Dechenphodrang Dratsang Monastery
Sonam Dendup • June 9, 2020
Historically a Very Important Religious Site in Thimphu
Located a few minutes drive from the town stands the Palace of Great Bliss aka the Dechen-Phodrang Monastic School for monks. Established in 1971, Dechen-Phodrang is one of the biggest monastic school with resident monks from all over the country. The monks undergo an eight year course of Buddhist studies until they graduate onto monastic colleges. While quite shy at first the monks are as curious of tourists as tourists maybe of monks, hence your visit can become an interactive session of exchanging life stories and looking at life from a monk’s perspective.
The monastery houses numerous important historical artifacts including the 12th century paintings monitored by the UNESCO. From the grounds of the Phodrang one can enjoy a stunning view of the Tashi Chho Dzong (Fortress of the Glorious Religion) with its sprawling paddy fields, and in the distance the gigantic Buddha Dordenma.
Through this undisturbed tropical, sub-tropical and Alpine regions of virgin forests, waterfalls and lakes, highland nomadic villages, undisturbed nature and views of the Greater Himalayas and Snow Capped Peaks, Bhutan offers some of the best trekking experiences all year round.
The view from there is the panoramic sight of almost all the tallest Himalayan Mountain of Bhutan like majestic Gangkar Puensum, formidable Table Mountain and Tiger Mountain. As it is located at the top, the view of the Himalayan ranges is better than anywhere in the area, even as compared to famous Dochula Pass.
For Bhutanese, Gross National Happiness means a good government that creates an enabling environment for people to pursue happiness in a meaningful way. The result is a country at peace with itself, and people at peace with themselves!
To Experience True Zhemgang
The Healing Power of Nature
Bird Watching in the Hotspot of Oldest National Park
The Crown Jewel of Bhutan's National Parks
Trong Village - To Promote Eco-Tourism in Zhemgang
Clinging on a huge rock towards the north end of the Tang valley lies the Thowa Drak Hermitage just like the famed Tiger’s Nest Monastery in Paro. From the valley or road point it is a stiff 3 hours hike uphill through the serene and peaceful forest. Sweeping views of the Tang valley and the landscape can be enjoyed along the way with a bird’s eye view from the main site.
A quick visit to the Swiss Cheese Factory and Brewery is a refreshing alternative after visiting many temples and religious sites in the Bumthang valley. The Factory was started in the late 1960’s by a Swiss national Mr Fritz Maurer who visited Bhutan and settled in Bumthang.