Overview:

Kyichu Lhakhang is one of the oldest and most important temples in Bhutan. It is situated in the foothills of the Himalayas and was originally built in the 7th century by the Tibetan King Songtsen Gyampo. The temple is also known as Lho-Kyerchu, which translates to “temple of the queen’s grand kitchen”. The temple houses two main shrines dedicated to the tutelary divine figures – Guru Rinpoche and Jowo Jampa (the future Buddha, known as Maitreya). In addition, numerous statues of the spiritual figures line the interior walls. Kyichu Lhakhang is also an important pilgrimage spot in Bhutan as it is believed to be the place where 108 across Bhutan were created by Guru Rinpoche. The Temple is twinned with the ancient Jokhang Temple in Lhasa, Tibet and is part of the larger network of temples collectively known as the Lhakhang Karpo, or White Temple. During Tsechu festivals and other religious celebrations, pilgrims from all parts of the country arrive at Kyichu Lhakhang to offer prayers and enjoy the festive atmosphere. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Bhutan
Prominent Features:

-The Kyichu Lhakhang in Bhutan is a venerable and sacred Buddhist temple located in the Paro district of Bhutan. -Constructed in 659 AD by the Tibetan king of Songtsen Gampo, Kyichu Lhakhang is one of the 108 monasteries throughout the Himalayas said to have been constructed in honor of the lord Buddha, and is also one of the oldest temples in Bhutan. -It is sacred to both Mahayana and Theravada sect of Buddhism and is visited by many pilgrims. -The temple is dedicated to the Kagyudpa tradition and is home to two talismanic statues of Guru Rinpoche, which were brought to Bhutan from Tibet. -Inside the Lhakhang, there is a central red lama (Guru Rinpoche) statue, four directional deities and a huge white etched conch shell which symbolizes the holy teachings of Rinpoche. -The temple also contains two huge clay statues of King Songtsen Gampo, which are adorned with ornate gold and jeweled decorations. -The Kyichu Lhakhang in Bhutan is a fantastic visual representation of the wealth and grandeur of Bhutanese architecture and culture, and is a joy to explore. This national monument of Bhutan portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

Kyichu Lhakhang is one of the most sacred temples in Bhutan. It is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists in Bhutan and for the people of Bhutan, it is considered one of the most important monuments of Bhutan. The temple was founded in the seventh century by the Tibetan emperor Songtsena Gampo. It is one of the 108 temples that he built to spread Buddhism throughout the region. The Kyichu Lhakhang is considered to be one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Bhutan. The temple is a two-storey building with four entrances. The exterior is decorated with intricate carvings of gods and animals. The temple is surrounded by a beautiful garden with fruit trees and many shrines. In the courtyard of the temple, there is a large stupa made of stone. This stupa is said to contain relics of the two great incarnations of the Buddha: Guru Rinpoche and Nangso Lhatsho. Inside the temple, there is an image of Sakyamuni, the historical Buddha. Other images of gods, goddesses and various Buddhist symbols such as the mandala, are also present. The temple is used as a place of worship and meditation for the Bhutanese people. Pilgrims gather in this temple to offer prayers and perform rituals. Kyichu Lhakhang is also known for its yearly festivals. Every autumn, a great festival is held in the temple, during which pilgrims from all over the country come together to make offerings and take part in religious ceremonies. The temple is also a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can explore the beautiful grounds of the temple and enjoy its amazing architecture and intricate carvings. You must visit one of these historical places in Bhutan on your Bhutan tour

Interesting facts:

1. Kyichu Lhakhang is one of the oldest and most sacred temples in Bhutan, located in the Paro Valley near the Paro Airport. 2. It is one of the 108 temples built in the 7th century by Tibetan King, Songtsen Gampo. 3. It is a popular destination to visit when in Bhutan and it is believed to be the house of divine protection. 4. Inside the temple, visitors will find statues of Buddha and thousands of colorful prayer flags fluttering in the wind. 5. Legend has it that when the temple was being constructed, a giant bird came and blessed the site with a single egg. 6. Every summer, a festival of unique cultural traditions is held in the temple. 7. The temple is also home to a white conch and many gold statues. 8. For those looking to experience a unique religious experience, Kyichu Lhakhang offers meditation and retreat programs for visitors. Visit one of the famous monuments of Bhutan with your friends and family.