Buddhism isn't something you visit in Bhutan — it's woven into daily life, from prayer flags on the passes to butter lamps in every home.
Arrival of the Dharma
Buddhism is said to have reached Bhutan in the 7th century, when temples such as Kyichu Lhakhang in Paro and Jambay Lhakhang in Bumthang were built. In the 8th century the great master Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) brought Vajrayana Buddhism, and sites linked to him — like the Tiger's Nest and Kurjey Lhakhang — are among the holiest in the land.
The Zhabdrung
In the 17th century Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal unified Bhutan, built many of its great dzongs and established a dual system of religious and civil government. The Drukpa Kagyu school he led remains the state religion, while the Nyingma tradition is also widely practised.
Faith in everyday life
- Prayer flags carry blessings on the wind
- Prayer wheels are spun clockwise to release mantras
- Butter lamps are lit as offerings of light
- Chortens mark sacred places and are circled clockwise
- Astrologers are consulted for important decisions
Experiencing it
Join monks for evening prayers, light butter lamps, receive a lama's blessing, or follow our Sacred Bhutan pilgrimage in the footsteps of Guru Rinpoche.
Header photo: Gerd Eichmann, CC BY-SA 4.0
