Kurjey Lhakhang, Buddhist temple in Jakar, Bhutan
Kurjey Lhakhang is a three-temple complex in the Bumthang valley near Jakar, built against a cave where Guru Rinpoche is said to have meditated. The oldest building, Guru Lhakhang, was raised by King Sindhu Raja; the other two are Sampa Lhundrup Lhakhang and Ka Goen Phur Sum Lhakhang. The cave holds an imprint of Guru Rinpoche's body, which gives the site its name.
The oldest temple, Guru Lhakhang, was built by King Sindhuraja against the cave where Padmasambhava meditated and subdued the local deity Shelging Karpo, the event that gave the site its name. The complex now has three structures: Guru Lhakhang, Sampa Lhundrup Lhakhang and Ka Goen Phur Sum Lhakhang. It is the final resting place of the remains of the first three Kings of Bhutan.
The site draws visitors during the annual Kurjey Tshechu festival in June, when monks in traditional masks perform stories from Buddhist mythology. These celebrations remain an important part of the community's religious life.
The complex includes a meditation cave and multiple sanctuaries that can be visited during daylight hours. Visitors should be prepared for stairs and pathways throughout the site, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
The large tree behind one of the temple buildings is believed to be a terma left there by Padmasambhava. The site's name, Kurjey, refers to the imprint of Padmasambhava's body on the meditation cave where he subdued the local deity Shelging Karpo.
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