Memorial Chorten, Thimphu

Name: Memorial Chorten
Address: Thimphu, Bhutan
Telephone: +975 17 85 33 55

#4 among attractions in Thimphu

Pagoda, Top attraction, Postmodern architecture

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Facts and practical information

The Memorial Chorten, also known as the Thimphu Chorten, is a prominent landmark in the heart of Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan. This striking stupa, with its golden spires and bells, stands as a symbol of peace and prosperity, reflecting the Buddhist culture that is deeply embedded in the country's ethos.

Constructed in 1974, the Memorial Chorten was built in memory of the third king of Bhutan, His Majesty King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, who is often regarded as the father of modern Bhutan. The king had wished to erect a monument to world peace and prosperity, but he passed away before his vision could be realized. His mother, Her Majesty the Royal Grandmother Ashi Phuntsho Choden Wangchuck, fulfilled his dream by commissioning the chorten.

Designed in a classical Tibetan style, the Memorial Chorten is unlike other chortens as it does not enshrine human remains. Instead, it holds only a photograph of the late king in a ceremonial dress. The chorten is a large white structure crowned with a golden spire and is adorned with richly carved annexes facing the four directions. Each of these annexes contains statues and iconography of tantric Buddhist deities, reflecting the complex and profound philosophies of Vajrayana Buddhism.

The site is not only a monument but also an active place of worship. Throughout the day, Bhutanese people can be seen circumambulating the chorten, spinning its many prayer wheels and chanting mantras. It serves as a focal point for daily religious gatherings, where the faithful come to pray and seek blessings.

The Memorial Chorten is open to the public and is a must-visit for those traveling to Thimphu. It offers a serene atmosphere for reflection and provides insight into the spiritual life of the Bhutanese people. Its location in the city also makes it an ideal starting point for exploring the many cultural attractions that Thimphu has to offer.

Alternative names: Coordinates: 27°27'60"N, 89°38'16"E

Address

Thimphu Bhutan

Contact

+975 17 85 33 55

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Day trips

Memorial Chorten – popular in the area (distance from the attraction)

Nearby attractions include: Changlimithang Stadium, Centenary Park, Folk Heritage Museum, Royal Textile Academy of Bhutan.

0.4 miNE
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Changlimithang Stadium, Thimphu
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Centenary Park, Thimphu
11 min walk • Nestled in the heart of Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan, Centenary Park is a vibrant oasis that provides both locals and tourists with an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The amusement park, though modest in size compared to international standards...
1.1 miN
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Folk Heritage Museum, Thimphu
30 min walk • Nestled in the heart of the Bhutanese capital, the Folk Heritage Museum, also known as Phelchey Toenkhyim, offers visitors a window into the rich cultural history of this Himalayan kingdom. Established in 2001 in Thimphu, this museum is dedicated to connecting people...
0.9 miN
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Royal Textile Academy of Bhutan, Thimphu
23 min walk • Nestled in the heart of Thimphu, the Royal Textile Academy of Bhutan stands as a bastion of the nation's living art form. This prestigious institution, dedicated to preserving and promoting Bhutan's textile traditions, was established in 2005 under the patronage of Her...
~1230 ftE
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Bhutan Textile Museum, Thimphu
6 min walk • Nestled in the heart of Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan, lies the Bhutan Textile Museum, a treasure trove of the nation's living art form. Established in 2001, the museum is dedicated to preserving and promoting the rich textile traditions of this Himalayan kingdom.
~1230 ftE
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Motithang Takin Preserve, Thimphu
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1.2 miN
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Institute of Traditional Medicine Services, Thimphu
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27°28'17"N • 89°37'52"E
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National Library of Bhutan, Thimphu
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0.9 miNW
27°28'43"N • 89°37'56"E
National Land Commission, Thimphu
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Which popular attractions are close to Memorial Chorten?

Nearby attractions include Bhutan Textile Museum, Thimphu (6 min walk), Motithang Takin Preserve, Thimphu (6 min walk), Clock Tower Square, Thimphu (8 min walk), Simply Bhutan, Thimphu (14 min walk).