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Tamshing Lhakhang
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Tamshing Lhakhang, also known as Tamshing Lhundrup Choling, is one of the most significant Nyingma temples in Bhutan, located in the Bumthang valley. It was built in 1501 by the famous saint Pema Lingpa, who is regarded as one of the great tertons (treasure discoverers) of Buddhism. The temple is world-renowned for its original early 16th-century murals, which are among the oldest and best-preserved in the country. A unique feature of the temple is a suit of chain mail said to have been forged by Pema Lingpa himself. Pilgrims perform a ritual where they wear this heavy metal garment and circumambulate the temple three times, which is believed to wash away sins. The temples architecture remains largely unchanged since its foundation, providing an authentic glimpse into medieval Bhutanese religious art. Due to its cultural importance, the site has been on the UNESCO World Heritage tentative list since 2012.
- Location: Bhutan
- Top sights: Tamshing Lhakhang · Kurjey Lhakhang · Jambey Lhakhang
- Nearby: Mebar Tsho (Burning Lake) (9 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Sep–Nov.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 0 | 1 | 4 | 7 | 10 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 5 | 2 |
| Rain mm | 4 | 12 | 32 | 102 | 145 | 194 | 257 | 196 | 137 | 64 | 5 | 3 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The temple is open to visitors, but modest dress is required and footwear must be removed before entering. Inside, you can see the famous ancient wall paintings and statues.
Typical hours
Buddhist monasteries typically open early in the morning, close for a midday break, then reopen in the afternoon. It is best to plan your visit around the morning hours to catch the monks' activities.
Photography
Photography inside the temple is usually prohibited, especially of the sacred paintings. Exterior shots are generally allowed; always ask permission first.
Time needed
A visit to Tamshing Lhakhang takes about one to two hours including time for quiet contemplation. If you also explore the surrounding Chokhor Valley, plan for a half-day.
Combine with
The temple is part of the Bumthang valley circuit which includes Jakar Dzong and Kurjey Lhakhang. Many visitors also hike to nearby waterfalls or visit local cheese factories.
Getting there
Tamshing Lhakhang is located a short walk from the town of Jakar in Bumthang. You can reach Jakar by domestic flight or road from Paro; local taxis or walking are best for the last stretch.
Insider tip
Visit early in the morning when the light streams through the windows, illuminating the wall paintings. Carry a small notebook to record your impressions, as the spiritual atmosphere is profound.
Geography
Facts
- Built in the year 1501
- Founded by saint Pema Lingpa
- Contains oldest murals in Bhutan
- Houses a hand-forged chain mail
- UNESCO tentative list since 2012
- Significant Nyingma Buddhist site
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Notable places around
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Sights in the town Tamshing Lhakhang (6)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Who built this temple?
It was built in 1501 by the great Bhutanese saint Pema Lingpa.
What is special about the murals?
They are some of Bhutan's oldest and most significant original murals.
Is there a special ritual for visitors?
Visitors can wear a heavy chain mail and circumambulate the temple three times.
Where is the temple located?
It is located in the Bumthang valley, about 5 kilometers from Jakar town.
When do festivals take place?
The Tamshing Phala Choepa festival takes place annually in autumn.
Tamshing Lhakhang: where is it located?
Tamshing Lhakhang is located in Bhutan.
Tamshing Lhakhang: what is there to see?
Highlights include Tamshing Lhakhang, Kurjey Lhakhang, Jambey Lhakhang.
Tamshing Lhakhang: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Sep, Nov.
Tamshing Lhakhang: why is it worth visiting?
Tamshing Lhakhang, also known as Tamshing Lhundrup Choling, is one of the most significant Nyingma temples in Bhutan, located in the Bumthang valley.
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Nearby cities
Jakar
Jakar, known as the center of the Bumthang region, is considered the spiritual heartland of Bhutan with many ancient monasteries.
Mebar Tsho (Burning Lake)
A sacred gorge in the Tang Valley where the 15th-century saint Pema Lingpa is said to have discovered hidden religious treasures.
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Trongsa
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Mymensingh
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History & landmarks
🗺️
Tharpaling Monastery
A peaceful monastery on a steep mountainside in the Chokhor Valley.
Bumthang (Chokhor Valley)
The Chokhor Valley in Bumthang is the spiritual heartland of Bhutan, dotted with ancient temples and sacred sites.
Mebar Tsho (Burning Lake)
A sacred site that is actually a gorge on the Tang Chhu river.
Tang Valley
The most remote of Bumthang's four valleys, characterized by sheep breeding, high-altitude farming, and the historic Ogyen Choling Palace.
Ogyen Choling Palace
A historic manor in the Tang Valley turned into a fascinating museum.
Bangladesh Taj Mahal
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Lhuentse (Khoma)
Khoma is a famous textile village in eastern Bhutan, renowned for its intricate Kishuthara silk weaving.
Baitul Mukarram National Mosque
The national mosque of Bangladesh in Dhaka, whose architecture resembles the Kaaba in Mecca.
Nature
Manas River
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Meghna River
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Namtso Lake
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Phipsoo Wildlife Sanctuary
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Jakar Dzong
Also known as the "Fortress of the White Bird", it was built in the 16th century and dominates the Chokhor Valley in Bumthang.
Chamkhar Dairy Farms
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Zhemgang Valley
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