Thimphu
Thimphu is the capital of Bhutan and, with a population of over 100,000, it is also the country’s largest city. At an elevation of 2,320 m, it is the fifth-highest capital city in the world. Paro International Airport is about an hour’s drive from the capital. Nowhere else will you find a capital city that so seamlessly honours its cultural roots while embracing modernisation, creating a unique Bhutanese identity.
Thimphu serves as the administrative seat of the Government, with most of its offices located in the valley. The Tashichhodzong houses the royal throne room and the offices of His Majesty the King, while also serving as the summer residence of the Central Monastic Body. The courtyard of the Dzong takes centre stage during the ever-popular Thimphu Tshechu Festival.
The city also boasts one of the largest seated Buddha statues in the world. Gazing serenely over the valley, the Buddha Dordenma statue sits atop the mountainside, rising more than 50 metres above the ground. The National Library in the city houses an extensive collection of ancient Buddhist scriptures and texts. Another place of interest is the Motithang Takin Preserve, home to Bhutan’s national animal, the Takin. Its rather unusual appearance attracts its share of visitors to the preserve.
Apart from the attractions within the city, there are numerous day hikes available for visitors as well. Hikes to Tango Monastery, Cheri Monastery and Wangditse are some of the popular trails, taking visitors through the mountains and forests surrounding the valley.
