spiritual · Druk Path Trek, Bhutan
Phajoding and the descent to Thimphu
After the high lakes, the trail crosses the last ridge and drops to Phajoding, a group of temples, monks' quarters and meditation retreat houses spread across the slope at about 3,600 m. It is named after Phajo Drugom Zhigpo, the 13th-century lama who brought the Drukpa Kagyu school to western Bhutan. Young monks study here, and older practitioners stay in the retreat houses for long periods of meditation.
Groups usually camp near Phajoding or pass through it on the final morning. With your guide, you can visit one of the temples if it is open. The view from the monastery takes in the whole of Thimphu, the dzong, the Buddha Dordenma statue on its hill and the river winding through the valley. It is a good place to pause before the last stretch.
The descent to Thimphu is steep and long, about 1,000 m through blue pine forest, taking 2.5–3.5 hours. Trekking poles and good boots help your knees. The trail ends at the road above the city near Motithang or Sangaygang, where your car waits. Plan a hot shower, a proper bed and a good dinner in Thimphu that night.
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Questions people ask
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How long is the walk down from Phajoding to Thimphu
About 2.5–3.5 hours, losing roughly 1,000 m through forest to the road above Thimphu near Motithang or Sangaygang. The path is steep and can be slippery after rain, so use trekking poles and take your time. Your vehicle meets you at the road and takes you to your hotel in town.
Can you visit Phajoding Monastery
Yes, with a licensed guide, when the temples are open. Phajoding is a working monastery and retreat centre, so keep voices low, dress modestly and ask before photographing monks. Do not disturb the retreat houses where practitioners are in meditation. A small offering at the altar is customary if you go inside.
Who founded Phajoding
Phajoding is associated with Phajo Drugom Zhigpo, the Tibetan lama who brought the Drukpa Kagyu school of Buddhism to western Bhutan in the 13th century, and who, by tradition, meditated at this spot. The temples and buildings you see today were built and rebuilt over the following centuries and are still used by monks.