Tachogang Lhakhang/temple
Tashi Wangmo • May 29, 2020
Temple on the Hill of Excellent Horse
Tachogang lhakhang literally translates to the ‘Temple on the Hill of Excellent Horse’ and is located on a hill top opposite the Paro-Thimphu highway and enjoys a serene ambience with the river and the surrounding hills. The temple is dedicated to Thangtong Gyalpo, the Iron Bridge Builder also a renowned Buddhist saint, yogi, physician, blacksmith, architect, music composer and one of the most travelled person in the Himalayas back in the 14th Century.
History relates that Thangtong Gyalpo was summoned by the local deities and upon arrival at the present site of the temple he meditated for 7 days. During his meditation he experienced visions of Balaha – a spiritual horse considered an emanation of Avalokiteshvara (Buddha of Compassion) and that inspired him to establish a temple, hence the name Tachogang Lhakhang. The temple was built by the heart son of Thangtong Gyalpo and is still managed and cared for by his descendants who also lives in the premises.
Since the temple is located across the Paro river, Thangton Gyalpo also built his signature iron bridge that adds on to the charm of visiting the temple. The 3 storied temple built in the style of a traditional house is considered sacred and houses many important statues and artifacts.
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!
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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.