Jambay Lhakhang and Kurjey in one morning

Start at Jambay Lhakhang, about 2 km north of Jakar. Tradition says it was built in the 7th century by the Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo as one of 108 temples raised in a single day to pin down a demoness who lay across the Himalaya; Kyichu Lhakhang in Paro is another. The inner temple holds a statue of Jampa, the future Buddha, and is the focus of the Jambay Lhakhang Drup, held each October or November with a midnight fire blessing.

Continue 2 km to Kurjey Lhakhang, three temples set against a cliff above the river. The oldest, the Guru Lhakhang, was built against a cave where Guru Rinpoche is said to have meditated in the 8th century, leaving the imprint of his body on the rock; kur means body and jey imprint. Legend tells how he came to cure a local king, Sindhu Raja, who had angered a mountain deity. The remains of Bhutan's first three kings are kept here.

Below the temples, a spring called Kurjey Drupchhu is believed to have healing water; pilgrims drink it and fill bottles. From Kurjey, walk across the suspension footbridge over the Chamkhar Chhu to Tamzhing Monastery, about 20 minutes. Dress modestly, remove shoes and caps inside and do not photograph the shrines. Entry is about Nu 500 at each temple, indicative 2026.