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Nyala Dargay Choeling Monastery-Wangduephodrang

The most sacred places to visit in Wangduephodrang

Nyala Dargay Choeling Monastery (Ugyen Dargay Choeling Dratshang)

Location: Approximately 8 kilometers from Nyala, about a 15-minute drive from Chazam or the Norbu Yangphel Restaurant.
Road Condition: Fully blacktopped road leading directly to the monastery.
Travel Time: Around 20 minutes by car from the main junction.
Altitude: Situated at an elevation of 2,900 meters above sea level.

When traveling from Wangdue or Punakha towards Trongsa, one will come across a sacred and historically significant monastery known as Nyala Dargay Choeling. Nestled amidst the serene landscape, this monastery holds deep spiritual importance and a rich history dating back to the 15th century.

The foundation of the monastery was first established by the great yogi and spiritual master Drupthob Zhidar. A small antique statue of him can still be seen enshrined beside the thorn bush near the monastery, a testament to his enduring legacy.

According to oral traditions, Drupthob Zhidar is believed to have originated from the region now known as Bangladesh. Along his journey, he engaged in deep meditation and retreats at various sacred sites. His spiritual path eventually led him to Phobjikha Valley, where he encountered Gangtey Trulku Kutreng Nyepa (the 2nd reincarnation of Gangtey Trulku Rinpoche), regarded as one of the most powerful masters of that time.

Recognizing his wisdom, Drupthob Zhidar became a devoted follower of Gangtey Trulku Rinpoche. The Rinpoche, originally from Bemji in Trongsa, frequently traveled between Trongsa and Phobjikha. During one such journey, he became aware of the malevolent spirit known as Nyala Deum, who was said to terrorize and obstruct Buddhist practitioners in the region.

In response, Gangtey Trulku Rinpoche sent a prophetic message to Drupthob Zhidar, instructing him to subdue this dark force. With his deep meditative power and spiritual attainments, Drupthob Zhidar successfully subdued Nyala Deum, restoring peace to the area.

To commemorate this victory and to protect the region from future obstacles—especially the threat of war—the Chendebji Chorten was constructed at the site. The chorten not only symbolizes the subjugation of negative forces but also serves as a spiritual safeguard for the nation.

The consecration ceremony of the Chorten was conducted by Gangtey Trulku Tenzin Lekpai Drondup, while the physical construction and spiritual work were carried out by Drupthob Zhidar, with generous support from Lyonchen Tshering Wangchuk, a powerful local ruler of the time.

Ugyen Dargay Choeling Dratshang Monks and guest

Ugyen Dargay Choeling Dratshang building

Ugyen Dargay Choeling Dratshang far picture

Another Version of the Origin Story of Ugyen Dargay Choeling

Another sacred oral tradition linked to Ugyen Dargay Choeling offers a slightly different version of the events surrounding the subduing of Nyala Duem, the malevolent spirit that once haunted the region.

It is said that when Drupthob Zhidar confronted Nyala Duem, she pleaded for her life, claiming that she was pregnant and about to give birth. While there were doubts about the truth of her words, Drupthob Zhidar, using his clairvoyant powers, realized that she was indeed telling the truth—she was carrying a child.

Moved by compassion, the Drupthob chose not to destroy her. Instead, he made her take a solemn vow that she would never again harm sentient beings or disturb the local people. In return, he promised that her unborn son would be raised and revered as a powerful local protector deity of the region.

This child later came to be known as Nyala Pelzang Drukgay, the guardian deity of the area. To this day, he is believed to watch over the land and its people, ensuring harmony and abundance. Locals attribute the region’s rich harvests, healthy livestock, and peaceful environment to the blessings of this protector deity. His statue is in Gyenkhang.

Thus, the story not only reflects Drupthob Zhidar’s spiritual power but also his deep compassion and wisdom in transforming even a destructive spirit into a force for good.

Sacred Relics and Statues Inside Ugyen Dargay Choeling Dratshang (1st Floor)

Inside the main temple on the first floor of Ugyen Dargay Choeling Dratshang, visitors will find a collection of spiritually significant relics and statues that reflect the deep historical and religious legacy of the monastery.

Central Statue: Guru Rinpoche

The main statue at the center of the altar is that of Guru Rinpoche (Guru Padmasambhava). This sacred statue is believed to enshrine a rare relic from Kutsab Ternga, referring to the five sacred representations or spiritual emissaries that Guru Rinpoche brought. Among these, one is said to be enshrined inside this very statue, making it especially revered. The statue and the temple received generous support from the monarch, reflecting the importance of this sacred site.

Statue of Buddha (Tenpa)

To the left of Guru Rinpoche is a unique statue of the Historical Buddha (Shakyamuni), believed to have miraculously arrived from Chendebji Village to this temple. It is held in deep reverence by the local community.

Phurba Statue

Above the main altar sits a powerful Phurba (ritual dagger) deity statue, symbolizing the subjugation of negative forces and spirits. This is one of the most significant statues in the temple, particularly associated with the original subjugation of Nyala Duem by Drupthob Zhidar.

Gangtey Trulku Kutreng Ngepa (Tenzin Lekpai Drondup)

On the left side of the altar is a statue of Gangtey Trulku Kutreng Ngepa, Tenzin Lekpai Drondup, believed to have been personally sculpted by him. Uniquely, the statue was originally made without the traditional moon and sun markings on the forehead, but over time, these symbols are said to have miraculously appeared on their own. This event has made the statue particularly sacred and revered.

108 Volumes of Buddhist Scriptures

Near the altar, you will also see the complete set of the 108 volumes of Kangyur—the translated teachings of the Buddha. These texts were donated by the historical kings of Bhutan and are carefully preserved within the monastery.

Guru Dorji Drollo

A striking statue of Guru Dorji Drollo, the wrathful manifestation of Guru Rinpoche, is also present, representing the Guru in his most powerful form used to subdue evil spirits in the region.

Ancient Wall Paintings & Phurba Yab-Yum

The monastery walls are adorned with ancient murals, believed to date back centuries. One especially revered item is a statue of Phurba Yab-Yum, which was crafted by Drupthob Zhidar himself. Known as “Cha-zo,” this Phurba is a source of blessings, and many devotees receive empowerment through its presence.

Drupthob Zhidar's Sacred Hat

The sacred hat of the 2nd reincarnation of Drupthob Zhidar, made by the master himself, is still preserved and kept under the care of the 3rd reincarnation, who wears it during the blessing ceremonies of the festival.

Jetseun Dolma's Statue & Lama Sangay Dorji’s Meditation Room

In an adjacent room, there is a statue of Jetsun Dolma (Tara), which marks the meditation and prayer chamber of Lama Sangay Dorji. It is said that, upon his passing, a tooth relic resembling the image of Dolma appeared miraculously. This relic is now preserved by other senior lamas of the monastery.

Annual Festival

An annual festival is held on the 10th day of the second lunar month, during which rare relics and sacred objects are displayed to the public for blessings. This occasion is a spiritually significant time for the community and pilgrims.

Current Monastic Community (as of September 2025)

Monks in residence: 20
Teachers: 3, including the current 3rd reincarnation of Drupthob Zhidar, who has completed his Buddhist philosophical studies (Shedra) under His Eminence the 9th Gangtey Trulku Rinpoche at Gangtey.