Western Bhutan - Thimphu Attractions and Sightseeing

Altitude 7,600 feet

The capital of Bhutan and in its on way distinguishes itself by being the most unusual capital   city in the world, by keeping a strong national character in its architecture. Thimphu is a bustling town and  home of the Kingdom’s royal family,  monk body, civil servants and expatriates.


Places to visit in Thimphu - Thimphu Attractions and Sightseeing

Tashichhodzong: Means “fortress of glorious religion”. The Dzong was initially erected in 1641 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel and later the third king Jigme Dorji Wangchuk rebuilt its present form in 1965. It was built in traditional fashion, without using nails and architectural plans. It is also the home of the throne room of His Majesty the king of Bhutan, the summer residence of central monastic body and ministries and various government organizations.


Simtokha Dzong: First fortress built by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel in 1627 among the series of fortresses built by him in 17th century in Bhutan. About 4 miles drive from Thimphu, this fortress is situated on a lofty ridge and now houses the educational institute for Buddhist studies.



Memorial Chorten: Built in 1974 in memory of the Third King, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, who is popularly considered as the Father of Modern Bhutan. The religious paintings and complex tantric statues inside the monument reflect both peaceful and wrathful aspects of Buddhist deities. It is one of the most visible religious stupas in Thimphu and for many Thimphu residents it is the place where they come to circumambulate the stupa and pay their daily worship.


National Library: Houses a vast collection of ancient Buddhist manuscripts and texts including the imprinted and archaic text of Bhutanese history. The library also has research documents and printing blocks for prayer flags.




Traditional Painting School: Centre where children learn traditional drawing and painting, wood carving, sculpture and other forms of traditional arts. On a visit, one can view the students at work.

Traditional Medicine Institute: The rich herbal medicine found abundant in Bhutan are prepared and dispensed from here. The institute also researches the use of medicinal herbs and plants and operates a trial experiment on the premises.





Heritage Museum: Living farmhouse of the 19th century depicting the harmonious living style of the Bhutanese family with the domestic animals in the premises.






Textile Museum: This museum has a wide collection of colorful and intricately hand woven ancient and new textiles, depicting the unique and traditional art of Bhutan.

Weekend Market: Worth visiting the weekend market in Thimphu held on Friday afternoon and remains until Sunday evening. The weekend market certainly offers the best opportunity to see agriculture and dairy products and handicrafts, and to mix around with the local people.

 

 

Excursion and Hikes around Thimphu

Tango Temple: :  Initially built by Gyalwa Lhanampa in 12th century and later built into its present form by “Divine Madman” Lama Drukpa Kuenley in 15th century. In the 18th century, the eighth Desi Tenzin Rabgye built a three storey tower and several other surrounding buildings.  Presently, it serves as a monastic school for Buddhist studies. It is about 12 km drive from Thimphu and takes about an hour’s hike to reach the temple from the road end.

Cheri Temple: The same road end to Tango Temple shares the junction route to Cheri Temple. The trail starts by crossing over a traditional wooden bridge and from there it is about an hour and half steep climb to the temple. This temple was founded by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel in 1620. The ashes of Zhabdrung’s father are preserved in a silver stupa inside the temple.

Phajoding Monastery: It is located at an altitude of 3,700 metres, a commanding height overlooking the Thimphu valley. It is a steep climb through mixed conifer forest that takes about three and half hours up and two hours return. There are several little retreat houses and temples that spread out around the monastery.