Buddha Dordenma
Buddhist temple · Thimphu ·

Buddha Dordenma

Buddhist temple · Thimphu ·

Gigantic Buddha statue with thousands of smaller Buddhas inside

Buddha Dordenma by Asim Bhattacharyya / CC BY-SA 3.0 (Creative Commons)
Buddha Dordenma by Doug Knuth / CC BY-SA 2.0 (Creative Commons)
Buddha Dordenma by bigvibes / CC BY-SA 3.0 (Creative Commons)
Buddha Dordenma by mdobrin (Atlas Obscura User)
Buddha Dordenma by Vertalm / CC BY-SA 4.0 (Creative Commons)

Information

Kuenselphodrang Rd, Thimphu, Bhutan Get directions

Information

Static Map

Kuenselphodrang Rd, Thimphu, Bhutan Get directions

+975 77 85 71 41

Features

restroom
wheelchair accessible parking lot

Last updated

Dec 10, 2025

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@travelleisure
27,057 Postcards · 5,402 Cities

How to Plan the Perfect Luxury Trip to Bhutan, According to a Travel Expert

"A massive seated-buddha monument that towers at 169 feet and ranks among the largest in the world; it's framed as an unmissable city landmark and a major cultural sight for visitors seeking iconic photo and contemplation opportunities." - Mark Lakin Mark Lakin Mark Lakin is a renowned hospitality brand strategist, luxury travel expert, keynote speaker, fine art photographer, seasoned corporate lawyer, and more. He serves on the Travel + Leisure Travel Advisory Board and is recognized as a top travel specialist. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines

https://www.travelandleisure.com/how-to-plan-the-perfect-luxury-trip-to-bhutan-according-to-a-travel-expert-8752817
Buddha Dordenma
@atlasobscura
4,908 Postcards · 2,018 Cities

A Collection of 13 Eclectic Collections

"Atop a hill in Thimphu, the capital and largest city of Bhutan, is a massive, golden Buddha sitting atop a gilded meditation hall. But the monument holds an invisible secret: Unbeknownst to many people viewing the statue, they aren’t actually looking at one Buddha, they’re looking at 125,000 of them. Inside of Thimphu’s 169 foot Buddha Dordenma statue, there are 125,000 miniature Buddhas encapsulated inside of its enlightened bronze chest, ranging from 8 to 12 inches tall. This means that in Thimphu, which has a population of around 100,000, there are more Buddhas than there are human beings. Like the large Buddha, these thousands of miniature Buddhas are also gilded and made of bronze, a major reason that the statue cost almost $100 million to build when it was constructed in 2015 to honor the 60th birthday of Jigme Singye Wangchuck, the fourth king of Bhutan. The statue also fulfils two prophecies. The first, foreseen by yogi Sonam Sangpo, is that a Buddhist statue would be built in the region to “bestow blessings, peace, and happiness to the whole world.” In addition, the statue is said to have been mentioned by Guru Padmasambhava, widely referred to as the “second Buddha,” in the eighth century. This statue kills two birds with one stone by fulfilling both prophecies in glimmering fashion." - ATLAS_OBSCURA

https://www.atlasobscura.com/lists/eclectic-collections
Vertalm / CC BY-SA 4.0 (Creative Commons)
Buddha Dordenma Statue སྟོན་པ་རྡོར་གདན་མ།

Ekta S.

Google
I visited the magnificent Buddha Dordenma in Thimphu, Bhutan, and it was a truly unforgettable experience. This iconic giant Buddha statue is one of the tallest in the world, standing majestically on a hilltop overlooking the beautiful Thimphu Valley. The aura of peace and serenity around the Buddha Dordenma statue makes it a perfect place for meditation, photography, and soaking in Bhutan’s spiritual essence. The panoramic views of the mountains and city from the site are simply breathtaking, especially during sunrise and sunset. The intricate details of the golden Buddha statue in Bhutan showcase the rich Buddhist art and culture of the country. The place is well-maintained, easily accessible, and surrounded by prayer flags that enhance the divine atmosphere. If you are planning to explore Bhutan tourist attractions, Buddha Dordenma is a must-visit destination for its spiritual significance, cultural value, and stunning natural beauty.

Trishala J.

Google
Beautiful expansive space where you feel calm the minute you enter. Stunning temple inside based on 2 different levels. Stunning views of the city from here. Must visit when in Thimphu.

Mars Ketagalan T. (Yu C.

Google
I came here for the Global Peace Prayer Festival. It is a tremendous event for the world peace and thousands of people aggregated here for peace blessing. I hope every sentient beings are all blessed and the Buddha light stay with you all.

Sidharth A.

Google
The Buddha Dordenma statue is truly a sight to behold! Towering over Thimphu, it offers a sense of serenity and spiritual calm. The views of the city from here are absolutely stunning, especially during sunrise or sunset. The statue itself is majestic and beautifully crafted — one of the largest sitting Buddhas in the world. Inside the base, you’ll find thousands of smaller Buddha statues and peaceful meditation halls. The atmosphere is calm and respectful, with locals and tourists alike offering prayers. A must-visit when in Bhutan — not just for the views, but for the spiritual experience as well.

Md. Mehedi H.

Google
I have Visited several times and every time found the place very peaceful with stunning views over Thimphu Valley. The site is well-maintained and offers a calm environment to walk around and enjoy the scenery. Definitely one of the best spots to see the city from above.

K S.

Google
Very lucky to visit on the days of Global Prayer Festival. There was several hours long line for local pilgrims lining up to make offerings, however tourists like myself were allowed to enter from a side door without the wait. The event is very colorful with many temporary colorful towers erected in front of Buddha. There was also a large tent inside which monks were chanting, perhaps around 100 or more monks. Buddha itself is also quite interesting The base contains exposition of hubdrents of small Buddha's, wall paints. The base have few stories and I suggest to go up as there are some quite scarry and erotic looking sculptures on levels 3 and 4. I did enjoy offering to the dieties, walking around in th crowd, and visiting inside the Buddha base. My guide tried to explain me all the stories painted on the walls, but I fot quite confused with all th versions of dieties and Buddha's.

Jhankruti B.

Google
You would literally be in awe with the grandeur. Beautiful place with an amazing 360° view. Every corner is picturesque. Not allowed to click pictures inside the temple but you can click as many from the outside. The entire story of Gautam Buddha is narrated with the help of paintings and you would enjoy your time there.

Parnika S M

Google
The Buddha Dordenma Statue in Thimphu is absolutely breathtaking and a must-visit when in Bhutan. Sitting high on a hill overlooking the city, this magnificent golden statue is one of the largest Buddhas in the world and truly a sight to behold. The serene atmosphere surrounding the monument makes it a perfect place for quiet reflection, prayer, or simply taking in the incredible views of Thimphu Valley. The craftsmanship is exceptional — not just the grand Buddha itself, but also the intricate interiors that house thousands of smaller Buddha statues. Every detail feels deeply meaningful and beautifully executed. Walking around the complex feels peaceful and awe-inspiring. The site is very accessible, with well-paved roads leading up to a spacious parking area. It’s suitable for all ages, including families with young children, thanks to its open spaces and easy walkways. Kids are often amazed by the sheer size and beauty of the statue. Whether you are spiritually inclined or just love architecture and scenic views, Buddha Dordenma will leave a lasting impression. It’s a place that truly captures the heart and spirit of Bhutan. Highly recommend setting aside enough time to walk around, soak it all in, and enjoy the tranquility.