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Located in the northern hills of Thimphu, Cheri Monastery Thimphu is a significant Buddhist site in Bhutan. Built in 1620 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, it is a key religious centre and meditation retreat. The monastery attracts visitors who wish to experience Bhutan’s spiritual culture and scenic landscapes. It is also home to several monks undergoing rigorous training. The peaceful surroundings and traditional architecture make it a perfect spot for reflection and spiritual exploration.
Location
Photo: Christopher J. Fynn / Wikimedia Commons
Cheri Monastery Thimphu is about 15 km from Thimphu city centre in Bhutan. It is perched on a hill, requiring a short but steep hike from the base at Dodena Bridge. Dense forests surround the monastery and overlook the Wang Chhu River. Its location makes it an important spiritual destination, where many monks meditate and study. The hike to the monastery takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on one’s pace.
How To Reach
Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons
By Air: The nearest airport is Paro International Airport, about 55 km away. Visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus from the airport to Thimphu. The journey takes around 1.5 hours. From Thimphu, taxis or private vehicles can take travellers to Dodena, the base point for the monastery hike.
By Road: Regular buses operate between Paro and Thimphu. After reaching Thimphu’s bus station, visitors can take a local taxi or hire a private vehicle to reach Dodena. From there, they must trek uphill to the monastery.
By Rail: Bhutan does not have a railway system. The nearest railway station is in Hasimara, India, about 170 km away. Travellers arriving by train can take a bus or taxi to Thimphu before proceeding to Dodena.
Places To Visit In And Around Cheri Monastery Thimphu
Explore the best places to visit in and around Cheri Monastery in Thimphu for the best experiences to enjoy and elevate your trip:
1. Tango Monastery
Photo: Jmhullot Jean-Marie Hullot / Wikimedia Commons
Tango Monastery is an important centre for Buddhist studies in Bhutan. The monastery was originally built in the 12th century and later renovated by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in the 17th century. It is the home of the Buddhist College of Bhutan, where monks undergo years of spiritual training. The monastery’s location in the hills provides a quiet environment for meditation. Visitors can see ancient murals, Buddhist scriptures, and statues inside. The hike to Tango Monastery takes about 40 minutes and is a good way to explore the surrounding area.
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Ideal Trip Duration: 3 – 4 hours
2. Buddha Dordenma
Photo: בנר אילנאי / Wikimedia Commons
The Buddha Dordenma is one of the most famous landmarks in Bhutan. It is a giant 54 metre-tall statue of Buddha, made of bronze and covered in gold. The statue was built to promote peace and happiness in the world, according to Buddhist beliefs. Inside the statue, there are over 100,000 smaller Buddha statues, each made of bronze and gold-plated. The site is also a popular place for prayers and religious ceremonies. Visitors can walk around the area, admire the detailed artwork, and learn about Buddhist teachings from nearby temples. It is especially popular during sunrise and sunset.
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
3. Tashichho Dzong
Photo: Bernard Gagnon / Wikimedia Commons
Tashichho Dzong is an important administrative and religious centre in Bhutan. It serves as the office of the King and houses government ministries. The dzong was first built in 1641 and has been renovated several times. It is also the summer residence of Bhutan’s chief religious leader, the Je Khenpo. The architecture of the dzong is an example of traditional Bhutanese construction, with white walls, golden roofs, and wooden carvings. Visitors can explore the courtyard and temples inside. The annual Thimphu Tshechu, a festival with masked dances and religious performances, is held here every year.
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM (Closed on government holidays)
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 to 3 hours
4. Motithang Takin Preserve (Royal Takin Preserve)
Photo: Bernard Gagnon / Wikimedia Commons
Motithang Takin Preserve is a wildlife reserve that protects Bhutan’s national animal, the takin. The takin is a rare species found only in the eastern Himalayas and is known for its unusual appearance, which looks like a mix between a cow and a goat. According to Bhutanese legend, the takin was created by a famous Buddhist saint, Drukpa Kunley, who used a goat’s head and a cow’s body. The preserve was originally a zoo but later became a conservation area. Visitors can walk along the trails to see the takins up close and learn about Bhutan’s efforts to protect wildlife.
Timings: 9 AM – 4 PM
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
5. National Memorial Chorten
Photo: Bernard Gagnon / Wikimedia Commons
The National Memorial Chorten is an important religious site in Thimphu. It was built in 1974 in memory of Bhutan’s third king, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. Unlike other chortens, which usually hold relics, this one was built as a place for people to pray and meditate. The chorten is decorated with beautiful paintings and statues that represent Buddhist teachings. Many Bhutanese people visit the chorten daily to spin the prayer wheels and offer prayers. It is a common place for elderly people to gather and chant Buddhist mantras. Visitors can observe local religious practices, and participate in prayer rituals.
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 hour
Where To Stay
Photo: Lisaphotos195 / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Accommodation options near Cheri Monastery Thimphu are mostly in Thimphu city. Hotels like Le Méridien Thimphu, Taj Tashi, and Kisa Hotel provide comfortable stays with modern amenities. Budget travellers can find affordable guesthouses like Namseling Boutique Hotel or Thimphu Tower. Staying in Thimphu allows visitors easy access to the main destinations and other attractions.
Where To Eat
Photo: Antonio Morales García / Wikimedia Commons
There are no restaurants near Cheri Monastery Thimphu, but Thimphu city offers several dining options. Folk Heritage Restaurant serves traditional Bhutanese cuisine, while Ambient Café is popular for its coffee and snacks. The Zone offers a mix of Bhutanese and international dishes. Travellers can enjoy local delicacies before heading to the monastery.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Stephen Shephard / Wikimedia Commons
The best time to visit Cheri Monastery is from March to May and September to November. During these months, the weather is pleasant for hiking. The monsoon season from June to August can make the trails slippery, while winters (December to February) can be very cold. The monastery is open year-round, but visiting during spring or autumn ensures a comfortable trip.
Tips For Travellers
Photo: Peggychoucair / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
- Carry water and snacks, as there are no shops near the monastery.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes for the hike.
- Photography is allowed, but taking photos at Cheri Monastery inside temples may be restricted.
- Start early in the morning to avoid crowds.
- Follow local customs and maintain silence inside the monastery.
Visiting Cheri Monastery Thimphu offers insight into Bhutan’s religious heritage. The hike to the monastery, combined with the quiet and peaceful atmosphere, makes it a must-visit destination. Whether exploring the spiritual aspects or capturing photos at Cheri Monastery, travellers will find it a unique experience. Plan your trip with TripXL to ensure a smooth and memorable journey to this historic site.
Cover Photo: Stephen Shephard / Wikimedia Commons
