Jambay Lhakhang

Jambay Lhakhang – Sacred Temple and Festival Site in Bumthang Valley

Jambay Lhakhang, located on a plateau beside the Bumthang Chhu River, is one of the oldest and most revered Buddhist temples in Bhutan. With a rich history dating back to the 8th century, the temple is believed to be one of 108 built by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo to subdue a demoness and spread Buddhism across the Himalayan region.

Today, Jambay Lhakhang is equally known for its cultural significance and its vibrant role in Bhutanese tradition. The temple is the venue for the annual Jambay Lhakhang Drup, one of Bhutan’s most iconic religious festivals. The festival is dedicated to Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava), who is said to have sanctified the temple during his visit to Bhutan.

One of the most distinctive elements of the festival is the Tercham, or Naked Dance, a sacred ritual performed at night to symbolize the subjugation of evil forces and to bless the land. The event attracts both locals and international visitors, making the temple a cultural as well as a spiritual focal point.

Despite its modest one-story structure, Jambay Lhakhang continues to play a vital role in Bhutan’s spiritual and cultural landscape, preserving ancient rituals and fostering community participation through annual religious celebrations.