Jangchubling Dzong- A Monastery To Look Out For In Bhutan

Jangchubling Dzong, situated in Lhuentse, Bhutan, is an ideal destination for those seeking tranquility. Majestic mountains surround the monastery and offer a serene environment that soothes visitors’ minds, providing an unparalleled sense of peace. We have prepared a Jangchubling Dzong Travel Guide that will make your trip easier. So when you book your Bhutan Tour Packages, be sure to check out this amazing ancient monastery.

Jangchubling Dzong in Lhuentse at a glance

Lhuentse is also famous for its weavers and unique textiles, which are considered among the finest in the country. The renowned textile fabric called ‘Kishuthara’ originates from this region, and other popular items such as ‘Ara,’ the Bhutanese wine made from fermented rice or maize, are also well-known here.

The magnificent fortress monastery – Jangchubling Dzong showcases the timeless beauty of traditional Bhutanese architecture. Erected in the 18th century by Pekar Jamtsho, a Paro native, this tranquil haven bears witness to his profound personal journey. Embarking on a transformative odyssey at the age of 27, he traveled from Trongsa to Kurtoe, leaving his legacy at Jangchubling through the construction of a modest shrine and two stupas.

Established in the 18th century by Pekar Gyatso with support from the 16th , the dzong has a rich history. Ashi Wangmo, daughter of the 1st King, once lived here as a nun. One of the things to do in Jangchubling Dzong is admire the rich history and architecture of this cultural monastery.

History of Jangchubling Dzong in Bhutan

The prophecy indicated that his noble activities were destined for the sentient beings of Mon Yul in the south. Following his guru’s guidance, Ngawang Samten Jamtsho journeyed south. Upon reaching Khawtangla, he saw the Jangchubling area covered in thick fog, except for a spot illuminated by sunlight where Lam Pekar Jamtsho’s tsham khang stood. Believing this to be his destined place, he continued with a sense of joy.

Lam Pekar Jamtsho, through his clairvoyance, anticipated Ngawang Samten Jamtsho’s arrival and greeted him with tea, recognizing him as a man of great merit. Despite not knowing each other before, they met with happiness and gratitude, witnessing many miraculous signs. Lam Pekar Jamtsho relinquished his meditative structure for Ngawang Samten Jamtsho, who then built the Jangchubling monastery in the 20th century, where it now stands with beautiful Bhutanese architecture.

The Nyinthig system of the Nyingma tradition began flourishing there. Around this time, Ashi Wangmo, daughter of the first monarch Gongsa Ugyen Wangchuk, returned to Bhutan after years of rigorous Buddhist training under the 16th Karmapa Rangjung Rigpai Dorji in Tibet. Devoted to Buddhism and compassionate to all beings, she supported the lama and expanded the monastery.

Following the Chinese invasion of Tibet in 1959, many Tibetan lamas sought refuge outside Tibet. The 16th Gyalwa Karmapa, Ashi Wangmo’s root guru, fled to Bhutan, and she invited him to Jangchubling Gonpa. Since then, the Kamtshang Kagyu tradition has flourished at the monastery.

Currently, monks of the Drukpa Kagyu sect, along with a lama, manage the monastic affairs. The Jangchubling monastery in Bhutan is one of the most wonderful places to visit for an extraordinary experience and houses numerous precious relics, including the ’ (dress), leather boot, and cap of the 16th Karmapa, the cup and rosary of a previous Situ Rinpoche, and a statue of Tshepamey, the main relic.

How To Reach Jangchubling Dzong

By Air: The nearest airport to Lhuentse is Paro International Airport, located 500 km away, which offers connections to major cities worldwide. From Paro, travelers can reach Thimphu and then hire a bus or taxi to Lhuentse.

By Road: Lhuentse is accessible via an extensive network of roadways connecting it to Paro and other cities. Visitors can travel from Thimphu to Lhuentse via Wangdue Phodrang and Bumthang districts.

Those coming from Guwahati, India, can take the southern route passing through Samdrup Jongkhar, Mongar (via the Mongar-Lhuentse highway), and Trashigang districts to reach Lhuentse.

Best time to visit Jangchubling Dzong Bhutan

Bhutan in March and April makes for a great time to trek in Bhutan, one of the best things to do in Bhutan.

The onset of rain in Bhutan typically occurs around mid-June or later, with the monsoon season lasting until September. An amazing Jangchubling Dzong travel tip is to travel there during monsoon season.

The monsoon season enhances the area’s beauty, making it an ideal time for nature enthusiasts to plan a visit.

October and November are optimal months for indulging in trekking adventures and partaking in the country’s festivities.

Bhutan in December is quite chilly but it has its perks for adventure seekers who do not mind a bit of cold.

Places to Visit Near Jangchubling Dzong

• Lhuentse Dzong

Lhuentse Dzong is an imposing fortress strategically perched atop a hill, overlooking the renowned Kurichu River. Built in the 17th century by the , , the dzong currently serves as the center for government and religious administrations. It houses numerous sacred artifacts dating back to the 16th century.

• Kilung Lhakhang

In the small village of Kilung, there is a sacred temple known as Kilung Lhakhang, situated on a ridge. The village is home to the Tshanglas, an ethnic group that is believed to have settled in the area in the 19th century. The temple’s most notable artifact is a sacred chain mail, which was used to retrieve a statue that had flown away from Lhuentse Dzong.

• Dungkar Nagtshang

Dungkar Nagtshang, the ancestral home of the Wangchuck Dynasty, is perched on a mountain overlooking the small village of Dungkar. The Dungkar expedition organized here offers an exciting journey into the mystical and historical past of the country.

• Khoma Village

Khoma village, renowned as the birthplace of the exquisite woven textile known as Kishuthara, possesses an enchanting and awe-inspiring atmosphere. Located among majestic mountains, the women of Khoma demonstrate exceptional skill in the art of weaving. Visitors flock to this village to witness firsthand the intricate process of traditional loom weaving, marveling at how the women skillfully blend their talents to create Kishuthara.

• Statue of Guru Rinpoche

Perched atop Takila mountain at a towering height of 173 feet, stands the world’s tallest statue of Guru Padmasambhava, affectionately revered in Bhutan as Guru Rinpoche, the precious jewel. Commanding a majestic presence, the statue overlooks the Tangmachu Valley in the Lhuentse district, one of the most beautiful valleys in Bhutan.

Constructed under the prophecy of the esteemed (1856 – 1926), the statue symbolizes the enduring prosperity and happiness of Bhutan and the world. The temple was erected by the late , a revered spiritual master who served as a mentor to the 5th King of Bhutan.

• Treasures to cherish

Jangchubling Dzong Bhutan, located among picturesque mountains, offers a unique blend of spiritual serenity and historical richness. Its serene environment, combined with its deep-rooted cultural and religious significance, provides visitors with an unparalleled experience of peace and reflection.

The monastery’s storied past and its role in the flourishing of Buddhist traditions make it a remarkable destination for those seeking tranquility and a deeper understanding of Bhutan’s spiritual heritage. A visit here is not just a journey through stunning landscapes, but also a profound exploration of faith and history and you can get the experience of life lessons to take from the Bhutan trip.