Discovering Gelephu: A Guide to the Best Things to See and Do in Bhutan's Southern Gateway

Saidpiece
Mar 19, 2023
3 min read

Gelephu is a small town located in the Sarpang district of Bhutan. Known for its beautiful landscapes, stunning scenery, and friendly locals, Gelephu is a great place to visit if you're looking for a taste of traditional Bhutanese culture. Here are some of the best things to do in Gelephu, Bhutan:

Visit the Zangtopelri Lhakhang

This is a beautiful temple located in the heart of Gelephu. The temple is dedicated to Guru Rinpoche and is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The temple's design is unique and features intricate carvings and colorful murals. The peaceful atmosphere inside the temple makes it a great place to meditate and reflect.

Explore the Royal Manas National Park

Located about 30 km from Gelephu, the Royal Manas National Park is a beautiful natural area that is home to a diverse range of wildlife. Visitors can go on guided tours to explore the park, which is home to tigers, elephants, and a variety of bird species. The park also features several beautiful waterfalls and is a great place for hiking and picnicking.

Visit Guru Rinpoche Ney Norbugang

Guru Rinpoche, also known as Padmasambhava, is a prominent figure in the history of Buddhism, particularly in the Vajrayana or Tibetan Buddhism tradition. He is regarded as the founder of the Nyingma school of Tibetan Buddhism and is believed to have introduced Buddhism to Tibet in the 8th century. One of the most revered sites associated with Guru Rinpoche is Ney Norbugang in Gelephu, Bhutan.

Ney Norbugang is a sacred pilgrimage site located in Gelephu, a small town in southern Bhutan. It is said that Guru Rinpoche visited this site during his journey through Bhutan and left his footprint on a rock there. The rock is now enshrined in a small temple built on the site, and thousands of devotees visit every year to offer prayers and receive blessings.

Visit Tali Monastery

Tali Monastery, located in the southern part of Bhutan, is a popular destination for travelers seeking a glimpse of Bhutanese culture and spirituality. The monastery, also known as Tali Gompa, is situated in the district of Gelephu, which is known for its lush forests and picturesque landscapes.

Tali Monastery was established in the 18th century by the ninth Je Khenpo (chief abbot of Bhutan) Shakya Rinchen. The monastery is an important spiritual center for the followers of the Drukpa Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism. The main prayer hall of the monastery is adorned with beautiful murals and intricate carvings, depicting the life and teachings of Buddha and other important figures in Buddhism.

One of the unique features of Tali Monastery is its traditional architecture, which is a blend of Bhutanese and Tibetan styles. The monastery's buildings are constructed using stone, mud, and wood, and are adorned with colorful paintings and intricate carvings. The monastery's location, nestled amidst the verdant forests of Gelephu, adds to its natural charm.

National Centre for Aquaculture

Aquaculture in Bhutan formally began in 1984 with the establishment of a cultivable carp hatchery in Gelephu under Sarpang Dzongkhag. Then named as National Warm Water Fish Culture Centre (NWWFCC), the hatchery has since its establishment been promoting and supporting the development of carp farming in the country. The NWWFCC, over the years evolved into what today is called National Research and Development Centre for Aquaculture (NR&DAC). Owen is supervised by the Department of Livestock of the Ministry of Aquaculture & Forest.

In conclusion, Gelephu is a beautiful and welcoming town that is full of culture and history. Visitors can explore the area's stunning natural beauty, visit ancient temples and fortresses, and experience traditional Bhutanese culture. Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, Gelephu is a great place to visit.