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Kila Nunnery

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Landmark
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Kila Nunnery (Bhutan)

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Kila Nunnery, often referred to as Kila Goempa, is the oldest nunnery in Bhutan, perched dramatically on a rocky cliffside between the Paro and Haa valleys. Its origins trace back to the 9th century when it first served as a meditation site for Buddhist practitioners. The complex consists of seven small temples and numerous residential quarters boldly built into the steep granite cliffs. Around 30 to 40 nuns live here in relative isolation, dedicating their lives to prayer and meditation. Access to the nunnery is typically via a hike from Chele La Pass, which leads through dense coniferous forests and gives panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks. Despite its remote location, it is considered a significant site of spiritual power where female monastic traditions have been preserved for centuries. The architecture is modest yet striking, blending seamlessly into the rugged mountain landscape and exuding an atmosphere of profound tranquility.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Sep, Oct.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C-2026912131211730
Rain mm51232601081532592071345133

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
Kila Nunnery is an active Buddhist monastery built into a steep cliff. Visitors can enter the temple compounds and surrounding grounds, but many inner rooms are reserved for the nuns and not accessible.
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Typical hours
The nunnery is usually open from sunrise to sunset. Access may be restricted during morning prayers and ceremonies; late morning is the best time to visit.
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Photography
Photography is allowed in outdoor areas and some temples. Inside sacred rooms and during ceremonies, photography is forbidden out of respect for the nuns.
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Time needed
A visit usually takes about two to three hours, including the climb to the temples and sightseeing. If you wish to meditate or linger longer, allow extra time.
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Combine with
Nearby is the famous Taktsang Monastery (Tiger's Nest), about an hour away. The Paro Museum and Rinpung Dzong are also great combinations for a day trip.
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Getting there
The nunnery is located above the Paro Valley and is only accessible on foot via a hiking trail. The starting point is a parking area near Taktsang Monastery, from where a roughly one-hour uphill climb begins.
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Insider tip
Bring plenty of water and light snacks as there are no food stalls along the trail. Sturdy footwear and a rain jacket are recommended since weather can change quickly.

Geography

Coordinates
27.38220, 89.33610

Facts

  • Oldest nunnery in Bhutan
  • Origins date to the 9th century
  • Comprised of 7 small temples
  • Home to 30-40 resident nuns
  • Located near Chele La Pass
  • Built into a sheer granite cliff

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Drukgyel Dzong RuinsDrukgyel Dzong Ruins2 km · SExplore →
Taktsang MonasteryTaktsang Monastery3 km · NExplore →
MahasthangarhMahasthangarh3 km · WExplore →
Jitchu DrakeJitchu Drake4 km · SExplore →
Zangtopelri ParkZangtopelri Park5 km · NExplore →
BograBogra5 km · NWExplore →
HaaHaa6 km · SExplore →
JomolhariJomolhari8 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Kila Nunnery (2)

Kila Gompa (nunnery)📍 landmark

A historic Buddhist nunnery precariously built into the cliff face in the Paro Valley.

Stupa⛪ religious

A sacred monument offering a place for offerings and prayers near the cliffside Kila nunnery.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Is the monastery hard to reach?
It requires a hike or a drive on unpaved roads from Paro.
What is it known for?
It is one of Bhutan's oldest nunneries, spectacularly perched on a cliffside.
Can we stay overnight?
Generally no; it is a place for day visitors and religious retreats.
How many nuns live there?
About 30 to 50 nuns lead a simple, spiritual life here.
Are there viewpoints?
Yes, from the top, there is a fantastic view of the Paro valley.
Kila Nunnery: where is it located?
Kila Nunnery is located in Bhutan.
Kila Nunnery: what is there to see?
Highlights include Kila Gompa (nunnery), Stupa.
Kila Nunnery: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Sep, Oct.
Kila Nunnery: why is it worth visiting?
Kila Nunnery, often referred to as Kila Goempa, is the oldest nunnery in Bhutan, perched dramatically on a rocky cliffside between the Paro and Haa valleys.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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Nearby cities

Paro — Kila Nunnery (Bhutan)
Paro
Paro is a historic town in the Paro Valley, home to the sole international airport of Bhutan and numerous sacred sites.

History & landmarks

Chele La Pass — Kila Nunnery (Bhutan)
Chele La Pass
The highest motorable pass in Bhutan.
Taktsang Monastery — Kila Nunnery (Bhutan)
Taktsang Monastery
Known as the Tiger's Nest, the monastery clings to a steep cliff above the Paro Valley.

More places

Drukgyel Dzong Ruins — Kila Nunnery (Bhutan)
Drukgyel Dzong Ruins
Built in the 17th century, this fortress served as a defense against Tibetan invasions.
Jitchu Drake — Kila Nunnery (Bhutan)
Jitchu Drake
A prominent, rugged peak not far from Jomolhari, impressive with its steep flanks and icy slopes.
Jomolhari — Kila Nunnery (Bhutan)
Jomolhari
This majestic mountain is known as the 'Bride of Kangchenjunga' and is a sacred place for Bhutanese Buddhists.
Kyichu Lhakhang — Kila Nunnery (Bhutan)
Kyichu Lhakhang
One of the oldest temples in Bhutan, built in the 7th century by the Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo according to legend.
Rinpung Dzong — Kila Nunnery (Bhutan)
Rinpung Dzong
A massive fortress and monastery complex in the Paro Valley, built in 1646.
Ta Dzong (National Museum) — Kila Nunnery (Bhutan)
Ta Dzong (National Museum)
This former watchtower above Rinpung Dzong was converted into the National Museum of Bhutan in 1968 and houses historical artifacts.
Motithang Takin Preserve — Kila Nunnery (Bhutan)
Motithang Takin Preserve
A wildlife reserve in Thimphu that protects the takin, Bhutan's national animal, which appears to be half goat and half cow.
Simply Bhutan Living Museum — Kila Nunnery (Bhutan)
Simply Bhutan Living Museum
An interactive "living" museum that brings visitors and especially children closer to the rich culture, craftsmanship, and archery of Bhu…