The National Memorial Chorten is an iconic landmark in Thimphu, Bhutan. It was originally built as a monument of world peace by the Third King of Bhutan, Jagme Dorji Wanchuck who was known as the “Father of Modern Bhutan”. He was well respected to open Bhutan to the outside world, initiating modernization in all aspects. The construction of the chorten completed in 1974. The untimely death of the Third King in 1972 has made this monument a memorial as well. Unlike many other monuments in other countries, the National Memorial Chorten is a popular place where the locals would come visit to pray and gain merits every day.

Sitting atop a hill overlooking south of Thimphu in Bhutan, this 52 meters tall Buddha statue is one of the largest in the world. The statue is made of bronze and gilded in gold. 125,000 small buddha statues also gilded in gold were placed inside the big Buddha. It is spectacular and very shiny!