Zhiwaling Ascent

Located on a ridge above Thimphu, Zhilukha Nunnery, also known as Drubthob Goemba or Thangthong Dewachen Nunnery, is one of the largest nunnery in Bhutan.

From here, you get panoramic views of the Tashichhoedzong and the green valley below. The nunnery isn’t just a quiet place on a hill but is a living institution where around 70 nuns study, live and practice Buddhism.

Founded in 1976 by Rikel Jadren, believed to be an emanation of the revered Tibetan master Thangthong Gyalpo, the nunnery was created with the intention of providing a spiritual and educational space specifically for women.

Even today, it offers young girls and women from across Bhutan the opportunity to study Buddhist philosophy and scriptures, chant, meditate and learn community responsibilities.

As a visitor, you’ll walk through the nunnery’s traditional Bhutanese architecture, observe the daily routines and listen to the soft murmur of prayers. You may even get a chance to speak with the nuns. Many are open to sharing what led them to this life, how they spend their days and what their aspirations are.

This personal connection gives you a rare look into a lesser-seen side of Bhutanese culture that is shaped by discipline, compassion and strong community ties.

This is not a tourist showpiece. There are no large crowds, no ticket counters and no fixed schedules. The experience is calm, real and reflective. You won’t just be observing from the outside, you’ll be stepping into a space that continues to shape and serve the women of Bhutan in a meaningful way.

If you’re interested in spiritual life, education or simply seeing a deeper side of Bhutan, this meaningful visit stays with you.

In a world that pulls your attention in a hundred directions, yoga offers stillness. As you flow through each pose, you begin to listen to your breath and to your body.

Yoga at Zhiwaling Ascent is more than just a workout. It helps you reset your mind and body. Located in the open attic of the property, the yoga area is simple but fully equipped. Mats, bolsters, blocks, straps – everything you need is right there.

What makes it special, though, is that you’re surrounded by nature. The attic opens to views of hills, trees and sky, creating an experience that’s calm and composed.

When you practise yoga here, it’s not about being perfect. It’s all about slowing down and letting the environment help you focus. The fresh air helps you breathe more deeply and the silence makes it easier to notice how you feel in each pose.

Here, you can do your own practice or join a guided session or ask the staff to set up a class with a local instructor. These are teachers who understand how yoga fits into everyday life. You might even enjoy taking a morning session to energise for the day or a sunset stretch to relax down your body.

Beyond flexibility or strength, yoga teaches presence. It helps quiet the noise and brings you into a space where you're both grounded and free. Yoga at Zhiwaling Ascent is less about performance and more about reconnecting with your breath, with nature and with yourself.

Even a short session here can shift your pace for the day or longer. You’ll leave the attic not just stretched out, but a little more steady.