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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
660 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
11.4 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
4-5.5h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
Intermediate (Square)
Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
Physical DIFF
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Technical DIFF
Directions to Trailhead

Buddha Point

Buddha Point
Measurement:

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Table of contents

The hike to Buddha points traverses the lush mountainside blanketing the landscape, allowing you to admire the sprawling Thimphu valley from various points on this pleasant hike. The minor undulations carved into this valley will have you meandering logging tracks, and through rainforests and brush with the highlight being the statue of Buddha towering over the valley.

Route Description for Buddha Point

This is an excellent, easy and picturesque walk you can do in the morning, before the afternoon rains in monsoon season, or in the afternoon when the sun passes its highest point in summer. The path itself is in good repair, and while there’s no signage, the path doesn’t branch, so it’s difficult to get lost. The walk can be done in either direction – from Buddha Point to Changangkha Lhakhang or vice versa. We find that it’s best to start at the Lhakhang (Buddhist temple), where the view of the massive statue of Buddha poking through the trees and prayer flags at the other end is delightful.

The start point is above the Lakhang. Head to the car park at the top. Walk up the stairs to the right as there’s no way around from the left, and sometimes the Lakhang is closed to tourists. Be sure not to begin this trek from the sealed road at the bottom.

The path itself will take you through rainforest, brush, across a logging track and around quite a few points with unveiled views of the Thimphu valley. There are easy ascents and descents—it’s the flattest walk around this area by far. In summer, wear a bell or talk/sing a lot due to frequent bear activity.

Insider Hints for Buddha Point

  • Take enough water, it can be surprisingly hot and dry, and there is nowhere to refill either at Buddha Point or the Lhakhang.
  • If you do the walk in the morning, bring a picnic to have either in the park or on the point overlooking Thimphu.
  • It can be a good idea to arrange for a taxi to pick you up from Buddha Point. You may be able to hail a taxi as well. If you get stuck, start walking down the road toward town and flag down a cab on the way. Even if they’re already carrying people, they will stop for you (a shared taxi is also cheaper). The trip should cost Nu250, but because it’s such a popular tourist spot, the drivers may try to charge as much as Nu400.

Getting to the Buddha Point Trailhead

The trail starts at Changangkha Lhakhang of Thimpu. Get there either by taxi or on foot.

Route Information

  • When to do:

    All year long

  • Backcountry Campsites:

    No

  • Family friendly:

    Yes

  • Route Signage:

    None

  • Crowd Levels:

    Moderate

  • Route Type:

    Out and back

Buddha Point Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

Check Area Weather

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