Chagri Monastery

Chagri Dorjeden Monastery, also recognized as Cheri Monastery, stands as a pivotal Buddhist monastic institution in Bhutan. Founded in 1620 by Ngawang Namgyal, the 1st Zhabdrung Rinpoche and the architect of the Bhutanese state, it holds the distinction of being the very first monastery established in the country by this significant historical figure. Today, Chagri Monastery functions as a primary teaching and retreat center, deeply rooted in the Southern Drukpa Lineage of the Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism.

Historical Context and Founding

The establishment of Chagri Monastery marked a new era for the Drukpa school in Bhutan. Ngawang Namgyal, at the age of 27, initiated its construction. He subsequently dedicated three years to rigorous retreat within its confines and continued to reside there for extended periods throughout his life. In 1623, it was at Chagri that the first Drukpa monastic order in Bhutan was formally established, setting a precedent for monastic organization and practice in the region. The monastery's history also notes the presence of a reliquary stupa installed shortly after its completion, further emphasizing its religious importance.

Spiritual and Geographical Significance

Located approximately 15 kilometers north of Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan, Chagri Monastery commands a striking position on a hill above Dodeyna. Reaching the monastery involves a dedicated trek, taking about an hour to ascend the steep path from the road's end. This location, while requiring effort to access, offers a serene environment conducive to spiritual practice and contemplation. The site itself has ancient spiritual roots, with religious histories indicating visits by Padmasambhava in the 8th century and Phajo Drugom Zhigpo in the 13th century, the latter being instrumental in establishing the Drukpa Kagyu tradition in Bhutan. The monastery's natural surroundings are also noted for their beauty, with goral sometimes observed in the area.

Later History and Influence

Chagri Monastery continued to play a role in Bhutanese religious and political history. In 1705, Umze Peljor, the 7th Druk Desi, chose Chagri Monastery as his place of retirement, where he lived until his passing in 1707. The monastery's early monastic community was established with 30 monks, following a framework created by the Zhabdrung, and they received teachings from Lhawang Lodoe, who transmitted the Drukpa teachings passed down from Pema Karpo. The Zhabdrung's influence extended beyond the monastic community; at the age of 33, he issued edicts declaring his dominion over the region, underscoring the profound authority he wielded and the central role institutions like Chagri Monastery played in solidifying his state.