Phajoding Monastery: A Serene Retreat in the Himalayas
Discover the serene beauty of Phajoding Monastery, a Buddhist gem in Bhutan, offering breathtaking views and a peaceful atmosphere for reflection and meditation.
Nestled in the stunning landscape of Bhutan, Phajoding Monastery offers a tranquil escape for tourists seeking spiritual solace. This Buddhist temple, located near Thimphu, is not only a place of worship but also a breathtaking destination for hikers and nature lovers. With panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, the monastery serves as a peaceful haven for reflection and meditation.
A brief summary to Phajoding Monastery ཕ་ཇོ་ལྡིང་།
- FHQF+MRM, Phajoding-Pumola Trail, Phajoding, BT
- Monday 9 am-3 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-3 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-3 pm
- Thursday 9 am-3 pm
- Friday 9 am-3 pm
- Saturday 9 am-3 pm
- Sunday 9 am-3 pm
Local tips
- Start your hike early in the morning to enjoy the cooler temperatures and stunning sunrise views.
- Bring water and snacks, as the trek can be strenuous and there are limited facilities at the monastery.
- Respect the local customs and dress modestly when visiting the monastery.
- Consider joining a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the history and significance of the monastery.
- Don't forget your camera; the panoramic views from the monastery are breathtaking!
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car from Sarpang, head north on the main road (THIMPHU - PHUENTSHOLING ROAD) towards Thimphu. Continue for approximately 60 km until you reach the sign for Phajoding Monastery. Follow the signs to the Phajoding-Pumola Trail. The last stretch requires driving on a dirt road, which may need a 4WD vehicle. Once parked, the monastery is a short hike up the trail.
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Public Transportation
From Sarpang, take a local bus heading to Thimphu. The bus ride typically takes around 2-3 hours. Disembark at the Thimphu bus terminal. From there, you can hire a taxi to take you to the Phajoding-Pumola Trail. The taxi ride will take about 30 minutes. Ensure to agree on a fare beforehand, as taxis in Bhutan may not use meters. The monastery is a short hike from the parking area.
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Hiking
For those who are adventurous, you can hike to Phajoding Monastery from Thimphu. Start your journey from the city center towards the Phajoding-Pumola Trailhead. The hike is approximately 10 km and can take about 3-4 hours, depending on your pace. The trail is steep in places, so wear appropriate hiking gear and carry enough water and snacks.
Discover more about Phajoding Monastery ཕ་ཇོ་ལྡིང་།
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