Overview:

Chendebji Chorten is an important Buddhist stupa located in the Punakha District of Bhutan. Built in 18th century by Lama Shida, it is a two-floor structure with four prayer wheels at the four cardinal points. Its four sides represent the four spiritual paths of Buddhism. It serves as a pilgrimage site for Buddhists and symbolizes the triumph of Buddhism in Bhutan. Every year, several festivals are held here to celebrate its significance. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Bhutan
Prominent Features:

1. Gold-colored domed roof with two golden birds facing each other at the peak, representing the male and female forces of compassion. 2. Intricately carved woodwork on the doors and windows. 3. Nine storeys representing the ‘Nawang Chortens’ which promote peace and harmony throughout Bhutan. 4. Wall paintings dating back to the 17th century that showcase Bhutan's deep rooted relationship with its spiritual traditions. 5. Inside the building, there is a large prayer wheel which visitors can turn to be blessed. 6. Idols of the Buddha, Avalokitesvara, and Guru Rinpoche are placed in several levels inside the main hall. 7. Several clay statues, votive tablets, and spiritual objects are scattered around the Chorten. 8. The large white chorten located at the bottom of the hill contains the remains of decedents of the Chhogyal dynasty, including Bhutan’s founder, Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyel. This national monument of Bhutan portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

The Chendebji Chorten in Bhutan is an important sacred structure built in the early 19th century. It is located near Trongsa in central Bhutan. The Chorten was built by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the founder of the Bhutanese state, in 18th century to subdue a local demon. The stone structure is dedicated to Jowo Jampa, the future Buddha and it is believed to be very powerful in subduing evil spirits and local deities. The structure includes a central stupa (or chorten), four small shrines, and a large rectangular courtyard. The central stupa has four gilded doorways and the four enshrined images represent the four cardinal directions of Sakyamuni, Manjushri, Avalokitesvara and other Buddhist figures. Every year during a festival, people gather around Chendebji Chorten to receive blessings from the protectors of the four quarters, as well as to pay respect to their deceased ancestors. You must visit one of these historical places in Bhutan on your Bhutan tour

Interesting facts:

1. Chendebji Chorten is the only chorten (stupa) of its kind in Bhutan. It is situated in the southern district of Trongsa and is known for its distinctive architecture. 2. The chorten was constructed in the 19th century by Lama Shida (also known as Doringpa) when he saw a vision of a large four-faced chorten with 12 Buddhas at each corner. 3. The chorten contains beautiful Buddhist murals and has eight spires, representing the eight lucky symbols of the Buddhist religion as well as a blue dome that symbolizes protection. 4. Four white chortens stand outside the main entrance, each representing the four cardinal directions; east, south, west and north. 5. Chendebji Chorten is an example of the unique architecture of Bhutan, with intricate carvings of various deities completed in bold colors. 6. Inside the chorten, there is a meditation hall with a shrine dedicated to the founder of the chorten. 7. On the grounds, where one can experience beautiful Bhutanese architecture, there is also an old monastery with 30 monks residing there. 8. Local legend has it that the Chorten was built to ward off a giant owl-like monster that was terrorizing the people of the region. Visit one of the famous monuments of Bhutan with your friends and family.