A new three-storey community temple in Bjabchho Gewog, Chhukha, is nearing completion after a community-led investment of more than Nu 40 million. Around 90 per cent of the construction has been completed, with funding contributed by the gewog, local residents and Chhukha Hydropower Corporation. The new temple is being built to replace the ageing community temple, which has become too small and congested for religious ceremonies, funeral rites and other gatherings. Residents said the old structure was also badly damaged by earthquakes, raising safety concerns for visitors and the temple’s sacred relics. The temple is believed to date back to the 17th century and holds deep spiritual significance for the people of Bjabchho. According to local history, the original temple was destroyed by fire after being located on a mountain opposite its present site. A sacred relic, known as a “Phub”, is said to have flown to the current location, where it was discovered by a hermit, Tsam Meto Pelzang, leading to the establishment of the present temple. Once completed, the new structure is expected to provide a safer and more spacious venue while preserving the community’s spiritual and cultural heritage for generations.