Be dazzled by the sights inside of UTEP’s Lhakhang. Originally built for the 42nd Smithsonian Folklife Festival in 2008, the Lhakhang was gifted by the Kingdom of Bhutan to the people of the United States to be displayed on the UTEP campus starting in 2015. The term lhakhang is frequently translated into English simply as "temple," yet it is less a place of worship and more a place for contemplative reflection inspired by the highly stylized decorative elements found within. The Bhutanese built this structure as a way to showcase the culture and heritage of their Kingdom and to tell the stories of the Buddha, how Buddhism came to Bhutan, and how the themes of wisdom and compassion connect their country to our university. Come learn about the century-old relationship between UTEP and Bhutan, discover the history, art, and culture of the Kingdom of Bhutan, and explore UTEP and the campus transformation.

The Lhakhang is just off Centennial Plaza and across from the Centennial Museum. Parking is free on campus on the weekends if you can find it. You may want to check out the Sun Bowl Parking Garage. (MAP)

Your field trip guide will be Daniel Carey-Whalen, Director of Centennial Museum and Chihuahuan Desert Gardens.

Afterwards, if you can, enjoy “Music and Mindfulness” iin the Chihuahuan Desert Gardens from 11:30 to 12:30 at the Centennial Museum. See UTEP map.