Jambey Lhakhang (Jakar) FAQs In 2024

What is Jambey Lhakhang?

Jambey Lhakhang is an ancient temple located in the Bumthang district of Jakar in Bhutan. It is one of the 108 temples believed to have been built by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo in the 7th century AD to subdue evil spirits in the Himalayan region. The temple plays a significant role in the cultural and spiritual landscape of Bhutan.

Jambey Lhakhang holds immense historical significance as it is part of a network of 108 temples constructed by King Songtsen Gampo. The temple’s origin is intrinsically linked to the spread of Buddhism in Bhutan and is thought to be one of the two oldest temples in the country, thus holding a prominent place in Bhutan's history.

Tourists at Jambey Lhakhang can admire the ancient architecture, observe the religious practices and rituals, and soak in the tranquility of the temple grounds. They can also participate in the Jambey Lhakhang Drup festival if they visit during the festival time. Photography inside the temple may be restricted, so visitors should check the local guidelines.

The best time to visit Jambey Lhakhang is during the autumn, particularly in time for the Jambey Lhakhang Drup festival, which occurs in October or November depending on the Bhutanese lunar calendar. The festival features masked dances, religious rituals, and cultural performances, offering visitors a unique glimpse into Bhutanese heritage.

The Jambey Lhakhang Drup is an annual festival held at Jambey Lhakhang, celebrating the temple's establishment and honoring the deeds of King Songtsen Gampo. It features a series of colorful and mystical mask dances performed by monks, traditional music, and a unique fire ritual known as 'Mewang' (the fire blessing) believed to bring blessings to all who pass through the flames.

Tourists can reach Jambey Lhakhang by flying to Paro International Airport and then taking a domestic flight or driving to Bumthang district which is about 270 kilometers away from Paro. From the town of Jakar in the Bumthang district, Jambey Lhakhang is easily accessible by road.

Visitors must obtain a Bhutanese visa prior to travelling and should book their trip through a registered tour operator, as independent travel is not permitted in Bhutan. All tourists (except citizens of India, Bangladesh, and Maldives) are required to pay a daily tariff that includes a sustainable development fee, accommodation, food, transport, and guide services. Tourists may also need to pay an additional entrance fee for Jambey Lhakhang, which is usually included in the tour package.

Yes, visitors to Jambey Lhakhang and other religious sites in Bhutan are expected to dress modestly. It is advised to wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts, and remove hats and sunglasses before entering temple grounds. Locals appreciate when tourists show respect for their culture by adhering to these dress code guidelines.

Jambey Lhakhang itself is a religious site and may not have extensive tourist facilities. However, the nearby town of Jakar offers accommodation, dining, and other travel-related services. It is recommended for tourists to check with their tour operators regarding arrangements for visiting the temple.

Foreign tourists are often welcomed to observe religious ceremonies at Jambey Lhakhang, but active participation may be limited to practitioners of Buddhism or those specifically invited to participate. When attending ceremonies, it is crucial for tourists to show respect by remaining silent, not intruding on the rituals, and following the local customs instructed by their guides.

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