Attractions in Thimphu compromise of 1 Dungkhag and 10 Gewogs. Comparatively, the lower region of Thimphu is much more developed than the upper region in terms of economy, infrastructure settlement, and social services contributed mainly by the wide range of telecommunication and road coverage to all the areas. Though, in remoter regions, the backbone of economic activities solely relies on livestock farming and cultivation of rice, wheat, vegetable, and orchard plantations.
The Kingdom’s capital city is home to approximately 100,000 inhabitants including the Royal family. This bustling little city is the main center of commerce, religion, and government in the country. The remote hillsides and trees are mostly adorned with vibrant-colored prayer flags, and hundreds of Buddhist temples, monasteries, and minor stupas are found dotting the rocky cliffs and remote regions indicating that in Bhutan, Buddhism is flourishing in its ever-youthful state.
Besides the rich cultural heritage and natural hospitality, the unique Bhutanese architecture and craftsmanship are vividly validated in all the buildings considering that it is one of the most striking features of the Attractions in Thimphu.
Top Attractions in Thimphu
- Memorial Chorten
- Simtokha Dzong
- National Library
- Institute for Zorig Chusum
- Traditional Medicine Institute
- The Folk Heritage Museum
- National Textile Museum
- Trashichhoedzong
- Handicrafts Shops
- Kaja Throm Thimphu
- Changgangkha Lhakhang
- Authentic Craft Bazaar
- Jungzhi Handmade Paper Factory
- Zangthopelri Lhakhang
- Buddha Point (Buddha Dordenma Statue)
Things to do in Thimphu
- Tango Goemba
- Cheri Goemba
- Phajoding Goemba
- Lungchuzekha Goemba
- Takin Preserve, Motithang
- Botanical Gardens, Serbithang
- Ancient Takin Trail
- Waddling Tour of Takin Trail
- Tandin Nye
Thimphu is the most modern city in Bhutan with an abundance of restaurants, internet cafes, nightclubs, and shopping centers, however, it still retains its cultural identity and values amidst the signs of modernization. Thimphu is one of the few towns in Bhutan that have been equipped with ATM banking facilities and is a good place to stock up on some currency.
One of the most curious features of Thimphu is that it is the only capital city in the world that does not use traffic lights
Instead, a few major intersections have policemen standing in elaborately decorated booths (small pavilions), directing traffic with exaggerated hand motions. The juxtaposition of ancient tradition and modernity makes Thimphu the ideal location for visitors to break away from their tour itinerary and just immerse themselves in the lifestyle of contemporary Bhutanese.