Gomphu Kora

Gom Kora is a small temple in the north of Trashigang, Bhutan. It is about 21 km away and is a popular destination for pilgrimage and festivals. Before it was called Gom Kora, it was called Gomphu Kora, which means “sacred meditation site of Guru Rinpochhe” and “circumambulation.” Today, Gom Kora is famous for its annual festival, which attracts people from all over eastern Bhutan. It is also a place where young people go to meet their true friends.

The history of Gomphu Kora goes back to the 8th century when an evil spirit was defeated by Guru Padmasambhava, a famous Buddhist teacher. Over the centuries, many religious leaders have visited and added to the temple. The biggest event at Gomphu Kora is the circumambulation, where people walk around the temple.

The annual festival takes place from 23rd to 25th March (check with your tour operator) and attracts people from all over eastern Bhutan and India. The festival is a three-day religious event that celebrates the triumph of good over evil. It is so important that people even walk for days from India to attend. According to legend, Guru Padmasambhava said that people would visit Gomphu Kora for centuries to come to celebrate this victory.