Kyichu Lhakhang
Kyichu Lhakhang also known as Kyerchu Temple is one of the oldest monasteries in Bhutan. Built in 7th century, Kyichu Lhakhang is situated in Lango Gewog of Paro Valley. Kyichu Lhakhang is composed of twin temples. The original foundation of Kyichu Lhakhang was laid by Songsten Gampo and later in 1968 the foundation of 2nd temple in Kyichu Lhakhang was built under the commandment of Queen Mother of Bhutan, Ashi Kesang Choden.
Being a historical significant monument, Kyichu Lhakhang along with its pictorial landscape has been one of the must visit places in Paro Valley.
History of Kyichu Lhakhang
The History of Kyichu Lakhang is quite interesting. According to the ancient Bhutanese legend, a giant demones lay across the whole of Tibet and the Himalayas which was thwarting the establishment of Buddhism in the Himalayas. To subdue her, Songtsen Gampo, the first Buddhist King of Tibet built 108 temples one of them being Kichu Lhakhang. It is believed that Kyichu Lakhang is built on the left foot of the demoness.
Why Was Kyichu Lhakhang Built?
According to the ancient Bhutanese legend, a giant demoness lay across the whole of Tibet and the Himalayas which was thwarting the establishment of Buddhism in Himalayas and to subdue her, Songtsen Gampo, the first Buddhist King of Tibet built 108 temples one of them being Kyichu Lhakhang. It is believed that Kyichu Lhakhang is built on the left foot of the demoness.
Over the years the Kyichu Lhakhang has been visited and blessed by many revered Buddhist saints including Guru Rinpoche in the 8th century, Lam Kha Nga and Phajo Dugom Zhigpo. Many of them also helped in expanding the exterior of Kyichu Lhakhang. One such personality was Je Sherub Gyeltshen who lived during the 18th century. He extended the Jowo Temple of Kyichu Lhakhang and added many new statues in the sanctum.
Interesting Fact About Kyichu Lhakhang
Did you know? It is said that Kyichu Lhakhang is one of 108 temples which were built overnight across Tibet and borderland by Songsten Gampo in 7thcentury.
Places to See near Kyichu Lhakhang
Kyichu Lhakhang, the sacred jewel of Bhutan, has plenty of places to visit & see near it. Some of the most visited sightseeing places near Kyichu Lhakhang are
1. Taktsang Monastery
Situated at a distance of more than 8 km, Paro Taktsang Monastery is one of the most visited travel destinations near Kyichu Lhakhang. Also known as the Tiger's Nest, it is a fascinating Cliffside monastery on the upper Paro Valley of Bhutan. Moreover, Taktsang Trail can be reached in more than 20 minutes from Kyichu Lhakhang.
2. Paro Dzong
Listed under the tentative site of UNESCO, Paro Dzong is another sightseeing place to visit Near Kyichu Lhakhang. Also known as Rinpung Dzong, this charming monastery stays widely open only during the auspicious Tshechu Festival.
However, the courtyard of the Dzong stays publicly open for the mass all through the year. Just about 9 km drive away from Kichu Lakhang; the three tall statues of Guru Rinpoche, Buddha and Zhabdrang are the major attractions of Rinpung Dzong.
3. Paro National Museum
Established in 1968, Paro National Museum is also a must-visit sightseeing Place to visit near Kyichu Lhakhang. Situated at a distance of 7 km from Kichu Lhakhang, it is a round Shape Museum. Many ancient Bhutanese artifacts, Books and arts are preserved here.
4. Jangtsa Dumtseg Lhakhang
Just 5 km away from the famous Kyichu Temple, Jangtsa Dumtseg Lhakhang is a spellbinding temple in the form of a chorten which is very rare in Bhutan. Located between the Paro Valley and Dopchari Valley, the temple is worth visiting due to its breathtaking architecture.
5. Haa Valley & Chele la Pass
Just 3 hours' drive and 70 km away from Kyichu Temple, Chele la Pass is undoubtedly a must-visit place. The highest motorable pass in Bhutan, there is a frozen river, rhododendron forest, and waterfall, to see in Chele la Pass. Furthermore, it also offers a stunning view of Mt. Jumolhari.
Just an hour's drive from Chele la Pass, Haa Valley is one of the most beautiful places in Bhutan. Situated amidst the lush alpine forest, Haa valley is full of scenic attractions which make it a worth visiting destination.
How To Reach Kyichu Lhakhang
The best way to reach Kyichu Lhakhang is by hiking. From Paro it is an approx 1hr hike to reach Kyichu Lhakhang.
Distance: The distance between Paro to Kyichu Lhakhang is 5 kilometers.
Timings To Kyichu Lhakhang
Tourists who wish to visit this grandiose ancient Buddhist Monastery should note the timing of Kyichu Lhakhang. Travelers can visit Kyichu Lhakhang anytime between 9am to 12pm and 1pm to 5pm throughout the week.
Our Tour Packages offerings
Your Bhutan tour will certainly stay incomplete if you don't visit one of the oldest temples and the sacred jewel of Bhutan, Kyichu Lhakhang. In order to make your Bhutan Trip quite pleasing and complete, North Bengal Tourism offers a bunch of Bhutan Tour Packages. Some of the best tour Packages are
- 6 Days Bhutan Tour Package to explore Thimpu, Paro and also the breathtaking Haa Valley & Chele la Pass.
- Bhutan Holiday Package for 8 days covering Paro as well as Punakha, Thimpu, and Phuentsholing.
- 5 Days Bhutan tour package to enjoy all the sightseeing places of Paro, Thimpu, and Phuentsholing.
- 7 Days Bhutan Trip to travel to all the attractions of Paro, Thimpu, and Punakha.
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