Nestled in the tranquil valley of Khotokha in Bjena gewog, Dechen Draphug Nye is a sacred pilgrimage site that remains largely undiscovered due to its remote location and the arduous journey required to reach it. This revered site, one of the four sacred cliffs associated with Guru Rinpoche, holds deep spiritual significance, yet its inaccessibility has kept it from receiving the recognition it deserves.
The road to Dechen Draphug Nye begins at Gangrichen village, approximately 10 kilometers away. Initially, the journey takes travelers along a narrow blacktopped road, but soon transitions into an unpaved, rugged path winding through dense forests. This stretch tests both the endurance of visitors and the resilience of their vehicles. The difficult terrain, according to Chimi Dorji, the 33-year-old lam of Dolung Monastery, is the primary reason the site remains relatively unknown. “If not for the poor road conditions, this would be one of the most visited sacred sites in Khotokha,” he said.
The history of Dechen Draphug Nye dates back to the 8th century when Guru Rinpoche meditated at the cliffs, infusing them with profound spiritual energy. Centuries later, the revered Tibetan lama Phajo Drugom Zhigpo, who introduced the Drukpa Kagyu teachings to Bhutan, was led to this site through a divine vision. It is believed that while meditating at Dechen Draphug Nye, he had a vision of the Mandala of Eight Commands, an experience that granted him extraordinary spiritual powers.
This sacred cliff is one of the four entrusted to Phajo Drugom Zhigpo, alongside Thujidra in Thimphu, Gomdra in Paro, and Tshechudra in Gasa. These cliffs form part of 12 meditation sites given to him by Guru Rinpoche, which also include four dzongs, four cliffs, and four caves.
As pilgrims approach Dechen Draphug Nye, they are welcomed by a temple built against a towering rock face, surrounded by a lush forested landscape. Inside the sacred cave, a statue of Guru Rinpoche is encased in protective glass, while the cave walls bear imprints of his robe. Visitors can also see the footprint of an elephant and a chorten believed to have been built by Phajo Drugom Zhigpo. The cliff behind the cave bears additional sacred imprints associated with the great lama. Pilgrims often circumambulate the site along a narrow footpath, taking in its spiritual essence.
Despite the challenging journey, the Nye continues to draw a modest number of visitors seeking blessings and spiritual solace. The site remains open throughout the year, but the most favorable time to visit is during winter and spring when the weather is more accommodating.
One of the biggest obstacles preventing Dechen Draphug Nye from becoming a major pilgrimage destination is the poor condition of its access road. Kinley Tawchung, the Gup of Bjena gewog, acknowledged that many pilgrims are deterred by the treacherous journey. “The road was initially built by the gewog, but it requires urgent maintenance,” he said. Budget constraints and competing priorities have left the road in disrepair, but efforts are underway to secure assistance. “I requested support from the Gyalsung project, and they have agreed to help,” the Gup added.
With improved road conditions, Dechen Draphug Nye has the potential to attract pilgrims from across Bhutan and beyond. Increased accessibility could transform the site into a significant spiritual hub, fostering religious tourism while preserving its sacred heritage.
Beyond Dechen Draphug Nye, Bjena gewog is home to several other revered temples and spiritual sites. The gewog boasts 13 temples—four government-owned, five community-owned, and four privately owned—each holding its own cultural and historical significance. With its rich spiritual heritage and breathtaking landscapes, Bjena gewog remains a hidden treasure, waiting to be explored by those seeking both adventure and divine connection.
