10 Things to Do in Shingkhar Gompa (Monastery), Zhemgang Bhutan
Located in the eastern part of Bhutan, Shingkhar Gompa (Monastery) is a major pilgrimage site for Buddhists. It is one of the most important monasteries in the country and is home to some of the oldest and most revered Buddhist relics. Here, visitors can explore the monastery’s ancient temples, experience the tranquil atmosphere of the surrounding countryside, and learn about the unique culture and history of Bhutan. Here are 10 things to do in Shingkhar Gompa.
1. Explore the Monastery’s Temples: The monastery is home to several ancient temples, including the main temple, which is the oldest and most sacred. Inside the temple, visitors can find ancient statues and artifacts, as well as a variety of Buddhist scriptures. Other temples include the Guru Lhakhang, which is dedicated to Guru Rinpoche, and the Nyingma Monastery, which is one of the oldest Buddhist monasteries in Bhutan.
2. Attend a Puja Ceremony: Every day, the monks of Shingkhar Gompa perform puja ceremonies, which are a form of Buddhist prayer. Visitors can attend these ceremonies, which usually take place in the morning and evening. During the ceremony, visitors can observe the chanting of mantras, as well as the offering of food and other items to the deities.
3. Visit the Local Markets: There are several markets located near the monastery, where visitors can purchase a variety of items, such as traditional Bhutanese clothing, jewelry, and handicrafts. There are also several restaurants and cafes in the area, where visitors can sample local cuisine.
4. Hike to the Top of the Mountain: The monastery is located at the top of a mountain, and visitors can hike up to the summit to enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding valleys. The hike is not too difficult, and the views from the top are well worth the effort.
5. Visit the Local Villages: There are several villages located near the monastery, where visitors can learn about the local culture and lifestyle. Many of the villages are home to traditional Bhutanese homes, and visitors can also explore the local temples and monasteries.
6. Enjoy a Picnic: The monastery is surrounded by stunning scenery, and visitors can enjoy a picnic in the nearby hills and valleys. There are several picnic spots located near the monastery, and visitors can also explore the nearby forests and meadows.
7. Go Bird Watching: The monastery is located in the heart of the Bhutanese countryside, and visitors can go bird watching in the surrounding areas. There are several species of birds in the area, including the rare and endangered black-necked cranes.
8. Participate in Meditation: The monastery is a great place to practice meditation, and visitors can join the monks in their daily meditation sessions. Visitors can also learn about the different meditation techniques and how to practice them.
9. Take a Cooking Class: Many of the local restaurants offer cooking classes, where visitors can learn how to prepare traditional Bhutanese dishes. The classes usually involve a hands-on approach, and visitors can learn how to prepare a variety of dishes, such as momos, thukpa, and ema datse.
10. Visit the Hot Springs: There are several hot springs located near the monastery, which are believed to have healing properties. Visitors can soak in the hot springs and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
Shingkhar Gompa is a wonderful place to visit, and visitors can experience the unique culture and history of Bhutan here. From exploring the ancient temples to participating in meditation sessions, there is something for everyone at this monastery.