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Cheri Monastery
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Landmark
Cheri Monastery, also known as Chagri Dorjiden, was the first monastery established by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the unifier of Bhutan, in 1620. Located about 15 kilometers north of Thimphu on a steep hill overlooking the Wang Chu river, the monastery marked the official beginning of the Drukpa Kagyu lineage in Bhutan. The complex served as the spiritual headquarters of the Zhabdrung during his early years in the country. Inside the monastery is a precious silver chorten containing the ashes of Ngawang Namgyals father, Tenpai Nyima. To this day, Cheri remains a major center for strict meditation retreats, where monks often undergo three-year periods of seclusion. The hike to the monastery begins at a traditional wooden bridge and winds through dense forests where goral and rare birds are frequently spotted. Its historical significance and atmosphere of profound peace make it one of the most revered religious sites in Western Bhutan.
- Location: Bhutan
- Top sights: TANGO MONASTERY · Chari
- Nearby: Laya (6 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Sep, Oct.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -2 | 0 | 2 | 6 | 9 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 7 | 3 | 0 |
| Rain mm | 5 | 12 | 32 | 60 | 108 | 153 | 259 | 207 | 134 | 51 | 3 | 3 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The monastery is open to visitors, but it is an active meditation site. One should behave quietly and respectfully.
Typical hours
The monastery is typically open daily from sunrise to sunset. During longer meditation retreats, access may be restricted.
Photography
Photography outdoors is usually allowed, but not inside the prayer halls. Please ask permission before photographing monks.
Time needed
A visit takes about one to two hours, depending on how much time you spend on the grounds. If you hike up, allow an extra hour.
Combine with
The monastery is near Thimphu and can be combined with a visit to the capital. Tashichho Dzong and Buddha Point are also worth a trip.
Getting there
The monastery sits on a hill above Thimphu and is reachable by car. A hiking trail from the road leads to the monastery in about 30 minutes.
Insider tip
If possible, visit the monastery during a meditation workshop - you can experience the spiritual atmosphere more intensely. Look for colorful prayer flags at the entrance.
Geography
Facts
- Founded in the year 1620
- First monastery built by Zhabdrung
- Houses a precious silver chorten
- Major center for meditation retreats
- Located 15km north of Thimphu
- Birthplace of the Drukpa Kagyu state
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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 Cheri Monastery (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How do you reach the monastery?
A short drive from Thimphu followed by an approximately one-hour hike.
Are there wild animals there?
In the surroundings, you can often see gorals (goat-antelopes) and tame deer.
Who founded the monastery?
Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal founded it in 1620 as the first monastery in Bhutan.
Is the path difficult?
The path is steep but crosses a beautiful wooden bridge and dense forest.
Are there toilets at the monastery?
There are basic sanitary facilities for visitors near the entrance.
Cheri Monastery: where is it located?
Cheri Monastery is located in Bhutan.
Cheri Monastery: what is there to see?
Highlights include TANGO MONASTERY, Chari.
Cheri Monastery: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Sep, Oct.
Cheri Monastery: why is it worth visiting?
Cheri Monastery, also known as Chagri Dorjiden, was the first monastery established by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the unifier of Bhutan, in 1620.
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