If you are feeling worn out from a long week, there is a perfect new escape waiting for those residing in Thimphu. Chang Yul Park in Changzamtog is now open to the public from today, offering a serene retreat that blends modern design with nature. Constructed primarily from nature-based materials, the park is designed to be inclusive, providing a space for people from all walks of life.
Nestled along the Wangchhu, the seven-acre Chang Yul Park beautifully blends vibrant Bhutanese heritage with multifunctional green spaces for the community.
This 18-month project, involving a diverse team of architects, urban planners, engineers and DeSuups, has transformed a once vacant land into a lively urban getaway.
Tashi Penjor, director of the Department of Human Settlement said “on this joyous occasion of the inaugural of Chang Yul Park, the gift of His Majesty The King to the people of Thimphu and the whole of Bhutan, we would like to pay homage and tribute to His Majesty The King for the profound gift.’’
According to the project manager, the park has unique features and facilities that were constructed using nature-based materials such as soil and wood.
Dorji Wangdi, Project Manager of Chang Yul Park said “the park is divided into three main zones. The north zone, the central zone, and the south zone. The central zone is mainly for the community, plaza community, and interaction space. And then it also includes a playground called an adventure play area for kids. In the north, we have one of the largest rose gardens in Thimphu. All the pavements and the subsoil developments are done in nature-based, which is more sustainable to the environment.”
Additionally, the park has a jogging track stretching over one kilometre, a riverside terrace, walking paths, elevated bridges, and a cafeteria.
The park also features mini mobility hub with ramps for persons with disabilities, resting benches, a bus stop, and an EV charging station.
Moreover, the park has over 50 native plant species. The park also offers picturesque views of the Bazam, Talakha, and Wangditse Lhakhang.
Tashi Penjor, Director of the Department of Human Settlement said ‘‘In the coming months, we hope that the residents of Thimphu will be able to enjoy this beautiful park and at the same time take equal responsibility for keeping this park clean, and beautiful as it has been planned. We also seek the support of the residents of Thimphu in managing this park. We hope that together with the residents, we will be able to work in creating more beautiful parks as commanded by His Majesty The King across Thimphu Thromde and the peri-urban areas of Thimphu.’’
130 DeSuups worked full-time for over six months and more than 600 DeSuups worked at various times to develop the park.
Jigme Wangchuk, a 33-year-old DeSuup worked on the project since its inception.
“I have been working here for two years and two months. During this time, I had the opportunity to learn many valuable skills from experts who are architects and carpenters. We have gained experience in road construction, landscaping, and beautification. The experts have taught us so much.”
The Chang Yul Park was built at a cost of over Nu 150 M.
Devika Pradhan & Sonam Yuden
Edited by Tshering Zam
