National Memorial Chorten

The National Memorial Chorten or the ‘Memorial Stupa’, or the ‘Thimphu Chorten’ is revered as the most visible religious landmark in Bhutan. Built in 1974, this Buddhist stupa on Doeboom Lam in Thimphu Valley is one of the most eminent landmarks in the entire country.

Dedicated to the third Druk Gyalpo, this stupa is adorned with golden spires and bells, and does not embodies any human remains. It is rather a stupa that represents universal peace and brotherhood. Thus, it is fondly called the ‘Seat of Faith’ by the locals.

The National Memorial Chorten has a golden spire as its crown, and can be accessed through a welcoming garden that is ornated with three slate carvings. The main entrance of chorten represents three protective bodhisattvas that are called ‘Avalokiteśvara’ representing compassion, ‘Mañjuśrī’ representing knowledge, and ‘Vajrapāṇi’ representing power.

The interior of the Thimphu Chorten is further adorned with images of Lord Buddha, Padmasambhava, and Ngawang Namgyal. It also has intricately carved annexes, mandalas, several statues, and a holy shrine. Well, there are much to witness and explore in the National Memorial Chorten; one must visit this magnificent tourist attraction in Bhutan to unravel its true beauty!