Chorten

Was it a cloud, or a giant, white vase reaching for the heavens? That’s the National Memorial Chorten in Thimphu, a beacon of faith and remembrance. This Chorten isn’t your typical stupa. It holds no mortal remains. Instead, it embodies the mind of the Third King, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, the Father of Modern Bhutan. He envisioned this Chorten, but sadly, didn’t live to see its completion in 1974. His mother, Queen Ashi Phuntsho Choden Wangchuck, ensured his vision came to life. The National Memorial Chorten is a vibrant hub of activity. Elders come daily to circumambulate, spinning prayer wheels and murmuring prayers. You’ll see them, their weathered hands turning the wheels, their faces etched with devotion. Look closely at the Chorten’s architecture. It’s a unique blend of Tibetan style, a Jangchup Chorten, shaped like a vase flaring outwards. Golden spires gleam against the pristine white, catching the light. Inside, it’s a journey through Buddhist teachings. The ground floor houses shrines dedicated to the deity Phurpha. Images of the Third King and a central Buddha statue grace each shrine. Ascend the staircase and delve deeper. The second floor focuses on Kagyu teachings, designed to subdue evil spirits. The top floor is dedicated to Lama Gondu teachings. These three floors together represent the esoteric teachings of the Nyingmapa sect. From the top floor, a gallery offers panoramic views of Thimphu. The National Memorial Chorten is more than a monument. It’s a living testament to Bhutanese faith and a tribute to a king who shaped a nation.