Changangkha Lhakhang of Thimphu
Changangkha Lhakhang built in 12th century is a Buddhist fortress like monastery in Thimphu Bhutan. Perched on a ridge beside Motithang Takin Preserve Changangkha Lhakhang is a one of the favored sightseeing places in Thimphu and a must visit destination of Bhutan. Changangkha Lhakhang is divided into 3parts. The first part of Changangkha Lhakhang is dedicated to the anims who have devoted their life to learn the sacred Buddhist teachings. The other two part of Changangkha Lhakhang consists of an inner sanctum with the remains of Guru Rinpoche and meditation hall for monks.
Along with offering the panoramic vista of Thimphu Valley Changangkha Lhakhang is famous in Bhutan for housing the amazing figurine of Chenresig in its 11 headed thousand armed manifestation form in its inner sanctum. Along with the sacred figurine of Chenresig, Changangkha Lhakhang is also the home of the statue of Zabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the unifier of Bhutan.
History of Changangkha Lhakhang
The foundation of Changangkha Lhakhang was laid on the site chosen by Lama Phajo Drukgom Shigpo. He was a revered saint who came to Bhutan from Ralung in Tibet.
Interesting Facts About Changangkha Lhakhang
Did you know? Changangkha Lhakhang is known to be the spiritual home of the newly born children of Chang Valley. It is also the oldest temple to be built in the pictorial valley of Thimphu.
Things to See
- Statue of Chenresig in its 11 headed and thousand-armed manifestation form.
- Figurine of Zabdrunbg Ngawang Namgyal housed in the inner sanctum.
- Remains of Guru Rinpoche.
- Prayer Wheels and Sacred Tibetan Textbooks.
- Panoramic view of the Thimpu Valley from the courtyard of the Lhakhang.
Things to Do
- Meditating with the monks and anims.
- Getting insight into Buddhist Philosophy by being part of religious teaching.
- Witnessing the auspicious event of naming the newborn where the new one is blessed with Phurba, the sacred dagger used while performing any rituals.
Things to Remember
- Visitors should remove their shoes before entering the premise of the temple.
- Making loud noise within the premise is strictly prohibited.
- Like other religious sites in Bhutan, the visitor needs to wear modest dresses while visiting this Lhakhang.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Check out these nearby tourist attractions of Changangkha You may consider visiting.
Trashi Chhoe Dzong
Situate at the river banks of Wang Chu, it is a Buddhist monastery truly acknowledged for its ancient construction. It is also Thimpu's grandest monastery and an epitome of Buddhist architecture.
National Memorial Chorten
A spectacular whitewashed architecture built to sanctify the 3rd Dragon King of Bhutan Jigme Dorji Wangchuk. It is fascinating place to explore due to its scenic construction and tranquility. The scenic mountain peaks in the backdrop are undoubtedly worth mentioning.
Cheri Monastery
Constructed at an elevation of 2850 meters, Cheri is a Buddhist monastery baptized with the presence of many revered saints. The magnificent picturesque view all around and the historical consequences of the monastery make it a must-visit tourist destination near Changangkha Lhakhang.
Motithang Takin Preserve
Motithang Takin Preserve is another tourist attraction near Changangkha. It is the habitat of Bhutan's National animal Takin and is situated at an elevation of 2500 meters. The dense forest of alpine trees and colorful Himalayan birds are what make this preserve quite alluring. Moreover, it is also famous for offering a stunning panoramic view of the snow-capped mountains.
National Folk Heritage Museum
National Folk Heritage Museum near Changangkha Lhakhang is a remarkable place to visit due to its huge collection of ancient Bhutanese heritage. Get to know the rustic lifestyle of Bhutanese people and perceive 17th-century household tools and farming equipment preserve carefully in this Museum.
Explore Changangkha Lhakhang and all its nearby tourist attractions with North Bengal Tourism's Budget-friendly complete tour Packages. Have a memorable Bhutan Trip without worrying about accommodations, meals, and cars. Just choose one of our tailor-made Bhutan Tour Itineraries and contact us to customize it as per your likings.
Timing of Changangkha Lhakhang
Visitors can visit Changangkha Lhakhang anytime between 6am to 6pm. The morning time between 6:00-8:00am and 5:00-6:00 pm is known to be the best time to visit Changangkha Lhakhang if visitors want to be the part of morning and evening praying ritual in Changangkha Lhakhang.
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