If you're visiting Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan then you must not miss visiting the scenic National Memorial Chorten. Considered the spiritual heart of Thimphu, this Chorten is a major site for both locals and tourists which is a place of prayer, serenity, and meditation. This Chorten was built to commemorate Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, the Bhutanese third king.
More than just a tourist attraction, this Chorten remains an essential part of Bhutanese life. Visitors must never miss an opportunity to get a glimpse of the Bhutanese culture and spirituality of this iconic structure.
Constructed in 1974, the National Memorial Chorten honours the contribution of Bhutan’s third king. He is known as the Father of Modern Bhutan among the local people due to his contribution to the modernization of the country which includes various progressive changes in Bhutan. Almost 2 decades after his death, the Memorial Chorten was developed to commemorate the king’s vision and legacy. This Chorten serves as a Buddhist structure and memorial that houses a large Buddha statue with various religious symbols and murals.
The National Memorial Chorten can be visited throughout the year but it is advised to visit during the spring and autumn months when this site is in all its glory. Exploring Chorten becomes more cherishing and comfortable due to the clear skies, mild temperatures, and pleasant weather. Herein, you can also witness the surroundings of the Chorten blooming with colorful flowers offering a clear view of the mountains.
If you are willing to enjoy a quieter experience then you can consider visiting during early spring and late fall due to fewer crowds. You can also visit the site in the month of Thimphu Tshechu for an immersive experience.For expert guidance and seamless planning, book your trip with a trusted Bhutan tour operator like Kamakhya Bhutan.
To cherish a serene ambiance, you can explore the interiors of the Chorten which is home to various paintings and statues. You will be amazed to witness the central Buddha statue here with all the temples decorated with vibrant murals depicting the Buddhist philosophies.
Circumambulation is a common religious practice that you can do in the Chorten. During this ritual, the visitors turn the prayer wheels and walk around the temple clockwise. This simple form of meditation is believed to bring blessings and good Karma.
The prayer flags, stunning architecture, peaceful ambiance, and views of the entire Thimphu Valley create a perfect setup for photography. You can sit quietly, relax, meditate, and click memorable pictures to capture the beauty of this place.
This Chorten is not only a memorial but also a major place for worship among the locals. To understand the Bhutanese Buddhist traditions, you can indulge in these worshipping rituals such as lighting butter lamps and offering prayers.
The National Memorial Chorten is a prominent religious site and this is why while visiting this place, you must dress modestly. It is advised to wear clothes covering your knees and shoulders to show respect towards Buddhist culture.
The entry fee is free to visit National Memorial Chorten for both local people and tourists. This site is also open daily for the tourists from morning 8 to evening 5.
The Chorten is located centrally in Thimphu making it highly accessible to visit from other parts of the city. The unique location of this place can be reached by foot or through local transportation. Remember that all guided tours also have a mandatory stop at this sightseeing attraction.
