Located in the beautiful Thimphu Valley, surrounded by willow trees and the murmur of the Thimphu River, there is Dechencholing Palace – the place that tells the story of Bhutan’s royal mystery and tradition. Constructed in 1953 by the third King of Bhutan, Druk Gyalpo Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, this palace is an architectural wonder and a mystery. It is said that there are secret corridors running through the three floors of the building, which were once believed to contain relics and old manuscripts. Today, the location of the relics is still unknown, but the palace continues to enchant tourists to explore the history and feel the spirit of the Bhutanese kings.
Dechencholing Palace History
Image Credit: David Broad for Wikimedia Commons
Dechencholing Palace Thimphu has a lot of history in Bhutan, as it was constructed in 1953 after the crowning of King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. The palace witnessed the birth of some essential royal personalities, like the fourth king, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, in 1955. It was used for public enthronement rituals in 1974 and has hosted many international delegations. This building was once the residence of the late Royal Grandmother, Dowager Queen Phuntsho Choden, who later became a Buddhist nun and thus the place also has religious importance. Today, the palace continues to be used for diplomatic and royal functions and symbolises the Bhutanese culture.
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Dechencholing Palace Architecture
Image Credit: David Broad for Wikimedia Commons
Dechencholing Royal Palace is a fine example of Bhutanese architecture with aesthetic and cultural significance. This building has three floors and is located on a territory equipped with willow trees, calm ponds, and beautiful gardens. The palace has gorgeous furnishings with designs of repoussé metal work on white velvet to display Bhutanese art. The paintings and carving work on the chapel make it more spiritual. The palace’s construction is purely Bhutanese, and the palace’s architecture is very much in tune with the environment, providing a royal feel to the tourists and is a testimony to the architectural history of Bhutan.
Top Attractions Near Dechencholing Palace
From ancient monasteries steeped in history to lush landscapes that invite adventure, the region has something for every traveler. Discover the spiritual essence of Bhutan at nearby temples or enjoy a serene hike through picturesque trails.
1. Tashichho Dzong
Image Credit: Bernard Gagnon for Wikimedia Commons
Tashichho Dzong is situated only 4 kilometers south of the Dechencholing Palace and is one of the most significant landmarks of Bhutanese administration and religion. This fortress-monastery with its white washed walls and golden roofs is the administrative and political capital of Bhutan and contains the King’s throne room and offices. It has a complex design, prayer rooms, and beautiful paintings that illustrate the principles of Buddhism. Tashichho Dzong also hosts the Thimphu Tshechu festival which is a great way to experience the mask dances and religious celebrations.
Days Needed: 1 day
Entry Fee: 300 Nu
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2. National Memorial Chorten
Image Credit: Bernard Gagnon for Wikimedia Commons
The National Memorial Chorten built in the memory of the third King of Bhutan Jigme Dorji Wangchuck is a place of prayer and meditation in Thimphu. Its white building with golden domes and geometric patterns of mandalas is a place of worship and a sightseeing destination for people. People can walk around the chorten, turn the prayer wheels, and watch the locals doing the puja with prostrations. Located in a beautiful garden and with a breathtaking view of the city, the chorten is a place of peace in the middle of the chaos.
Days Needed: 1 day
Entry Fee: 300 Nu
3. Buddha Dordenma Statue
Image Credit: Avner Ilanai for Wikimedia Commons
Located on a hilltop overlooking Thimphu, the Buddha Dordenma Statue is one of the largest statues of its kind and represents the spirit of peace and prosperity. This bronze statue is 54 meters tall and gilded in gold to represent the strong Buddhist culture of Bhutan. People can climb up to the statue and enter the statue where there are thousands of small Buddha statues and there is a park around the statue from where one can get a view of Thimphu valley. The Buddha Dordenma Statue is not only a symbol of religious belief but also a masterpiece of Bhutanese art and people’s faith.
Days Needed: 1 day
Entry Fee: Free entry
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4. Changangkha Lhakhang
Image Credit: Christopher J. Fynn for Wikimedia Commons
Changangkha Lhakhang temple is one of the oldest temples in Bhutan, which was built in the 12th century and gives a view of Bhutanese religious beliefs. This temple is located on a hill overlooking Thimphu and is considered a holy site for the Bhutanese people to come and pray for good fortunes. The structure of the temple is beautiful with paintings on the walls and the prayer flags that are tied to the walls and roof of the temple giving it a very calm and peaceful look that is perfect for meditation. Overlooking the Thimphu city, Changangkha Lhakhang welcomes the travelers to immerse in the cultural history and serenity of Bhutan.
Days Needed: 1 day
Entry Fee: Free entry
5. Motithang Takin Preserve
Image Credit: Stephen Shephard for Wikimedia Commons
Located in the middle of dense greenery, Motithang Takin Preserve is a sanctuary for Bhutan’s national animal, the Takin. Tourists can watch these strange animals feeding at their own leisure in their natural environment and also learn more about wildlife conservation in Bhutan. The preserve has tour guides who can explain to the visitors the behaviour of the takin and its importance in Bhutan. Motithang Takin Preserve is a perfect place for those who like to enjoy the silence and learn about the programs for the preservation of the unique fauna of Bhutan.
Days Needed: 1 day
Entry Fee: 30 Nu for Indians and 50 Nu for foreign tourists
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How To Reach Dechencholing Palace Thimphu
Image Credit: Neil Satyam for Wikimedia Commons
By Air
The nearest airport to Thimphu is Paro International Airport, which is only 54 km away. You can book a cab, board a bus from Paro to Thimphu, and then drive to Dechencholing Royal Palace from the central city.
By Road
Thimphu is easily accessible by road from different parts of the country and neighbouring countries. There are frequent buses and taxis from the major towns such as Paro and Phuentsholing for the tourists. The journey to Dechencholing Palace is wonderful, and one can see most of the beautiful scenery in Bhutan.
By Rail
There are no railway systems in Bhutan. However, the nearest railway station is Hasimara, West Bengal, India. From Hasimara, one can hire a taxi or take a bus up to the Bhutan-India border and then drive to Thimphu.
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Dechencholing Palace is not just a royal residence but a symbol of Bhutan’s history and culture. From architecture to history or just a stroll on the grounds, the palace takes you on a quick trip into the very soul of Bhutan’s history. Are you ready for the journey of your lifetime? If you are planning your trip to Bhutan, you should know about the enchanting Dechencholing Palace.
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Cover Image Credit: Dr Vikramjit Kakati for Wikimedia Commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Dechencholing Palace
What do you know about Dechencholing Palace?
Dechencholing Palace was constructed in the year 1953 by the third King of Bhutan, Druk Gyalpo Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. It has been used as a palace and a place for important royal functions and official visits of foreign envoys.
What are the features that distinguish Dechencholing Palace?
The palace is a perfect example of the Bhutanese architectural style with a three-storied building enclosed by willow trees, water bodies and lush green lawns. The interior has metal repoussé work on white velvet which is a part of Bhutan’s art tradition.
What is the best way to get to Dechencholing Palace?
Dechencholing Palace can be accessed by air through Paro International Airport, by road from different parts of Bhutan, by rail through Hasimara in West Bengal, India and then by road to Thimphu.
Which are the best places to visit near Dechencholing Palace?
Some of the best spots to visit near the Dechencholing Palace are Tashichho Dzong, National Memorial Chorten, Buddha Dordenma Statue, Changangkha Lhakhang, and Motithang Takin Preserve.
What is the recommended time to visit Dechencholing Palace?
The best time to visit Dechencholing Palace is during the autumn season that is from September to November because the climate is relatively cool and the sky is clear. However, the palace is open to the public and stunning at any time of the year as each season has its own appeal.
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