Kyichu Lhakhang, Paro Overview

Built-in 7th century, Kyichu Lhakhang is a beautiful monastery of great significance. Also known as Lho Kyerchu or Kyerchu Temple, this monastery is situated in Lango Gewog of Paro in Bhutan. The Jowo temple dates back to the 7th century, gaining the title of one of the oldest temples in Bhutan. Legends believe that it was built in one night by the king, which is a miracle in itself. It was among the network of 12 temples out of the 108 temples that were constructed on definite plans.

There are beautiful paintings and intricately designed structures of Buddhist Gurus. Believed to be blessed by many Buddhist saints including Guru Rinpoche, the special prayer wheels are truly mesmerising. It houses an ocean of information about Bhutan since its early days. One gets to learn many interesting facts about the Himalayan Kingdom at this heavenly place.

What to See at the Kyichu Lhakhang

The major attraction at the monastery are two orange trees which bear oranges throughout the year, regardless of what season it is. They are planted in the courtyard of the Lhakhang.
An original 7th-century statue of Jowo Sakyamuni is the pride of Bhutanese, and it is being housed in the inner hall of Kyichu Lhakhang. It is of great religious and historical significance to the country.
A statue of Chenrezig which has 1000 arms and 11 heads. The way it is carved is surreal. It is a significant attraction in the monastery.

Architecture of the Kyichu Lhakhang

The most exciting part about the Kyichu Lhakhang is that it is not just one of the oldest temples in Bhutan, but perhaps one of the fastest constructed monasteries. An exquisite intricately detailed door leads to the inner hall, where you will find a beautifully carved statue of Songsten Gampo.

The original monastery was not very large in area, but as time passed and multiple Buddhist saints visited, it went on to increase and become what it is today - an architectural marvel.

History of the Kyichu Lhakhang

Kyichu Lhakhang is blessed with a rich and interesting history. Built-in 7th century, it was constructed by Songsten Gampo, a Tibetan Emperor, to defeat a giantess which prevented the propagation of Buddhism. Legends believe that it was built in one night by the king, which is a miracle in itself. It was among the network of 12 temples out of the 108 temples that were constructed on definite plans.

The Kyichu Lhakhang gains religious significance because it was visited by Guru Padmasambhava and many other Buddhist saints, such as Phajo Dugom Zhigpo and Lam Kha Nga, in the 8th century. It is also believed that the monastery has many spiritual treasures that were hidden by Guru Padmasambhava.

How To Reach Kyichu Lhakhang

The monastery is situated outside the main town area of Paro, on the way to the Paro Taktsang. A cab can be hired from any part of Paro to reach the Kyichu Lhakhang in Paro.