A Sacred Site of Blessings, Miracles, and Unique Traditions
Chimi Lhakhang, also known as the Fertility Temple, is a small yet powerful monastery located in the Punakha Valley of Bhutan. It draws pilgrims from across the country and beyond, especially couples hoping to conceive children. Built in the 15th century, the temple is associated with the "Divine Madman" Lama Drukpa Kunley, a revered Buddhist saint known for his unconventional, humorous, and sometimes outrageous methods of teaching. His symbolic use of the phallus as a spiritual tool makes this temple truly unique. The walk to the temple is as rewarding as the destination itself—offering a scenic trail through picturesque rice fields and traditional houses. Whether you're visiting for spiritual reasons, to admire Bhutanese culture, or simply to enjoy the peaceful surroundings, Chimi Lhakhang offers a one-of-a-kind experience that beautifully blends myth, history, and heartfelt devotion.
Important Timings
|
Daily |
6:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
|
Best Time |
Morning or late afternoon for cooler weather and fewer crowds |
Booking and Entry Fees
|
Entry |
Free |
|
Donations |
Voluntary |
|
Photography |
Allowed in outer areas, not inside temple |
History and Legacy
Chimi Lhakhang was built in 1499 by the cousin of Lama Drukpa Kunley to honor his eccentric and powerful teachings. Lama Kunley, also known as the "Divine Madman," is known for using humor, song, and unorthodox methods to spread Buddhist wisdom. His teachings emphasized enlightenment through embracing the human experience, and his symbolic use of the phallus as a spiritual tool gave rise to many myths and stories that remain widely respected in Bhutan.
Over centuries, the temple gained popularity as a fertility shrine. Couples visit from around the world to receive blessings from a wooden phallus said to have belonged to the Divine Madman himself. The temple's rituals, including name-giving for newborns, continue to this day. Chimi Lhakhang stands not just as a religious monument, but as a beacon of faith, fertility, and cultural identity deeply rooted in Bhutanese spiritual life.
Nearby Destinations
|
Punakha Dzong |
9 km |
20 mins |
Taxi/Car |
|
Punakha Suspension Bridge |
10 km |
25 mins |
Taxi |
|
Lobesa Village |
1.5 km |
20 mins walk |
On foot |
|
Sangchhen Dorji Nunnery |
13 km |
30 mins |
Taxi |
Tourist Guidelines & Tips
- Respect the temple customs; remove shoes before entering.
- Do not take photos inside the shrine.
- Modest clothing is appreciated (cover shoulders and legs).
- Consider hiring a local guide for folklore explanations.
- Be respectful when observing or participating in fertility rituals.
Top Things to Buy Near Punakha
- Wooden phallus souvenirs (symbol of fertility)
- Miniature prayer wheels
- Handwoven textiles and scarves
- Traditional incense and herbal products
- Bhutanese spiritual masks
Top Things and Places to Eat Nearby
- Chimi Lhakhang Cafeteria – Local set meals with a view
- Lobesa Village Restaurant – Known for spicy Ema Datshi and red rice
- Bhutan Pizza House – Bhutanese twist on fast food
- Zhingkham Resort Café – Cozy café with local herbal teas
- Roadside stalls – Try fresh momo and butter tea
