10 things to do in Changangkha Lhakhang Thimphu Bhutan
Changangkha Lhakhang is a centuries-old temple located in the heart of Thimphu, Bhutan. The temple is said to be one of the oldest in the country, having been founded in 12th century by Lama Phajo Drukgom Shigpo. It is a popular pilgrimage site for Bhutanese Buddhists, and many come to pay their respects and make offerings to the temple's deity. Here are 10 things to do when visiting Changangkha Lhakhang in Thimphu.
1. Explore the Temple Grounds: Changangkha Lhakhang is a beautiful and tranquil place to explore. Take some time to wander around the temple grounds, taking in the sights, sounds, and smells of the temple. The temple is filled with colorful prayer flags, which are said to bring blessings to those who view them. You'll also find a variety of shrines and statues dedicated to various deities.
2. Attend a Puja Ceremony: Puja ceremonies, or prayer rituals, are held at Changangkha Lhakhang throughout the year. These ceremonies are a wonderful opportunity to experience Bhutanese Buddhist culture and tradition. Attendees can make offerings of incense, flowers, and food to the temple's deities.
3. Visit the Changangkha Monastery: The Changangkha Monastery is located just a few minutes' walk from the temple. This monastery is home to a community of Buddhist monks, and visitors can observe their daily activities. The monastery also offers a variety of religious classes and workshops for those who wish to learn more about Buddhism.
4. Shop at the Local Bazaar: The Changangkha Bazaar is a great place to find traditional Bhutanese handicrafts and souvenirs. Here you'll find a variety of items such as jewelry, clothing, and hand-woven textiles. The bazaar is also a great place to sample some of the local cuisine.
5. Take a Hike: The area around Changangkha Lhakhang is surrounded by beautiful forests and mountains. Take a hike and explore the surrounding area. You'll find plenty of trails to explore, as well as some great views of the temple and Thimphu.
6. Visit the National Library: The National Library of Bhutan is located just a few minutes' walk from the temple. This library is home to an extensive collection of books, manuscripts, and other artifacts related to Bhutanese culture and history. Visitors can browse the library's collection or take a guided tour.
7. Visit the National Museum: The National Museum of Bhutan is located just a few minutes' walk from the temple. This museum is home to a variety of artifacts and exhibits related to Bhutanese culture and history. Visitors can explore the museum's collection or take a guided tour.
8. Enjoy a Traditional Bhutanese Meal: Thimphu is home to a variety of restaurants serving traditional Bhutanese cuisine. Enjoy a meal of red rice, ema datsi (a spicy cheese dish), and other local dishes. You can also sample some of the local beers and wines.
9. Attend a Festival: Thimphu is home to a variety of festivals throughout the year. These festivals are a great opportunity to experience Bhutanese culture and tradition. Some of the most popular festivals include the Thimphu Tshechu (a religious festival held in October), the Thimphu Festival (a cultural festival held in October), and the Bhutan International Festival (a cultural festival held in November).
10. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride: Take a hot air balloon ride over Thimphu and the surrounding area. This is a great way to get a bird's eye view of the city and the surrounding countryside. You can also take a balloon ride over Changangkha Lhakhang and get a unique view of the temple from the sky.