Chimi Lhakhang,Bhutan

According to local legend, Drukpa Kunley subdued a demoness living in the valley and converted her to Buddhism. The site is also linked to many fertility stories: childless couples travel to receive a blessing said to aid conception. The temple is famous for phallic paintings and wooden phalluses used as symbols to drive away evil and promote fertility; these motifs reflect Kunley’s unorthodox methods of teaching and blessing.

• The main temple (Chimi Lhakhang) with its shrine room and sacred relics
• Exterior walls decorated with painted phalli and fertility motifs
• The small courtyard and surrounding prayer flags
• The simple stone memorial and small stupas nearby
• Scenic views across the Punakha valley and rice fields

• Phallic paintings and carved wooden phalluses — a distinctive and widely recognized symbol
• Intimate, village-temple atmosphere (not a large tourist complex)
• Opportunity for a short blessing by the resident monk (often requested by couples)
• A short, picturesque hike or walk from the road through farmland and villages

• Take the short hike from the road (about 20–40 minutes depending on starting point) through local farmland and villages
• Receive a fertility blessing or general blessing from the resident monk (donations customary)
• Explore the temple interior and observe phallic iconography and local devotional objects
• Photograph the scenic valley views and traditional rural life (ask permission before photographing people)
• Buy locally carved wooden phalluses and other souvenirs from nearby stalls

• Regular daily/weekly pujas and blessing ceremonies at the temple (timing varies)
• Special community ceremonies and auspicious-day blessings — dates follow the Bhutanese lunar calendar and local announcements
• Visitors may witness or participate in fertility-specific blessings requested by pilgrims

Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offer the clearest weather and pleasant temperatures for walking and sightseeing.

Mild to cool in spring and autumn; winters are colder (especially mornings/evenings) and summers (monsoon season, June–August) can be wet and slippery on trails.

There is no formal government entry fee specifically for Chimi Lhakhang, but visitors should expect to leave a voluntary donation or offering and to pay a small fee if receiving a blessing. The temple is generally open during daylight hours; exact times depend on the resident monks and local customs.

Chimi Lhakhang lies in the Punakha Valley and is reached from Punakha town by a short drive followed by a walk/hike (about 20–40 minutes one way). The nearest international airport is Paro (approx. 2–3 hours’ drive to Punakha), after which most travelers transit via road. Public transport is limited; hiring a car/driver or joining a guided tour from Thimphu or Punakha is recommended.

Plan 1–2 hours for the visit (including the walk/hike, time at the temple, and souvenir shopping).

Wear comfortable walking shoes (trail can be muddy in wet season), modest clothing for temple visits (shoulders and knees covered), a light rain jacket in monsoon season, and layers for cool mornings/evenings.

Try local Bhutanese dishes if visiting Punakha (e.g., ema datshi, red rice). Popular souvenirs include small carved wooden phalluses, prayer flags, local handicrafts, and locally made sweets or honey.