Chim-puk Hermitage is a warren of caves that was once a retreat for Guru Rinpoche and other high ranking lamas. Chim-puk Hermitage is to the north-east of Samye. After crossing through desert-like territory for a couple of hours, the path ascends into the surprisingly lush area in which the caves are found. It can be an ideal route for day hike. 

Embraced by lush hills on three sides and facing the broad Yarlung Tsangbo River Valley, the Chimpuk Caves is renowned not only for being the most famous meditation place of Tibetan Buddhism, but also for its unique humane climate and beautiful scenery presented at an altitude of 4,300m. Numerous small retreat caves and hermitages are located on the hills, among which those once inhabited by Padmasambhava (known as Guru Rinpoche to Tibetans), Yeshe Tsogyal (student of Padmasambhava) and Trisong Detsen (742-798, the fifth Tibetan king) are the most prestigious. Handprints and footprints impressed on rocks can be found everywhere, and the enormous footprint on the Guruta Rock is said to have been left by Padmasambhava.

Currently, the caves are inhabited by over 200 Buddhists, 70% of whom are nuns. Leading a simple life which might be unbearable for the commoners, these dedicated Buddhists believe that the Chimpuk Caves - the place in which Padmasambhava meditated and taught Dharma to his disciples - will bring them more spiritual achievements in meditation.

Transportation:
Occasionally, there are trucks from the Samye Monastery to the Chim-puk Hermitage, depending on the number of people who share the route. Chartering a truck costs CNY 200-300, while renting a tractor only costs CNY 40 for all. Hiking is possible if you are confident about your physical condition, and it usually takes 5-8 hours to reach the caves from the monastery.