Have you ever wanted to visit a calm place filled with beauty and tradition on your trip to Bhutan? While the whole country is peaceful, the Rangjung Woesel Choeling Monastery in eastern Bhutan is a perfect example. Founded in 1989 by His Eminence Dungsey Garab Dorje Rinpoche, this important Buddhist monastery helps keep the teachings of Tibetan Buddhism alive. With its colorful paintings and lovely buildings, the monastery is home to many monks and nuns who live and practice their faith there.
Located in eastern Bhutan, in the Trashigang district at Rangjung, this monastery is perfect for anyone wanting to explore Bhutan’s beautiful monasteries! Let’s discover more about this hidden gem and see why it’s a must-visit on your trip!
Rangjung Woesel Choeling Monastery History
Rangjung Woesel Choeling Monastery is located in eastern Bhutan’s Trashigang district at Rangjung. Founded in 1989 by His Eminence Dungsey Garab Dorje Rinpoche with just a few monks and nuns, its goal is to provide a peaceful place for studying Buddhism, following the Dudjom New Treasure Lineage.Rangjung Woesel Choeling Monastery History connects to an earlier monastery called Gelong Gonpa. This earlier monastery was created in a hard-to-reach mountainous area. After the departure of an important teacher, many Bhutanese wanted Rinpoche to continue teaching and practicing Buddhism at the new monastery. Seeing their strong belief, Rinpoche agreed to take on the responsibility of guiding the community’s spiritual activities.
When the monastery started, Rinpoche was studying in India and spent his winter breaks working hard to establish the monastery. At first, there were only a few monks and nuns living in simple bamboo huts. By 1993, the number of nuns grew so much that a separate nunnery was built nearby. With help from donors, Rinpoche was able to construct a larger monastery to support the growing community.
Today, over 300 monks and nuns study there!
Suggested Read: Complete Guide To Pangri Zampa Monastery: Details And Tips
Best Time to Visit Rangjung Woesel Choeling Monastery
The best time to visit Rangjung Woesel Choeling Monastery is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons.Spring:
- Pleasant weather: Mild temperatures and clear skies make it ideal for exploring the monastery and the surrounding areas.
- Vibrant landscapes: The region comes alive with blooming flowers and lush greenery.
Autumn:
- Clear skies: Offers stunning views of the Himalayas.
- Festivals: Many cultural festivals and events take place during this time, providing a unique opportunity to experience Bhutanese traditions.
Why Avoid Monsoon and Winter:
- Monsoon (June to August): Heavy rainfall can make the roads slippery and difficult to navigate, especially in the mountainous regions.
- Winter (December to February): Cold temperatures and snowfall can limit accessibility, especially in higher altitudes.
Suggested Read: Visit Gangtey Monastery: Heart Of Bhutan’s Spiritual Heritage
How To Reach Rangjung Woesel Choeling Monastery
Location: Trashigang district at Rangjung, BhutanReaching Rangjung Woesel Choeling Monastery is a straightforward journey that allows you to soak in the scenic beauty of Bhutan. Here’s how you can get there:
The nearest airport is Gelephu Airport or Paro Airport, with Paro being the primary international airport in Bhutan. From Paro, you can hire a taxi or take a domestic flight to Trashigang.
From Trashigang town, the monastery is about a 30-minute drive away. You can hire a taxi or use local transportation to reach the monastery. The drive offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
For the adventurous, there are trekking routes available that lead to the monastery, allowing you to experience Bhutan’s natural beauty up close. Make sure to check local guides for the best trekking paths.
Once in Trashigang, you can use local buses or shared taxis to reach the monastery. Be sure to ask locals for the best options available during your visit.
Rangjung Woesel Choeling Monastery Timings
Rangjung Woesel Choeling Monastery timings are from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. Daily prayer sessions occur throughout the day, with main sessions typically in the morning and evening. During festivals or special events, hours may vary, so it’s a good idea to check in advance.Suggested Read: Tango Monastery: Bhutan’s Spiritual Haven
Rangjung Woesel Choeling Monastery Entry Fees
The Rangjung Woesel Choeling Monastery entry fees are generally free of charge for visitors. It’s always good to check for any updates or specific guidelines before your visit.Tourist Spots Near Rangjung Woesel Choeling Monastery
Here are some must-visit tourist spots near Rangjung Woesel Choeling Monastery in Trashigang:- Trashigang Dzong: This historic fortress serves as an administrative center and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys. It also houses a museum that showcases a variety of Bhutanese artifacts.
- Khaling National Handloom: Here, you can witness the traditional art of Bhutanese weaving. This center allows visitors to see the intricate process of creating beautiful textiles, and you can purchase exquisite handwoven products to take home.
- Merak and Sakteng Villages: These remote villages are home to the Brokpa people, a nomadic tribe. Visiting these villages provides a unique insight into their way of life, and trekking to them is a popular adventure activity for nature lovers.
- Khardung Anim Dratshang: This stunning nunnery, associated with the Rangjung Woesel Choeling Monastery, offers a peaceful and serene atmosphere, perfect for reflection and spiritual exploration.
- Khaling Blind School: This unique institution provides education and rehabilitation for visually impaired individuals, making it an important part of the local community.
- Chorten Kora: A sacred stupa adorned with beautiful murals and intricate carvings, Chorten Kora is a place of spiritual significance and artistic beauty worth exploring.
Suggested Read: Exploring the Beauty of Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) in Bhutan
Accommodations Near Rangjung Woesel Choeling Monastery
Accommodations near Rangjung Woesel Choeling Monastery are limited, but there are a few options available:- Rangjung Woesel Choeling Monastery Guesthouse
Nestled within the monastery complex, the guesthouse offers basic accommodations with attached bathrooms. Guests can enjoy a serene and spiritual atmosphere, perfect for reflection and relaxation.
While the monastery guesthouse provides a tranquil stay, Trashigang town offers additional hotel options for those seeking more amenities and comforts. Notable choices include Lingkhar Lodge, Druk Deothjung, and Hotel KC, each providing a unique experience for travelers.
Rangjung Woesel Choeling Monastery is a beautiful place that shows the spiritual side of Bhutan. Located in Trashigang, this monastery helps keep the teachings of Tibetan Buddhism alive and has a lively community of monks and nuns. With its lovely buildings, colorful artwork, and calm surroundings, it gives visitors a chance to experience Bhutan’s rich culture. Whether you’re looking for peace or just want to see a special place, Rangjung Woesel Choeling Monastery is a must-visit spot that will stay in your heart long after you leave.
