Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten

Safeguarding Bhutan from the evil forces and being the carrier of World Peace, Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten in Punakha was built in the year 2004 by the honourable Queen of Bhutan. The beautiful Chorten took 9 years to become what it is today. The queen made sure that every traditional aspect and teaching was taken into consideration while the Chorten was being constructed.

This four storied stupa looks similar to a pagoda and has several pagodas around it. A few of them even have prayer wheels for the devotees to sing their prayers to the Almighty. Innumerable Bhutanese sculptors, carpenters and painters have put their hard work behind building this national symbol of world peace.

On your visit to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal, you’ll spot a similarity between the deities that are housed inside it. All of them are the wrathful gods, the ones full of aggression. One of these is Vajrakilaya whose 15 ft. tall statue could be found on the first floor. In order to establish a balance with wrathful deities, the walls consist of yab-yum figures showcasing the male deities in union with their female consorts. Where the wrath of these gods acts as a shield against evil spirits, the calming figures of Gods and their consorts represent compassion and wisdom. Passing through these enchanting creations you’ll reach the fourth and the final floor. Every stair you climb makes meaning as you witness the grand Sakyamuni Buddha’s statue. The statue is made in a way that it looks in the South as a protractor of Punakha Valley. Owing to the thoughtful architecture and beauty it beholds, Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten is one of the best places to visit in Bhutan. Another interesting fact about this Chorten is that it is not a place for education or retreat, instead is a provider of harmony and spiritual protection.