Changangkha Lhakhang

A 12th-century fortress-like temple overlooking the Thimphu valley, traditionally visited by parents seeking blessings for newborns.

The temple was established by descendants of Phajo Drukgom Zhigpo, the lama who brought the Drukpa school to Bhutan in the 12th century, and its central image is Chenresig in the eleven headed form. Parents come to have a child's name chosen and a protective cord tied by the resident astrologer, so on an ordinary morning the queue is mostly families with babies rather than visitors. The terrace outside carries a line of prayer wheels and looks down the valley to Tashichho Dzong and the Buddha Dordenma.