Chimi Lhakhang sits on a low round hill above the fields near Lobesa, between Punakha and Wangdue. It is linked with Lama Drukpa Kunley, the “Divine Madman”, a fifteenth- and sixteenth-century saint whose outrageous humour was his way of teaching.
The temple is commonly dated to 1499, built by Ngawang Choegyel on a site blessed by Kunley. Couples hoping for children travel here from across Bhutan and abroad to receive a blessing from a monk, traditionally given with a wooden phallus.
The walk there is half the pleasure. A path leads through rice fields and a village where phalluses are painted on the houses as protective symbols. They are a normal part of local tradition, not a joke, though you are welcome to smile.
Top things to do at Chimi Lhakhang
Walk through the fields
The path is short and mostly gentle. One itinerary puts it at about 2 km return, with minimal climbing.
Receive a blessing
Visitors can ask for a blessing at the temple. Follow your guide’s lead and leave a small offering if you wish.
Look at the village art
Painted phalluses and carved charms line the village. Ask before photographing people or homes.
How to get to Chimi Lhakhang
- The start of the walk is a short drive from Punakha town, near Lobesa on the road towards Wangdue. Guides usually stop here on the way in or out of the valley.
Insider tips
- Wear shoes you do not mind getting dusty or muddy.
- Bring water and sun protection for the open fields.
- Dress modestly for the temple.
- Keep a respectful tone: this is an active place of pilgrimage.
Tours that suit Chimi Lhakhang
These real listings are the closest match for Chimi Lhakhang. Check each itinerary:
Private multi-day tour from $493 Bhutan: 4-Day Paro, Thimphu & Punakha Private Tour
The shortest listing we found that reaches Punakha. Four days is tight, because the drive over Dochula takes a big part of two days, but it works if your time is limited.
- Listed by GetYourGuide under Punakha
- Combines Paro, Thimphu and Punakha
- Tiger’s Nest hike and Punakha Dzong in one short trip
Multi-day tour Bhutan: 5-Day All-Inclusive Bhutan Tour
A middle length for travellers who find four days too rushed. Check the itinerary includes Punakha before booking, since we could not confirm the full day plan.
- Five-day format
- Sold as all-inclusive: confirm the details
- A middle ground between four and six days
Multi-day tour from $787 Bhutan 6 Days Tour to Thimphu, Paro and Punakha
Six days is the length we suggest for most first visits: enough for Paro, Thimphu and an unhurried stay in Punakha. Confirm on the listing what the price covers.
- Six days across the three classic valleys
- Time for Punakha without racing back
- Listed by GetYourGuide under Punakha
