Brief Background

Jampa Lhakhang is one of the oldest temples in the country, which was constructed by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo in the seventh century. Its one among 108 temples constructed across Tibet and the Himalayas to subdue the demon which was lying across the Himalayas. It is said it falls on the left knee of the demon.

Latter in mid 19th century four more temples were added to the existing one forming the closed courtyard. The exact dates of construction are not known. But in 1905 the brother-in-law of future king Ugyen Wangchuk, Chimi Dorji(Jakar Dzongpon) have partially restored the temple.

It has been visited and blessed by a lot of enlightened masters over centuries and also bears the markers which indicate the enlightened masters to come. It's said that Temple has 4 steps earlier representing 4 eras of Buddha, and at present, we can see half sunken and it is said it belongs to present Buddha Shakyamuni, and when this step fully sinks to ground then next buddha Maitreya will descend to earth and a new era of Buddhism will begin. 

Inside Jampa Lhakhang

Unlike other temples, there is a circumambulating path around the main shrine. And the main figure here is Buddha Maitreya and 8 bodhisattvas on the left and right side. There are paintings of 8 manifestations of Guru Rinpoche and along the circumambulating path is the painting of 1000 buddhas.

On the right side of the main sanctuary is the temple dedicated to Dukhor (Kalachakra), the wheel of time. Inside the Guru Lhakhang which forms the left courtyard houses Guru Rinpoche, Avalokiteshvara, and Amityus. 

Visitors Information

Open: Every day from 09:00 to 17:00 hrs .

Lunch Break: 13-14 hrs

Dress Code: Formal dress is required

Entry Fee: Nu.1000 (Roughly USD 12)

Photography: Photography is allowed until courtyard.