Thimphu: The Capital of Bhutan

    Bhutan is one of the very few nations which has been independent through its history, never conquered, or occupied by any exterior control. In spite of the fact that there has been some speculation that it was under the Kamarupa Kingdom or the Tibetan Domain within the 7th to 9th centuries, the evidence is missing. Records are clear; Bhutan has persistently and effectively guarded its sovereignty. Before declaring Thimphu as the national capital for the Kingdom of Bhutan, it was a river valley with hamlets such as Changlimithang, Changangkha, Langchupakha, Taba, and others scattered inside the region and some of them remain as districts till now. However, Thimphu significantly contributes to the history of Bhutan and in preserving its culture. It has also been a center for the country's religion, Vajrayana Buddhism being a home for Buddhist monasteries where young monks would come for religious studies.

   The culture of Bhutan is shown in every aspect in Thimphu; in their religion, customs, literature, dress code, art, dance, and media. There is a very famous festival called Tshechu known also as Cham dances are held in September / October every year in the courtyards of the Tashicho Dzong in Thimphu. Thimphu is the perfect city in Bhutan where visitors can really enjoy the Bhutanese lifestyle. There is that amazing combination of tradition and modernity along the way in the city with a bunch of restaurants, nightclubs, coffee shops, and shopping malls with the facility of using ATMs in most of the places there. However, what really makes Thimphu a unique place to visit is that its people are clinging to their culture, history, and social tapestry.

    Thimphu witnesses humid wet summers and dry cold winters like the nearby countries such as India. The climate is so much influenced by the city's location, having an altitude range of around 2,248 meters and 2,648 meters. Those variations control also the habitable area vegetation classification for the valley.

   The average temperature in winter is from 5-15 °C while in summer, it varies from 15-30 °C. Thimphu experiences 500 millimeters to 1,000 millimeters of rainfall per year, peaking in the monsoon period. The monsoon period starts in July till almost the end of September when the city receives the biggest bulk of its rainfall, that's why we don't recommend visiting it at that time of the year in order to have the best experience without worrying about the rainfall or the wind storms. The best time that you can pay a visit to Thimphu is during the months from September to November that is the autumn season and from March to May that is the spring season. The weather during this time stays the best for transfers and sightseeing offering an extremely stunning climate and lush green landscapes.

    Enjoy your stay in this valley city which is in the hills to capture its magic and spiritually as well. Here are some of our suggestions that you can do while you're in Thimphu:

Buddha Dordenma Statue

    The Buddha Dordenma is located at the peak of a hill at Kuenselphodrang Nature Park, overlooking the SOuthern entrance of the Thimpu Valley.  It is believed in Bhudisim that is symbolizes the fulfillment of an ancient prophecy, one dating back to the 8th century A.D of it bringing peace and happiness to the entire world. The  Dordenma Statue was discovered by Terton Pema Lingpa, a religious treasure discoverer. This behemoth of Construction stands at a towering height of 51.5 M making it one of the largest statues of Budha in the world. the statue is primarily made from Bronze and has been gilded and plated with gold.  

Trashi Chho Dzong

   It is also known as Tashichho Dzong and for sure it is one of the most interesting and most visited places by all the visitors of Thimphu. This place also hosts one of the most important events in the country which is the annual festival tsechu. The fort was last renovated by King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck back in 1962 alongside its Secretariat body, officer force of the King, ministers, and other officials as well as the throne room. Known for its signature white-red-gold combination of colors and tiered roofs, the place offers a deep insight into Bhutanese past.

National Memorial Chorten

   This spot is also a place of interest to many people visiting Thimphu. It was built with the Tibetan touch as a memorial of the third Bhutanese King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. You can notice the white walls with the golden roofs with beautiful mandalas and murals. It is a daily worship place for the locals where hundreds head to a daily basis for prayers and meditation.  

Weekend Market

   Here is the perfect place where you can shop inside Thimphu. This market is held on the banks of river Wang Chu on the north side of Changlimithang Stadium, apparently, on the weekend. You can have a closer look at the Bhutanese culture, food, handicrafts, and lifestyle. You can buy some herbs such as saffron and incense. You can different Bhutanese and Tibetan food like ground barley, dried fish, red rice, wild honey, cheese, pork and etc.

  Tip: The most tourist-attracting thing in Thimphu is the nightlife that can amaze you to visit the place more and more. Also, make a visit to other Thimphu’s places like Textile Museum, Library, Art schools and enjoy watching the admirable maroon-colored houses that are built with Bhutanese style of architecture like the Buddha Dordenma.

• According to the government, you should have a guided tour always in Bhutan so it's not a place for backpackers.
• Bhutan completely bans the sale and production of tobacco then you're not allowed to smoke in all the public places, but some hotels can accommodate smoking.
• If you're a fan of spicy food, then you're in the right place. Feel the burn in the national dishes and try ema dates.
• Always respect the royals.
• Get cash in Thimpu or Paro before you move forward with your itinerary.