Immensely popular amongst the local Bhutanese, the Changangkha Lhakhang temple is perched regally upon a ridge above central Thimpu, south east of Motithang. Established in the 12th century by Lama Phajo Drukgom Shigpo, this is one of the oldest fortress-monasteries and is a long, uphill climb but the stairs are well-made and it isn’t a difficult journey. The temple walls are adorned throughout with small prayer wheels with larger ones inside the monastery. Spinning these wheels on auspicious days is said to multiply the strength of your prayers and send them whirling upwards to the heavens. It is also said that parents come here to name their children and to seek the blessings of the deity Tamdrin for protection in the inner sanctum, a part of the monastery that only the Bhutanese are allowed into. These children then return every year to pay homage and offer thanksgiving at the temple.

The Lhakhang houses Chenrizig as the main deity- an 11-headed, thousand-armed manifestation of Avolokitesawara as the central statue, truly an awe-inspiring sight. The deity is also referred to as Tara or Avalokiteswara. Make sure you don’t miss out on the picturesque view from the kora or the pilgrim path around the temple, with its charming black and gold prayer wheels. There is also an astrologer here for those who are interested in some spiritual advice.

• The Lhakhang is undergoing renovations, so make sure you wear appropriate footwear and watch your step!
• Carry bottled water.

• Odiyan Events (Motithang)

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