Jangchubcholing Monastery –

 

The Jangchubling Lhakhang was built in the 18th century by Pekar Jamtsho who was from Paro. At the age of 27 he traveled to Trongsa and from there further east to Kurtoe. He was the first to construct a structure in Jangchubling in the 17th century. A descendant of Choeje Dupthob Chikarwa of the Drukpa Kagyu sect, he built a meditative temple solely for his use. During this time, a saint of the Nyingmapa sect, Ngawang Samten Jamtsho from Trashi Yangtse, who was likely his disciple or brethren, received a prophecy from his root guru. 

The prophecy indicated that his noble activities were destined for the sentient beings of Mon Yul in the south. Following his guru’s guidance, Ngawang Samten Jamtsho journeyed south. Upon reaching Khawtangla, he saw the Jangchubling area covered in thick fog, except for a spot illuminated by sunlight where Lam Pekar Jamtsho’s tsham khang stood. Believing this to be his destined place, he continued with a sense of joy. 

 Lam Pekar Jamtsho, through his clairvoyance, anticipated Ngawang Samten Jamtsho’s arrival and greeted him with tea, recognizing him as a man of great merit. Despite not knowing each other before, they met with happiness and gratitude, witnessing many miraculous signs.Lam Pekar Jamtsho relinquished his meditative structure for Ngawang Samten Jamtsho, who then built the Jangchubling monastery in the 20th century, where it now stands with beautiful Bhutanese architecture. 

The Nyinthig system of the Nyingma tradition began flourishing there. Around 1940, Ashi Wangmo, who was a nun and a Princess, daughter of the first monarch Gongsa Ugyen Wangchuk, returned to Bhutan after years of rigorous Buddhist training under the 16th Karmapa Rangjung Rigpai Dorji in Tibet. Devoted to Buddhism and compassionate to all beings, she supported the lama and expanded the monastery. In the 1940s Her Royal Highness, the late Ashi Wangmo, who became a nun and led a religious life sponsored the establishment of a Shedra, a centre for Buddhist teachings at Jangchubling. With guidance from the 16th Karmapa, Ashi Wangmo was instrumental in transforming the sacred temple to its present grandeur. She administered the construction of the existing main Lhakhang and named it as Dargay Choling Lhakhang.

The monastery located among picturesque mountains, offers a unique blend of spiritual serenity and historical richness. Its serene environment, combined with its deep-rooted cultural and religious significance, provides visitors with an unparalleled experience of peace and reflection. The magnificent fortress monastery, showcases the timeless beauty of traditional Bhutanese architecture. Following 1959, many Tibetan lamas sought refuge outside Tibet. The 16th Gyalwa Karmapa, Ashi Wangmo’s root guru, fled to Bhutan, and she invited him to Jangchubling Gonpa. Since then, the Kamtshang Kagyu tradition has flourished at the monastery.His presence at Jangchubcholing strengthened the *Kamtshang Kagyu* lineage there. Currently, monks of the Drukpa Kagyu sect, along with a lama, manage the monastic affairs. 

The Jangchubling monastery in Bhutan is one of the most wonderful places to visit for an extraordinary experience and houses numerous precious relics, including the (dress), leather boot, and cap of the 16th Karmapa, the cup and rosary of a previous Situ Rinpoche, and a statue of Tshepamey, the main relic. Architectural and Cultural Significance of Jangchubcholing Dzong exemplifies traditional Bhutanese architecture.The monastery remains a living center for Buddhist practice, managed by Drukpa Kagyu monks while honoring its Nyingma heritage. 

 Kalu Rimpoche's connection to Jangchubcholing Monastery 

 After the recognition of the Benchen Khenpo as the reincarnated Abbot of Jangchubcholing Monastery in the 1950's, Benchen Khenpo as a young child, was sent to Tshurpu Monastery in Tibet to complete his education, in the meantime Ashi Wangmo as the Royal Patron of Jangchubcholing Monastery, requested Rangjung Rigpe Dorji, the16th Karmapa to appoint a Rimpoche to oversee the affairs of the monastery. Based on the Royal request of Ashi Wangmo the 16th Karmapa appointed Kalu Rimpoche (1st Kalu Rimpoche) as the chief Abbot of Jangchubcholing Monastery in Kurtoe in circa 1950. 

 Kalu Rimpoche(1st) resided as the Chief Abbot and emissory at Jangchubcholing Monastery for about 10 years between circa 1950 and early1960's. During this time Rimpoche ordained over 300 monks and established 2 Niguma Retreat centres in Kurtoe. Kalu Rimpoche (1st) organised 2 groups of monks who completed the 3 years retreat and the 2nd group consisting of Khenpo's went on to become the Lama's that Kalu Rimpoche (1st) appointed to oversee and manage the centres he previously established in the west to further his intention to spread Dharma in the western world. Some of the monasteries in the west are today over 50 years old as of 2024, such as the Palden Shangpa Centre in La Boulay, and Kagyu Dzong in Paris.  

Kalu Rimpoche's connection to Jangchubcholing is further enhanced as his maternal family are originally from Jangchubcholing village. In the early 1960's Kalu Rimpoche (1st)left Jangchubcholing as the Chinese cultural revolution was fomenting in China and Tibet, there was expectation of war and the need to start recruiting soldiers for the potential conflict was being discussed. By 1959 the Chinese Red army had fully occupied Tibet, and the Indo China war of 1962 had occured, and a critical need to find a safe place to propogate Buddha Dharma was recognised by Kalu Rimpoche(1st) and so he left for the west in order to establish Buddha Dharma Centres.

Eastern Bhutan

 

Tashigang Dzongkhag (District)

During your trip you will be visiting mainly two Dzongkhags (Districts) of Eastern Bhutan Tashigang and Lhuntse.

Eastern Bhutan, a region of dramatic landscapes and deep-rooted traditions, offers a unique glimpse into the heart of the Himalayan kingdom. From its rugged terrain and vibrant ethnic communities to its historic fortresses and seasonal climate, this area embodies Bhutan’s cultural and natural richness. This short write up delves into the geography of eastern Bhutan, the origins of its people, their language, the climate in March, local cuisine, and the historic significance of Trashigang Dzongkhag, and Lhuntse.

Eastern Bhutan is characterized by steep mountains, deep valleys, and dense forests. The terrain transitions from alpine zones in the north to subtropical lowlands in the south. The region is part of the Eastern Himalayas, with elevations ranging from 1,700 meters to over 4,100 meters in areas like the Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary, a biodiversity hotspot home to endangered species such as the red panda and Himalayan black bear. The Drangme Chhu and Gamri Chhu rivers carve through the landscape, creating fertile valleys that support agriculture, including the famed rice fields of Radhi Village, known as the “Rice Bowl of the East” . Forests cover nearly 78% of Trashigang Dzongkhag, underscoring Bhutan’s commitment to environmental conservation .

The indigenous people of eastern Bhutan, the Sharchop (meaning “easterners”), are considered the original inhabitants predating Tibetan migrations. Ethnolinguistic studies suggest they descend from a mix of Tibetan, South Asian, and Southeast Asian ancestries. Historically, the Sharchop practiced 'tsheri' (slash-and-burn) agriculture, though this was banned in 1969 to protect forests . Culturally, they have been influenced by Tibetan Buddhism but retain distinct traditions, such as weaving raw silk textiles in Radhi Village . The semi-nomadic Brokpa communities in Merak and Sakteng further enrich the region’s cultural mosaic, with their unique attire and yak-herding practices .

The Sharchop primarily speak 'Tshangla', a Tibeto-Burman language distinct from Dzongkha (Bhutan’s national language). Tshangla serves as a lingua franca in eastern districts and reflects the region’s historical isolation from western Bhutan. Due to proximity to India, some communities also speak Assamese or Hindi .  

March marks the onset of spring, offering ideal conditions for travel. Daytime temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C, with cooler nights requiring light jackets . Rainfall is minimal (~34 mm), and valleys burst with rhododendrons and wildflowers, particularly in Trashigang’s alpine meadows . Clear skies enhance visibility for trekking and sightseeing, making it a favored month for festivals like the Paro Tsechu and Gomphu Kora Tshechu .

Bhutanese cuisine in the east mirrors the nation’s love for spice and simplicity. Staples include:  

- 'Ema Datshi': A spicy stew of chilies and cheese, often paired with red rice .  

- 'Phaksha Paa': Pork cooked with dried chilies and radish .  

- 'Ara': A traditional alcoholic beverage made from fermented grains, commonly shared during festivals.  

Meals emphasize locally sourced ingredients, with Radhi Village producing artisanal raw silk used in ceremonial dishes.

Trashigang Dzong: The Fortress of Resilience  

The original Dzong built in 1659 by Chogyal Minjur Tenpa under Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel’s orders, the original structure underwent major renovation in 1940's by Tashigangpa Dasho Thinley Tobgay, Trashigang Dzong stands as a testament to Bhutan’s military and spiritual heritage. Perched on a cliff overlooking three rivers, its strategic location deterred Tibetan invasions; legends claim invading armies retreated, awed by its “sky fortress” appearance. The dzong served as an administrative and monastic hub until the more recent restoration efforts, necessitated by earthquake damage in 2009.  

The dzong hosts the annual 'Trashigang Tshechu', a four-day festival featuring masked dances and religious rituals attended by thousands. Its architecture—whitewashed walls, intricate carvings, and towering structures—epitomizes Bhutanese craftsmanship. Notably, the dzong housed rifles deposited by Indian soldiers during the 1962 Sino-Indian War, now preserved as historical artifacts.

Trashigang is poised to become an ecotourism hub, with plans to revive ancient trails (e.g., Radhi-Merak-Sakteng) and launch a Rhododendron Festival showcasing 41 species. Challenges remain, including improving infrastructure and promoting community-based homestays, but initiatives like the Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary and restored trekking routes highlight its potential.

Lhuntse Dzongkhag (District)

Lhuntse Dzongkhag

Known as the ancestral home of Bhutan’s royal Wangchuck dynasty, this remote district offers a window into the kingdom’s spiritual and cultural roots.  

Spanning approximately 2,853.55 sq. km, Lhuntse features altitudes ranging from 600 to 5,800 meters, creating a mosaic of subtropical valleys and alpine peaks. The Kurichhu River carves through its rugged terrain, forming valleys flanked by dense forests and cliffs. Much of the district lies within protected areas like Wangchuck Centennial Park and Thrumshingla National Park, safeguarding biodiversity such as red pandas and Himalayan black bears.  

Lhuntse is revered as the cradle of Bhutanese royalty, with the 19th-century ancestral home of Jigme Namgyal, father of the first king, still standing in the region. Its spiritual heritage is anchored by 'Lhuentse Dzong', a 17th-century fortress-monastery built by Trongsa Penlop Minjur Tenpa. Perched on a cliff overlooking the Kurichhu River, the dzong houses sacred relics like the Tshepamay statue, believed to possess miraculous qualities, and serves as the district’s administrative and religious hub.  

The district is also famed for its 'Kishuthara textiles', intricate silk weavings produced predominantly by women in villages like Khoma. These textiles, celebrated for their artistry, are central to Bhutanese cultural identity.  

Eastern Bhutan captivates with its untamed landscapes, resilient communities, and living history. The Sharchop people and their Tshangla language embody a cultural identity shaped by geography and tradition, while Trashigang Dzongkhag bridges past and present through its architectural grandeur and ecological initiatives. Visiting in March, amid blooming rhododendrons and festive fervor, offers a timeless encounter with Bhutan’s soul. As the region embraces sustainable tourism, it invites the world to witness a heritage as enduring as the Himalayas themselves.  

Yonphu Lhakhang, Tashigang

Nestled in the serene and picturesque landscapes of Trashigang district in eastern Bhutan, Yonphu Lhakhang stands as a testament to the rich spiritual and cultural heritage of the region. This sacred temple, with its deep historical roots and religious significance, has been a cornerstone of Bhutanese Buddhism and a focal point for local communities for centuries. 

The Yonphu Lhakhang is the oldest Lhakhang in Kanglung District, it is between 400~500 years old. The Lhakhang also has the oldest continious Tshechu in eastern Bhutan.

Choeje Sangdag, the youngest of the 4 sons of Terton Pema Lingpa (1450–1521), came to Tashigang cirica 16th century looking for a suitable place to establish his religious seat. On reaching Yonphu, he gave blessing to the local people. The community offered the land to the lama. The name "Yonphu" derives from this act of offering ('Yuen' meaning "offering" and Phu meaning "land" in the local dialect) .  The place then was called Yuen Phu. With some alteration, today it has become Yonphu Lhakhang.

During construction, local legends recount that evil spirits obstructed the temple’s progress. To pacify them, Sangdag performed a mask dance called Homchham (originally danced naked) to distract the spirits. Simultaneously, he manifested as two pigs to conduct the groundbreaking ritual (Sa duel Phag Chham), allowing the temple to be built without further interference .  

The temple, also known as Ugyen Choling Lhakhang, and even though it is almost 500 years old it stills remains a vital spiritual and communal hub. It is closely tied to the 'Yonphu Tshechu', a festival initiated by Sangdag that features unique mask dances, including the rare Homchham and Phagchham. These dances symbolize the triumph of good over evil and are performed thrice annually to honor Guru Rinpoche’s birth and local traditions .  

The temple’s maintenance and festivals are sustained by the 'Kanglung community', reflecting principles of 'Gross National Happiness (GNH)'. Contributions, initially in the form of rice and vegetables, have evolved into monetary donations, showcasing the community’s enduring commitment to preserving their heritage .  

The temple was built to serve as a center for Buddhist practice and to preserve the teachings of Guru Rinpoche and Terton Pema Lingpa. Its location in the remote, Yonphu was chosen for its spiritual energy and natural beauty, which are believed to enhance meditation and religious practice. The construction of the temple was a community effort, with local villagers contributing labor, materials, and resources to create a sacred space that would benefit future generations.

The structure is typically characterized by its whitewashed walls, intricately painted wooden beams, and a golden spire that glistens in the sunlight. The temple houses a variety of sacred relics, including statues of Guru Rinpoche, Terton Pema Lingpa, and other Buddhist deities, as well as ancient scriptures and ritual objects.

The temple's interior is adorned with vibrant murals depicting scenes from the life of Guru Rinpoche, the Jataka tales (stories of the Buddha's previous lives), and other religious iconography. These artworks serve not only as decorations but also as tools for teaching and meditation, helping devotees visualize and connect with the divine.

One of the most important aspects of Yonphu Lhakhang is its annual festival, known as the Yonphu Tshechu. Like other Tshechus in Bhutan, this festival is a vibrant and joyous occasion that brings together the local community and visitors from afar. The Yonphu Tshechu typically takes place over several days and features a series of religious mask dances (cham), prayers, and rituals performed by monks and lay practitioners.

The mask dances are a central feature of the Tshechu and are deeply symbolic. Each dance tells a story from Buddhist mythology, often depicting the triumph of good over evil or the deeds of enlightened beings. The dances are believed to confer blessings on the audience and to purify negative karma. The most important dance is the Guru Tshengye Cham, which portrays the eight manifestations of Guru Rinpoche and is performed to invoke his blessings.

In addition to the mask dances, the Tshechu includes the unfurling of a large thongdrel (a sacred tapestry) depicting Guru Rinpoche or another deity. The thongdrel is displayed at dawn, and devotees gather to receive its blessings, which are believed to cleanse sins and bring good fortune.

The festivals held at Yonphu Lhakhang are of immense importance for several reasons. Firstly, they serve as a means of spiritual renewal and merit-making for the participants. By attending the tshechu, devotees accumulate positive karma and deepen their connection to the teachings of Buddhism. The rituals and prayers performed during the festival are believed to bring peace, prosperity, and protection to the community.

Secondly, the festivals are a vital expression of Bhutanese cultural identity. In a rapidly changing world, events like the Yonphu Tshechu help to preserve the unique traditions and values of Bhutanese society. The mask dances, music, and costumes are all integral parts of Bhutan's intangible cultural heritage, and their continued practice ensures that this heritage remains alive and vibrant.

What sets Yonphu Lhakhang apart from other temples in Bhutan is its association with Terton Pema Lingpa tranquil setting. The temple's connection to this revered saint imbues it with a special spiritual energy that attracts pilgrims and practitioners from across the country. The sacred spring and the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape further enhance the temple's allure, making it a place of both physical and spiritual healing.

Yonphu Lhakhang is more than just a temple; it is a living embodiment of Bhutan's spiritual and cultural legacy. From its origins in the 15th century to its ongoing role as a center of religious practice and community life, the temple has played a vital role in the lives of the people of Trashigang and beyond. Its festivals, particularly the Yonphu Tshechu, are a vibrant expression of Bhutanese identity and a source of spiritual nourishment for all who participate.

Eastern Bhutan Neykor with Kyabje Kalu Rinpoche.

During the recent Buddha relic tour through the emerald hills and misty valleys of eastern Bhutan, Kalu Rinpoche found himself profoundly moved by the depth of devotion that radiated from its people. Like a sacred thread binding the hearts of thousands, their faith was unwavering, a beacon of spiritual fervor that touched his soul.

Over 2 weeks the Buddha Relic was in Bhutan an estimated 275,000 people came to receive blessing from the Relic, which is close to half the population of this Buddhist country. From the first light of dawn, villagers young and old, cloaked in their finest Ghos and Kiras, assembled in serpentine lines stretching as far as the eye could see. Some had begun their journey as early as 4a.m., braving the chill of the Himalayan winter morning, driven by an unshakable yearning to receive blessings from the holy relics.

Rinpoche was struck by their quiet patience and the sacred silence that enveloped these gatherings. Their eyes shimmered with hope and reverence, each gaze a silent prayer. To witness such an outpouring of devotion was to glimpse the very heartbeat of Bhutanese spirituality, a pure and untainted expression of faith that left him in awe.

As the tour progressed, Rinpoche felt a stirring within his own heart. The mountains and rivers of eastern Bhutan seemed to echo the people’s prayers, their faith resonating with the rhythm of nature itself. Touched by this profound spiritual energy, he realized that he must give back—not through mere words or fleeting gestures, but by immersing himself in the timeless practices that form the essence of Bhutanese spirituality.

For Rinpoche, the ancient and trans formative practice of Chö—the ritual of cutting through ego and offering oneself to the universe—felt like the most soulful and authentic way to connect with the people of eastern Bhutan. This practice, a melodic symphony of chanting, drumming, and prayer, would be his offering to the land and its people, a bridge between their devotion and his own path.

With a heart full of determination and gratitude, Kalu Rinpoche has resolved to return to Tashigang in March 2025. He is do an Empowerment and over the course of three days, he will chant Chö in the serene embrace of this sacred region blessed by Guru Rinpoche, offering blessings and forging a deeper bond with the people who inspired him. He envisions the practice not just as an act of spiritual connection but as a shared moment of transcendence—a space where the devotion of the public and his own meditative offerings converge in harmony.

In this way, Rinpoche’s journey to the east becomes more than a pilgrimage; it transforms into a celebration of faith, a testament to the enduring spirit of Bhutanese Buddhism, and a heartfelt tribute to the people whose unwavering belief lights up the valleys like the first rays of dawn

Details of the Neykor:

26^th March Wednesday: Fly to Guwahati, Tour bus to Samdrup Jongkhar, do immigration and drive to Tashigang.

27^th March Thursday: Receive Rinpoche at Yongphula airport in morning, Visit Yongphula Lhakhang, Yonphu  and Kanglung zangto pelri. After lunch Empowerment.

28^th March Friday: Morning Teaching and late afternoon the Chö prayer #1 Day

29^th March Saturday: Morning Teaching and late afternoon the Chö prayer #2 Day

30^th March Sunday: Morning Teaching and late afternoon the Chö prayer #3 Day

31^st March Monday: Drive to Autsho, Lhuntse Dzongkhag, visit Guru statue, Je Lhakhang at Autsho Night Halt Autsho, Lhuntse

1^st April Tuesday: Visit Jangchobcholing Lhakhang and Lhuntse Dzong, night halt Autsho Lhuntse.

2^nd April Wednesday: Drive to Tashigang visit Dremitse Dzong and Tashigang Dzong.

3^rd April Thursday: Drive to Guwahati from Tashigang and exit from Samdrup Jongkhar night halt in Guwahati.

4^th April Friday: Fly to Delhi

Highlights of the Neykor

4 Days with Kalu Rinpoche

2 to 4 Casual dinner with Rinpoche and with Q&A

Chö Empowerment

3 days of teaching in the morning and 3 days of Chö chanting in the evening.

Jangchubcholing Monastery

Takila Guru Statue

Takila Guru Statue

Jangchubling Monastery

Tashigang Dzong

Lhuntse Dzong

Welcome to Niguma Experience :

Unveiling the Dragon Kingdom Through Bhutanese Eyes 

Kuzuzangpo la,

Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, Bhutan has long been celebrated as the last great Himalayan kingdom—a nation where ancient traditions harmoniously coexist with modern aspirations. Niguma Experience is more than just a travel company; it is your gateway to understanding this extraordinary country through the lens of its own people. 

Our mission is simple yet profound: to introduce Bhutan to the world as Bhutanese know and cherish it—a land of pristine nature, awe-inspiring architecture, and profound spiritual heritage, guided by the wisdom of a beloved King and Queen.

Bhutan’s beauty is unparalleled. Verdant valleys, snow-capped peaks, and crystalline rivers form a breathtaking natural tapestry that promises serenity and renewal. As a company, we emphasize sustainable tourism that respects this fragile ecosystem, ensuring that every visit contributes to preserving Bhutan’s pristine environment. 

Our itineraries are crafted to immerse you in landscapes that seem untouched by time, whether it’s hiking through rhododendron forests, meditating in the quiet embrace of a mountain monastery, or simply breathing in the crisp, unpolluted air.

The cultural fabric of Bhutan is woven with threads of tradition and innovation. Centuries-old dzongs, temples, and monasteries stand as architectural marvels, offering glimpses into Bhutan’s artistic and spiritual heritage. Our expert guides will help you explore iconic sites like Paro Taktsang, the “Tiger’s Nest,” as well as lesser-known treasures where Bhutanese history and craftsmanship come alive. From intricate paintings on walls to the deliberate placement of prayer wheels, each element reflects the nation’s reverence for its past and its thoughtful approach to modernization.

Bhutan’s deep connection to Buddhism is at the heart of its identity. Spirituality here isn’t just a practice—it’s a way of life that influences everything from governance to daily interactions. At Niguma Experience, we invite you to engage with this heritage on a personal level. Participate in sacred rituals, learn the philosophy of Gross National Happiness, and witness the vibrant festivals where Bhutanese culture radiates in full splendor. These experiences are designed to leave you not only enriched but also with a deeper understanding of Bhutan’s ethos of compassion, harmony, and balance.

What makes Bhutan truly exceptional, however, is its people and leadership. Under the enlightened guidance of His Majesty King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Her Majesty Queen Jetsun Pema, Bhutan has become a model of how a nation can embrace progress without losing its soul. Their vision has redefined what it means to be a modern society—one that prioritizes happiness over material, environmental stewardship over reckless development, and community well-being over individual gain.

At Niguma Experience, we are proud to share our HOME with you. Our dedicated team, comprising local experts and storytellers, ensures that every moment of your journey is steeped in authenticity. We believe that through meaningful interactions and thoughtful exploration, you will not only see Bhutan as it is but also feel its heartbeat, understand its values, and carry its spirit with you long after your visit.

Come, discover Bhutan the way we see it—an inspiring balance of nature, culture, and forward-thinking leadership. With Niguma Experience, the journey is more than just a trip; it’s a transformative experience.