Buddha Dordenma Statue

The gigantic statue of Shakyamuni Buddha erected on a mountain top is considered one of the largest statues of Buddha in the world. Measured at a height of 51.5 m, the statue was completed on 25th September 2015, which also marks the 60th anniversary celebration of fourth king Jigme Singye Wangchuck. The statue is made of bronze with a cover of gold which symbolizes indestructibility. The statue is located atop a hill in Kuenselphodrang Nature Park, which overlooks Thimphu Valley, and can be seen from far off places while driving through this city. Shakyamuni Statue is an insight of two predications which were made centuries ago. The first one where a yogi Sonam Zangpo forecasted a large statue of Buddha to be built in the region, and at a point from where it can bestow blessings and happiness on the world. The other one discovered by Terton Pema Lingpa in the 8th century A.D, to radiate an atmosphere of peace and happiness in the world. The throne above which the Buddha Dordenma sits is a large meditation hall, where hundreds of devotees meditate every day.