Pangri Zampa Lhakhang - The College of Astrology
Locals visit the monastery every year to learn about their yearly predictions about their luck, money, health, career and many more. Tourists who are interested to learn about their future predictions must visit the Monastery in Bhutan.
Located around 8 km north of Thimphu lies Pangri Zampa Monastery, home to Bhutan’s only college dedicated to traditional astrology. Nestled in serene surroundings, this sacred site is more than just a monastery—it is where Bhutan’s official astrological calendar is prepared each year, and where the nation's most auspicious dates are determined.
The monastery's origins trace back to when it was named Druk Phodrang or “Castle of the Dragon” by its founder. When Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the unifier of Bhutan, arrived in 1616 AD, the monastery was owned by five lamas from different religious sects. Fearing Zhabdrung’s rising influence, they abandoned the site, leading to its renaming as Pangri Lhakhang—meaning “temple on the abandoned hill.” Later, due to its vantage point overlooking the bridge between Dechencholing and Kabesa village, it also came to be known as Pangri Zamdong, eventually evolving into the present name, Pangri Zampa Lhakhang.
Today, Pangri Zampa functions as an educational institute under Bhutan’s Central Monastic Body. This esteemed institution not only teaches the sacred science of astrology but also plays a key role in national life. From royal events such as the coronation of His Majesty the Fifth King to the royal wedding and the naming ceremony of the Crown Prince, the monastery’s astrologers are entrusted with selecting the most auspicious dates.
Locals flock here annually to receive their yearly predictions regarding health, wealth, career, and personal fortunes. A nine-day ritual is also performed each year for the wellbeing of all sentient beings and the peace and prosperity of the nation. Attending or offering prayers during this ritual is believed to cleanse misfortunes for the year, eliminating the need for additional rituals at home.
For visitors, Pangri Zampa offers an extraordinary glimpse into Bhutanese spiritual life. Tourists intrigued by astrology often request readings from the resident monks, who interpret their past and future based on Buddhist astrological traditions. Many leave deeply moved by the uncanny accuracy of the insights shared.
Find out more about astrology reading in Bhutan.
Attractions Near Pangri Zampa
The Cypress Tree
Standing majestically in front of the main temple is one of Bhutan’s oldest and largest cypress trees. According to oral tradition, a raven guiding Zhabdrung to Bhutan vanished into its trunk—a story that lends the tree an aura of quiet mystery.
Drolma Zhingkham Lhakhang
Just a few minutes’ walk from Pangri Zampa is Drolma Zhingkham Lhakhang, built by the Royal Grandmother and dedicated to the 21 manifestations of Tara, the goddess of compassion. Around 2 km further is Dechenphu Lhakhang, the sacred residence of Ap Genyen, Thimphu’s chief protective deity.
Kabisa Choki Traditional Art School
In nearby Kabisa village, visitors can explore the Choki Traditional Art School, which offers a glimpse into the rural lifestyle and Bhutan’s 13 traditional arts and crafts, known as Zorig Chusum. Students are trained in embroidery, tailoring, sculpture, canvas painting, weaving, and more. The quality and beauty of their artwork are truly captivating—an authentic showcase of Bhutanese heritage.
Hiking to Tango and Cheri Monasteries
If you're up for a hike, the nearby Tango and Cheri Monasteries are rewarding destinations. A 40-minute drive from Dechencholing brings you to the base, from where a 3-hour hike takes you through lush forest to these sacred retreats. Cheri was founded by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel on the prophecy of Guru Padmasambhava, while it was at Tango that Zhabdrung composed Nga Chu Drugma (“My Sixteen Accomplishments”). The hike is a favourite among locals and visitors alike for its spiritual and natural beauty.
Written by Sherab Dorji
