Journal · Punakha
Chimi Lhakhang
The temple of the Divine Madman, where couples come to be blessed for children.
The story
Drukpa Kunley (1455 to 1529) was a saint who taught through jokes, songs and shocking behaviour. Legend says he chased a demoness from Dochula down into this valley and buried her under a hill. In 1499 his cousin, Ngawang Chogyal, built a temple on that hill.
The blessing
Couples who hope for a child are blessed with a wooden phallus, the saint's symbol. Parents can also draw a name for their child from bamboo slips here.
Before you go
The walk through the paddy fields is the best part. The village on the way sells his symbol in every size and colour.
Sources
Checked October 2026. Where sources disagree, we say so or leave the detail out. Opening times and rules change, so your guide confirms on the day.