National Memorial Chorten

Motithang Takin Preserve

Memorial Chorten

Dochula

Paro Town

Vegetable Market in Thimphu

Jigme Dorji National Park

National Textile Museum

Zilukha Nunnery (Drubthob Goemba)

Simtokha Dzong

Jungshi Handmade Paper Factory

National Institute for Zorig Chusum (Painting School)

Kunselphodrang (Buddha Point)

Tashichho Dzong

Authentic Bhutanese Craft Bazaar

THIMPHU

Overview

Thimphu has been the official capital of Bhutan since 1955, replacing the ancient capital of Punakha. Historically, the valley was a quiet agricultural area until the construction of Tashichho Dzong, the "Fortress of the Glorious Religion," which has been the seat of the government and the summer residence of the monastic body since the 17th century. The city has grown thoughtfully, maintaining strict architectural codes that ensure every building reflects traditional Bhutanese design.

Key historical sites include the National Memorial Chorten, built in 1974 to honor the third King, and the massive Buddha Dordenma statue which overlooks the valley. Thimphu acts as the center for Bhutanese arts and crafts, where students learn the 13 traditional arts (Zorig Chusum). Despite its growth, the city retains its spiritual essence, with the sound of prayer wheels and the sight of monks in crimson robes remaining a constant part of the urban landscape.

Places of Interest

Temples National Memorial Chorten

Nature Motithang Takin Preserve

Temples Memorial Chorten

Temples Dochula

Towns Paro Town

Towns Vegetable Market in Thimphu

Nature Jigme Dorji National Park

Places National Textile Museum

Temples Zilukha Nunnery (Drubthob Goemba)

Temples Simtokha Dzong

Temples Jungshi Handmade Paper Factory

Temples National Institute for Zorig Chusum (Painting School)

Temples Kunselphodrang (Buddha Point)

Temples Tashichho Dzong

Temples Authentic Bhutanese Craft Bazaar