Trailing Dodeydra Monastery through the scenic route from Northern Part of Thimphu
Did You Know The holy spring water near the monastery is supposed to aid those whose hearing is impaired.
Dodeydra is situated on the side of a hill on the north-western flank of Thimphu city. The hike up to the monastery is considered one of the best day hikes by locals in the capital. The 5-kilometre trail has some of the best views of Thimphu city and provides a perspective that is different from the rest. Hikers and pilgrims can choose to either hike from Jungzhina near the gate of Samteling palace or start from Dechenling Goemba. It takes around two hours to reach the monastery. The monastery perched on the rock is situated at an altitude of 3000 meters above sea level.
HIGHLIGHTS
THE TRAILS & CANOPIES
One of the easiest ways to explore a place or any destination is by taking local hiking trails. Among numerous hiking trails in Thimphu, a hike towards Dodeydra is one of the highlights. Although the initial 30 minutes ascend is gruelling, the climb is worth it as the hiker’s eyes conquer the scenic view of Thimphu Valley from the Northern Belt.
Unlike any other hiking trail around the capital, en route Dodeydra there are canopies and resting spots thoughtfully built along the trail overlooking stunning landscapes and awe-inspiring view of the capital city.
RELIGIOUS SIGNIFICANCE
The monastery was built by the 13th Chief Abbot of Bhutan, Je Khenpo Yonten Thaye, in the year 1779 on a cliff face. It is believed that there is hidden text known as Dodey Kezang on the teachings of the Buddha inside the rock. Some say the sound of someone reading the text inside the cliff can be still heard today.
Inside the temple, you can find statues of the past, present and future Buddhas and Zhabdrung Phuntso Tshongpo, a mural of Avalokitesh painted by Je Jamyang Gyeltsen, a mandala created by Je Jamyang Gyeltsen; the shape of Dorji Phagmo on a rock wall. Nearby is holy spring water that is supposed to aid those whose hearing is impaired.
Today the monastery is home to 180 student monks pursuing certificates in higher studies of Buddhism, which is a 4-year course. The compound also has a guest room to accommodate locals looking to spend a night in this heavenly place in their pursuit of spiritual wellness.
The compound of the monastery is lively and is decorated with gardens and miniature images of stupas and sacred infrastructures. One can read the art of calligraphy on the rock, woods and trees within the vicinity.
THE SPORTS GROUND
According to the principal of the monastery, the reason for a playground is to encourage the monks to keep themselves physically active and to enhance social rapport amongst the fraternity.
