
Nestled on the eastern side of the Himalayas, Bhutan is a majestic Buddhist kingdom that is known for its gorgeous natural features. It is characterized by vast rolling plains, dramatic mountainous landscapes, and hilly regions. Moreover, the country boasts a multitude of fascinating monasteries and remarkable fortresses that are other must-visit attractions. Ideal for all types of tourists, especially nature-lovers and those who like learning about foreign cultures, Bhutan is a country of diverse offerings and a piece of heaven on earth. If you are planning to explore this side of the Himalayas any time soon, here is a list of the most amazing monasteries to visit in Bhutan. Feel free to check them out below.
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1. Paro Taktsang

Bhutan is exceptionally famous for its remarkable monasteries that feature intricate architecture. Most of them are located in peaceful and tranquil areas, where monks can live peacefully and adhere to their religious rituals, undisturbed.
While in the country, don’t forget to swing by Paro Taktsang. It nests above the upper Paro Valley and the monastery not only has serene surroundings, but picturesque natural views, as well. Its majestic golden accents and iconic cave temple are two features that stand out for visitors. Not only that, besides the architecture, there are the scenic views and the trek to reach the monastery – lots of people climb to the peak to try the delicious Bhutanese fare at Paro Taktsang’s cafe.
Paro Taktsang
Address: Taktsang trail BT, Taktsang trail, Bhutan
Website: Paro Taktsang
Opening hours: 8am - 1pm & 2pm - 6pm (daily)
Price: 7 USD
Tip from Content Creator
Paro Taktsang is a must-visit attraction in Paro. Also known as The Tiger's Nest, the monastery boasts a highest elevation of 10,232 ft (3118 m). With a total distance of 6.4 km (3.9 mi), the trek to the monastery offers mesmerizing views of Paro Valley. It may take between three and five hours depending on your pace. The trekking trail that leads to Paro Taktsang is considered a bit challenging, but all it takes is the determination to reach the destination. Note that the entry fee for the monastery is 500 INR (6 USD) and cameras are not allowed inside.
Traveler's tips
Hiking to Tiger’s Nest is a must-do. The challenging trek takes about 4–5 hours round trip, offering stunning views and a chance to explore sacred temples. Hiking sticks and sturdy footwear are essential, and there’s an option to ride a pony partway up. Altitude in Bhutan varies significantly, with most areas at a moderate height. While altitude sickness is less severe than in places like Tibet, it’s wise to pack layers and acclimatize gradually, especially for hikes like Tiger’s Nest.
2. Phajoding Monastery
Situated in the small, lovely town of Phajoding, the Phajoding Monastery used to be one of the most-visited sacred sites in Bhutan. In the past, it was a captivating and well-decorated monastery, but as time went by, the place became neglected. It was built in the 13th century and in 2010, it was officially declared an endangered cultural monument by the World Monument Fund. To reach the monastery, you have to embark on a three-hour hike. Most tourists come to this place for a bit of cardio and the views.
Phajoding Monastery
Address: Phajoding-Pumola Trail, Phajoding, Bhutan
3. Punakha Dzong

Presently, Punakha Dzong serves as the winter house of the head monastery, Dratshang. This sacred site is located in the Punakha District and it is also referred to as Pungthang Dewa Chhenbi Phodrang. The monastery boasts a dramatic landscape. You’ll see a mountainous backdrop and an enchanting river that accentuates the region.
The monastery’s architecture is mostly inspired by the Drukpa period. Inside, there are several highlights to the Punakha Dzong, including the hundred pillar assembly hall, the chapel dedicated to the queen of the naga, and the iconic white stupa.
Punakha Dzong
Address: Punakha district, Bhutan
Website: Punakha Dzong
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 5pm; Sat: 11am - 1pm & 2pm - 4pm (closed on Sun)
Price: 4 USD
4. Tamzhing Monastery

Tamzhing Monastery is located in the heart of Bhutan, in Bhumtang District. It is believed to have a deep connection to Pema Lingpa. Here, resides the Bhutanese tertön, a religious person believed to be the reincarnation of Pema Lingpa. The temple is small in size, compared to most of the other temples on this list. It is only one story and it has less decor and dramatic flair than the others, as well. Its surroundings include rolling plains and quaint neighborhoods. Tamzhing Monastery is an ideal hideaway to escape city life to meditate.
Tamzhing Monastery
Address: Bumthang District, Bhutan
Bhutan Tour Guide

Jimmy
I'm a certified tour guide in Bhutan with an experience more than 6 years. I'm an intrepid who's keen in meeting with various kinds of tourists and I assure that the visitors have a great time and memorable visit in the country making them experience every part of Bhutanese culture tradition and heritage. I satisfy my visitors my whole another level and I make sure that they're happy because my... Read more
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5. Gangteng Monastery

One must-visit monastery in Bhutan that you should definitely not miss is the Gangteng Monastery. This marvelous place of worship belongs to the Nyingma school of Buddhism. It showcases wonderfully colorful temples that reflect traditional Bhutanese architecture and several Avalokitesvara Lhakhang. It also houses a fascinating collection of ancient weapons.
Officially called Gangtey Gonpa or the Gangtey Monastery, it is in the central part of Bhutan. You’ll find it in Wangdue Phodrang District.
Gangteng Monastery
Address: Wangdue Phodrang District, Bhutan
6. Rinpung Dzong

Another remarkable monastery located in the Paro Valley is Rinpung Dzong. In English, Rinpung Dzong means Fortress of Heaped Jewels. It showcases stunning natural views and a tranquil environment, just like Paro Taktsang, but unlike it, Rinpung Dzong is found at a lower elevation. It is characterized by its concrete fortresses in bright colors. In total, Rinpung Dzong has fourteen places of worship, including shrines and temples. To top it all off, the National Museum of Bhutan is also in Rinpung Dzong, as is the administrative government office of the Paro Dzongkhag.
Rinpung Dzong
Address: Paro, Bhutan
Website: Rinpung Dzong
7. Kyichu Lhakhang

The Paro District of Bhutan has the most monasteries and religious sites in the country. Besides Rinpung Dzong and Paro Taktsang, you’ll find Kyichu Lhakhang in this region of Bhutan. Kyichu Lhakhang is the temple of Guru Lakhang. Apart from worship sites, it has marvelous sculptures of the gurus of the past. It is a tradition for pilgrims who visit the monastery to spin the prayer wheels as they roam around the property.
Kyichu Lhakhang
Address: Paro, Bhutan
Opening hours: 9am - 4pm (daily)
Price: Free
8. Tango Monastery

Constructed inside a cave in Ngawang Namgyal, the Tango Monastery got its name from a relic that was found inside the same cave. This sacred place of worship has been here since the 13th century. Not only a site for worship, the Tango Monastery also offers education to the locals. Inside the monastery lies six temples, namely Guru Lhakhang, Choeku Lhakhang, Trulku Lhakhang, Longku Lhakhang, Namsey Lhakhang, and Gonkhang. While at the Tango Monastery, be sure to check out the golden Buddha inside Trulku Lhakhang.
Tango Monastery
Address: Thimphu, Bhutan
9. Dechen Phodrang

Dechen Phodrang literally means the “Palace of Great Bliss”. This Buddhist monastery is situated in Thimpu Bhutan, just like the Tango Monastery. Aside from being a place of worship and a popular tourist attraction, Dechen Phodrang is a school for monastic education. At present, it houses roughly 450 student monks, who take eight years of holistic studies. This monastery is huge in size and has a lot of common spaces, classrooms for students, and sacred temples. Outside, all you’ll see is marvelous views of Thimpu District’s hilly landscape and countryside neighborhoods.
Dechen Phodrang
Address: Thimphu, Bhutan
Price: Free admission
10. Chagri Dorjeden Monastery

If you like physical and outdoor adventures that let you reconnect with nature, you’ll surely be excited about the hour-long trek to the Chagri Dorjeden Monastery in Thimpu. Perched atop the challenging Dodena Hill, Chagri Dorjeden Monastery is a 17th-century place of worship.
Besides a tourist attraction, the monastery’s main purpose is to serve as a meditation site and retreat hub for the descendants of Drukpa. It houses a main monastery building, peaceful and quiet prayer rooms, and a lovely temple that houses Buddhist paintings. As you climb the hill, you’ll pass through lush forest and picturesque views.
Chagri Dorjeden Monastery
Address: Norzin Lam 2 21, Thimphu, Bhutan
Fall in love with Bhutan
Bhutan is a stunning city at the eastern end of the Himalayas. It boasts breathtaking natural landscapes and marvelous landmarks. Ideal for tourists who like nature and for those who long for an escape from polluted city life, Bhutan has a multitude of monasteries that will shelter you during a retreat. If you are planning to visit this majestic country any time soon, use this list as your guide in planning your itinerary.
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