Chimi Lhakhang Monastery, Nepal

Discover Chimi Lhakhang Monastery

Stroll uphill through the rice and mustard fields surrounding Sopsokha village to Bhutan’s famous Chimi Lhakhang monastery, also known as the ‘Monastery of the Divine Madman’.

This Buddhist monastery located on a round hillock was built in 1499 after the site was blessed by the maverick saint Drukpa Kunley (the ‘Divine Madman’ himself) who built a chorten (religious monument). He was known for his unorthodox ways of teaching Buddhism through singing, humour and outrageous behaviour. He also advocated the use of phallus symbols as paintings on walls and flying carved wooden phalluses on the eaves of houses.

In an ornately decorated altar room inside the monastery, you’ll find its greatest treasure – the original ten-inch wooden phallus brought by Kunley from Tibet. Decorated with a silver handle, the phallus is used to bless pilgrims to the monastery, particularly women wishing to conceive, with a tap on the head.

The best way to see Chimi Lhakhang Monastery

If you would like to visit Chimi Lhakhang Monastery, why not take a look at one of our wonderful ATOL and ABTA protected holidays?  Please remember all our private tours are designed to meet your exact requirements, and the tours mentioned are just examples to help inspire you.

Contact our travel experts on 01792 315499 or email info@aitholidays.com for more information.