Kyichu Lhakhang, also known as Kyerchu Temple or Lho Kyerchu, is one of Bhutan’s oldest and most beautiful temples located in Paro district. The main temple of Jowo Lhakhang has roots as far back as the 7th century.
In the 7th century, upon knowing that negative forces repeatedly destroy the walls of the monasteries in Lhasa, Tibet used to house dowry gifts by Princess Balza Thritsun and Tang Princess Kongjo to King Songtsen Gampo, the king requested for Gyaza Kongko, who was well-versed in Chinese divination to determine the cause of the problem. Gyaza Kongjo discovered that the geomancy of the Himalayan region lay in the form of a demoness, with her body spread across the Himalayan region, which obstructed the flourishing of Buddhism.
Thereafter, Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo constructed 108 monasteries, including twelve monasteries at the twelve vital points of the demoness to subjugate her and ensure the propagation of Buddhism. The 108 monasteries were built in one day by artisans who were emanations of King Songtsen Gampo himself.
The main temple of Jowo Lhakhang in Kyichu Lhakhang was one of the 108 temples built. It was built to pin down the left foot of the demoness.
Source: Kyichu Lhakang: The Sacred Jewel of Bhutan by Dungchen Sangay Dorji, Supawan Pui Lamsam, Princess Ashi Kesang Choden Tashi Wangchuck
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