Bhutan has been embraced by many beautiful valleys that have spectacular views and are nourished by glaciers and rainwater. Most of Bhutan's population is condensed in the valley regions.
Thimphu is one of the most popular valleys and is the capital of Bhutan. It is located in the west-central part of the country and is home to the offices of the royal government. These government buildings are a classic example of traditional Bhutanese architecture.
Thimphu has an abundance of tourist attractions that range from museums to various other cultural places. Below are some of the worth seeing places of the valley:
Considered to be one of the oldest Buddhist temples in the valley, Changangkha Lhakhang was constructed in the 15th century. The temple is dedicated to Avalokiteshvara and is a perfect destination for all spiritual enthusiasts. It offers beautiful scenic views and refreshes the soul.
Changangkha Lhakhang
Weekend Market
Traveling and shopping go hand in hand. If you are in Thimphu Valley and are keen on shopping, visit the weekend market. As the name says, the market takes place during the weekend at the banks of river Wang Chhu. Many stalls are set up in the market with a variety of items for you to shop. From herbs to decorative items, this market has it all. You can also satisfy your taste buds with Bhutanese and Tibetan food items like pork, dried fish, wild honey, etc.
National Library of Bhutan
The National Library was built in the year 1967 and is one of the most interesting places to explore in Thimphu Valley. The primary objective behind establishing this library was to preserve ancient texts. The structure of this place beautifully depicts the Bhutanese art and architecture. The collection of books in this library is made of handmade paper.
Trashi Chhoe Dzong
Trashi Chhoe Dzong that stands today is not the original. The actual building had collapsed having faced severe damage due to several fires. However, after a year of Thimphu being declared the capital of Bhutan, it was reconstructed and enlarged to fit in the members of the national government and the monastic body.
What’s interesting about this place? Well, this Dzong is the venue that holds Bhutan’s biggest annual festival known as “tsechu.” It is the office to the secretariat, king, and many other officers as well as ministers. The fort’s white-red-gold combination of colors and tiered roofs are simply a treat to watch. Thus, while visiting Thimphu valley, this Dzong should surely be on your watch-list!
Trashi Chhoe Dzong
Motithang Takin Preserve
This wildlife reserve area is home to the national animal of Bhutan— the takin. It is believed that the takin was created by the Buddhist saint “Drupa Kunley,” who known as the “The Divine Madman.”
This place was originally a zoo but the fourth king of Bhutan was not pleased with the concept of the zoo and thus he decided to free all the animals. However, to everyone’s surprise, these takins were not comfortable in moving out from this area even after they were set free. Thus, it was decided to convert the area into a reserve.
Motithang Takin Preserve
Memorial Chorten
Situated in Doeboom Lam, this monument is also famously known as the Thimphu Chorten or the Memorial Stupa. It is the tallest and also one of the most visited places in Bhutan. People from all over the world pay a visit to this graceful Stupa just to take a look at its sheer beauty and elegance.
