Kyichu Lhakhang is considered the spiritual heart of the Kingdom of Bhutan and its people. It is one of the most visited monasteries in Bhutan. It is an essential pilgrimage destination for Tibetan Buddhists; it is a wish-fulfilling jewel, a sanctuary for those with deep faith and pure devotion. It is the Sacred Jewel, a source of blessings for all individuals who seek the path of spiritual wisdom and inner peace. The Jowo Lhakhang of Kyichu is considered to be one and the same in blessings and sacredness as the most holy temple, the Jokhang of Lhasa.
An ancient site conceived and begun in the 7th century, Kyichu Lhakhang is a rare gem for historians and art connoisseurs, a place of cultural and artistic importance for visitors from around the world.
The book, Kyichu Lhakhang: The Sacred Jewel of Bhutan, illuminates and documents the spiritual importance, inspiring artistry and rich history of this sacred temple, which is the pride of Bhutan. The book was compiled to enable both Buddhist pilgrims and ordinary visitors to appreciate fully the significance of Kyichu Lhakhang as a sanctuary with an enduring role in sustaining spiritual life in the face of modem challenges.
This book is dedicated to Her Majesty the royal Grandmother of Bhutan. Ashi Kesang Choeden Wangchuck on the occasion of the 85th anniversary of her birth. The book honors her brilliant example of enduring contributions and steadfast commitment to the Kingdom of Bhutan. The book celebrates the auspicious occasion of the 50th year old Terton Jigme Lingpa's most sacred Kagye Yongdu Thukdrub Palchen Dupa Drubchen which was begun in 1965 by His Holiness the late Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche and continues to this day by his reincarnation, His Holiness Dilgo Khyentse Yangsi Ugyen Tedzin Jigme Lhendup Rinpoche and His Eminence Namkhai Nyingpo Rinpoche and His Eminence Adzom Gyalsey Rinpoche.
The book was launched at Kyichu Lhakhang in Paro, Bhutan on September 28, 2015 by His Holiness Dilgo Khyentse Yangsi Ugyen Tedzin Jigme Lhendup Rinpoche.
Dungchen Sangay Dorji (Editor), Supawan Pui Lamsam (Editor), Kesang Choden Tashi Wangchuk (Editor), Pema Wangdi (Editor), Chotiwat Punnopatham (Photographer), Chongmas Rajabhandarak (Photographer)
Kyichu Lhakang: The Sacred Jewel of Bhutan, Gatshel Publishing, Hardcover, 172 Pages, 2016, $60.00