Buddha Dordenma | Thimphu

Information

Landmark: Buddha Dordenma
City: Thimphu
Country: Bhutan
Continent: Asia

Buddha Dordenma, Thimphu, Bhutan, Asia

The Buddha Dordenma is a large Shakyamuni Buddha statue situated in the mountains overlooking Thimphu, Bhutan.

It is a prominent religious monument and a popular viewpoint for the Thimphu Valley.

Visual Characteristics

The statue is constructed from bronze and gilded in gold. It stands 51.5 meters (169 feet) tall. The Buddha is depicted in a seated meditation posture, facing east. The base of the statue is a large, multi-story meditation hall.

Location & Access Logistics

The Buddha Dordenma is located approximately 8 kilometers (5 miles) north of Thimphu city center. Access is via the road leading to Kuenselphodrang Nature Park. Private vehicles can drive directly to the site. Parking is available at the base of the statue. Public transport options to the immediate vicinity are limited; a taxi or private car is the most common method of access.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction of the statue began in 2006 and was completed in 2015. It was commissioned by the Bhutanese government to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the fourth King of Bhutan, Jigme Singye Wangchuck. The statue is situated within Kuenselphodrang Nature Park, a protected area.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can circumambulate the base of the statue. The meditation hall within the base contains thousands of smaller Buddha statues. Photography of the statue and the surrounding valley is permitted. Walking trails are available within Kuenselphodrang Nature Park.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at the site. Shade is provided by the statue itself and the surrounding trees. Cell phone signal (4G) is generally available. Food vendors are not permanently stationed at the site, but small stalls may operate during peak tourist seasons.

Best Time to Visit

The best time of day for photography is in the morning when the sun illuminates the gilded surface, or late afternoon for softer light. The dry season, from October to May, offers the most favorable weather conditions. There are no tide-related considerations.

Facts & Legends

The statue houses over 100,000 smaller Buddha statues, also made of bronze and gilded, each one a replica of the main statue. It is believed that the presence of this statue blesses the country and promotes peace and happiness.