Zhiwa Tours & Treks

28/06/2024

Thank you visiting Bhutan with us and safe flight.✈️

28/06/2024

Tashichhodzong

re-construction was completed in record time of seven years. It started in 1962 and completed in 1969. The Dzong built on the banks of Thimphuchu River is an architectural marvel and an important spiritual center for the Bhutanese.

Photo: Pradyumna P. Karan.

27/06/2024

Trashiyangtse Dzongkhag,

Omba Ney, Taktshang of the East
Omba Ney in Trashi Yangtse is known as the Tiger's Nest of the East. It is built on the face of the cliff overlooking Toedtsho gewog with a spectacular view of mountains and deep gorges. People believe that the place was blessed by Guru Rimpoche. Local believe that later the Terton Pema Lingpa blessed this sacred site.

26/06/2024

Trashi Yangtse Dzong,

In 1651, Daga Trashi Yangtse Dzong was built on a ridge overlooking a valley by Drugda Namgyel with a command from Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel to bring the area under control and to defend the country from the invading armies from south.

Daga Trashi Yangtse Dzong is one of the oldest Dzongs in the country. Among other sacred relics, the Dzong houses a buffalo horn measuring about 4’5”. The horn is believed to have been discovered by Daga Penlop Tempa Thinley in early 16th century.

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25/06/2024

(Kurjey Lhakhang, Bumthang 1922)

Kurjey lhakhang is one of the most sacred sites in Bhutan. It is located in the Bumthang valley.
Guru Rinpoche is said to have left the imprint (je) of his body (ku) on a solid rock while mediating there in the 8th Century which is preserved in a cave inside the oldest of the three buildings.

The Kurjey complex is made up of three large temples in a row facing south surrounded by an enclosure made of 108 chortens. The first temple to the right is Guru Lhakhang which is the oldest and was built in 1652 by Chogyal Mingyur Tempa when he was penlop of Trongsa. The middle temple Sampa Lhundrup was built by the first King Ugyen Wangchuck in 1900, during his tenure as Trongsa Penlop. The third temple was constructed by Ashi Kesang Choden Wangchuck in 1984 under the guidance of Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche. The kings and some royal family members are cremated in Kurje.

Source: The queen lens

22/06/2024

Welcome to Bhutan Mrs. Sonam Wngmo Ladakjo and families.
Enjoy your Tour & wonderful stay in Bhutan.

22/06/2024

Gasa Dzong,

Hidden in the pristine beauty of Gasa district in Bhutan is Gasa Dzong that is of great value to Bhutanese not only because of its sacred values but also because of an incredible belief amongst the locals. Gasa Dzong is a marvel of architecture located in a place, where it is protected by towering snow-capped mountains. This ancient temple is so amazing that the tranquilizing aura, fresh air, and simplicity of the surroundings provide any traveller with indelible experience.

19/06/2024

The world's largest statue Of Guru Padmasambhava, with the total height of 173 feet, stands imposingly on the Takila mountain slope, which is one of the most beautiful scenic spots in Lhuntse district.

18/06/2024

There are beautiful places everywhere, we just have to travel with a beautiful heart.

Visit with Zhiwa Tours and Treks.

17/06/2024

Bhutan

16/06/2024

Jangtsa Dumgtseg Lhakhang is a notable chorten in the country. It is located on the edge of a hill between the Paro valley and the Dopchari valley, across the bridge from Paro. The Buddhist iconography depicted in the Chorten is considered a unique repository of the Drukpa Kagyu school.

13/06/2024

Trongsa Ta Dzong.

12/06/2024

Chendebji Chorten ( Stupa), situated 41 kilometers west of Trongsa at an elevation of 2,430 meters.

Legend has it that the chorten conceals the body of an “evil spirit.” Constructed in the 18th century, it follows the style of Nepalese stupas like Boudhanath and stands along the Chorten Lam, a path connecting various chortens in Bhutan. Lam Tshering Wangchuk built it to ward off the demon Ngala.

11/06/2024

The flag of Bhutan features a white dragon on a yellow and orange background. The dragon symbolizes the country's protective power, the white color represents purity, and the orange and yellow symbolize spiritual traditions and secular authority.

06/06/2024

04/06/2024

Bhutan is a peaceful country.
🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻

03/06/2024

Wishing Her Majesty our Beloved Gyaltsuen a Happy 34th Birthday la…
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02/06/2024

THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF PRAYER WHEELS IN BHUTAN

You'll find prayer wheels all over Bhutan. Inside each prayer wheel is a tightly rolled-up scroll of mantras. Spinning the wheel is equivalent to reciting the mantras.

The young and old spinning a prayer wheel is a common sight in Bhutan.

The prayer wheel can be traced to Tibet in the fourth century.

Buddhist texts speak of “turning the wheel of dharma” which led to the concept of the prayer wheel, a mechanical device that consists of an embossed hollow cylinder and a rod that runs through its height. Inside the rod is a tightly rolled-up scroll of mantras.

Spinning the prayer wheel is equivalent to reciting mantras. Each spin of the wheel is as effective as reciting the mantras orally, multiplied by the number of times the mantra is printed on the scroll.

The purpose of the prayer wheel is to relieve all living beings of their misery. When the mantra is recited, merit, peace, and kindness radiate through the world, bringing enlightenment to all sentient beings.

31/05/2024

Paro Taktsang, also known as the Tiger's Nest, is a prominent and sacred Buddhist site located in the Paro Valley in Bhutan. It is a stunning monastery complex perched on a cliffside, about 3,000 feet above the valley floor. The monastery is surrounded by lush greenery and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Legend has it that the monastery was built on the spot where Guru Padmasambhava, a revered Buddhist master, meditated in the 8th century after flying to the site on the back of a tigress. This miraculous event is said to have earned the monastery its name, the Tiger's Nest.

Visitors to the Tiger's Nest must embark on a challenging hike to reach the monastery. The hike takes about 2-3 hours and involves traversing steep paths and stairs carved into the rock face. Along the way, pilgrims and tourists can take in the natural beauty of the surroundings and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the mountains.

Once at the monastery, visitors can explore the various temples, shrines, and meditation caves that make up the complex. The main temple houses a sacred statue of Guru Padmasambhava and offers stunning views of the valley below.

The Tiger's Nest is not only a significant religious site but also a symbol of Bhutanese culture and heritage. It has become a must-visit destination for travelers seeking spiritual enlightenment and a deeper connection to nature. A visit to the Tiger's Nest is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone fortunate enough to experience its beauty and tranquility.

31/05/2024

29/05/2024

Memorial Chorten

The Thimphu Memorial Chorten is a prominent Buddhist monument located in the heart of Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. Also known as the Thimphu Chorten or the Memorial Stupa, it was built in 1974 in memory of the third King of Bhutan, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. This whitewashed stupa is adorned with intricate carvings, colorful prayer flags, and golden spires, making it a stunning sight against the backdrop of the surrounding mountains. It serves as a popular pilgrimage site for both locals and tourists, offering a serene and spiritual atmosphere for prayer, meditation, and reflection. Visitors to the Thimphu Memorial Chorten can witness devotees walking around the stupa, spinning prayer wheels, and offering butter lamps, incense, and ceremonial scarves as offerings. The peaceful ambiance and breathtaking views make it a must-visit destination for those seeking a deeper understanding of Bhutanese culture and spirituality.

29/05/2024

Mask Dance of Bhutan, also known as Cham, is a traditional dance form that is performed during religious festivals and events in Bhutan. The dance is characterized by elaborate masks and costumes that represent various deities, demons, animals, and characters from Bhutanese folklore and mythology.The Mask Dance is believed to have originated in the 8th century during the time of Guru Rinpoche, the founder of Tibetan Buddhism in Bhutan. It is performed by monks and laypeople as a way to honor and appease the gods, as well as to educate the public about Buddhist teachings and values. The dance is accompanied by traditional music and chanting, and is often performed in large open spaces such as courtyards and temple grounds. The performers move in intricate patterns and gestures, mimicking the movements of the characters they are portraying. The Mask Dance is considered a sacred and spiritual practice in Bhutan, and is believed to bring blessings, protection, and good fortune to the participants and spectators. It is also a way to preserve and promote Bhutanese culture and heritage. Overall, the Mask Dance of Bhutan is a unique and vibrant tradition that continues to be an important part of the country’s cultural identity.

29/05/2024

Punakha Dzong,

also known as Pungtang Dechen Phodrang Dzong, is a majestic fortress monastery located at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers in the Punakha Valley of Bhutan. Built in 1637 by Ngawang Namgyal, the first Zhabdrung Rinpoche (unifier of Bhutan), Punakha Dzong is not only a historical and architectural marvel but also a spiritual center of great significance. The dzong's whitewashed walls, red and gold-painted woodwork, and towering central tower, known as the utse, create a striking and picturesque sight against the backdrop of the verdant hills and clear blue skies. The intricate murals, intricate carvings, and sacred relics housed within its walls make Punakha Dzong a treasure trove of Bhutanese art and culture. As one enters the dzong through the massive wooden doors adorned with brass studs, a sense of peace and tranquility envelops the visitor. The courtyards, prayer halls, and administrative offices within the dzong are meticulously designed and adorned with traditional Bhutanese motifs, reflecting the country's rich heritage and deep-rooted Buddhist traditions. Punakha Dzong also holds great historical significance as the the site of the coronation of the kings of Bhutan. The sacred Machen Lhakhang (Temple of the Divine Madman) within the dzong is dedicated to the eccentric saint Drukpa Kunley, known for his unorthodox teachings and miraculous powers. Visitors to Punakha Dzong can witness the annual Punakha Drubchen festival, a vibrant celebration of Bhutanese culture and religion, held in the dzong's courtyard. The festival features masked dances, religious rituals, and colorful processions that attract both locals and tourists alike. Overall, Punakha Dzong stands as a testament to Bhutan's rich cultural heritage, architectural prowess, and spiritual legacy, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty and serenity of this sacred place.

27/05/2024

Neychen DONGKOLA. (Part2) Mendeup Goenpa

108 Vajras (Dorji)- It is believed that 108 vajras came flying from nearby lake. This vajars also has its own significance and blessings.
A Statue of Guru Padmasambhava- Guru Sungjoenma (statue that has spoken).
It was believed that the statue was actually located in the nearby lhakang (Mindrup Goenpa lhakang). But how that statue reached Dongkola lhakang was the main reason for its sacredness. Once the mindrupling lhakhang was believed to caught on fire and during that time it was believed that that statue had spoken saying to shift him to Dongkola lhakhang. And if one visits and get blessings from that statue then one is believed to be blessed with whatever you pray for from that statue.
A Footprint on the slab of Terton Tsherjng Dorji.
It was believed that the Terton when he was a boy, he was an ignorant cow herder with an ill tempered nature. One day Tertoen and his friends was believed to have stole one pregnant mother cow, and when they slaughtered the cow, they were shocked to see one beautiful and innocent calf ready to be born but found dead. This very moment made Tertoen to change his mind and then immediately decided to become a monk whereby he realized his destined role of a Toerton later and built the Dongkola Lhakhang.

26/05/2024

Neychen DONGKOLA. (Part1)

It’s a must place to visit if you are a Buddhist and Adventurer.
Location:
Dzongkhag: Paro.
Altitude: 3370 m above the sea level.
Distance: 18 km away from paro shaba.
Road conectivity: Yes till main Temple.

The name Neychen.
The name NEYCHEN is the highest Title given to the holy place according to the degree of it’s sacredness. And in Bhutan, it’s just Neychen Dongkola.

The following are the main Teasures in the Temple:

1. A statue of Yidam Thongwa Dondendrup- a wish fulfilling statue at sight. A story behind: This statue was believed to reached Dongkola flying from Bumthang, Mebar Tsho- Where Tertoen Pema Lingpa was challenged to proof himself as a treasure revealer by the ignorant and powerful local chieftain of Chokhor. When Tertoen presented him with a metallic box from Mebar tsho, he got furious to see just a metallic box and he furiously hitted the box with his sword where 3 statue came out flying from that metallic box. One reached to Dongkola, one went flying to Mongar, Yagang lhakang, and the other one went to Bumthang (one of the lhakhangs). So if one happened to visit Dongkola and seek any kind of blessings from the statue, it is still believed that your wish can be fulfilled.

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24/05/2024

23/05/2024

Ultimately, the gratitude we feel for our pilgrimage trips extends beyond ourselves and the individual experiences we have had. We can be thankful for the opportunity to connect with something greater than ourselves, to be part of a community of people who share our values and beliefs, and to contribute to a world that is larger than any one of us.

21/05/2024

On the way to Paro..

20/05/2024

Meet with wild animals