Thimphu


Thimphu Map Thimphu is perhaps the most unusual capital city in the world. The Tashichho Dzong is the most prominent landmark situated near the Wang Chhu River and it houses the throne room of the King of Bhutan. During the summer months, the monk body led by His Holiness, the Je Khenpo, makes its home in the Dzong.

The National Library holds a vast collection of ancient Buddhist manuscripts and contains arguably the best collection of religious and historical literature in the Himalayas. Some of the other places of interest are the Thangka Painting School, the Indigenous Hospital, the Memorial Chorten built in memory of the third King, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck in 1974.

The Thimphu town is an exciting place for visitors. The town houses are built in traditional style and the people are friendly and helpful. Bhutan's colorful stamps can be viewed and purchased at the main post office. There are many shops that stock a selection of handicrafts and textiles.

Thimphu has changed much over the years but there are still no traffic lights and this will remain long into the 21st century as one of the world's most pristine capital cities.

Every Saturday and Sunday most of Thimphu's population and many valley dwellers congregate at the bank of the Wang Chhu river where the weekly markets are held. The fields adjacent to the weekly markets are reserved on weekends for basketball and archery players.

Thimphu also has Bhutan's only golf course - a nine hole circuit which is popular with the residents. Thimphu is also an ideal place for day walks. Phajoding Monastery is a three hour walk from Thimphu and the effort is rewarded with a stunning view over the city and a good example of Bhutanese flora. Other day walks can be taken to Cheri Monastery a steep walk away from the capital.

One can also walk up to Sangay gang which would give the best view of the whole Thimphu both in the day and the night. Five miles from Thimphu stands the Simtokha Dzong on a lofty ridge. Built in 1627, the Simtokha Dzong is not only the oldest fortress but also houses the School of Buddhist Studies.