Overview:

Khamdang Monastery is one of the oldest monasteries in Bhutan. It was founded in the 13th century by the great master, Longchenpa, and is located in the Paro district. The monastery houses 500 monks and is home to the famous Masked Buddhist Lama Dance. Visitors come to the monastery to experience its ancient atmosphere and to learn about its rich cultural heritage. The monastery is also an important pilgrimage site for Bhutanese Buddhists who come to pay their respects to the lama. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Bhutan
Prominent Features:

1. It is an ancient Buddhist monastery located in Bhutan. 2. Established in the 5th century, Khamdang Monastery stands out as one of the oldest monasteries of Bhutan. 3. This ancient monastery is perched atop a high ridge with breathtaking views of the mountain range. 4. A remarkable monastic dwelling, this monastery houses an impressive collection of statues, paintings, and ornate ritual objects. 5. The interior of the monastery is decorated with exquisite mural paintings, depicting the life of historical religious figures. 6. At the ground level below the main prayer hall, visitors can explore the shrines dedicated to the protector gods of the temple. 7. A spectacular view of the surrounding valley can be enjoyed while taking a leisurely walk in the grounds of the monastery. 8. The annual Harvest Festival celebrated on the 12th day of the 8th month in the Bhutanese lunar calendar is an event that attracts many religious devotees to the monastery. This national monument of Bhutan portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

Khamdang Monastery in Bhutan is one of the oldest monastic institutions in the country, with a history that can be traced back to the 8th century. The founding lama of the monastery, Padampa Sangye, is said to have originated in Kham in Tibet and later acquired his Buddhist teachings in Bhutan. There, he constructed the Khamdang monastery to teach Buddhist philosophy and meditation practices to the people of the region. Throughout its history, the monastery has been home to several great scholars and teachers, including the renowned Buddhist master, Kuenga Choezom. In the 19th century, the monastery was refurbished with the support of the Bhutanese government, and it continued to receive patronage from the royal family. Since the mid-20th century, Khamdang Monastery has remained an important center for Buddhism and education in Bhutan. It has been active in revival efforts for traditional Bhutanese culture and provides a religious home to a large community of monks and nuns. It also serves as the spiritual home to many Bhutanese families who annually visit the monastery to seek its blessings. You must visit one of these historical places in Bhutan on your Bhutan tour

Interesting facts:

1. The Khamdang Monastery in Bhutan is one of the most renowned monasteries in the region and is an important pilgrimage site for devout Buddhists. 2. It was founded in 1688 by Kagyu lama, Ngawang Tashi Tenzin Gyatso. 3. The monastery houses beautiful statues and murals of buddhas and other deities that have been around for centuries. 4. Every year pilgrims and locals drop by to offer prayers and make offerings to the shrine. 5. It is also an ideal place for a peaceful retreat as the surrounding environment is calm and serene. 6. The monastery is located at an elevation of 2300 metres above sea level with views of snow-capped Himalayan peaks. 7. The annual festival of Khamdang Monastery is attended by thousands of people from all over Bhutan. 8. As part of the festival, pilgrims and devotees take part in a colorful mask dance which features vibrant costumes and musical accompaniment. 9. It is believed that a visit to this sacred monastery can help one gain spiritual enlightenment and inner peace. Visit one of the famous monuments of Bhutan with your friends and family.