Plizio Visual Lab
Phajoding Monastery
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Landmark
Weather…
Water temperature…
Phajoding Monastery is a significant sacred site located on a ridge overlooking the Thimphu valley at an altitude of approximately 3,650 meters. It was founded in the 13th century by Phajo Drugom Zhigpo, the Tibetan saint who spread the Drukpa Kagyu school of Buddhism in Bhutan. The complex consists of ten major temples, numerous meditation houses, and residences for monks, making it a vital center for spiritual practice and learning. Historically, it was once one of the most richly decorated and important monasteries in the country. Today, it continues to serve as an active monastery and a popular destination for pilgrims and hikers who brave the steep ascent to experience its serene atmosphere and historic architecture. The site gives panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the capital city below, blending natural beauty with profound religious heritage.
- Location: Bhutan
- Top sights: Stupa · Chorten · Chhorten
- Nearby: Tsimasham (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
Phajoding Monastery is only reachable by a strenuous several-hour hike from Thimphu. The complex is open to visitors but requires good physical fitness.
Typical hours
As a remote monastery, there are no fixed opening hours; it's best to start the hike early in the morning. The monastery may have restricted access during monastic activities.
Photography
Photography is generally allowed, but ask permission in prayer halls. The view from the monastery over the Thimphu valley is spectacular.
Time needed
Allow a full day for the round trip and monastery visit. The hike takes about 3 to 4 hours each way.
Combine with
Combine the hike with other Thimphu hikes or the Tashichho Dzong. The monastery can be part of a longer trekking route.
Getting there
The trailhead is near the Memorial Chorten in Thimphu. It is advisable to hire a guide or join a group.
Insider tip
Bring plenty of water, snacks, and sturdy shoes. Start before 7 am to avoid afternoon heat and clouds.
Geography
Facts
- Founded in the 13th century by Phajo Drugom Zhigpo.
- Situated at an elevation of approximately 3,650 meters.
- The complex includes ten distinct temples and multiple meditation centers.
- Served as a major center for the Drukpa Kagyu lineage in Bhutan.
- Reached via a steep and scenic hiking trail from Thimphu.
- Features historic architecture and significant religious artworks.
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 Phajoding Monastery (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How difficult is the hike?
It is a challenging 3-4 hour hike steadily uphill.
Where does the trail start?
The trail usually starts above Thimphu near the Sangaygang broadcast tower.
Are there overnight huts?
There are basic dormitories for pilgrims; advance notice is advisable.
What is the best season?
Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November) for clear views.
Are there monasteries to see?
The complex consists of several temples and meditation centers.
Phajoding Monastery: where is it located?
Phajoding Monastery is located in Bhutan.
Phajoding Monastery: what is there to see?
Highlights include Stupa, Chorten, Chhorten.
Phajoding Monastery: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Sep, Oct.
Phajoding Monastery: why is it worth visiting?
Phajoding Monastery is a significant sacred site located on a ridge overlooking the Thimphu valley at an altitude of approximately 3,650 meters.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Asia
More places in Bhutan →
Nearby cities
Thimphu
Thimphu is the capital and largest city of Bhutan, known for its blend of traditional culture and modernity without traffic lights.
Khulna
Khulna is a major industrial city that serves as the gateway to the Sundarbans, the world's largest mangrove forest.
Tsimasham
Tsimasham is the headquarters of Chukha district, strategically located along the main highway between Thimphu and the Indian border.
Laya
An isolated high-altitude village at 3800 meters, home to the semi-nomadic Layap people known for their unique conical bamboo hats.
Sirajganj
A major river port and transportation hub on the Jamuna River, connecting northern Bangladesh with the rest of the country.
Bogra
One of the oldest cities in Bengal, known as the 'Capital of North Bengal' and famous for its archaeological heritage.
Lhamoizingkha
Lhamoizingkha is a subtropical border town in Bhutan, situated on the banks of the Sunkosh River in an area with lush vegetation.
History & landmarks
Cheri Monastery
The first monastery in Bhutan, built in 1620.
Tango Monastery
A high-altitude Buddhist center founded in the 15th century.
Buddha Dordenma
A gigantic Buddha statue towering over Thimphu.
Dochula Pass
A scenic mountain pass featuring 108 memorial chortens.
Sundarbans
The largest contiguous mangrove forest in the world is a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to the endangered Bengal tiger.
Gasa Dzong
A historic mountain fortress built in the 17th century to protect against attacks from the north.
Bangabandhu Bridge
One of the longest bridges in South Asia, crossing the Jamuna River to connect eastern and western Bangladesh.
Bagerhat
Bagerhat is a historic town in southwestern Bangladesh, home to a UNESCO-listed 15th-century mosque city built by Khan Jahan Ali.
Nature
More places
🗺️
Bjemina Industrial Estate
An industrial estate near the capital Thimphu, focusing on light industries, wood processing, and construction materials.
Tashichho Dzong
A Buddhist monastery and fortress on the northern edge of Thimphu, serving as the seat of the Bhutanese government since 1952.
Dechen Phodrang Monastery
This historical monastery was the original site of the Tashichho Dzong until it was relocated.
Changangkha Lhakhang
One of the oldest temples in Thimphu, established in the 12th century.
National Memorial Chorten
A prominent monument in Thimphu, built in 1974 to honor the third King of Bhutan.
Semtokha Dzong
The oldest surviving fortress in Bhutan, built in 1629 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal.
National Seed Centre Paro
An important facility for preserving agricultural diversity and providing high-quality seeds to Bhutanese farmers.
Paro Rice Terraces
The fertile slopes of the Paro Valley are adorned with intricate rice terraces, creating a golden landscape in autumn.