Travel Tips in Thimphu
Thimphu is the capital of Bhutan and it is a great place to visit for anyone interested in exploring its culture and nature. It is a great destination for people who want to experience a unique culture and explore a beautiful landscape. Here are a few tips for those visiting Thimphu:
• Respect the local culture and customs. Dress modestly and follow the local rules and regulations.
• Plan your trip in advance to make sure you get the most out of your trip.
• Use public transportation to get around as it is more affordable and efficient than renting a car.
• Make sure to check the weather forecast before you go as some outdoor activities may be canceled due to bad weather.
• Bring some local currency as most places do not accept credit or debit cards.
• Use local guides to get the most out of your trip.
• Respect the environment and avoid littering.
• Lastly, make sure to enjoy yourself and relax!
Sites and Monuments to Visit in Thimphu
- Tashichho Dzong: The Tashichho Dzong is a large fortress and monastery in Thimphu. It is the seat of the government and has been a part of Bhutan’s history since the 12th century. Entry is free of charge. https://www.bhutantourism.gov.bt/listing/tashichho-dzong/
- Bhutan National Library: The Bhutan National Library is a great place to learn more about Bhutanese culture and history. It is open to the public and entry is free of charge. https://www.bhutantourism.gov.bt/listing/bhutan-national-library/
- Buddha Dordenma: The Buddha Dordenma is a large statue of the Shakyamuni Buddha located in Thimphu. It is a popular tourist destination and entry is free of charge. https://www.bhutantourism.gov.bt/listing/buddha-dordenma/
- Motithang Takin Preserve: The Motithang Takin Preserve is a wildlife sanctuary located in Thimphu. It is home to the endangered Takin and entry is free of charge. https://www.bhutantourism.gov.bt/listing/motithang-takin-preserve/
- Memorial Chorten: The Memorial Chorten is a large stupa located in Thimphu. It was built in 1974 in memory of the late third king of Bhutan. Entry is free of charge. https://www.bhutantourism.gov.bt/listing/memorial-chorten/
- National Institute of Traditional Medicine: The National Institute of Traditional Medicine is a great place to learn more about traditional Bhutanese medicine. Entry is free of charge. https://www.bhutantourism.gov.bt/listing/national-institute-of-traditional-medicine/
- National Zoo: The National Zoo is home to a variety of exotic animals from Bhutan and beyond. Entry is free of charge. https://www.bhutantourism.gov.bt/listing/national-zoo/
- Bhutan Postal Museum: The Bhutan Postal Museum is a great place to learn more about Bhutanese postage stamps. Entry is free of charge. https://www.bhutantourism.gov.bt/listing/bhutan-postal-museum/
- Punakha Dzong: The Punakha Dzong is a large fortress and monastery located in Punakha. It is the second oldest and second largest dzong in Bhutan. Entry fee is Nu. 50 per adult. https://www.bhutantourism.gov.bt/listing/punakha-dzong/
- Drukgyel Dzong: The Drukgyel Dzong is a fortress located in Paro. It was built in 1646 by the Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyel. Entry is free of charge. https://www.bhutantourism.gov.bt/listing/drukgyel-dzong/
- Dochula Pass: The Dochula Pass is located on the way to Punakha from Thimphu. It offers stunning views of the Himalayas. Entry is free of charge. https://www.bhutantourism.gov.bt/listing/dochula-pass/
- Simtokha Dzong: The Simtokha Dzong is a fortress located in Thimphu. It is the oldest dzong in Bhutan and was built in 1629. Entry is free of charge. https://www.bhutantourism.gov.bt/listing/simtokha-dzong/
- Trashichhoedzong: The Trashichhoedzong is a large fortress and monastery located in the heart of Thimphu. It is the seat of the government and offers stunning views of the city. Entry is free of charge. https://www.bhutantourism.gov.bt/listing/trashichhoedzong/
- Changangkha Lhakhang: The Changangkha Lhakhang is a temple located in Thimphu. It was built in the 12th century and is a popular tourist destination. Entry is free of charge. https://www.bhutantourism.gov.bt/listing/changangkha-lhakhang/
- Kuensel Phodrang: The Kuensel Phodrang is a large statue of the Buddha located in Thimphu. It is the largest statue of the Buddha in the world and is a popular tourist destination. Entry is free of charge. https://www.bhutantourism.gov.bt/listing/kuensel-phodrang/
- Dechenphu Lhakhang: The Dechenphu Lhakhang is a temple located in Thimphu. It was built in the 12th century and is a great place to learn more about Bhutanese culture and history. Entry is free of charge. https://www.bhutantourism.gov.bt/listing/dechenphu-lhakhang/
- Taktsang Palphug Monastery: The Taktsang Palphug Monastery is a Buddhist monastery located in the Paro Valley. It is a popular tourist destination and offers stunning views of the valley. Entry fee is Nu. 100 per adult. https://www.bhutantourism.gov.bt/listing/taktsang-palphug-monastery/
- Sangaygang Viewpoint: The Sangaygang Viewpoint is a great place to get a panoramic view of Thimphu. It offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding landscape. Entry is free of charge. https://www.bhutantourism.gov.bt/listing/sangaygang-viewpoint/
- Thimphu Tshechu: The Thimphu Tshechu is a festival held in Thimphu every year. It is a great place to experience Bhutanese culture and traditions. Entry is free of charge. https://www.bhutantourism.gov.bt/listing/thimphu-tshechu/
- National Folk Heritage Museum: The National Folk Heritage Museum is a great place to learn more about Bhutanese culture and traditions. Entry fee is Nu. 100 per adult. https://www.bhutantourism.gov.bt/listing/national-folk-heritage-museum/
Day One Itinerary:
• Visit Tashichho Dzong and Bhutan National Library
• Explore the Memorial Chorten
• Visit Motithang Takin Preserve
• Shop at the Thimphu Handicrafts Market
• Enjoy a traditional Bhutanese dinner
Day Two Itinerary:
• Visit the Buddha Dordenma and National Institute of Traditional Medicine
• Hike to the Dochula Pass
• Visit the National Zoo
• Take a cooking class at the Bhutan Kitchen
• Spend the evening in a local pub
Day Three Itinerary:
• Visit the Punakha Dzong and Drukgyel Dzong
• Explore the Simtokha Dzong and Trashichhoedzong
• Visit the Changangkha Lhakhang and Kuensel Phodrang
• Take a day trip to Paro Valley and visit the Taktsang Palphug Monastery
• Take a stroll in the Thimphu Central Park
• Enjoy a traditional Bhutanese dinner in the evening
These are just a few of the many activities and sites to explore while in Thimphu. With these tips, you can plan a great trip and make the most of your visit to this beautiful city!