Cheri Gompa Monastery
Cheri Gompa Monastery
4.5
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4.5
44 reviews
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15
Average
0
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Tonci
Croatia45 contributions
Nov 2023 • Couples
Like the neighboring Tango Monastery, this beautiful temple is located on a hill, which is reached by a beautiful path. Only the path is not paved, so we recommend that you wear the trekking shoes. We walked uphill to the temple for one hour because we stopped every now and then to enjoy the view of nature. The temple is located on a steep hill slope. The main temple part of this complex was under the restoration due to the earthquake that hit Bhutan a few years ago. The local residents and the lamas were cleaning and polishing the Buddha statues when we arrived at the main courtyard of the temple. Unfortunately, the temple's main place of worship was closed to visitors due to the restoration. However, we did visit the smaller temple area for the worshiping the patron deities on the floor above the ground floor, which was also very beautiful. By the way, the Cheri Monastery is a place where monks come to peacefully devote their precious life time to the mantras and the deep meditation.
We had an unforgettable sight when we saw the Himalayan blue sheep, which is rarely seen.
We visited this temple on the same day as the neighboring Tango Monastery, which we would also recommend to everyone.
We had an unforgettable sight when we saw the Himalayan blue sheep, which is rarely seen.
We visited this temple on the same day as the neighboring Tango Monastery, which we would also recommend to everyone.
Written 20 March 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
T-SGlobetrotters
Preston, UK4,097 contributions
Nov 2024 • Couples
The only access to the monastery founded in the 17th century is up a quite steep path from a road below that takes about an hour with stops along the way. The walk takes you through a lovely forest that gives you an occasional glimpse of the steep valley below. Prayer flags line much of the route. The main monastery site has now been fully restored and once inside the courtyard, you can get access to the main temple. The decoration of the external walls when viewed from the courtyard is particularly impressive.
It is worth asking your guide to also take you to the upper Gomba that is reached by ascending several flights of (unguarded) steep stone steps. The first room is a communal meditation centre but beyond this is an inner temple that contains the ashes of the founders’ father and some of the wall decoration here is original. At the time of our visit a sole monk was performing the Buddhist mantra.
This is a beautiful peaceful place understandingly given prominence as a meditation retreat.
It is worth asking your guide to also take you to the upper Gomba that is reached by ascending several flights of (unguarded) steep stone steps. The first room is a communal meditation centre but beyond this is an inner temple that contains the ashes of the founders’ father and some of the wall decoration here is original. At the time of our visit a sole monk was performing the Buddhist mantra.
This is a beautiful peaceful place understandingly given prominence as a meditation retreat.
Written 26 November 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Natarajan R
Indore, Madhya Pradesh, India84 contributions
Apr 2017 • Solo
Dear Readers: I have written an 8 part series about my travel to and within Bhutan. This is an excerpt from that series.
==================================================================
The driver, L.K. Is of Indian Origin, settled for many generations n Bhutan and speaks with a Bhutanese accent. When he pronounces few words, it is like hearing Raj Kapoor belting out his dialogues.
He tells me that let us first go the place that is farthest and that would be Cheri Goemba, about an hour’s journey from Thimphu. He says that the other Goemba is located at a higher point.
The roads are not wide – they are just 2 lane roads winding up and down the hills. Everyone invariably follows the traffic rules – so everyone gains – there are no nasty surprises. Be it pedestrians or be it motorists.
The sky is totally overcast with continual drizzle that oscillates between strong to medium strength. Am reminded of 2 songs – “The Long and the Winding Road” by Beatles and the song from “3 Idiots” “Behti hawa sa ha woh, udti patang Sa tha woh”. These songs reverberate in my heart and am mesmerised by the beauty of the mountains, the lush green scenery, the waters that are joyfully surging down the hills, there are points that remind me of the travels in Switzerland. Water coming down from the hills becomes a river that is reminiscent of postcards with picturesque points. I gasp at the bounty that nature has rewarded this country. But at the same time, my admiration for the Bhutanese folks increase or rather gallop, as unlike Indians, they have preserved nature in its pristine glory.
We reach the Cheri Goemba finally and the driver, says, “Sir, this is the point from where you start and (pointing at a monastery) that’s where you need to reach. It will take you an hour or thereabouts but will be in touch with you over the phone”.
So I gather my bag with umbrella and camera and cross the wooden bridge. At the end of it, I see a Stupa and I also see a group of young girls, in their traditional finery climbing. (Later I realized that in most of the official places, monasteries, Bhutanese have to wear their National Dress) I go to the Stupa, take some snaps and then start climbing. Other than the 4 girls who have gone far ahead and I, there is no one else. And the drizzle is becoming heavier.
So I start climbing and each 10 to 20 feet climb brings me to a different vista point. As I climb, I also start panting for breath not having been used to steep climb like this. But I plough on gamely. When I climb the hills, I realize why the monks and our Rishi's and Sages prefer mountains. To me, the entire “process” of climbing makes me seek out my inner self. The clouds are floating, the breeze comforts you with its cool air but the rainwater is crashing onto the umbrella like an incessant chatter. I sense an inner calm.
Finally, after about 45 minutes or so, I reach another Stupa that also has a resting place with cover protecting the climber from sun or rain. I see the same girls having lunch and muster courage to exchange words with them.
I ask, “How far is the monastery from here”.
“Some more distance from here”
I appreciate them, ”You girls are climbing as if it is a stroll in the park !!”
They giggle. One girl says, “In India, it is more plains, so Indians have trouble” and then makes gazelle like movements. Later she tells me that her name is Sonam.
Then brief silence. Then they ask, ”Are you climbing upto the monastery?”. I reply, “Probably not, am tired”. Now they talk and protest to me in chorus, ”No!!! You must climb upto the monastery. Having come upto this point, you should come to that point. We will give you company”. Not having anything to lose, I say ok.
And, as things turned out, that was the best decision of that day.
Climb/trek was, for me, certainly anything but easy. Greedy as I was, I keep taking shots of beautiful mountains, as the sight is mesmerising. Verdant fresh greenery, all the dust having been knocked off from the leaves, the leaves were bright and in all shades of green, the mountains were being kissed by the passing clouds. It was ethereal.
And then, some twists and turns followed by huffing and puffing from my side. I see trees that have moss and upon which other plants have taken roots. Rhododendron flowers, the trees add colours to the forest. I look around for the girls; they have moved far ahead.
Slowly, am able to get a glimpse of the Cheri Goemba monastery. But the climb to that point is steep. With the last ounce of the energy I make it to the monastery and I meet the girls and thank them profusely. The truth is, had I not met the girls, I would not have come this far. They were the ones who motivated me and “showed” me the way. They ask me to join the prayers inside the sanctum sanatorium. No photography allowed inside. The place is a bit dark but one can make out that it is well maintained and is in pristine condition. Am told that this is the place where the ashes of the founder of Bhutan have been spread. There are various idols made in metal mostly brass depicting various forms of Buddha that is worshipped and revered. Generous donations can be seen. I also pray keeping in my mind my family, all the friends and their families and for their well-being. Complete my trip by paying my obsequies. I feel truly blessed to have visited this place, met some fine young ladies and making friends with them.
They ask me to join them in one more monastery that is visible and needs a climb of another 50 to 60’. I politely decline keeping in mind that I have one more day to look around and don't want any muscle pull or any such thing. After all, not only I need to be “happy” but as a rare solo traveller in Bhutan I need to take care of myself !!
Slowly I make my way back and am accompanied this time by feathered friends who make their appearance. Darting between the various tree branches, they are a sight to behold !!! I see an absolutely beautiful yellow breasted bird, another one that sports bright red plumes. Could take a photograph of the red one but the yellow one does the disappearing trick. Then there are trees that are at the edge of the mountains making for a great view. Rhododendrons are aplenty in Bhutan and as is the case with most of North-East, plenty of Ferns in all varieties. Again the efforts of Government of Bhutan in nature conservation, ecology conservation is absolutely visible. And in this process, the flora and fauna of Bhutan get their space. How I wish we, in India, could adopt some of the best practices !!!
Slowly I go down, absorbing all the beauty, fresh oxygen into my system. No wonder, I think that the monks, Rishis moved to mountains when they wanted to pursue their goals and to do their penance.
LK meets me down and tells me, “Sir, you did quite ok in terms of speed. You will be able to do a bigger one tomorrow!!”.
==================================================================
The driver, L.K. Is of Indian Origin, settled for many generations n Bhutan and speaks with a Bhutanese accent. When he pronounces few words, it is like hearing Raj Kapoor belting out his dialogues.
He tells me that let us first go the place that is farthest and that would be Cheri Goemba, about an hour’s journey from Thimphu. He says that the other Goemba is located at a higher point.
The roads are not wide – they are just 2 lane roads winding up and down the hills. Everyone invariably follows the traffic rules – so everyone gains – there are no nasty surprises. Be it pedestrians or be it motorists.
The sky is totally overcast with continual drizzle that oscillates between strong to medium strength. Am reminded of 2 songs – “The Long and the Winding Road” by Beatles and the song from “3 Idiots” “Behti hawa sa ha woh, udti patang Sa tha woh”. These songs reverberate in my heart and am mesmerised by the beauty of the mountains, the lush green scenery, the waters that are joyfully surging down the hills, there are points that remind me of the travels in Switzerland. Water coming down from the hills becomes a river that is reminiscent of postcards with picturesque points. I gasp at the bounty that nature has rewarded this country. But at the same time, my admiration for the Bhutanese folks increase or rather gallop, as unlike Indians, they have preserved nature in its pristine glory.
We reach the Cheri Goemba finally and the driver, says, “Sir, this is the point from where you start and (pointing at a monastery) that’s where you need to reach. It will take you an hour or thereabouts but will be in touch with you over the phone”.
So I gather my bag with umbrella and camera and cross the wooden bridge. At the end of it, I see a Stupa and I also see a group of young girls, in their traditional finery climbing. (Later I realized that in most of the official places, monasteries, Bhutanese have to wear their National Dress) I go to the Stupa, take some snaps and then start climbing. Other than the 4 girls who have gone far ahead and I, there is no one else. And the drizzle is becoming heavier.
So I start climbing and each 10 to 20 feet climb brings me to a different vista point. As I climb, I also start panting for breath not having been used to steep climb like this. But I plough on gamely. When I climb the hills, I realize why the monks and our Rishi's and Sages prefer mountains. To me, the entire “process” of climbing makes me seek out my inner self. The clouds are floating, the breeze comforts you with its cool air but the rainwater is crashing onto the umbrella like an incessant chatter. I sense an inner calm.
Finally, after about 45 minutes or so, I reach another Stupa that also has a resting place with cover protecting the climber from sun or rain. I see the same girls having lunch and muster courage to exchange words with them.
I ask, “How far is the monastery from here”.
“Some more distance from here”
I appreciate them, ”You girls are climbing as if it is a stroll in the park !!”
They giggle. One girl says, “In India, it is more plains, so Indians have trouble” and then makes gazelle like movements. Later she tells me that her name is Sonam.
Then brief silence. Then they ask, ”Are you climbing upto the monastery?”. I reply, “Probably not, am tired”. Now they talk and protest to me in chorus, ”No!!! You must climb upto the monastery. Having come upto this point, you should come to that point. We will give you company”. Not having anything to lose, I say ok.
And, as things turned out, that was the best decision of that day.
Climb/trek was, for me, certainly anything but easy. Greedy as I was, I keep taking shots of beautiful mountains, as the sight is mesmerising. Verdant fresh greenery, all the dust having been knocked off from the leaves, the leaves were bright and in all shades of green, the mountains were being kissed by the passing clouds. It was ethereal.
And then, some twists and turns followed by huffing and puffing from my side. I see trees that have moss and upon which other plants have taken roots. Rhododendron flowers, the trees add colours to the forest. I look around for the girls; they have moved far ahead.
Slowly, am able to get a glimpse of the Cheri Goemba monastery. But the climb to that point is steep. With the last ounce of the energy I make it to the monastery and I meet the girls and thank them profusely. The truth is, had I not met the girls, I would not have come this far. They were the ones who motivated me and “showed” me the way. They ask me to join the prayers inside the sanctum sanatorium. No photography allowed inside. The place is a bit dark but one can make out that it is well maintained and is in pristine condition. Am told that this is the place where the ashes of the founder of Bhutan have been spread. There are various idols made in metal mostly brass depicting various forms of Buddha that is worshipped and revered. Generous donations can be seen. I also pray keeping in my mind my family, all the friends and their families and for their well-being. Complete my trip by paying my obsequies. I feel truly blessed to have visited this place, met some fine young ladies and making friends with them.
They ask me to join them in one more monastery that is visible and needs a climb of another 50 to 60’. I politely decline keeping in mind that I have one more day to look around and don't want any muscle pull or any such thing. After all, not only I need to be “happy” but as a rare solo traveller in Bhutan I need to take care of myself !!
Slowly I make my way back and am accompanied this time by feathered friends who make their appearance. Darting between the various tree branches, they are a sight to behold !!! I see an absolutely beautiful yellow breasted bird, another one that sports bright red plumes. Could take a photograph of the red one but the yellow one does the disappearing trick. Then there are trees that are at the edge of the mountains making for a great view. Rhododendrons are aplenty in Bhutan and as is the case with most of North-East, plenty of Ferns in all varieties. Again the efforts of Government of Bhutan in nature conservation, ecology conservation is absolutely visible. And in this process, the flora and fauna of Bhutan get their space. How I wish we, in India, could adopt some of the best practices !!!
Slowly I go down, absorbing all the beauty, fresh oxygen into my system. No wonder, I think that the monks, Rishis moved to mountains when they wanted to pursue their goals and to do their penance.
LK meets me down and tells me, “Sir, you did quite ok in terms of speed. You will be able to do a bigger one tomorrow!!”.
Written 6 June 2017
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
wickit542016
Toronto, Canada227 contributions
Mar 2019 • Couples
Well we are getting old....knees starting to go and all of that and Tigers Nest coming up in a few days....so lets go for a hike. Beautiful hike, although we would not like to do it in the rain. Quite steep in spots and 55 minutes later ( we are 65), we arrive at the location which really was quite amazing. We enjoyed the experience and it proved to be a practice for Tigers Nest. Best thing though was that we saw only 4 other tourists in the 2.5 hours experience.
Written 11 April 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Daniel C
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates270 contributions
Mar 2018 • Friends
We completed this trek after finishing the trek to Tango Monastery. This was a slightly more challenging trek but equally as rewarding. The views are incredible at each stage of the walk and those seem at the top are worth the challenging trek up!
Written 21 April 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
RaKs24
Mumbai, India196 contributions
May 2017 • Family
We had a choice to either trek tango or Cheri monastery. We chose Cheri monastery. It took us 75 minutes to trek up. It was steep only in few places , otherwise a very comfortable trek. The monastery up there was quite serene and the view from up there was awesome. It took 60 minutes to come down . I would certainly recommend this trek but surely it could be a touch difficult for senior citizens and children not use to walking .
Written 12 July 2017
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kath K
Hastings, New Zealand82 contributions
Oct 2018
The road to the starting point of this walk is a wonderful drive in itself. At one point crossing a beautiful stream with lots of prayer flags suspended on ropes from trees beside the bridge.
We parked close to the cantilevered bridge and began the walk to Cheri Gompa monastery. This is a good walk through woodlands which offer shade at times. After approximately 1 hour, depending on fitness, you arrive at the monastery. It was in the process of some renovation when we were there but is still a lovely place to visit. As with all monasteries you cannot take photos inside and there is a dress code but it is not so restictive. A collared short sleeve shirt is fine as are shorts unless asked to change into long pants. If no collar on the shirt then long sleeves are required.
Although less visited this monastery is well worth the climb and visit.
We parked close to the cantilevered bridge and began the walk to Cheri Gompa monastery. This is a good walk through woodlands which offer shade at times. After approximately 1 hour, depending on fitness, you arrive at the monastery. It was in the process of some renovation when we were there but is still a lovely place to visit. As with all monasteries you cannot take photos inside and there is a dress code but it is not so restictive. A collared short sleeve shirt is fine as are shorts unless asked to change into long pants. If no collar on the shirt then long sleeves are required.
Although less visited this monastery is well worth the climb and visit.
Written 22 October 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Frank K
The Hague, The Netherlands182 contributions
Aug 2018 • Couples
From the bridge at the river it is about 40 minutes (relax) uphill walk to the Monastery. The path is from sand and stones, so during the raining season some of the stones can be slippery, so watch out. The scenery is nice, lot of trees, plants and some animals (you need to search for them). On top of the hill you will see the Monastery. They were renovating some of the areas, so I could not make a nice picture of the whole monastery as the renovation was blocking the views but this is temporary. Monastery from inside is not so big, but nice to see.
Written 8 August 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
ACL3112
UK3,358 contributions
Nov 2017 • Couples
There are two ways to reach this monastery, a long one (2-3 hrs) which passes through villages and a more direct (and steep one) which takes about 1 hour.
Pace yourself if you are not used to high altotudes, the monastery is perched on top of a ountain at 2800 metres. The path is steep in places, take plenty of water, walk slowly, it is a worthwhile treck. The monastery was built in 1620, an important place of pilgrimage for Bhutanes people. The inside is wonderful - no photos allowed. Take plenty of water, it is easy to get dehydrated.
Pace yourself if you are not used to high altotudes, the monastery is perched on top of a ountain at 2800 metres. The path is steep in places, take plenty of water, walk slowly, it is a worthwhile treck. The monastery was built in 1620, an important place of pilgrimage for Bhutanes people. The inside is wonderful - no photos allowed. Take plenty of water, it is easy to get dehydrated.
Written 25 November 2017
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ron S
New York City, NY5,927 contributions
Sept 2023 • Couples
Cheri Gompa Monastery is located on a mountain at the altitude of 700-800 meters from the beginning of ascent. The path is mildly strenuous. There's an ongoing restoration at the monastery. The head monk speaks decent English. No photography allowed inside.
Written 6 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Are there toilet facilities available to visitors?
Written 18 March 2018
If I remember correctly, yes there were toilet facilities. One thing to remember in Bhutan: quite often you have to pay for the use of the rest room - no exceptions. This was apparent in Tiger's Nest Monastery. You are asked to hand in your bags before you start your visit (which usually includes your purse), at the end of the visit you walk past the rest rooms and they will not let you in unless you pay. So, keep small change with you.
Written 27 March 2018
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