1. Overview
Buddha Dordenma is a massive Shakyamuni Buddha statue perched atop a hill in Kuenselphodrang Nature Park, overlooking the southern entrance of Thimphu, Bhutan. Standing at 54 meters (177 feet), this magnificent bronze statue, gilded in gold, is one of the largest Buddha statues in the world. It houses over 125,000 smaller Buddhas within it and serves as a powerful symbol of peace, prosperity, and spiritual awakening.
Location – Google Maps Link
2. History
- Construction began in 2006 and was completed in September 2015.
- Built to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Fourth King of Bhutan, Jigme Singye Wangchuck.
- Located on the site of the historic Kuensel Phodrang, once a royal palace.
- Fulfills an 8th-century prophecy by Guru Padmasambhava about a statue spreading peace across the Himalayas.
- The main statue is made of bronze and entirely gilded in gold.
- Enshrines 125,000 miniature Buddhas inside—25,000 are 12 inches and 100,000 are 8 inches tall.
- The project cost over USD 100 million, with the statue itself valued at USD 47 million.
- Constructed by Aerosun Corporation (Nanjing, China), following Bhutanese religious specifications.
- A grand meditation hall is located within the base of the statue, featuring murals and altars.
- Location: Kuenselphodrang Nature Park, Thimphu, Bhutan
3. What Makes Buddha Dordenma Popular?
Buddha Dordenma is admired for its scale, serene presence, and architectural beauty. The statue’s golden surface gleams against the backdrop of forested mountains, and its location offers panoramic views of the entire Thimphu valley. It serves as a pilgrimage site and spiritual landmark, drawing devotees, photographers, and tourists alike.
4. Overall Ratings (1 to 5 Stars)
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
Historical Significance: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
Architectural Beauty: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
Cultural Experience: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
Accessibility: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)
5. Weather
Best Time to Visit: March to May and September to November
Temperature Range: 10°C to 25°C
These seasons offer clear skies, pleasant weather, and the best visibility for photography and scenic views.
6. Nearest Five Hotels
- Taj Tashi Thimphu – 5-star hotel combining traditional elegance with modern luxury
- Le Méridien Thimphu – Upscale hotel in the city center with contemporary amenities
- Hotel Norbuling – Boutique hotel with local charm and excellent service
- City Hotel Thimphu – Centrally located with mountain views and modern comforts
- Druk Hotel – Historic luxury hotel with refined Bhutanese architecture
7. Timings
Monday to Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Note: May close temporarily during private religious ceremonies.
8. Time Required to Visit
Visit Duration: 1 to 2 hours
This includes exploring the surroundings, walking the gardens, visiting the meditation hall, and enjoying panoramic valley views.
9. Entry Fees & Ticket Booking Details
Entry Fee:
- Bhutanese Nationals: Free
- SAARC Nationals & Other Foreigners: BTN 500 (approx. USD 6)
- Children under 6: Free
No advance booking required; tickets can be purchased at the site entrance.
10. Things to See & Do
- Walk around and admire the 54-meter golden Buddha statue
- Visit the large meditation hall inside the statue’s base
- Explore over 125,000 miniature Buddha statues housed inside
- Take panoramic photos of Thimphu city from the hilltop viewpoint
- Meditate, reflect, or join prayer ceremonies if scheduled
11. Best Time to Visit
Season: Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November)
Time of Day: Early morning for quiet reflection or late afternoon for golden hour photography
Day of Week: Weekdays for a peaceful experience, weekends for local cultural interactions
12. Nearest Parking Spots
- Dedicated parking lot at Kuenselphodrang Park near the statue
- Additional roadside parking available at the park entrance
- Taxi and tour drop-off zones directly at the site gate
13. Tips for Visitors
- Wear modest and respectful clothing suitable for religious sites
- Bring a camera for wide-angle shots of the statue and valley views
- Use sunscreen and a hat for sun protection during midday visits
- Carry drinking water—climbing the stairs can be tiring
- Visit early in the morning for a peaceful, less-crowded experience
14. How to Reach the Place
By Car: 20-minute uphill drive from Thimphu city center
By Taxi: Taxis are easily available from any part of Thimphu
By Foot: Not recommended due to elevation and distance
By Tour: Commonly included in most city sightseeing packages
15. Nearby Attractions to Combine for the Visit
- National Memorial Chorten – Iconic stupa in central Thimphu
- Tashichho Dzong – The administrative and spiritual seat of Bhutan
- Motithang Takin Preserve – Sanctuary for Bhutan’s national animal
- Simply Bhutan Museum – Interactive showcase of Bhutanese heritage
- Changangkha Lhakhang – A historic 12th-century hilltop temple
