Kyichu Lhakhang is one of the oldest and most sacred temples in Bhutan, located in the quiet countryside of the Paro Valley. The main temple is traditionally believed to have been built in 659 CE by King Songtsen Gampo of Tibet, who, according to Buddhist tradition, constructed a network of temples across the Himalayan region to pin down a powerful demoness who obstructed the spread of Buddhism. Kyichu Lhakhang is said to be one of those temples. A second temple was added in the 7th century, while the complex received further additions and restorations over the centuries. The temple therefore offers a rare glimpse into the very early Buddhist history of the Himalayas.

Inside, Kyichu Lhakhang contains several revered religious images, including a remarkable statue of Jowo Sakyamuni, believed to date from the 7th century and often regarded as one of the temple’s most sacred treasures. The temple also houses an image of Chenrezig with eleven heads and a thousand arms, along with statues associated with Guru Rinpoche and other important figures of Bhutanese Buddhism. The courtyard has a particularly peaceful atmosphere, with ancient trees, prayer wheels and butter lamps adding to the sense of an active pilgrimage site. The temple is also closely associated with Bhutan’s royal family, and the Queen Mother Ashi Kesang Choden Wangchuck played a major role in its restoration and preservation.

Kyichu Lhakhang is approximately 5 km from Paro town and can be reached by car in around 10–15 minutes. The temple sits beside the road leading towards the northern part of the Paro Valley, surrounded by fields and traditional Bhutanese homes. The temple is easily accessible by vehicle, with only a short walk from the parking area to the entrance. Visitors should allow approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour to explore the temple and courtyard. As Kyichu Lhakhang remains an active place of worship, access to certain shrine rooms can depend on religious activities taking place at the time of the visit.

Altitude: Approximately 2,300 m (7,545 ft)
Distance from Paro town: Approximately 5 km
Drive from Paro town: Approximately 10–15 minutes