Shingyer Temple Renovation project

• Focus areaCulture
• StatusPresent projects

Shingnyeer Lhakhang, situated in Shingnyeer village is a historic landmark nestled in the Ura Gewog of the Bumthang district. It was founded by Nyö Gyelwa Lhanangpa ’s (1164-1224) son, Guru Nyoton Trulzhig Choje (1179-1265) in 1200s. Nyoton Trulzhig while in Sumtrhang had a vision to build a small temple at Shingnyeer on a hill resembling a sleeping turtle. He then visited Shingnyeer and built a small temple on the visionary hill, with a small lake at its top.

The Revival of Shingnyer’s Spiritual and Cultural Traditions Project, implemented by Druk Nyo Foundation in partnership with ASIA, Italy, and co-financed by Tides Foundation and Fbeta aims to restore the sacred Shingnyer Lhakhang and revitalize local spiritual and cultural practices to strengthen community resilience, livelihood, and faith-based identity.

Supported by the Department of Culture and community members, the project integrates temple renovation, infrastructure improvement, and youth engagement into a holistic approach to cultural preservation. Preparatory works such as cleansing rituals, material collection, temporary road construction, and site preparation were completed between March and July 2025, ensuring both spiritual readiness and logistical efficiency. Three core staff were appointed, and essential resources like timber and stone have been mobilized through community labor, reflecting strong local ownership and participation.