Brief Background
It is one of the most sacred places in Bhutan. It's the place where Guru Rinpoche has left his body print while meditating and that's how the name is derived, Ku (Body), Jey(Imprint). It dates back to the 8th century when Guru Padmasambhava visiting Bhutan on the invitation made by Sindhagyap, the king of that region to heal his illness. So Guru visited this place as the deity who has stolen the soul of the king was residing here. So he has meditated here and subdued the deity and made as to the local protector of the region.
Kurje has 3 temples and the oldest one in on the right side and was constructed by Minjur Tempa in 1652 while he was serving as Trongsa Penlop. The second temple that's in the middle was constructed in 1900 by the future first king, while he was also serving as Trongsa Penlop. And was constructed to house the statue of Guru Rinpoche which was modeled under the supervision of Nyingma Lama Bakhu Trulku for the prosperity and stability of the whole country.
The third temple was sponsored by Present Royal Grand Mother Ashi Kesang Choden and was consecrated in 1990. Even the 108 stupas surround the temple complex was sponsored by her.
Inside Kurje Lhakhang
The first one is the most important temple and have 2 sanctuaries. The lower one is the most important as it's here the body print of Guru Rinpoche can be seen, but now it blocked by a statue of Guru Rinpoche. And towards left and right is the 8 manifestation of Guru Rinpoche. On the right of the door is the 1000 statue of Guru Rinpoche and also you can see White Tara, Guru Rinpoche, and Pema Lingpa.
Opposite to the door is Guru Rinpoche and his 25 disciples and 8 manifestation and other forms counted in the tradition of Pema Lingpa. And this was done by second queen Ashi Phuntsho Choden.
In the middle temple is the statue of Guru Rinpoche(10 meters) which covers 2 floors.
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.
