Gangtei-Gompa Monastery

One of the many attractions of the resort of Paro is the largest monastery in the country of the school of Tibetan Buddhism - Gangtei-gompa. It is located in a village of the same name in central Bhutan, near the Phobjikha Glacial Valley, under the Pele-La Pass. The monastery belongs to Dzonghag Wangdi Phodrang. It was founded by Gyalse Pema Tinley, the grandson of the famous Bhutanese teacher Pema Lingpa, who died around 1640. The construction of Gangtei-Gompa Monastery took place with the participation of local residents. Wood used to form columns, beams and windows was supplied from the local forests, and stones were carried from nearby hills.

Since 2000, a major reconstruction was carried out in the temple, which lasted about 8 years. The monastery complex consists of five temples that surround the central tower. The main hall of the monastery is called Tshokgang, it was built in the Tibetan architectural style and is now of great cultural significance. Gangtei Gompa Monastery has a large collection of valuable Buddhist manuscripts, including the 100-volume Kanjoor.