10 Things to Do in Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang Monastery, Punakha Bhutan
The Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang Monastery in Punakha, Bhutan is one of the most sacred and revered Buddhist sites in the country. Located in the picturesque Punakha Valley, the monastery is home to some of the most important religious artifacts and relics in the country, as well as offering visitors a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere to explore and appreciate Bhutan's rich culture and history. Here are 10 things to do when visiting the Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang Monastery in Punakha, Bhutan.
1. Explore the Monastery Grounds: The Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang Monastery is set on a hilltop overlooking the Punakha Valley. The grounds of the monastery are beautifully landscaped and feature a variety of colorful shrubs and flowers. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll around the grounds and explore the various stupas and statues that are located throughout the monastery.
2. Visit the Main Temple: The main temple of the Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang Monastery is a beautiful and ornate structure that is home to some of the most important religious artifacts and relics in the country. The walls of the temple are covered in colorful murals depicting scenes from the life of the Buddha, and visitors can take a moment to appreciate the intricate details of the artwork.
3. Attend a Puja Ceremony: The monks of the Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang Monastery regularly conduct puja ceremonies, which are a form of Buddhist prayer. Visitors are welcome to join the monks in the puja ceremony and learn more about the practice of Buddhism.
4. Take a Guided Tour: The monks of the Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang Monastery offer guided tours of the monastery and its grounds. During the tour, visitors will learn more about the history of the monastery and the various artifacts and relics that are housed there.
5. Go Shopping in the Local Markets: The Punakha Valley is home to some of the best markets in Bhutan. Visitors can explore the markets and find a variety of traditional items such as textiles, jewelry, and handicrafts.
6. Visit the Chimi Lhakhang Temple: The Chimi Lhakhang Temple is located a short distance from the Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang Monastery. The temple is dedicated to the Buddhist saint, Drukpa Kunley, and is a popular pilgrimage site for Buddhists from all over the world.
7. Hike to the Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten: The Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten is located a short distance from the Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang Monastery. The chorten is a beautiful and ornate structure that offers some of the best views of the Punakha Valley. Visitors can take a short hike to the chorten and enjoy the stunning views.
8. Visit the Local Villages: The Punakha Valley is home to a number of small villages that offer visitors a glimpse into the traditional way of life in Bhutan. Visitors can explore the villages and meet the locals, and can also purchase some of the local handicrafts.
9. Take a Rafting Trip: The Punakha Valley is home to some of the best whitewater rafting in the country. Visitors can take a rafting trip down the Mo Chu River and enjoy the thrilling rapids and stunning views.
10. Enjoy the Local Cuisine: The Punakha Valley is home to some of the best cuisine in Bhutan. Visitors can enjoy traditional dishes such as ema datse (a spicy chili and cheese dish), phaksha paa (a pork dish), and jasha maru (a chicken dish).
Visiting the Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Lhakhang Monastery in Punakha, Bhutan is an unforgettable experience that offers visitors a chance to explore the country's rich culture and history. From exploring the monastery grounds to rafting down the Mo Chu River, there are plenty of things to do in and around the monastery.