Kurjey Lhakhang, Buddhist temple in Jakar, Bhutan
Kurjey Lhakhang is a temple complex in Jakar that sits on a hillside and consists of three buildings with white walls, carved wooden details, and hand-painted decorations. The complex is surrounded by 108 chorten walls and contains multiple sanctuaries with Buddhist statues plus ceremonial spaces.
The first temple, Guru Lhakhang, was built in 1652 by Mingyur Tenpa, followed by two additional structures added in 1900 and 1984. This construction spanning several centuries shows the site's ongoing importance to the local Buddhist community.
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.
A cypress tree growing beside the monastery is said to have originated from the walking stick of Guru Rinpoche, an important teacher in Tibetan Buddhism. Inside the oldest building, the body imprint of Guru Rinpoche is preserved in a cave, a rare spiritual artifact.
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