Changangkha Lhakhang
ལྕང་སྒང་ཁ་ལྷ་ཁང་
An ancient temple on a ridge above Thimphu, where parents often bring newborns to receive blessings and names. The terrace in front offers a sweeping view over the Thimphu Valley.
Changangkha Lhakhang sits on a ridge west of central Thimphu. Its origins date back to the 12th century, making it one of Thimphu's oldest temples. Its architecture resembles a small dzong. The temple's main deity is the Eleven-Faced Thousand-Armed Avalokiteshvara, and it also enshrines a local protector deity. Thimphu parents often bring their newborns here to ask a lama to name the child and pray for their well-being, making it a great place to observe Bhutanese folk customs. The terrace in front has an open view over the Thimphu Valley, Trashi Chhoe Dzong and distant mountains, and old people often turn the rows of prayer wheels nearby. Getting there: about 5 minutes by car from the city centre, and it can be combined with Motithang Takin Preserve and the viewpoint at the Television Tower. Note: photography is not allowed inside the temple, and you must remove your shoes and hat before entering.
Opening hours
About 08:00–17:00 (check on site)
Nearby sights
- Folk Heritage Museum
- National Institute for Zorig Chusum
- National Memorial Chorten
- Clock Tower Square & Norzin Lam
- Centenary Farmers Market
- Tashichho Dzong
- Motithang Takin Preserve
- Buddha Dordenma