stay hostess was always smiling and kind. They also had the best price for the tour package.If I ever return to Bhutan I would choose them again Hands down .
Reviewed on: 9/30/2024
Charles VrtisEverything about my experience in Bhutan was outstanding from start to finish! It is very serene, stunningly beautiful, and its people are exceptionally kind and welcoming! Of course, had I not chosen the right tour operator, I might have left with different feelings. Fortunately, I selected Bhutan Best Inbound Tour. From the start, my experience with them was smooth and seamless. Deki, my contact in arranging the logistics, could not have been more responsive and helpful. She made everything so easy, including arranging for a visa. And, I cannot say enough good things about my guide and driver. They really made my experience in Bhutan so wonderfully memorable. I felt completely comfortable and safe with the driver, Jigme. Not only that, he always had a smile on his face. My guide, Tenzin (“Tax”] Loday was great. He was prompt, reliable, and very engaging. He is now my Bhutanese brother! His love for his country shows, and his clear and helpful explanations about its history and sites could not have been better. Thank you Bhutan Inbound Tour!
Reviewed on: 3/30/2024
Brian NYCHuge thanks to Bhutan Best Inbound Tours for an amazing experience in magical Bhutan! My guide Phub is a true expert who taught me so much about the history and culture of Bhutan, and he took perfect care of me each and every place we visited. Our driver Lobzang got us to all of our destinations safely and on time, and they made a great team, always keeping me smiling and in awe of the beauty of bucket list Bhutan. Everything was smooth from start to finish, the hotels were all excellent and comfortable, and I highly recommend Bhutan Inbound and my friends Phub and Lobzang to anyone planning a trip to stunning Bhutan!
Reviewed on: 10/14/2023
