Brief Background

Lhakhang Karpo is one of the oldest temples in the country. It dates back to the 7th century and it was built by Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo. According to legend, it's said the king has released 2 pigeons white and black to choose the sight. Lhakhang Karpo is constructed on the site perched by a white pigeon. That's how the name is also derived Lhakhang Karpo (White Temple)

Its located at the foothills of the three magnificent mountains to the south of the Haa Dzong, commonly known as RigsumGonpo.

Upon the command of His Majesty the King, it was reconstructed and consecrated in 2018. 

Inside Lhakhang Karpo

The main statue of Lhakhang Karpo is a large statue of Sangye Tshepamey (Buddha Amitayus) place at the center of the one-storied temple. According to legend, the sculptor assigned the task of molding the statue of Tshepamey could not craft a head to match the body. After many attempts, the sculptor had resigned himself to failure and was bathing outside the temple when a man appeared carrying a basket. Inside the basket was the head of a statue that the man said he wanted to barter. The sculptor took the head inside and placed it on the body of the statue. It was a perfect fit. In his happiness, he turned to offer a fair exchange but the man had disappeared.

People believe that the man with the basket was their protecting deity, Ap Chhundu. Believed to be a manifestation of the wrathful Vajra Panja, Ap Chhundu is one of the most important protecting deities of the country and a birth deity of all those who are born in Haa valley. 

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: No Fees

Photography: Photography is allowed until courtyard.