Eutok Samdup Choeling Goenpa

Eutok Samdup Choeling Goenpa, established in the 15th century by Terton Rigzin Jatson Nyingpo, is a revered monastery located in Shaba, Paro Dzongkhag, approximately 3 kilometres from the Paro-Thimphu highway and situated above Shaba Primary School. To its right lies Hephu Thekchen Choeling, the abode of Terton Tshering Dorji, and to its left is Dra Karpo Monastery, a sacred site associated with Guru Rinpoche.

Historical Significance

According to local folklore, Terton Rigzin Jatson Nyingpo had a vision of a lake with a golden pillar at its centre, crowned by a turquoise mandala. Inspired by this vision, he chose the site for his residence and named it Eutok Goenpa. The monastery hosts its annual prayer ceremony, Yutok Mani, from the 10th to the 18th day of the third Bhutanese month. The event includes dances of Dharma protectors and commemorates the consecration of the monastery by its patron lama. Remarkably, Eutok Goenpa is home to the final Tshechu festival in Paro Dzongkhag each year.

Restoration Efforts

In 2003, Eutok Goenpa was transferred to the Central Monk Body due to poor administration and dwindling support from the community. The earthquake in 2011 caused significant damage to the structure. However, in 2012, the appointment of Lama Lam Tshewang Paljor brought a resurgence of hope. Lama Lam Tshewang, with the backing of the Royal Grandmother and local communities, spearheaded restoration efforts. A committee was formed, comprising the village headman and influential locals, to oversee the work on the three-storey monastery. These collective efforts have revitalised Eutok Goenpa as a centre for spiritual learning and cultural preservation.

Current Situation

Today, Eutok Goenpa accommodates nearly 50 young monks aged 6 to 20 years, all sponsored by the Royal Grandmother. Lama Lam Tshewang has also established a small library to facilitate English language learning for the monks. While the library is a valuable resource, the Goenpa is seeking additional assistance to provide structured English education, enhancing the monks’ ability to engage with the modern world while preserving their traditional values. Eutok Samdup Choeling Goenpa stands as a testament to Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage and the resilience of its communities in preserving sacred traditions for future generations.