National Memorial Chorten

National Memorial Chorten also known as Thimpu Chorten, Bhutan. This stupa does not enshrine human remains. It was particularly built in 1974 honoring the 3rd Druk Gyalpo (king) of Bhutan - Jigme Dorji. His mother Queen Ashi Phuentsho Choden Wangchuck, built this in his memory. His photo in a ceremonial dress, adorns a hall in the ground floor. It is a Prominent white structure with a golden spire and bells, surrounded by green all around like mountains and grass. Our visit during October of 2023 had encased our visit to this Shrine. The peaceful atmosphere, despite so many visitors was very impressive.

Memaorial stulpa in honor of 3rd king of bhutan who passed away early at age of 44. Stulpa was conceived by his mourning mother, the previous queen. Inside are lots of sculpturer of guardians. The blue and red dieties: quite scarry looking, but yet in somehow erotic poses. Can not take photos inside so you have to visit for yourself.

Beautiful garden with wisteria covering all the walls and the sound of tinkling bells coming from very large spinning bells. Built for world peace. Has a special feel to the whole place, and a lovely butter lamp temple in the grounds.

When I visited the National Memorial Chorten in Thimphu, I immediately felt the deep sense of peace that everyone talks about. Located right in the heart of the city, this white stupa with its golden spire isn’t just a monument — it’s a living symbol of Bhutan’s devotion, faith, and love for its late Third King, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, known as the Father of Modern Bhutan. Built in 1974 by his mother, Queen Phuntsho Choden Wangchuck, it was her way of fulfilling his wish to build a chorten representing the “mind of the Buddha.” As I walked around the stupa, I joined locals — elderly people, monks, and families — who were circumambulating clockwise, spinning large red prayer wheels and softly chanting mantras. The air was filled with the sound of fluttering prayer flags and the gentle ringing of bells, which gave the whole place an incredible sense of calm. It felt like time slowed down here; even in the center of busy Thimphu, this spot was pure serenity. Architecturally, the chorten is stunning. Its Tibetan-style design flares outward like a vase and gleams under the sunlight. Inside, each floor is filled with intricate paintings and statues — from fierce protector deities to serene Buddhas — all meant to guide the mind toward peace and enlightenment. Though photography isn’t allowed inside, the art and atmosphere stay with you long after you leave. What really touched me most was watching how deeply this place is woven into daily life. Locals come every morning and evening to pray, meditate, or just sit quietly — and as a visitor, you can’t help but feel moved by their devotion. The best time to visit, I found, is early morning or late afternoon when the light hits the golden spire and the energy feels especially spiritual. In the end, the National Memorial Chorten isn’t just something to see — it’s something to feel. It’s a place where Bhutan’s spirituality, culture, and history come together beautifully, and it left me with a lasting sense of peace and gratitude.

Central, Peaceful & Worth a Visit Built by the Queen Mother in memory of the 3rd King, this chorten is simple yet deeply meaningful. It’s not ornate like some others, but its central location and steady stream of locals walking clockwise around it make it a lovely window into Bhutanese spiritual life. Tip: Early morning visits offer a calm, authentic experience

This memorial was built to honor Bhutan's third king. Very awesome and magnificent. Looks really majestic at night. Lots of local people visiting the place doing all sorts of activities - Turing the prayer wheel, going round and round the stupa while chanting at the same time, making prostrations in front of the stupa, taking photos, people watching.

The National Memorial Chorten is a Stupa located in Thimphu and is said to be built in 1974 by Her Majesty Gyalyum Ashi Phuntsho Choden Wangchuck in memory of His Majesty, the Third Druk Gyalpo Jigme Dorji Wangchuk. With its golden spires and bells, this stupa is a sight to behold and is an important landmark in Thimphu city. Must visit if you are in Bhutan

An iconic landmark of Thimpu, the National Memorial Chorten is a stupa constructed in memory of the Third King of Bhutan. Surrounded by prayer wheels, it’s place of worship and meditation for many Bhutanese people. It’s serene and a must visit when you’re in the city.