Kila Nunnery, popularly referred to as Chele La Gompa straddles the cliff facing Paro, with great views of Paro valley and Jele Dzong. There are seven small temples and several retreat huts built into a dizzying cliffside, where about seventy nuns live in self-imposed isolation. Established as a meditation site in the 9th century and reputedly to be the oldest nunnery in Bhutan, Kila Nunnery is reached via a dirt track from the road between Paro and Haa. It is also fondly referred to as the ‘second Tiger’s Nest.’ It was initially established in the 9th century by Drupthob Chhoeje Norbu as a meditation center. Later, after being destroyed by fire, it was rebuilt by Sherub Gyelthsen.
Hike from kila Gompa Nunnery to Chele La Pass
Chele La Pass separates the valleys of Haa and Paro and at 3, 810 meters, it is one of the highest vintage points as well as the highest motor-able Passes in Bhutan. The pass provides stunning views of the sacred mountains Jomolhari and Jichu Drakey.
