Phajoding Monastery, Tibetan Buddhist monastery at 4000 meters above Thimphu, Bhutan
Phajoding Monastery is a Buddhist monastery complex situated on a mountain slope approximately 4000 meters above Thimphu. The compound includes several temples, prayer halls, and study buildings arranged across the hillside terrain.
The monastery was founded in the 13th century by Phajo Drugom Zhigpo and received major structural additions during the 18th century under Gyelwa Shakya Rinchen. These two periods shaped the layout and buildings you see today.
The monastery functions as a learning center where monks study Buddhist teachings and perform religious rituals daily. The rhythm of life here revolves around prayer sessions and ceremonies that mark the passage of time throughout the year.
The hike takes about three hours uphill from the Youth Centre in Motithang following rocky mountain paths. Wear sturdy shoes and plan for the higher elevation as you ascend the slope.
A natural water spring called Drub Chhu flows from a cliff face and holds a special place in local tradition connected to healing speech problems. You can discover this hidden spring during the hike up to the monastery.
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