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Thimphu Travel Guide
Exploring the Capital City of Bhutan: A Thimphu Travel Guide
Thimphu is the capital city of Bhutan, located in the western part of the country. It is known for its unique blend of traditional culture and modern development, as well as its beautiful landscapes and serene atmosphere. It is the largest city in Bhutan and offers a wide range of activities for visitors to experience the unique culture and way of life of Bhutan.
One of the main highlights of Thimphu is the Tashichho Dzong, which is a beautiful fortress located in the center of the city and is known for its intricate architecture and historical significance. Visitors can take a tour of the fortress and learn about the history and significance of the site.
Another popular destination in Thimphu is the Buddha Dordenma Statue, which is a 51.5 meters tall statue of Shakyamuni Buddha, located on a hilltop overlooking the city. Visitors can take a hike up to the statue and enjoy the beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
For those interested in culture, Thimphu offers a chance to explore the traditional lifestyle of the local people and to experience the warmth and hospitality of the local community. Visitors can also visit the National Textile Museum, which showcases the traditional textiles of Bhutan, and the National Folk Heritage Museum, which provides an insight into the traditional way of life of Bhutanese people.
Overall, a holiday in Thimphu offers an opportunity to discover the rich culture, history and the unique blend of traditional and modern development of Bhutan. Visitors can also explore the beautiful landscapes, take a tour of the Tashichho Dzong and the Buddha Dordenma Statue, and visit the National Textile Museum and the National Folk Heritage Museum. With its rich heritage, natural beauty, and cultural atmosphere, Thimphu is a perfect destination for a holiday that combines culture and nature.
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MAKE AN ENQUIRYBest Places To Visit In Thimphu
From historical cities to natural wonders, come see the best of Thimphu.
Buddha Dordenma
One of the largest Buddha statues in the world, Buddha Dordenma is a masterpiece of architectural wonder. The colossal bronze statue is over 50 meters high and is gilded in gold. Apart from this, there are also 125,000 other Buddha statues which are placed around the Buddha Dordenma statue. Sitting royally atop a great meditation hall, this Buddha statue exudes peace and tranquility. The project is believed to have been predicted in the early eighth century in a sacred treasury kept by Guru Padmasambhava.
Motithang Takin Preserve
The crown jewel of Thimphu, the Motithang Takin Preserve is a protected area where the national animal of Bhutan, the Takin, is protected. A half-hour walk here will unveil before you the many exotic birds and animals, which roam freely and in the most natural habitat in the region. Drenched in peace, the wildlife here is exquisite and a must visit once. The Motithang Takin Preserve was primarily a zoo established in later years that turned into the largest protection of a rare mountain animal named Takin. Takin has been declared the national animal of Bhutan.
Simtokha Dzong
Overlooking the entire Thimphu Valley, Simtokha Dzong is also known as Sangak Zabdon Phodrang, which means "Palace of the Deep Meaning of Secret Mantras". Not only a religious structure, it is also a major Dzongkha educational institution in the country. It is often said to be the first Dzongs built in Bhutan. The word Simtokha literally means "over a demon" and there is a legend associated with it. It was made to scare away an evil spirit that was scaring the passengers. Rich in royal values, the unique architectural feature of this traditional zong is that its central tower Utse has twelve arms. In the evening, this majestic zong is seen lit up beautifully.
Tango Monastery
Both Tango and Cheri are located north of Thimphu. The word tango means "horse head" in Bhutanese language. Tango is the highest center of Buddhist learning in the country, founded in the 13th century by Phajo Dragom Zhigp. Cheri was founded in 1620 by Jhabdrung Ngwang Namgyal. The monastery enriches the travel experience with its serene aura and quaint atmosphere, which is in keeping with the Bhutanese tradition of focusing on spirituality more than the fancy aspects. The annual festival Yarni is a major attraction of this monastery.
Tashichho Dzong
Tashicho Dzong is a grand Buddhist monastery and fort on the banks of the Wang Chu River on the northern edge of the city of Thimphu in Bhutan. Dzong in Bhutanese language refers to a "fort" and every district of the country has been blessed with this unique architecture. The Tashicho Dzong is adorned with a storied history, splendid architecture, and peaceful atmosphere. Tashicho Dzong is one of the major places to visit in the capital of Bhutan. Situated on the banks of the Wangchu River, it looks like a fascinating painting out of a textbook. The impressive structure is in its full glory throughout early spring, when all the flowers adorn the entire space.
The National Memorial Chorten
The National Memorial Chorten was erected in memory of the third Druk Gyalpo and is dedicated to world peace. The Chorten is a large white structure crowned with a golden spire. It is located close to the city center of Thimphu and is one of its most iconic monuments. Visitors will find elderly Bhutanese people circling the Chorten throughout the day. Chorten literally means 'the seat of the faith' and Buddhists often refer to such monuments as 'the Buddha's mind'. Chorten is an exceptional example of Buddhist architecture and artistry with its grand paintings and intricate sculptures.
Motithang Takin Preserve
The crown jewel of Thimphu, the Motithang Takin Preserve is a protected area where the national animal of Bhutan, the Takin, is protected. A half-hour walk here will unveil before you the many exotic birds and animals, which roam freely and in the most natural habitat in the region. Drenched in peace, the wildlife here is exquisite and a must visit once.
Tango Monastery
Tango Monastery enriches the travel experience with its serene aura and quaint atmosphere, which is in keeping with the Bhutanese tradition of focusing on spirituality more than the fancy aspects. Located near the Cherry Mountains in Thimphu, Tango Monastery is a major Buddhist learning center in Bhutan. The annual festival Yarni is a major attraction of this monastery. It is held on the 15th day of the sixth month of the lunar calendar and lasts for a month and a half. The festival is mainly for the monks, who come together and take special vows.
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