Engage in a serene meditation retreat at Palden Tashi Chholing Shedra, where the tranquil environment enables deep contemplation and mental rejuvenation. The shedra (Buddhist monastery educational institute) is a sanctuary for those seeking peace and spiritual growth. During the retreat, participants will be guided through various meditation techniques aiming to enhance focus, reduce stress, and foster an inner sense of peace. Activities include guided meditations, walking meditation, and silent reflection amidst the monastery’s calming ambiance. The experience is complemented by teachings from experienced monks who share insights into Buddhist philosophy and mindfulness practices. Participants will have the opportunity to engage in discussions and receive personal guidance to deepen their meditation practice.
Palden Tashi Chholing Shedra offers an enlightening experience through its Buddhist Philosophy classes. These classes provide an in-depth understanding of Buddhist teachings, traditions, and the path towards enlightenment. Delivered by learned monks and scholars, the classes cover topics such as the Four Noble Truths, the Eightfold Path, and the nature of reality as explained in Mahayana and Vajrayana Buddhism. Participants are encouraged to engage in discussions, question-and-answer sessions, and reflective exercises designed to apply these teachings to their daily lives. In addition to acquiring theoretical knowledge, attendees are also invited to partake in practical applications such as chanting, prayer, and ethical discussions, fostering a well-rounded and immersive learning experience.
Begin each day with renewed spirituality by partaking in the daily prayer sessions hosted by Palden Tashi Chholing Shedra. These sessions offer a rare glimpse into the daily rituals and practices of the monks who reside there. Visitors are invited to join the monastic community in the chanting of morning prayers, a practice believed to purify the mind and environment, creating a positive start to the day. The rhythmical chants, accompanied by traditional musical instruments such as the dungchen (long horn), create a mesmerizing and uplifting experience that resonates within the sacred walls of the monastery. This daily congregation is an integral part of the monastery's spiritual life and offers participants a moment of reflection, honoring the teachings of the Buddha.
Delve into the colorful world of Tibetan Buddhist art with the Thangka Painting Workshop at Palden Tashi Chholing Shedra. Thangka paintings are traditional Tibetan scroll artworks that depict various deities, scenes, and mandalas significant to Buddhism. These intricately detailed paintings are used as aids in meditation and teaching, and learning to create them is both a spiritual and artistic journey. Under the guidance of a master Thangka artist, participants will learn about the symbolism, techniques, and history of this sacred art form. The workshop is hands-on, allowing participants to work on their own pieces, which they can take home as a unique and meaningful souvenir. This immersive experience teaches patience, concentration, and respect for the traditional arts, as well as offering insight into the religious heritage of Bhutan.
Enrich your cultural understanding of Bhutan and its spiritual practices by learning the Tibetan language at Palden Tashi Chholing Shedra. This course, taught by resident monks and language experts, will equip participants with a foundational grasp of the language spoken by many of the Buddhist texts and scriptures. Students will explore spoken and written Tibetan, starting with the alphabet and basic grammar, and progressing to simple conversational skills. Emphasis will be on the classical Tibetan language, used for religious texts and teachings, providing learners with the ability to engage more deeply with Buddhist studies. The course is suitable for beginners and those with an academic or personal interest in Tibetan culture and religion.
The Cultural Immersion Program at Palden Tashi Chholing Shedra is a comprehensive experience designed to acquaint participants with the rich traditions and customs of Bhutanese monastic life. Over the course of the program, attendees will live alongside the monks, participating in their day-to-day activities. This includes attending prayer ceremonies, learning about the significance of various festivals, and partaking in community service projects within the monastery. The program also features excursions to sacred sites and Dzongs around Phuentsholing, providing a broader context to the cultural heritage of Bhutan. Participants will come away with a deeper appreciation for Bhutan's spiritual life and the discipline of monastic living.
Hill Stations (13)
Religious Places (102)
Historical Places (77)
Museums (20)
Wildlife Sanctuaries (15)
National Parks (12)
Forts (4)
Villages (28)
Zoos (6)
Mountains (13)
Gardens (16)
Waterfalls (12)
Dams (3)
Lakes (7)
Trekking Places (3)
