Changangkha lhakhang is laid out along the natural ridge as it descends towards Thimphu. At the end of the ridge are two buildings, the main temple to the east (on the Thimphu side), and facing it to the west across a small courtyard, the black Gönkhang (protective deities temple). Other buildings, which house the resident monks and caretakers, are located on the other two sides, together forming a quadrangle. Encircling this temple complex on three sides is a wall enclosing a path used for circumambulation. Small niches containing prayer wheels and relief carvings on slate which depict Buddhas and lamas of the Kagyu lineage, are attached to all sides of the main temple.[1]
The interior of the main temple is divided into two sections..[1] The east side enshrining the principal sacred images, scriptures and other relics is not usually open to the general public - although the man image can be viewed from the other section, which is also where the lamas of the temple are seated while conducting rituals and prayers. Proper dress and decorum are required when visiting the temple.
Facing the main temple across the courtyard, which also holds a simple outside shrine to a tsömen or "mermaid" spirit, is the Gönkhang or protector temple. This temple is considered to be the residence of Genyen Domtsangpa the fierce protector of children born in Thimphu.[2] It also holds images of other protective deities and the paintings adorning the walls of this temple are the oldest known murals surviving in the country.[4] However entrance to this temple is restricted only to Bhutanese men,[4]
Behind the main temple, descending into the valley towards Thimphu town, there are paths with steps leading through a series of terraces dotted with small stupas or chöten. From these terraces there are panoramic views of Thimphu in three directions.[1]