Buddha Dordenma is a large statue of Buddha Shakyamuni located in the capital city of Thimphu, Bhutan. The statue is one of the largest Buddha statues in the world, standing at a height of 169 feet (51.5 meters). It is made of bronze and gilded in gold, and sits on a large lotus throne surrounded by smaller bronze statues of other Buddhas and bodhisattvas.
The construction of the Buddha Dordenma statue was commissioned to commemorate the centennial anniversary of the Bhutanese monarchy, and was completed in 2015. The statue is located on a hilltop overlooking the city of Thimphu, and is a popular destination for both tourists and local residents. Visitors can climb the stairs to the base of the statue for a closer look, or enjoy the panoramic views of Thimphu and the surrounding mountains from the hilltop.
The Buddha Dordenma statue is also a center for Buddhist practice and devotion. The throne of the statue houses a large chamber containing 125,000 smaller Buddha statues, and visitors can participate in offerings and prayers at the site. The statue is considered a symbol of peace and prosperity for Bhutan, and is a significant cultural and religious landmark in the country.
Photography: Walter Somers
in collaboration with High Asia Tours
