Kharbandi Monastery, also known as Rinchending Goemba, is a Buddhist monastery perched 400 meters above sea level on a precious hill of Rinchending below the Phuntsholing –Thimphu Highway. The Royal Grandmother, Ashi Phuntsho Choden built the monastery in 1967.
With its deep historical significance and breathtaking views of Phuentsholing town and the plains of Jaigaon, West Bengal, the temple has become one of the best pilgrimage sites and a popular tourist attraction in Phuentsholing among Indian tourists.
Whether you seek spiritual solace or want to immerse yourself in Bhutan’s stunning natural beauty, Karbandi Monastery is a must-visit place in your Bhutan travel itinerary. So, on your Phuentsholing sightseeing, don’t miss Rinchending Goemba. The picturesque scenery, lush surroundings, serene ambiance, and breathtaking views make the Karbandi Monastery worth visiting in Phuentsholing.
How to Reach Kharbandi Monastery
The Karbandi Monastery in Phuentsholing is located at a distance of 1 kilometer from Phuentsholing. It takes 30 minutes to drive from the Indian border of Jaigaon. You can enjoy picturesque views of the lush surroundings while driving on a well-maintained road. The nearest major railway station to enter Bhutan is in Hasimara, India, about 18 kilometers from the border town of Phuentsholing while the closest airport is Bagdogra Airport, approximately 160 kilometers away.
Sacred Wonders to See at Karbandi Monastery
- 10 feet high sculpture of Guru Rimpoche;
- Statues of Shakyamuni Buddha;
- Statues of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal;
- Paintings that depict the life of Buddha Shakyamuni;
- 8 great Buddhist stupas that commemorate eight important events in the life of Buddha.
Historical Significance of Kharbandi Monastery
Kharbandi Gompa was built by the Royal Grandmother, Ashi Phuntsho Choden in 1967. The Monastery was the winter residence of Ashi Phuntsho Choden.
Couples visit the monastery to seek fertility blessings. If couples with infertility visit the Karbandi monastery, they are believed to be blessed with a child. According to a legend, an Indian pilgrim prayed to be showered with the blessing of being a mother at Kharbandi Gompa and she was blessed with a child. After that miracle or coincidence, the Monastery has become a pilgrimage site for many couples.
Also Read: Zangdo Pelri Lhakhang, a Replica of Guru Rinpoche’s Paradise in Phuentsholing
Description of Kharbandi Monastery
Kharbandi Monastery is one of the oldest Buddhist Temples in Bhutan. As you approach, the monastery’s wide gate welcomes the visitors. The serene atmosphere envelops you, inviting you to explore its peaceful surroundings.
The monastery has a beautiful garden of tropical plants and flowers dotted with eight white-washed Buddhist Chortens (stupas) commemorating eight important events in Buddha Shakyamuni’s life. The garden also features a long stretch of vibrant prayer flags, enormous prayer wheels, and traditional Bhutanese architecture.
Inside, the monastery features beautifully crafted statues and intricate murals depicting various aspects of Buddhist teachings. The main hall of the Karbandi Goenpa is adorned with an impressive 10-foot statue of Guru Padmasambhava, magnificent life-size statues of the Shakyamuni Buddha, Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, and other Buddhist deities, and paintings portraying the life of Lord Buddha.
The shrine also has a separate room with burning butter lamps. Visitors can participate in lightning butter lamps and offer daily prayers as the monks carry out ceremonies inside the monastery with pounding drums, trumpets, and chanting.
Karbandi Monastery also offers a panoramic view of Phuntsholing town, the plains of West Bengal, and the Jaigaon. The site is the perfect place to take bird-eye photos of the town, plains, and the mountains.
Best Time to Visit Kharbandi Goemba
Karbandi monastery can be visited throughout the year and is open to anyone who wishes to visit from 7 am to 6 pm Bhutan standard time. The best time is early morning from 7 am to 9 am when the monks start chanting prayers. Visit the temple in the late afternoon or evening to see its golden rooftops bathed in magical sunlight, enhancing its beauty.
