The National Memorial Chorten is one of the most prominent religious monuments in Thimphu. Constructed in 1974 in honor of King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, the third king of Bhutan, the stupa symbolizes peace, compassion, and prosperity. The whitewashed structure is adorned with golden spires and intricate Bhutanese artwork depicting Buddhist teachings.
Unlike many stupas, this one does not contain relics of the deceased but instead serves as a spiritual beacon, representing the mind of the Buddha. It is a place where locals gather in the early morning and late afternoon to perform kora—circumambulating the stupa clockwise while turning the large prayer wheels and chanting mantras. Visitors can experience the deep devotion of Bhutanese culture here, making it both a cultural and spiritual highlight of Thimphu.
Dress modestly to respect local customs.
Always walk clockwise when doing kora.
Mornings and late afternoons offer the most authentic atmosphere with local worshippers.
Photography is welcome outside, but avoid disturbing prayer rituals.
Admission Fee: Free for all visitors.
Opening Time:
Standard: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily.
Summer: May open as early as 5:30 AM and close as late as 6:30 PM.
Winter: May close earlier, around 4:00 PM.
Outer grounds and prayer wheels are often accessible outside official hours for local worshippers.
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Thimphu City, Thimphu, Bhutan
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Tue9.00 - 17.00
Wed9.00 - 17.00
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Fri9.00 - 17.00
Sat9.00 - 17.00
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