Phajoding Monastery is one of the most rewarding mountain excursions from Thimphu, set high above the capital at around 3,700 metres. The site has been associated with the Tibetan saint Phajo Drugom Zhigpo since the 13th century, when he meditated in the area while establishing the Drukpa Kagyu tradition in western Bhutan. Much of the existing monastic complex was built in the 18th century under Gyelwa Shakya Rinchen, the 9th Je Khenpo. Phajoding once ranked among Bhutan’s wealthiest and most richly decorated monasteries, although years of neglect later placed it on the World Monuments Fund’s endangered monuments list. A major conservation project restored the complex between 2013 and 2018.

The journey to Phajoding is as important as the monastery itself. The trail begins above Motithang and climbs through forests of blue pine, oak and rhododendron before reaching the higher, more open slopes. The ascent is steady and physically demanding, with Thimphu Valley gradually appearing far below. The monastery complex contains around ten lhakhangs, meditation retreats and monastic residences, and also serves as a school for young monks. Phajoding forms part of the famous Druk Path trekking route, so hikers may encounter horse teams carrying supplies along the trail. For travellers who want to experience the mountain landscape and religious life of Bhutan beyond the main sightseeing circuit, this is one of Thimphu’s finest day hikes.

The hike begins in the upper Motithang area, above the Takin Preserve. Another route starts from the Sangaygang or BBS Tower area and provides a somewhat longer but more gradual ascent. From the main trailhead, the monastery is roughly 5–6 km away and usually takes around 3 hours to reach. The return journey brings the total walking time to approximately 5–6 hours, excluding time spent at the monastery.

Altitude: Approx. 3,700 m
Hike Distance & Duration: Approx. 5–6 km | 3 hours each way
Drive time to trailhead: 15–20 minutes
Difficulty: Moderate