Dungtse Lhakhang: A Unique Chorten-Shaped Temple in Bhutan

The three-storey chorten-shaped temple representing hell, earth, and heaven was built in 1421 by the iron-bridge builder Thangtong Gyelpo. Also nicknamed The Changzampa, he was a great builder who constructed 58 iron bridges throughout Tibet and Bhutan and founded “Ache Lhamo,” the Tibetan Opera. Legend has it that his opera performances raised the funds needed to build his iron bridges.

The Legend Behind Dungtse Lhakhang’s Construction

The temple has many legends surrounding its construction. The most popular legend states that it was built on the head of a demon to suppress the serpentine force causing illness among the inhabitants.

Architectural Significance of Dungtse Lhakhang

The central tower (utse), the pinnacle of the temple, is chained from four directions to the roof. It is believed that during its consecration, the tower attempted to fly to Tibet and was chained down to prevent it from leaving.

Mandala Design and Buddhist Iconography

Conceived as a mandala, the temple’s three storeys represent hell, earth, and heaven. Each level showcases an extensive collection of Buddhist paintings and iconography dating back to the 5th century. The temple also displays unique paintings of the progressive stages of Tantric Buddhist philosophy and significant deities from the Drukpa Kagyudpa School.

Unique Chorten-Shaped Structure

Dungtse Lhakhang’s chorten shape with a white tower on top is rare in Bhutan. Stories recount that Nya Goe (men of great strength) were employed to lift the massive pillars during construction. It is said that Thangtong Gyelpo appeared as five vultures on the construction day, circling the temple and bestowing blessings.

Sacred Statues and Depictions Across Three Levels

The ground floor houses statues of various forms of Buddhas, Avalokiteshvara, Guru Rinpoche, and Thangtong Gyelpo. The second floor features depictions of Mahakala on the outer wall and hundreds of deities and Bardo (the state between death and rebirth) on the interior wall. The third floor showcases Tantric deities, including Guhyasamaja, Vajrabhairava, Cakrasamvara, Hevajra, Kalacakra, Vajravarahi, and Mahamaya.

Restoration and Nearby Attractions

The lhakhang was restored in 1842 by the 25th Head Abbot of Bhutan, Sherab Gyeltshen. Nearby, to the east of the road, lies Pana Lhakhang, believed to have been built in the seventh century.

Location of Dungtse Lhakhang

Dungtse Lhakhang is located in Paro, Bhutan, near the Paro Chhu River. Positioned between the town of Paro and the Rinpung Dzong, the temple is easily accessible and offers stunning views of the surrounding valley, making it a significant spiritual and historical landmark for visitors exploring Paro.