Overview:

Changangkha Lhakhang is a Buddhist temple located on a hilltop in the capital city of Thimphu, Bhutan. Built in the 12th century, the temple is dedicated to the guardian deity of the city, the protective deity Chenrezig (Avalokitesvara in Sanskrit). The importance of the temple can be heard in the famed call of the monks’ horn echoing throughout the valley whenever a child is born in Thimphu. After the child’s birth, its parents come to the temple to present offerings and dedicate the child to the guardian deity in a religious ceremony. The interior of the temple is decorated with beautiful murals depicting peaceful scenes of spiritual figures. Today, the temple continues to serve its religious purpose, serving Buddhists of the surrounding areas in search of spiritual guidance. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Bhutan
Prominent Features:

1. Founded in 12th Century: The Changangkha Lhakhang temple was founded in the 12th century by the great Tibetan Lama, Phajo Drugom Zhigpo. 2. Major Tourist Attraction: The temple is one of the most prominent attractions in Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. 3. Offers Beautiful Views: The temple is located in a hilltop location and offers beautiful views of the valley. 4. Ancient Sacred Site: It is an ancient and sacred site for the people of Thimphu and many come to visit to pay their respects to their gods. 5. Unique Architecture: The temple features unique architecture such as a unique curved gable roof and colorful murals. 6. Home to Unique Statues and Paintings: Inside the temple, visitors can find unique statues and paintings which depict Buddhist icons and deities. 7. Visit During Annual Festival: Every year, the temple is packed with visitors who come to view the celebrations of the temple's annual festival. This national monument of Bhutan portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

Changangkha Lhakhang is an old Buddhist temple in Bhutan located in the capital city of Thimphu. The temple was founded in 12th century by Phajo Drugom Zhigpo, the father of the Drukpa Kagyu school of Bhutanese Buddhism. Though destroyed several times by earthquakes or fire, it was always reconstructed and is still an important pilgrimage spot for Bhutanese Buddhists. The temple contains several statues of gods and goddesses, the most important of which is the 16th-century Chenresi or Avalokiteshvara statue. It also holds wooden religious masks and relics gathered over the years. The temple also serves as a monastery for monks and nuns and is used by the surrounding community for various public activities such as weddings and funerals. You must visit one of these historical places in Bhutan on your Bhutan tour

Interesting facts:

1. The Changangkha Lhakhang is one of the oldest temples of Bhutan, believed to have been built in the 12th century. 2. The temple is dedicated to Chenresig, the patron saint of the country, and is known as the ‘home of Jampelyang’. 3. The temple is home to a number of sacred images such as Guru Padmasambhava, Avalokiteswara, and Maitreya. 4. There is also a hospital connected to the temple that serves the locals in case of medical emergencies. 5. The temple also hosts some popular festivals such as the Tsechu and Lhabab Duchen, during which it becomes a grand center for religious activities. 6. Changangkha Lhakhang is the only temple in Bhutan where the famous Kila Mani traditional prayers can be seen and chanted. Visit one of the famous monuments of Bhutan with your friends and family.