Dechen Phodrang Monastery: A Serene Retreat in Thimphu
Experience the tranquility of Dechen Phodrang Monastery, a stunning Buddhist temple in Thimphu offering breathtaking views and spiritual serenity.
Nestled in the hills above Thimphu, Dechen Phodrang Monastery is an iconic Buddhist temple that offers stunning views of the city and a tranquil atmosphere for reflection and prayer. A visit to this sacred site immerses tourists in Bhutanese spiritual culture and breathtaking landscapes.
A brief summary to Dechen Phodrang Monastery བདེ་ཆེན་ཕོ་བྲང་།
- GJ2J+FX9, Thimphu, Samteling, BT
- +97517610167
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and catch the sunrise over Thimphu.
- Dress modestly and respectfully, as this is a sacred site.
- Don't forget your camera; the view from the monastery is truly spectacular.
- Take time to observe the intricate details of the temple's architecture and murals.
Getting There
-
Car
If you're driving from Thimphu city center, head southwest on Norzin Lam towards the Chubachu area. Continue straight until you reach the roundabout near the National Stadium. Take the second exit onto Dechen Lam and follow the signs for Dechen Phodrang Monastery. After approximately 3 km, you will see the monastery on your left. There is a parking area available near the entrance.
-
Taxi
To reach Dechen Phodrang Monastery by taxi, you can easily hail a taxi from anywhere in Thimphu. Simply tell the driver 'Dechen Phodrang Monastery,' and they will take you there. The fare will typically range from 200 to 300 Ngultrum (approximately $3 to $4.50 USD), depending on your pickup location.
-
Public Bus
If you prefer public transportation, take the local bus from Thimphu city center to the Taba area. Look for buses heading towards Taba, which usually depart from the bus terminal near the Clock Tower. Once you reach Taba, get off and walk towards Dechen Phodrang Monastery, which is about a 20-minute walk uphill. Follow the signs along the way.
-
Walking
For those who enjoy walking, if you are staying near the city center, you can walk to Dechen Phodrang Monastery. Start from the Clock Tower and head southwest on Norzin Lam, then proceed to Dechen Lam as mentioned above. The walk will take approximately 45 minutes, and it's a scenic route with views of the valley.
Discover more about Dechen Phodrang Monastery བདེ་ཆེན་ཕོ་བྲང་།
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
OMSHA Travel - Travel Guide to Bhutan
0.2 km
Immerse yourself in Bhutan's natural beauty and rich culture with OMSHA Travel, your expert partner for unforgettable journeys in the Land of the Thunder Dragon.
Happiness Inside Journey
1.5 km
Experience the magic of Bhutan with Happiness Inside Journey, your gateway to unforgettable adventures and cultural immersion in the heart of Thimphu.
Zilukha Nunnery
1.7 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and spiritual essence of Zilukha Nunnery, a serene sanctuary in the heart of Thimphu, Bhutan.
Folk heritage museum restaurant
2.1 km
Experience the rich flavors of Bhutan at the Folk Heritage Museum Restaurant in Thimphu, where culture and cuisine intertwine.
Trekking In Bhutan
2.5 km
Explore Bhutan's stunning landscapes, rich culture, and sacred spirituality with expert-guided treks in the heart of the Himalayas.
Tarayana Park ཏཱ་ར་ཡ་ན་སྐྱེད་ཚལ།
2.5 km
Explore the serene landscapes and cultural artistry at Tarayana Park, a peaceful oasis in the heart of Thimphu, Bhutan.
Keys to Bhutan
2.8 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty and rich culture of Bhutan with personalized travel experiences from Keys to Bhutan in Thimphu.
Bhutan Karma Trails
3.0 km
Unleash your wanderlust with Bhutan Karma Trails, your trusted travel agency for unforgettable adventures in Bhutan's breathtaking landscapes.
Bhutan Swallowtail Travels
3.0 km
Experience the beauty and culture of Bhutan with Bhutan Swallowtail Travels, your gateway to unforgettable Himalayan adventures.
Bhutanese Paper Factory
3.0 km
Explore Bhutan's rich papermaking heritage at the Bhutanese Paper Factory, where tradition meets artistry in every handmade creation.
Pelyang Boutique
3.0 km
Discover the charm of Thimphu at Pelyang Boutique, where modern luxury meets traditional Bhutanese hospitality for an unforgettable stay.
Namgay Adventure Travels
3.0 km
Discover Bhutan’s breathtaking landscapes and rich culture with tailored adventures from Namgay Adventure Travels, your premier tour operator in Thimphu.
Khamsum Inn
3.2 km
Discover the warm hospitality and comfort at Khamsum Inn in Thimphu, your perfect base for exploring Bhutan's cultural riches.
Amankora, Thimphu
3.2 km
Discover the luxurious serenity of Amankora, Thimphu, where modern elegance meets traditional Bhutanese hospitality amidst breathtaking Himalayan landscapes.
Hotel kenny
3.3 km
Discover comfort and local charm at Hotel Kenny in Thimphu, your gateway to exploring Bhutan's vibrant capital with ease and style.
Unmissable attractions to see
Tashichho Dzong Viewpoint
1.0 km
Experience the stunning vistas of Tashichho Dzong at this breathtaking viewpoint in Thimphu, Bhutan - a must-visit for every traveler.
Hejo Viewpoint
1.0 km
Experience breathtaking views and serene landscapes at Hejo Viewpoint, a must-visit spot in Thimphu that embodies the natural beauty of Bhutan.
Ludrong Memorial Garden
1.1 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of Ludrong Memorial Garden in Thimphu, a peaceful retreat filled with vibrant flora and cultural richness.
Tashichho Dzong
1.2 km
Discover the architectural beauty and spiritual significance of Tashichho Dzong, a cultural gem in Bhutan's capital, Thimphu.
Sacred Kingdom Travel, Bhutan
1.5 km
Explore Bhutan's breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage at Sacred Kingdom Travel, your gateway to an unforgettable Himalayan adventure.
Thangthong Dewachen Dupthop Nunnery
1.7 km
Discover the tranquility of Thangthong Dewachen Dupthop Nunnery in Thimphu, a sacred site that embodies the essence of Bhutanese spiritual culture and breathtaking natural beauty.
National Library & Archives of Bhutan
2.0 km
Uncover the treasures of Bhutanese culture at the National Library & Archives, a gateway to the nation's history and literary heritage.
National Institute for Zorig Chusum
2.0 km
Discover the essence of Bhutanese culture at the National Institute for Zorig Chusum, where traditional arts come to life in the heart of Thimphu.
Folk Heritage Museum Kawajangsa
2.1 km
Explore the Folk Heritage Museum in Thimphu for an immersive journey into Bhutanese culture and traditions, showcasing rural life and artisanal skills.
Sangaygang – Phajoding Trail
2.1 km
Discover the breathtaking Sangaygang – Phajoding Trail, where stunning landscapes and rich culture meet in Thimphu, Bhutan's hiking haven.
Sangaygang View Point
2.1 km
Discover the breathtaking vistas of Sangaygang View Point, an unmissable gem in Bhutan that captures the beauty of the Himalayas and rich local culture.
Royal Textile Academy རྒྱལ་འཛིན་ཐག་རིག་སློབ་སྡེ།
2.5 km
Discover the rich textile heritage of Bhutan at the Royal Textile Academy, a unique cultural hub celebrating traditional weaving and artistry.
Department of Tourism, Bhutan
2.5 km
Explore Bhutan's stunning landscapes and rich culture at the Department of Tourism, your ultimate travel resource in Norzin.
The Ancient Trail
2.6 km
Explore the Ancient Trail in Thimphu - a breathtaking hiking experience surrounded by stunning landscapes and rich Bhutanese culture.
Bhutan king home
2.7 km
Discover the royal charm of Dechencholing Palace in Thimphu, a stunning symbol of Bhutanese culture and history set against breathtaking mountain landscapes.
Essential places to dine
Alpine Kitchen
0.4 km
Discover Alpine Kitchen in Thimphu: A fusion of traditional Bhutanese flavors and modern culinary artistry awaits you.
The Forest Boutique
0.5 km
Discover culinary delights at The Forest Boutique in Thimphu; where exquisite dining meets serene natural beauty.
Eatery 108 Restaurant
1.1 km
Discover authentic Bhutanese cuisine at Eatery 108 in Thimphu - a culinary haven for travelers seeking local flavors.
Phangu
2.0 km
Experience authentic Bhutanese flavors at Phangu – where tradition meets taste in the heart of Thimphu.
Wangchang Restaurant
2.2 km
Experience authentic Bhutanese flavors at Wangchang Restaurant in Thimphu – where tradition meets taste.
Phuntshum Restaurant
2.4 km
Experience authentic Bhutanese flavors at Phuntshum Restaurant in Thimphu, where tradition meets taste in every dish.
ZaSa
2.4 km
Experience exquisite dining at ZaSa in Thimphu - where local flavors meet global cuisine in an inviting atmosphere.
TAURUS RESTAURANT
2.5 km
Discover the essence of Bhutanese culture through authentic dishes at Taurus Restaurant in Thimphu.
Hada valley resturent &bar
2.5 km
Experience the flavors of Bhutan at Hada Valley Restaurant & Bar in Thimphu - where tradition meets culinary excellence.
Kalden Restaurant
2.5 km
Discover authentic Bhutanese cuisine at Kalden Restaurant in Thimphu—where tradition meets taste in every delightful dish.
San Maru Restaurant
2.5 km
Experience authentic Korean cuisine at San Maru Restaurant in Norzin - a must-visit for food enthusiasts seeking delightful flavors.
Chickazaa Thimphu
2.5 km
Experience authentic Bhutanese flavors at Chickazaa Thimphu - where every dish tells a story.
Jholha Restaurant
2.6 km
Experience authentic Bhutanese flavors at Jholha Restaurant in Thimphu – a culinary gem showcasing local cuisine amidst warm hospitality.
Fu Lu Shou - Authentic Chinese Restaurant
2.7 km
Discover authentic Chinese flavors at Fu Lu Shou in Thimphu – where every meal tells a story.
LOMA GU RESTUARANT
2.7 km
Experience authentic Bhutanese flavors at Loma Gu Restaurant in Thimphu – where every dish tells a story.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Kezang Enterprise
0.4 km
Explore Kezang Enterprise in Thimphu for quality hardware supplies and a taste of local craftsmanship.
Bhutan Natural Products
1.1 km
Explore authentic Bhutanese crafts and natural products at Bhutan Natural Products, a unique shopping destination in Thimphu.
Tamang general shop
1.4 km
Explore the local flavors and essentials at Tamang General Shop in Thimphu, a must-visit general store for every traveler.
Bhutan Handicraft Shopping Centre
2.1 km
Discover the essence of Bhutanese culture through exquisite handicrafts at Bhutan Handicraft Shopping Centre in Thimphu.
Druk Herbal Cordyceps
2.1 km
Explore the rich heritage of Bhutanese herbal medicine at Druk Herbal Cordyceps in Thimphu, offering natural remedies and wellness products.
Choki Handicrafts
2.1 km
Explore the unique charm of Bhutanese handicrafts at Choki Handicrafts, where culture and artistry meet in every exquisite piece.
Bhutan Craft Market
2.5 km
Discover the heart of Bhutanese culture at the Bhutan Craft Market, where unique handmade souvenirs and local artistry come together in vibrant Thimphu.
B-Mart
2.6 km
Explore local flavors and find your essentials at B-Mart, the go-to supermarket in Thimphu, Bhutan.
Drukpro Bhutan
2.6 km
Explore Drukpro Bhutan in Chubachu for unique Bhutanese gifts and souvenirs that capture the essence of your travel experience.
EMPOWERING YOUTH OF BHUTAN. Souvenir Production Outlet
2.7 km
Explore the Empowering Youth of Bhutan Outlet for unique souvenirs that support local artisans and celebrate the rich culture of Bhutan.
Tshering Yangzom Tshongkhang
2.7 km
Explore local treasures at Tshering Yangzom Tshongkhang, a charming general store in the heart of Thimphu, Bhutan.
SHOP NO. 7, LHATSHOG TSHONGKHANG
2.7 km
Discover the heart of Thimphu at Shop No. 7, Lhatshog Tshongkhang, where local flavors and everyday essentials await.
SIKKA TRADERS
2.7 km
Explore Thimphu's local flavor at SIKKA TRADERS, a convenient store offering essentials and unique finds for every traveler.
My Store Bhutan
2.8 km
Explore the essence of Bhutan through local crafts and unique souvenirs at My Store Bhutan in Thimphu.
Berger Paints: Colors & Style
2.8 km
Explore vibrant shades and high-quality paints at Berger Paints in Thimphu, where creativity meets color in the heart of Bhutan.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Hada Valley Bistro & Bar
2.4 km
Experience the best of Bhutanese and international cuisine at Hada Valley Bistro & Bar in Thimphu, where great food meets vibrant ambiance.
Garuda Bar & Cafe
2.5 km
Experience the vibrant culture of Thimphu at Garuda Bar & Cafe, where delicious local cuisine meets a lively atmosphere for all travelers.
Ara Cocktail
2.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Ara Cocktail in Thimphu, where diverse cocktails meet a lively atmosphere for an unforgettable evening.
The Station, Bistro Bar & Entertainment
2.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Station, Thimphu's premier bistro bar with delicious food, drinks, and live entertainment.
Drunken Yeti
2.7 km
Experience the unique charm of Drunken Yeti in Thimphu, where local ambiance meets delightful beverages for a perfect night out.
Hashtag
2.7 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Thimphu at Hashtag Bar, where cocktails meet culture in a lively atmosphere.
Tiger Pub
2.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Thimphu at Tiger Pub, the karaoke bar where locals and tourists unite for an unforgettable musical journey.
Country Lounge
2.8 km
Discover the lively ambiance of Country Lounge, Thimphu's top bar for drinks, entertainment, and a taste of local culture.
Pelvar Diner
2.8 km
Experience the authentic flavors of Bhutan at Pelvar Diner in Thimphu, where local cuisine meets a cozy dining atmosphere.
Real illusions Restro Bar
2.9 km
Discover the vibrant Real Illusions Restro Bar in Thimphu, where exquisite food meets a lively atmosphere for an unforgettable night out.
The Roof
2.9 km
Discover the vibrant bar scene at The Roof in Thimphu, where stunning views and exceptional beverages await every visitor.
Hydeout bar
2.9 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Thimphu at Hydeout Bar, where local culture meets delightful drinks in a lively setting.
Brokpa Bar
3.0 km
Discover the cozy charm of Brokpa Bar in Thimphu, where local brews meet warm hospitality in a culturally rich setting.
Avenue 28 Club
3.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Avenue 28 Club in Thimphu, where live music, dancing, and delicious food come together for an unforgettable evening.
Catch 34 - A Space Restaurant
3.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Thimphu at Catch 34, a bar that combines local flair with a modern twist, perfect for socializing and relaxation.
