Bhutan
5 Days
Thimphu
Thimphu – Capital of Bhutan
Thimphu is a lovely city in the Kingdom of Bhutan that beautifully combines historical culture with developing facilities. It is located in the west of Bhutan and has an elevation of about 2,334 meters or 7,657 feet. Being the largest city in the country, Thimphu serves as the political, economic and cultural center of Bhutan. Different from various other capitals, the pace in Thimphu is relaxed, boasting no traffic light signals, giving a deeper sense of the Bhutanese spirit. As of 1961, the city became the official capital, replacing Punakha. Since then, Thimphu has grown, but still retains strong ties with the country’s spiritual and cultural roots. The city is best visited during spring season around March to May or Autumn between September and November. During this time, weather is pleasant while the city buzzes with exciting local life and festivals.
Top Attractions in Thimphu
- Tashichho Dzong: This impressive fortress-monastery houses the throne room of the King of Bhutan and several government offices. It’s an iconic symbol of Bhutanese architecture and is beautifully lit at night.
- Buddha Dordenma: Overlooking Thimphu Valley, this 51-meter (167 ft) tall statue of Buddha Shakyamuni is one of the largest in the world and houses over 100,000 smaller Buddha statues inside. It’s a powerful spiritual site with sweeping views of the city.
- Memorial Chorten: Built in memory of the third king, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, this white stupa is a center of daily worship for locals, where you can see Bhutanese people spinning prayer wheels and making offerings.
- Changangkha Lhakhang: A centuries-old fortress-like temple perched on a ridge above the city, it is one of the oldest spiritual sites in Thimphu and popular among locals who bring newborns here for blessings.
- Folk Heritage Museum: Offering insight into Bhutan’s traditional rural life, this museum is set in a 19th-century house and showcases tools, clothing, and household items used by Bhutanese families.
- Weekend Market: A vibrant gathering of locals and vendors selling everything from fresh produce and dried fish to handicrafts and incense. It’s the best place to experience the daily rhythm of Bhutanese life.
