ソンツェン・ガンポによって建てられた7世紀のキチュ・ラカン（ブータン）の外部ガイドツアー #tibetanbuddhism
Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest temples in Bhutan. Built in the 7th century by the Tibetan Emperor Songtsen Gampo, the 33rd
King of the Yarlung dynasty. In the 8th century, the temple was visited
by Padmasambhava and it is believed that he concealed many spiritual treasures here.
Kyichu Lhakhang (also spelled Kyerchu Lhakhang) is one of Bhutan’s oldest and most sacred temples, located in Lamgong Gewog of Paro District. Built in the 7th century by Tibetan Emperor Songtsen Gampo, it is part of a network of 108 temples constructed to subdue a demoness hindering the spread of Buddhism across the Himalayas. Kyichu Lhakhang is believed to be built on the demoness’s left foot .   
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🏯 Historical Significance
• Founding: Constructed in 659 CE by Emperor Songtsen Gampo as one of 108 temples to pin down a demoness obstructing Buddhism’s spread.
• Guru Rinpoche’s Visit: In the 8th century, Guru Padmasambhava visited the temple and concealed spiritual treasures (termas) within it.
• Renovations:
• 12th–13th centuries: Maintained by the Lhapa Kagyu tradition.
• 15th century: Rediscovered and restored by Pema Lingpa.
• 1836–1838: Restored and re-consecrated by the 25th Je Khenpo, Sherab Gyaltshen.
• 1968: A Guru Lhakhang was added by Queen Mother Ashi Kesang Choden Wangchuck, consecrated by Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche .   
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🧘♂️ Spiritual Highlights
• Main Statues:
• Jowo Jampa (Maitreya Buddha), dating back to the 7th century.
• A 5-meter statue of Guru Rinpoche in the Guru Lhakhang.
• Unique Features:
• Two orange trees in the courtyard that are said to bear fruit year-round.
• A mural of King Gesar of Ling near the entrance.
• Wooden floors worn smooth by centuries of prostrations.   
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🎉 Annual Festival
• Kyichu Zangchoe Moenlam: An annual three-day festival held from the 22nd to 24th day of the 8th month of the Bhutanese lunar calendar. The rites are performed for deities Vajrasattva, Palchen Heruka, and Vajrakilaya, aiming for the well-being of the King, country, and people . 
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🕓 Visiting Information
• Hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM.
• Entry Fee: Nu. 500 for tourists; free for locals. Children aged 6 to 18 receive a 50% discount; children 5 and under enter free.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offer pleasant weather and vibrant landscapes . 
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📍 Nearby Attractions
• Paro Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest Monastery): Approximately 8 km away, this iconic cliffside monastery is a must-visit.
• Paro Dzong (Rinpung Dzong): Located about 9 km from Kyichu Lhakhang, this fortress-monastery is known for its impressive architecture and cultural significance . 
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🗺️ Location
Kyichu Lhakhang is situated just north of Paro town, approximately a 5-minute drive from the town center. It is nestled in a serene setting, surrounded by lush gardens and rolling hills, creating a tranquil atmosphere for visitors .  
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