Thimphu

Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan, is an intriguing and unique city that stands out as one of the world's most unconventional capitals. Nestled in the picturesque Thimphu Valley, this small town has a population of just over a hundred thousand, with the entire district housing around 150 thousand residents. Designated as the capital in 1961, Thimphu has transformed into a vibrant hub along the banks of the Thimphu Chu (meaning River). Surrounded by stunning hills, the city is not only the political centre of Bhutan, hosting the revered Royal Family, the Royal Government, and the Judiciary, but it is also a focal point for several foreign missions and development projects. With its blend of traditional culture and modernity, Thimphu offers a fascinating glimpse into the heart of Bhutanese life.

Orientation

Thimphu Valley stretches south to north along the serene banks of the Thimphu Chu, creating a captivating landscape that frames the town. Spanning approximately 15 kilometres in length and about a kilometre in width at most points, Thimphu is both compact and accessible. The Clock Tower stands as the town's vibrant heart, with major hotels, government offices, and key landmarks conveniently located within a 5 to 10-minute drive from this central point. The main thoroughfare, Nordzim Lam, runs alongside the Clock Tower, while a parallel road, Doeboom Lam, ascends about a hundred meters up the slope, and Chang Lam lies approximately 50 meters down the hill on the opposite side. These three nearly parallel roads are interconnected by several smaller lanes, enhancing the town’s navigability. Notably, Nordzim Lam and Chang Lam are designated one-way roads for vehicles, helping to streamline traffic.

Most of Thimphu’s tourist attractions are concentrated in and around the town centre, allowing visitors to explore a range of sites in just a few minutes of driving or walking. The bustling main road, Nordzim Lam, is lined with shops, cafés, and local markets, while the various lanes and alleys branching off it invite further exploration. This layout makes it easy for visitors to immerse themselves in the local culture and experience the charm of Thimphu in a short amount of time.

Food

Thimphu offers one of the most varied culinary experiences in Bhutan, making it a gastronomic hub among the country's towns. The main town is dotted with numerous restaurants, and almost all hotels feature in-house dining options. While Indian cuisine is sought after by many tourists, it is often limited in availability, and pure vegetarian restaurants are scarce. Most eateries cater to both vegetarian and non-vegetarian preferences, with beef, pork, and chicken dishes dominating the menu. However, halal meat is quite rare in this region.

Visitors to Thimphu can also find continental dishes in many upscale restaurants and hotels, providing a taste of international cuisine alongside local flavours. Indian dishes are commonly offered in various establishments, especially those frequented by tourists. Popular local ingredients include mushrooms and chilli, often combined with Bhutanese country cheese to create unique dishes.

Among the highlights of Bhutanese cuisine is ‘Ema Datshi,’ arguably the national dish, which features a fiery mix of cheese and chillies that can be quite spicy for many foreigners. Red rice serves as a staple in most meals, providing a hearty accompaniment to various dishes. Another beloved item is ‘Jasha Maru,’ a flavorful chicken dish that showcases the vibrant and diverse culinary landscape of Thimphu, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts.

People and Culture

In Bhutan, the government enforces a unified dress code that reflects the country's rich cultural heritage, and Bhutanese people take great pride in their traditional attire. While there is a strong emphasis on maintaining a singular cultural identity, Thimphu stands out as the most cosmopolitan town in the country. It is home to a significant population of people of Nepalese ancestry, as well as numerous migrant workers from India who are actively engaged in construction and various other sectors. Despite this diversity, the Ngalop people predominantly influence the economy and society, leading the nation's affairs.

For tourists visiting Thimphu, dressing respectfully is essential. It is advisable to wear collared shirts, preferably with long sleeves, while hats should be removed upon entering religious sites and Dzongs (fortresses). Additionally, shorts and half-pants are not permitted inside temples, monasteries, and Dzongs, ensuring that visitors honour local customs. Alcohol is widely available, but it's important to refrain from entering religious places after consuming alcohol to show respect for the sacredness of these sites.

In terms of urban safety, pedestrians have the right of way in Thimphu, making the streets much safer for walking compared to many other places, such as India. Notably, Thimphu is one of the few capitals that still employs human traffic signalling instead of relying on traffic lights, further emphasizing its unique character and commitment to maintaining a safe environment for both residents and visitors.

Reaching Thimphu

Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan, does not have a dedicated airport; instead, it is served by the international airport located in Paro. The travel time from Paro Airport to Thimphu is approximately one hour, covering a distance of about 55 kilometres. Paro Airport is well-connected to several major cities, including Kolkata, Delhi, and Bagdogra in India, as well as Kathmandu in Nepal and Bangkok in Thailand. Only two airlines, Druk Air and Bhutan Airlines, operate flights through Paro Airport, providing essential links for international travellers.

In addition to air travel, Thimphu is also conveniently accessible by road. It is connected to India through the Phuentsholing border, located about 165 kilometres away. The journey from Phuentsholing to Thimphu typically takes five to six hours, offering travellers scenic views of the Bhutanese landscape along the way. Whether arriving by air or road, visitors to Thimphu can expect a journey that showcases the stunning beauty of Bhutan's natural environment.

Distance from Thimphu to other places

From Thimphu to Paro - 65 km - 1 hour
From Thimphu to Phuentsholing - 180 km - 5 hours
From Thimphu to Punakha - 80 km - 3 hours

Location

Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan, is situated at an impressive altitude of approximately 8,000 feet (2,400 meters) above sea level. This elevation provides the city with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan mountains and lush valleys. Nestled on the west bank of the Wang Chu, which is also locally referred to as the Thimphu Chu (with "Chu" meaning "river" in the Bhutanese language), the city enjoys a picturesque setting that enhances its natural beauty.

The Thimphu Chu flows through the valley, contributing to the region's rich biodiversity and offering a serene atmosphere for residents and visitors alike. The river's banks are often lined with vibrant flora and fauna, making it a perfect spot for leisurely walks and reflection. The city's strategic location along the river not only adds to its scenic appeal but also plays a crucial role in the local ecosystem, supporting agriculture and various forms of wildlife.

Surrounded by hills and mountains, Thimphu is enveloped by a landscape that changes with the seasons. In spring, the hills are adorned with colourful blossoms, while autumn brings a stunning array of golden and red hues as the leaves change. The altitude and geographic position of Thimphu provide a temperate climate, characterized by cool winters and mild summers, making it an attractive destination year-round.

What to See at Thimphu

Thimphu's charm lies not solely in its array of galleries, museums, or historical sites, but in the vibrant atmosphere that envelops the city. To truly experience Thimphu, visitors are encouraged to wander along the main street, where the blend of traditional architecture and local culture creates an inviting ambience. The shops lining the streets are adorned in traditional Bhutanese style, showcasing the country's rich heritage.

Shopkeepers in Thimphu are known for their warmth and hospitality, always eager to assist visitors with even the smallest requests. Whether you're searching for a unique souvenir or simply seeking recommendations for local experiences, the friendly demeanour of the shopkeepers adds a personal touch to your visit. Many general stores offer a delightful selection of handicrafts and textiles, perfect for those wanting to take a piece of Bhutan home with them. Additionally, specialized handicraft stores have emerged, featuring locally made products that reflect the craftsmanship and artistry of Bhutanese culture.

For those interested in Bhutan's postal history, the capital's main post office offers a fascinating glimpse into the country’s vibrant philatelic heritage. Visitors can view and purchase colourful stamp collections that depict various aspects of Bhutanese life, nature, and culture, making for unique mementoes of their journey.

Thimphu's main street is also home to the two principal banks in the country, providing essential services for both locals and visitors. The combination of helpful shopkeepers, diverse shopping options, and vibrant street life creates a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of Thimphu, inviting travellers to immerse themselves in the culture and charm of Bhutan's capital.

Tashichhoe Dzong
On the bank of the river lies Tashichhoe Dzong, the most prominent building in Thimphu Valley. The main secretariat building which houses the throne room of his majesty the King of Bhutan is located inside the Dzong.

The Dzong is a common tourist attraction and is a visual delight, especially during the evening when it is illuminated. Parts of the Dzong can be visited by tourists. There are beautiful murals and fresco work inside the TashiChhoe Dzong.

The National Assembly Hall is located in a new building on the opposite side of the river from the Dzong. During the warmer summer months, the monk body led by his holiness, the Je Khenpo, makes its home in the Dzong.

The Golf Course
Next to the Dzong is Bhutan's only golf course. A nine-hole circuit, popular with Thimphu residents, offers a break from sightseeing for visiting players.

National Library
Bhutan's national library is located close to the Dzong. The library preserves the cultural and literary heritage of Bhutan. A huge collection of paper documents can be seen in the library. Part of the library collection has also been microfilmed. The library contains arguably the best collection of religious and historical literature in the Himalayas. There is a small bookstore on the ground floor of the library offering a variety of books on Bhutan.

The Memorial Chorten
The memorial chorten, a pious landmark for Thimphu's residents, was erected in 1974 by the mother of the Third King in memory of her son. Bhutanese pay their respects to his photograph inside the memorial. The Chorten is centrally located and in the evening there is a substantial crowd of locals who visit the Chorten.

Dechencholing Palace
A short distance from Thimphu, at Dechencholing, is the Royal Palace, the residence of members of the Royal family except for the king. Set among sweeping lawns, ponds, and willow trees, this beautiful three-storied building is entirely traditional, both in its architecture and in its furnishings. Beyond the palace is Tangu Cherry, one of the oldest lakhangs (monasteries) in Bhutan. Here monks come to practice the ancient disciplines of meditation and levitation.