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An update from Evaneos
Dodena

Dodena (Bhutan)

Practical information about Dodena

  • Relaxation
  • Encounters with locals
  • Hiking / Trekking
  • Mountain
  • Place or Religious Monument
  • Sustainable Tourism
  • Off the beaten track
4 / 5 - One review
How to get there
Approximately 2hrs 30 walk from Thimphu
When to go
All year in dry weather
Minimum stay
One day

Reviews of Dodena

François-Xavier Sahuc Travel writer
9 travel articles

Set off and discover monastic life in Bhutan.

My suggestion:
Dodena monastery can only be really appreciated in the company of its residents, the young monks! Don't miss out on observing the monkeys and black bears if given the opportunity.
Summary:

An intermediate hike will lead you to the monastic village of Dodena (also called Dorjidra), one of the most well-kept monasteries in Bhutan. Just a 2 hours' Thimphu, it's a peaceful haven, just as tranquil as it is enchanting. 

Dodena isn't a tourist destination. That's what makes it particularly interesting, all nature aside. For us, it was a unique opportunity to discover real monastic life and to interact with the young monks living there. Talkative and very good at English, they were happy to welcome us. Bed and breakfast is available at the monastery. Spend a night there and let yourself be lulled by the wind and the monks' prayer whilst night falls softly across the captial. 

Dodena
Monastic dwellings