Singye Dzong

Understand

Singye Dzong https://lhuentse.gov.bt/singye-dzong/ is not a dzong (fortress) but a sacred valley located in the Lhuentse District of Bhutan, near the Tibetan border. The temple in the valley was established by Yeshe Tsogyal and Guru Rinpoche during their second visit to Bhutan. Due to its location in a highly sensitive area near the Chinese border, and because of its profound spiritual significance, the valley is closed to non-Bhutanese visitors. The trails leading to Singye Dzong are challenging and often inaccessible — muddy during the summer and snow-covered in winter and spring. As a result, the only period when the paths are reliably passable is in October.

History According to historical accounts, Guru Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche) came to Singye Dzong in the 8th century to subdue the demon king Khikharathoed, who had fled from Tibet. Guru Rinpoche spent three months in the valley engaging in intense spiritual practices before ultimately subduing the demon. He then blessed the site, proclaiming it as "the place of his enlightened activity." It is considered a beyul - a secret valley

Landscape Gradual climb from Khoma. The valley rages from 3,000 to over 4,600 meters.

Flora and fauna

Climate Himalayan

Getting there

A three-day walk from Kildung, near the village of Khoma.

See

Relics. Hand and foot prints of Guru Rinpoche and Yeshey Tshogyal embedded in rock. White (Tshokar) and Black lake (Tshonag). Two lakes that lie close to each other a few hour walk above the base of the valley. Their waters are considered blessed, and so pilgrims gather along the shores to offer prayers and receive purification.

Eat

All provisions must be carried in. After Khoma, there are no shops. Pack horses to carry the provisions can be arranged locally.

Drink & nightlife

Water. Local streams provide water. Although looking pristine, the streams are likely contaminated by wildlife, and so water should be boiled before drinking.

Sleep

The monastery in the valley itself offers simple accommodation, but it is often full. There is no accommodation during the three day trek, except simple shelters.

Lodging

Camping

Backcountry