What Makes the Cheri Monastery Hike Special
The Cheri Monastery Hike is one of Thimphu Valley’s most rewarding short treks, blending pristine Himalayan forest, rich spiritual heritage, and a satisfying uphill challenge. Unlike the easier city trails, this hike feels more immersive and secluded, leading you deep into nature before revealing the sacred Cheri Monastery perched dramatically on the mountainside.
What makes this walk particularly meaningful is its strong spiritual atmosphere. Cheri Goemba is one of Bhutan’s most important meditation sites, and the journey up feels quietly contemplative, with fluttering prayer flags, forest silence, and occasional glimpses of the Wang Chhu valley below. It is ideal if you want a half-day adventure that combines light trekking with authentic Bhutanese culture.
Perfect for families and those seeking a short, peaceful outing, the Cheri Monastery Hike offers a gentle climb through serene forest trails leading to one of Bhutan’s oldest and most sacred monasteries.
About the Cheri Monastery Trail
The hike begins near the Dodena area, about a 30-minute drive from Thimphu city. At the trailhead, begin by crossing the wooden bridge and circling the chorten at the start of the path. You’ll soon come across a rock painting of Guru Rinpoche and a prayer wheel — both marking the entrance to your ascent.
The trail is well-marked and easy to follow, with a few rest spots along the way. Although the hike only takes about an hour, the views at the top are spectacular. The monastery, perched gracefully on the hillside, overlooks the valley below — a perfect place to pause for photos or a quiet snack.
The first section is relatively gentle, allowing you to warm up as you follow the riverside path.
Soon, the route begins its steady ascent through dense pine and broadleaf forest. The climb is consistent rather than steep, but you will definitely feel the elevation gain. The well-maintained path winds upward with occasional rest points where you can pause and listen to birdsong or enjoy filtered views through the trees.
In spring, the forest comes alive with fresh greenery and occasional rhododendron blooms. Autumn brings crisp mountain air and excellent visibility, making the hike especially pleasant. The peaceful setting often feels far removed from the capital, even though you are still within the Thimphu Valley.
As you near the top, the trees begin to thin and the beautiful white-washed Cheri Monastery comes into view, clinging to the hillside in classic Bhutanese style. Founded in 1620 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the monastery remains an important meditation centre today. The final approach includes a slightly steeper section of steps before you reach the monastery courtyard.
Inside the Cheri Goempa, monks often share stories about the monastery’s history and the sacred relics it houses. From there, continue up the staircase to the right until you reach a ledge that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
From the monastery grounds, you are rewarded with serene mountain views and a deep sense of calm that makes the climb worthwhile. Many visitors spend quiet time here soaking in the atmosphere before descending the same way.
You can either return the same way or loop around the rock to descend from the other side. Near the monastery complex stands an ancient oak tree, and nearby you may notice small meditation huts used by monks during retreat. If you’re lucky, you might even spot mountain goats grazing near the temple grounds.
At the base of the trail, a wide meadow serves as a popular picnic area for local families, especially during summer weekends.
What You’ll Love About Cheri Monastery Hike
A more immersive forest hike compared to city trails
Strong spiritual atmosphere at historic Cheri Monastery
Beautiful riverside start with traditional bridge crossing
Peaceful Himalayan woodland filled with birdsong
Rewarding sense of achievement at the summit
Perfect half-day adventure from Thimphu
Cheri Monastery Hike Tips
Start early in the morning for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds
Wear proper walking shoes—the trail is uphill and can be dusty or slippery
Bring water and light snacks as there are no facilities on the trail
Walk at a steady pace—the climb is gradual but continuous
Dress modestly if you plan to enter the monastery
Combine the hike with nearby Tango Monastery if time permits
Getting to the Cheri Monastery Trail
Starting Point: Dodena (Cheri/Tango trailhead)
Travel Time from Thimphu City Centre: 25–30 minutes by car
Make It Part of Your Bhutan Journey
The Cheri Monastery Hike is a wonderful addition to your Thimphu stay if you’re looking to balance cultural sightseeing with light adventure. It pairs beautifully with visits to Tango Monastery, Choki Traditional Art School, or a relaxed afternoon back in the city.
For travellers who want to experience Bhutan beyond the usual viewpoints, this hike offers a deeper, quieter connection to the kingdom’s spiritual landscape.
Here are some popular Bhutan tours where you can include this Cheri Monastery Hike:
