- Location: Thimphu, Bhutan
- Foundation date: 17th century
- Confession: Tibetan Buddhism
- Order: nyingma
- Status: Monastic school
A peculiar trail of mystery and the aroma of spicy spices is wrapped in Bhutan . This country has opened its borders to tourists only recently, so this spirit of primordiality and unspoiltness is still preserved here. Friendly and happy Butans joyfully greet guests, and numerous monasteries open their doors to any tired traveler. And if you have already become acquainted with the structure and way of life of local residents, visit the Dechen-Pudrang - a temple that serves as a school for young novices.
What is interesting Dechen-Podrang?
In the vicinity of the city of Thimphu there is a unique landmark . If each temple of Bhutan devotes itself to serving the Buddha, then Dechen-Pudrang assumes a great responsibility for the training of monks. By the way, the name of the monastery is translated as "a place of great bliss", in which everyone can take the path of Buddhism. Today there are about 450 novices and a staff of 15 people. As an entertaining fact, one can note the presence of ten-year-old boys among those who came to comprehend the teachings of the Buddha.
The building of the temple has a very decent age - its construction is at the beginning of the XVII century. It is worth noting that Dechen-Podrang suffered many hardships and tribulations during his lifetime, but by the efforts of the people who guarded this monastery, today we can see its pristine appearance without any significant damage. On the walls here are typical for Buddhism ornaments and patterns, painted in red on the white wall, an original three-tiered roof, and in the courtyard there are several outbuildings decorated with mosaic. On the perimeter there is a tall fence, outside of which a wonderful pine grove begins.
However, they go here not only to see the novices and admire the appearance. The monastery of Dechen-Pudrang holds invaluable artifacts for the history of Bhutan. Among them are several paintings of the XII century, which are listed in the UNESCO World Heritage List. In addition, the statue of Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the founder of Bhutan and the main follower of the school of Buddhism of Drukpa Kagyu, attracts attention on the top floor. The lower tier of the temple is adorned with the stone statue of Buddha Shakyamuni.
How to get there?
Dechen-Pudrang is located in the vicinity of Thimphu, but buses do not go here. Therefore, you can get there either by walking or by sightseeing buses from your travel agency.
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