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Ngye Dechen Phodrang Hike – Trashiyangtse

Distance: 12 kilometers
Driving Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Road Type: Farm road
Hiking Duration: 15–20 minutes
Grade: Easy

Details information about Dechen Phodrang Nye Trashiyangtse

The journey begins on a scenic farm road that leads above Trashiyangtse Dzong, continuing towards Womanang Primary School. This route takes you through parts of the Bumdeling Wildlife Sanctuary, offering a rich natural experience with the chirping of birds, sightings of Kalij pheasants, playful squirrels, and more.

At the end of the road lies a quaint village. One of the highlights here is a local woman known for her unique method of making Desho paper. Her handcrafted products are not only beautiful but also sold at very affordable prices. Note: Beyond this point, vehicles should not be driven further due to the lack of a proper turning area.

The Hike to Ngye Dechen Phodrang

The Ngye Dechen Phodrang Hike is more than just a scenic walk — it is a pilgrimage into Bhutan’s hidden spiritual heritage. From the natural serenity of the Bumdeling forest to the sacred cave where Guru Rinpoche meditated, this journey offers deep peace and powerful blessings for those who undertake it.

From the parking area, a short descent takes you to a suspension bridge. After crossing it, you’ll follow a gentle trail leading to the village of Ramsar, which is believed to be the site where Guru Rinpoche conducted a consecration ceremony for the monastery above.

A short 15-minute walk from here brings you to the hidden and sacred site of Dechen Phodrang Nye, nestled peacefully beneath ancient giant cypress trees — believed to have grown from Guru Rinpoche’s walking stick.

Arriving at the Monastery

As you approach the monastery, you’ll be welcomed by colorful lungdhar (prayer flags) fluttering across a small stone bridge. You’ll also pass an ancient gateway and may be greeted by the friendly monastery dogs.

In front of the temple, two massive boulders bear sacred imprints, and a giant cypress tree stands solemnly by the entrance. The monastery itself is dramatically built into the rock face on the right side of the river, a location believed to be where Guru Rinpoche meditated. Look for the Guru’s La-Tsho (soul lake) carved into the rock beside the temple.

Historical Significance of Dechen Phodrang

A Hidden Spiritual Sanctuary

Ngye Dechen Phodrang is a Bey-ney (hidden spiritual site), believed to have been founded in the 9th century following Guru Rinpoche’s subjugation of a powerful poisonous snake demon that had fled from Samye in Tibet.

After harming many beings in Neychen Pemaling, the demon was driven out by Guru Rinpoche’s blessings. The Guru then traveled to Palri-Tse, where he blessed the three La-Tshos (soul lakes) of Rigsum Goenpa. From there, he arrived at Dechen Phodrang, where he stayed for over a month, meditating and subduing the remaining negative spirits, including the snake demon.

After completing this spiritual mission in the East, he continued on to Paro Taktsang.

In the 15th or 16th century, a lama named Karma Rabjor constructed a Tsulakhang (meditation temple) at the site, following a prophecy by Guru Rinpoche. This temple came to be known as Monkha Shree Dzong, and is said to mirror the paradise of great bliss — Dewachen Zhingkham.

Among the many sacred elements at the site are:

Dechen Phodrang Lhakhang Drubkhang
Zangdog Pelri Temple
Guru Rinpoche’s body imprint
Drubchu (holy spring water)

Of these, the main meditation cave is considered the most sacred and wish-fulfilling ney.

Inside the Monastery

Ground Floor

Home to the main meditation cave (Drupkhang) of Guru Rinpoche, where he is believed to have meditated.
Visitors can sit and meditate inside the cave, which also holds his body imprint.
The area includes a pool of holy water and many sacred Nye-do (treasure stones).

First Floor