History:

is considered to be the most sacred and influential site on the eastern side of Bhutan. This renowned Buddhist monastery is known to have been founded in 8th century and has been a pilgrimage destination ever since. The site has been a residence of Guru Rinpoche or Padmasambava, one of the most honored Buddhist figures in the countries of Himalayas. It also served as the ancestral home of the Bhutanese royal family of Wangchuck dynasty. It is one of the most sacred pilgrimages in the entire Country. The main temple features three stupas that each symbolizes past, present, and future of Bhutan’s kingdom. The monastery also possesses many paintings and art works that are said to reside in it since its inception. Furthermore, some of the rare manuscripts and many other artifacts are available to be found here. It is one of the best temple in Bhutan which you must visit.

Facts:

1. Kurje Lhakhang is a Buddhist temple located on the western side of the Chokhor Valley in Bumthang, Bhutan. 2. The temple was founded by Terton Pema Lingpa in the 15th century and is considered an important pilgrimage site for Nyingma Buddhists. 3. The temple complex contains three temples, with the central temple being the oldest. The other two temples, each of which is dedicated to a different manifestation of Padmasambhava, were built later. 4. The wall paintings in the temple complex date back to the 15th century and are considered to be among the oldest in Bhutan. 5. The temple is also known for its large kurje, or body imprints, which are said to have been made by Padmasambhava in the 8th century. 6. The main temple at Kurje Lhakhang is an important pilgrimage site for many Bhutanese people and is visited by large numbers of pilgrims throughout the year. 7. The temple complex also includes a large meditation retreat center, which is used by monks and meditation practitioners. Here are some facts about the Bhutan temple.These facts will help you understand why it is oldest temple list of the best temples in Bhutan

Worship Method:

Kurje Lhakhang situated in Bumthang is one of the most sacred Buddhist temples in Bhutan. The worship method at this temple follows the tenets of Vajrayana Buddhism. The formal worship of the temple is conducted by the resident monks. During the worship, the monks chant Buddhist sutras and mantras, and at the same time make offerings of traditional offerings such as incense, lamps, foods, flowers, and liquid offerings (usually water mixed with wine). During the temple worship, the monks also engage in elaborate rituals and processions. These may include burning of incense, circumambulating the temple three times, and prostrations. The worship of this temple includes chanting Buddhist sutras, performing rituals, and reciting mantras. As part of the rituals, people also make offerings of flowers, rice, water, wine, incense, food, and coins. Offerings are offered to the deities of the temple and to the local spirit guardians called the Yidams. During the worship, as part of their rituals, the monks also spin large prayer wheels. The hope behind spinning the prayer wheel is that it will spread the mantra written on it into the environment. Several hundreds of prayer wheels are spun by the monks. This ritual helps to purify and bless the environment. The worship at this temple typically follows a strict and traditional structure, and in most temples, it will take place at least once a day. Visitors are welcome to join in the worship. This most visited temple in Bhutan

Opening Timing:

Kurje Lhakhang in Bumthang, Bhutan is open every day from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm. top temples in Bhutan

How to reach:

Kurje Lhakhang is located in Bumthang, Bhutan which is approximately 217 kilometres from the capital, Thimphu. The closest airport is Paro Airport and the nearest airport to Bumthang is in Gelephu which is about a 10-hour bus ride from Bumthang. Alternatively, you can take a bus or taxi from Thimphu to Bumthang. From Bumthang, it is an 8-km drive to Kurje Lhakhang. You can also hire a car or take a taxi from Bumthang to the temple. famous temples in Bhutan