PLACES TO VISIT IN PUNAKHA EP 3: NALANDA

Greetings Travellers,

Have you heard of the Nalanda Buddhist sheers/school located in Talo, Punakha? If not, read this short informative blog. 

Nalanda Buddhist Institute, also known locally as Daley Goenpa or Dalida, is a Buddhist monastic school in the western part of the Punakha District in Bhutan. It is below Talo Monastery and above Walakha, about a 25-minute drive from the main highway to Punakha. The name Nalanda means "insatiable giving". The present monastery was founded by 9th Je Khenpo (Chief abbot of the monk body) Gyalwang Shakya Rinchen Rinpoche in the year 1757 who is considered to be the reincarnation of Rechung Dorji Drakpa. Rechung Dorji Drakpa was one of the two disciplines of Milarepa. He was the one who travelled to India to learn in detail about the teachings that took place in nalanda in India at the time presently in Patna with the mission to bring back these teachings to Tibet. 

Nalanda Buddhist School is a renowned institution dedicated to the preservation and teaching of Buddhist philosophy and practice. Nestled in the serene Himalayan landscape, the school provides a tranquil environment for both monks and lay students to immerse themselves in rigorous spiritual education. Established with the aim of maintaining the rich heritage of Vajrayana Buddhism, Nalanda offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes traditional Buddhist studies, meditation practices, and modern subjects to ensure a well-rounded education.

The school is notable for its adherence to the Nalanda tradition, which emphasizes critical thinking, debate, and a deep understanding of Buddhist scriptures. Students engage in regular debates, a hallmark of the Nalanda approach, fostering analytical skills and profound insights into the teachings of the Buddha. The institution also integrates contemporary subjects such as science, mathematics, and English to prepare students for the challenges of the modern world, thereby bridging the gap between ancient wisdom and current knowledge.

Nalanda Buddhist School plays a vital role in the local community and the broader Buddhist world. It attracts students from various parts of Bhutan and beyond, contributing to the cultural and spiritual enrichment of the region. The school's commitment to preserving Buddhist teachings while embracing modern education makes it a unique and progressive institution. Its picturesque location, dedicated faculty, and holistic approach to education create an ideal setting for nurturing future generations of Buddhist scholars and practitioners.

While in Punakha, Bhutan, if you wish to visit this place, let us know prior to your arrival to Bhutan. Normally this place is not part of the itinerary as it is an uphill drive of over 30 minutes so if this place is of interest to you, make sure to inform us in advance! 

Picture courtesy: Baeyul.com

WELCOME TO BHUTAN!