The 51 meter statue of Buddha Shakyamuni sits atop a hill overlooking the Thimphu valley. Buddha Dordenma statue is one of the most prominent landmarks of Thimphu city. The statue was built to fulfill an ancient prophecy to emanate an aura of happiness and peace around the world. The gigantic structure houses 125,000 gilded Buddha statues, an extensive alter and a meditation hall. Adjacent to the statue is the Kuenselphodrang nature park. The park established to conserve the natural environment around the monumental complex. There is a bicycling trail and hiking trail through the woods for adventure seekers.
