Kenchosum (Konchogsum) Lhakhang

Bhutan

Within these newly raised walls hangs an ancient cracked bell, said once to have rung so clear it was heard all the way to Lhasa — a survivor of fire, theft and centuries.

Set in the Choekhor valley near Jakar, Konchogsum Lhakhang is among the oldest sacred sites in the region, its origins traced to the early spread of Buddhism in Bumthang and later restored by the saint Pema Lingpa. Severely damaged by fire in 2010, the temple was rebuilt and reconsecrated in 2014, and today the towering, brightly painted new structure envelops the restored remains of the original, its massive columns soaring to a mandala-painted ceiling. Its most treasured relic is a cracked ancient bell, said to have been heard as far as Lhasa until a 17th-century Tibetan army dropped it. Among the more storied temples in Bhutan, Konchogsum Lhakhang Bumthang is a highlight of things to do in Bumthang. Kenchosum Lhakhang Bhutan ranks among the finest Bumthang valley temples and places to visit in Bumthang. Plan your visit via the official Bhutan Tourism portal: bhutan.travel.

March to May and September to November, when clear skies and mild weather make the Choekhor valley most pleasant to explore.

Ask to see the famous cracked bell in the upper level, and look closely at the intricate murals and statues of Pema Lingpa's reincarnations — keep shoulders and knees covered, ask permission inside, and avoid using flash or touching the bell and statues, as the objects are ancient and irreplaceable. Combine it easily with nearby Tamshing and Jambay Lhakhang. Pilgrim Map

This attraction can be easily woven into BreakBag Holidays' customised Bhutan tour packages, pairing Konchogsum with Tamshing, Kurjey and Jambay Lhakhang in the Bumthang valleys.

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