Chagri Dorjeden Monastery: A Serene Retreat in Thimphu
Discover the tranquil beauty and spiritual essence of Chagri Dorjeden Monastery, a must-visit cultural gem in the heart of Bhutan.
Nestled in the hills surrounding Thimphu, Chagri Dorjeden Monastery offers a peaceful escape, rich cultural heritage, and stunning views of Bhutan’s natural beauty, making it a must-visit for tourists seeking tranquility and spirituality.
A brief summary to Chagri Dorjeden Monastery ལྕགས་རི་རྡོ་རྗེ་ལྡན་དགོན་པ།
- 21 Norzin Lam 2, Thimphu, BT
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes for the hike; the trails can be steep and rocky.
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and experience the monastery in peace.
- Respect local customs; dress modestly and be mindful when taking photographs.
- Take your time exploring; each corner of the monastery has its own unique charm.
- Engage with the monks if you can; they often share insights about Buddhism and the monastery's history.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car from central Gasa, head southeast on the main road (Gasa-Thimphu Highway). Continue for approximately 30 km until you reach the junction at Gasa Dzong. From there, take a left turn towards Chagri Dorjeden Monastery, which is about 10 km away. The road will take you through beautiful landscapes and you may need to navigate some steep sections. Make sure to check your fuel level before starting this trip, as there are limited refueling options along the way.
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Public Transportation
To reach Chagri Dorjeden Monastery using public transportation, start from Gasa town and look for a local bus heading towards Thimphu. These buses typically depart from the main bus terminal in Gasa. After approximately 30 minutes, get off at the Gasa Dzong stop. From there, you can hire a local taxi or a shared vehicle to take you the remaining 10 km to the monastery. The taxi ride will take around 20 minutes. Be prepared for some negotiation on the fare, which may range between 200 to 400 Nu depending on the number of passengers.
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Hiking
For adventurous travelers, hiking to Chagri Dorjeden Monastery is an excellent option. From Gasa, take the same route towards Gasa Dzong, and then follow the trail signs leading to the monastery. The hike is approximately 10 km and can take around 3 to 4 hours depending on your pace. Ensure you wear good hiking boots and carry sufficient water and snacks. The trail offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.