Royal Inauguration of Changyul Park
On August 23, 2024, Changyul Park in Changzamtok, Thimphu, was officially inaugurated in a grand ceremony graced by His Majesty the King, His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo, and members of the Royal Family.
Also present were the Prime Minister, senior government officials, and teams involved in the park’s development, including Desuups who dedicated over two years to this transformative project.
Public Engagement and Evening Celebrations
Following the official inauguration, a diverse group of invitees explored the extensive grounds of Changyul Park. In the evening, attendees enjoyed a concert featuring prominent Bhutanese artists and dancers trained under the De-Suung Skilling Programme. The event drew over 1,000 visitors, each experiencing the park's beauty for an entry fee of Nu 20, with funds managed by the De-Suung office.
A Gift from His Majesty to Thimphu
Changyul Park spans seven acres along the Wangchhu river corridor, an area transformed from a former truck parking space into a vibrant, multi-functional green space. Conceived as a gift from His Majesty the King, this park represents an investment exceeding Nu 150 million, with over 300 Desuups contributing nearly 18 months of labor to bring this vision to life.
One of the first visitors, Sonam Deki, marveled at the transformation, stating, “This really is a huge gift from the King to our children and people living in the capital.” She noted how her children have been enthusiastically exploring the park's features, underscoring the importance of such recreational spaces for Thimphu’s families.
Honoring Bhutanese Heritage through Sustainable Design
Designed to honor Bhutanese heritage while embracing modern sustainable practices, Changyul Park blends traditional architecture with environmentally-friendly infrastructure. The park’s design features classic Bhutanese stone walls, river boundaries, and traditional gates, seamlessly integrated with modern elements for an inviting and inclusive space.
Key Attractions and Community Hubs
-
Northern Meadows and Riverside Gallery: These areas offer expansive lawns for picnics, outdoor events, and serene relaxation by the river.
-
Community Hub: Centrally located, the hub includes a cafeteria, outdoor deck, performance plaza, and underground restrooms, providing a focal point for gatherings and community events.
-
Adventure Play Area and Outdoor Gym: The play area includes nature-inspired structures like spider webs and rope bridges for children, alongside a fitness area for adults.
-
Arboretum and Rose Garden: Featuring over 50 native plant species, the arboretum and Thimphu’s largest rose garden create picturesque spaces with views of Bazam, Talakha, and Wangditse Lhakhang.
-
Riverfront and Floating Bar: A scenic arc-shaped boardwalk and jogging bridge offer panoramic river views, while the Floating Bar, constructed with intricate timber techniques, provides a cozy space for visitors.
Commitment to Sustainability and Green Infrastructure
Changyul Park prioritizes sustainability with features such as energy-efficient lighting embedded in natural rocks and artistically crafted lampposts. A one-kilometer loop of jogging tracks and walking paths encourages active lifestyles, while an integrated mobility hub with electric-vehicle charging stations and public parking links the park to Thimphu’s low-emission transport network.
A Convergence of Culture, Nature, and Community
Located at the convergence of river and city, Changyul Park reflects a thoughtful blend of cultural heritage and contemporary needs. It aligns with the Thimphu Structure Plan’s Green Infrastructure and Open Space Master Plan (2023-2040), enhancing environmental sustainability through carbon sequestration and expanded green spaces.
A Collaborative Effort for a Lasting Legacy
Constructed through a collaboration among the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport, His Majesty’s Secretariat, the Royal Commission for Urban Development, De-Suung Office, and Thimphu Thromde, the park brought together a diverse team of architects, planners, engineers, and over 130 workers.
Changyul Park is a symbol of His Majesty the King’s vision to improve urban living standards and serve as a model for future green initiatives across the capital. The Director of the Department of Human Settlement, Tashi Penjor, expressed hope that residents will cherish the park, saying, “The park is not just a normal park but a celebration of Bhutanese culture, architecture, and identity.” Plans are underway to establish similar parks in other thromdes and peri-urban centers.
