The Statue of Guru Padmasambhava

Located amidst the scenic setting of Kuri Chhu Valley in Bhutan’s Lhuentse region, the Statue of Guru Padmasambhava is a 45m (147ft) tall statue that depicts Guru Nangsey Zilnon. Revered as one of the eight manifestations of the Guru, this Statue of Guru Padmasambhava is also the largest statue of Guru Padmasambhava in the entire world.

Seated around a captivating slope in Lhuentse and overlooking the Tangmachu Valley in Bhutan, this mammoth statue was built by Ven. Khenpo Karpo Rinpoch. Going by the legends, The Statue of Guru Padmasambhava was built to fulfil a sacred prophesy of Terton Lerab Lingpa (1856 – 1926). According to this prophesy, a large statue of Guru Nangsi Zilnoen was to be built in the region to prevent an upcoming blood-shedding conflict.

Even Lama Sonam Zangpo, who was one of the most renowned yogis in Bhutan, also insisted that a statue of the Guru should be built to prevent the foreseen war, and also to bring world peace and prosperity. Thus, the Statue of Guru Padmasambhava or Guru Rinpoche was built in Takila village in Lhuentse region of Bhutan. One can also find similar statues across other countries like India, Tibet, and others.