In the serene and remote region of Kurtoed stands Neychen Rinchen Bumpa, a sacred pilgrimage site that has captured the hearts of devotees and pilgrims alike. With its awe-inspiring natural beauty and deep spiritual significance, Neychen Rinchen Bumpa has seen a surge in visitors over the past few years, drawing pilgrims from across Bhutan and beyond.
The journey to Neychen Rinchen Bumpa is not for the faint-hearted. Pilgrims must embark on a challenging ascent, braving the chilly climate and rugged terrain. The trek typically takes a minimum of four hours, with some pilgrims enduring a grueling six-hour uphill hike from the base at the Kuenzangling temple. Despite the physical demands, an average of 30 to 40 devoted individuals make this pilgrimage daily.
The recent increase in visitors, primarily Bhutanese nationals, can be attributed to several factors. Improved road conditions in Kurtoed have made the pilgrimage more accessible, while the establishment of a guest house, the availability of drinking water, and well-maintained washrooms at the site have provided much-needed comfort for pilgrims. In the past, meditators at Rinchen Bumpa had to rely on rainwater for their basic needs.
Local villagers anticipate a further rise in visitors, particularly tourists, if more homestays become available and the road connection between Mongar and Lhuentse is enhanced. Lhuentse boasts numerous significant religious sites, but Rinchen Bumpa, with its sacred history, often takes center stage in visitors’ inquiries.
Under the guidance of Khenpo Gembo Dorji, nine dedicated monks at Rinchen Bumpa balance their rigorous studies with responsibilities such as meal preparation and maintaining guest rooms. Khenpo Gembo, who has resided at the site for nine years, expressed his commitment to ensuring a comfortable stay for all pilgrims, stating, “Those who lack bedding and provisions, we provide for them.”
One of the most encouraging aspects of Neychen Rinchen Bumpa is that it attracts people from diverse backgrounds, all seeking blessings and spiritual fulfillment. Khenpo Gembo is actively overseeing road construction from Kuenzangling to Ney, with the goal of shortening the pilgrimage distance. Cleanliness and well-kept footpaths contribute to the pleasant environment and overall experience for visitors.
Neychen Rinchen Bumpa holds immense spiritual significance as the site where Guru Rinpoche meditated in the eighth century. Pilgrims believe that offering prayers from Guru Rinpoche’s meditation spot can fulfill their aspirations and ultimately lead to nirvana.
The cliff of Neychen Rinchen Bumpa, which resembles a stupa, has three layers symbolizing the blessings of Choeku, Longku, and Trulku (Buddha, Avalokiteshvara, and Guru Rinpoche). Despite enduring forest fires in 1998 and 2003, the cliff still bears Dzongkha letters and mantras, serving as a testament to its sacred nature.
Beneath Rinchen Bumpa’s cliff, several other sacred sites are hidden, taking more than three hours to cover. Visitors are captivated by the emergence of mythical religious scripts when the early morning sunrays illuminate a carved stone, believed to be the archery target of Rahula, the dharma protector.
A pilgrim from Wangdue affirmed, “Neychen Rinchen Bumpa is worth visiting despite the lengthy journey. It is spiritually fulfilling, and the place exudes serenity.”
The blessings of khandros Yeshey Tshogyal and Momo Tashi Kheydron, along with those of prominent Buddhist masters, add to the site’s sanctity. Numerous imprints and sacred relics of Guru Rinpoche, Dakinis, and Buddhist masters provide further spiritual resonance.
Prophecies suggest that hidden treasures of Guru Rinpoche and Khandros await discovery in the future. Adjacent to Rinchen Bumpa, a temple housing a wish-fulfilling Guru statue and sacred relics stands as a testament to the profound spiritual aura of the site. The surrounding mountains, diverse flora, and fauna contribute to the enchanting journey towards this sacred destination.
As Neychen Rinchen Bumpa continues to attract pilgrims and visitors, it remains a testament to the enduring spiritual heritage of Bhutan, drawing people from all walks of life to experience its profound beauty and tranquility. With improved accessibility and accommodations, this sacred site is poised to become an even more significant pilgrimage destination in the years to come, connecting people to their spiritual roots and the rich cultural heritage of Bhutan.
