About Changangkha Lhakhang
Marking the advent of Buddhism in the country, Changangkha Lhakhang was built in the 12th century by Lama Phajo Drukgom Shigp. It is the oldest temple-monastery in Bhutan and recognized as one of the foremost religious places in the nation.
Resting on a ridge, Changangkha Lhakhang overlooks the city of Thimphu and offers an astonishing view of the natural beauty of the Himalayan Kingdom. The temple is a piece of Bhutanese architectural structure being divided into three sections; it is also home to several monks, including females. Often guestrooms are also provided to the needy and alms are given out to the poor.
The main attraction of this temple would undoubtedly be the statue of Chenrizig, an 11-headed, thousand-armed manifestation of the deity Avolokitesawara. It is truly a sight to behold. The temple also houses several prayer books, many of which are painted on the Lhakhang and the wall outside of it.
The ideal time to visit this temple would be in the month of November when the Changangkha Lhakhang Festival is also celebrated.
Location & Places to Visit on Changangkha Lhakhang Map
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Places to Visit near Changangkha Lhakhang
National Institute for Zorig Chusum, Western Zone
1.2 km from Changangkha Lhakhang - See map
For a long time, arts and crafts have been used as instruments to convey the rich Bhutanese heritage. Traditional crafts or Zorig Chusum represent...
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Royal Textile Academy of Bhutan, Western Zone
1.3 km from Changangkha Lhakhang - See map
The Royal Textile Academy of Bhutan or the National Textile Museum showcases the culture of Bhutan and the talent of these people. It was...
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Folk Heritage Museum, Western Zone
1.6 km from Changangkha Lhakhang - See map
The National Folk Heritage Museum is a great informative and educational center. The Museum itself is housed in an ancient three storied, rammed...
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Memorial Chorten, Thimphu, Western Zone
1.9 km from Changangkha Lhakhang - See map
Memorial Chorten is also known as Thimphu Chorten. It was built in 1974 by the late Queen Mother, Ashi Phuntsho Choden Wangchuck, as a memorial to...
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Clock Tower Square, Thimphu, Western Zone
2.1 km from Changangkha Lhakhang - See map
The Clock Tower Square refers to a tower that has four clock faces which are traditionally built. The Clock Tower is an exquisite piece of art...
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Centenary Farmers Market, Thimphu, Western Zone
2.4 km from Changangkha Lhakhang - See map
Located on the banks of the Wangchu River, the Centenary Farmers’ Market or the ‘Vegetable Market,’ is one of the largest domestic markets...
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Terton Gallery, Thimphu, Western Zone
2.4 km from Changangkha Lhakhang - See map
Among one of the premier art spaces in Bhutan, the Treton Gallery was founded by the famous Bhutanese artist, Kelly Dorji in 2011. Situated in the...
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Motithang Takin Preserve, Western Zone
2.7 km from Changangkha Lhakhang - See map
Visiting Motithang Takin Preserve is a must while staying in Thimphu as it offers shelter to the endangering species - the national animal of...
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Tashichho Dzong, Western Zone
2.8 km from Changangkha Lhakhang - See map
Most tours of Thimphu begin with Tashichho Dzong because of its convenient location in the city. It is an ancient dzong tracing its roots to the...
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Coronation Park, Thimphu, Western Zone
3 km from Changangkha Lhakhang - See map
Built on the banks of river Wangchu, the Centenary and Coronation Park was created to commemorate a century of monarchical rule in Bhutan as well...
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Dechen Phodrang Monastery, Western Zone
3.7 km from Changangkha Lhakhang - See map
Literally meaning the ‘Palace of Bliss,’ the Dechen Phodrang Monastery is situated high up among the clouds, north of the Thimphu city. Built...
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Phajoding Monastery, Western Zone
5.9 km from Changangkha Lhakhang - See map
Founded in the 13th century, the Phajoding Monastery once had the pedestal of being one of the prosperous and highly decorated holy structures in...
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