Bhutan Series w/ Breathe Bhutan - Interview with a Nun at Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery - Life as a Buddhist Nun in Modern Bhutan
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Bhutan Series w/ Breathe Bhutan Interview with Nun at Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery - Life as a Buddhist Nun in Modern Bhutan
In this episode of the Winging It Travel Podcast, I visit Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery, an all-female Buddhist nunnery located above the Punakha Valley in Bhutan. This episode offers a rare look into the lives of Buddhist nuns and the important role this nunnery plays in supporting women within Bhutan’s monastic system.
Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery was established to provide both religious and practical education to nuns from across Bhutan, many of whom come from rural and remote regions. Alongside intensive training in Buddhist philosophy, meditation, chanting, and ritual practices, the nuns also study English, computer skills, and vocational crafts—helping prepare them for life both within and beyond the monastery.
During my visit, the nunnery was preparing for final examinations, offering a unique insight into the academic structure of monastic life. You’ll also hear immersive background sounds from the nunnery itself, adding context to the daily rhythm of study, prayer, and discipline.
Following the introduction, I share a 10-minute interview with one of the resident nuns, conducted in English. In our conversation, she explains her daily routine, what she has studied over the years, her perspective on Buddhism in Bhutan, and what life looks like after completing the nine-year monastic education. She also shares why visitors should take the time to visit Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery and one key idea from Buddhism that she believes everyone should understand.
This episode offers a thoughtful, grounded look at female monastic life in modern Bhutan, blending spiritual insight with real-world structure and purpose.
🎧 If Bhutan has ever been on your travel radar, this series will show you why it deserves to be.
This entire journey through Bhutan was made possible by Breathe Bhutan, who created an incredible, deeply immersive itinerary that allowed me to experience the country far beyond the surface. From meeting local families to having honest conversations like this one, their focus on authentic, responsible, and meaningful travel is something I’ll be showcasing throughout this series.
🎧 If Bhutan has ever been on your travel radar, this series will show you why it deserves to be.
This entire journey through Bhutan was made possible by Breathe Bhutan, who created an incredible, deeply immersive itinerary that allowed me to experience the country far beyond the surface. From meeting local families to having honest conversations like this one, their focus on authentic, responsible, and meaningful travel is something I’ll be showcasing throughout this series.
Thanks & CreditsHuge thanks to Breathe Bhutan for creating an authentic, culture-focused itinerary and making experiences like this possible. Also, thanks to Tourism Bhutan for hosting me on this trip and making this series possible.
Breathe Bhutan
Website to book tours - https://www.breathebhutan.com/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/breathebhutan/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/breathebhutan/
🎧 Next up: The next episode will be an immersive experience of a Bhutanese festival, and be ready for all the sounds in this one!
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⏱️ Timestamps00:00 – Introduction to Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery and today’s visit
01:40 – Life, education, and training at the all-female Buddhist nunnery
03:25 – Interview begins: meeting a Buddhist nun
05:15 – A day in the life, exams, and the nine-year monastic path
08:30 – Buddhism, visiting the nunnery, and final reflections
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Winging It Travel Podcast Credits
Host/Producer/Creator/Composer/Editor - James Hammond
Contact me - jameshammondtravel@gmail.com or james@wingingitproductions.com
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