Bhutan or the Land of Thunder Dragons is a magical country on the eastern edge of the Himalayas which is on the bucket list of many tourists. This country has various hidden treasures that are worth exploring. One such cultural gem of Bhutan is Thimphu which is also the capital city of the country. This alluring capital city is known for its historical significance, cultural richness, and natural beauty. To explore this city, you can contact a reputed travel agency and book an exclusive Thimphu tour package.
Why Thimphu is a must-visit destination in Bhutan?
The rich history of Thimphu spans many centuries and since ages, the governance and culture of this city has been evolving continuously. This makes it a great place in Bhutan that showcases a unique blend of modernity and age-old traditions. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, culture enthusiast, or adventure junkie, Thimphu sightseeing will never disappoint you.
Modernization: Tourists who love art and architecture will surely be amazed to see the development of modern infrastructure while not compromising on the traditional and cultural elements of Bhutanese architecture.
History: History buffs can understand the history of Bhutan by visiting Thimphu. This valley holds a strategic location that reflects the in-depth history from the 13th century.
Governance: Thimphu also plays a vital role in the governance of the country. While exploring this valley, you get to witness major administrative offices, royal residences, and government ministries.
Capital status: In 1961, Thimphu city became the capital of the country as Punakha was previously Bhutan’s capital. You can book one of the Thimphu travel packages to witness the modernization efforts adopted by the Dragon King.
Cultural significance: Cultural enthusiasts see Thimphu as the best cultural gem of Bhutan as it is the home to various cultural attractions and libraries preserving age-old manuscripts and texts.
Section 1: Top Sightseeing Attractions You Shouldn’t Miss In Thimphu
1. Tashichho Dzong
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One of the greatest sites to see in Thimphu is the magnificent Tashichho or Thimphu Dzong, which is perched on the banks of the Wang Chu River. This monastery's rich cultural heritage and distinctive Bhutanese architecture will astound you. This tourist destination is closed on weekends and open Monday through Friday.
You have to schedule a visit to Tashichho Dzong, which is open from 9 am to 5 pm. Each person must pay an entry fee of Rs. 300. The elaborate woodwork with breathtaking murals, the whitewashed walls, and the golden roofs set against the backdrop of verdant forest are some of the monastery's most notable features.
2. Buddha Dordenma Statue
The biggest statue of Shakyamuni Buddha that you can see in Bhutan is located in Thimphu, which is known as the Buddha Dordenma Statue. This statue's primary feature is that it contains 125,000 tiny Buddha statues concealed inside of it. This illuminated Buddha statue is stunning against the picture-perfect backdrop of verdant trees.
To find inner serenity, go to the statue's gilded meditation hall and spend some relaxing time in the tranquil setting. You will be amazed to know that this tall structure here represents compassion, peace, and harmony, which are the key philosophies of Buddhism.
3. National Memorial Chorten
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National Memorial Chorten is another exquisitely designed tourist destination that you must add to your Thimphu sightseeing. This enormous stupa was constructed as a memorial to Bhutan's third Dragon King. You will be astounded by this place's calm atmosphere as much as its golden annexes and white walls.
The ideal hours to visit this place are from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. when you can engage in a tranquil meditation session to fully experience the tranquility of the surrounding natural beauties. Early morning visitors may observe the locals assembling here in traditional attire for meditation and the lighting of butter lamps. This holy location is undoubtedly a worthwhile tourist destination in Thimphu.
4. Motithang Takin Preserve
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Takins, a rare mountain animal, are protected in Thimphu's Motithang or Royal Takin Preserve. While touring the regions of this Takin preserve, you get the opportunity to see takins, which are also the national animals of Bhutan.
You have to include this location on your tour itinerary when you reserve one of the Thimphu sightseeing packages. In addition to seeing takins, this location offers a broad perspective of the snow-capped peaks and thick stands of alpine trees. The entry charge for Indian nationals is approximately 30 INR, and the protected forest area is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm.
5. Folk Heritage Museum
If you want to walk through the rich past of Bhutan then you must not forget to visit the folk heritage museum. This sightseeing attraction is just a few minutes walk from the National Institute of Zorig Chusum and the National Library of Bhutan. This tourist site is home to various artifacts including traditional garments, antique pots, medieval kitchen spaces, weighing scales, and ancient weapons.
During your trip here, you must consider exploring all three floors where each of the floors reflects a segment of the history uniquely. Apart from Sunday, you can visit this museum any day of the week between 10 am and 5 pm.
6. Tango Goemba
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One of the oldest sites in Thimphu that you should include in your sightseeing tour is Tango Goemba. This is considered the holiest location in the nation which is close to the verdant Cheri Mountains.
Herein, you can take a peaceful stroll to the monastery and see the saints who spend months there in meditation. You will come to understand the historical significance of the nation as you explore the site's grounds. During the annual Yarney festival, monks taking special vows and following disciplines are noticed which makes it an ideal time to visit this monastery.
7. National Library Of Bhutan
Are you a bookworm and want to discover ancient texts during your Thimphu trip? Then don’t forget to include the National Library of Bhutan while customizing the Thimphu sightseeing packages. This library in Thimphu was built in 1967 to preserve and protect precious ancient texts.
Apart from just texts and books, the architecture of this place is also unique and beautiful which will surely soothe your eyes. Remember that this is one of the best sightseeing attractions that has no entry fees and can be visited any day between Monday and Friday.
8. Simply Bhutan
Another amazing place to go sightseeing in Thimphu to observe the country's customs and culture is Simply Bhutan, a live heritage museum. This museum effectively captures the spirit of traditional Bhutanese architecture.
Here, you may see antique Bhutanese artwork, traditional kitchenware, clothing, and kitchen designs. You can converse with the locals here and listen to age-old histories or national classics. You also get to sample the traditional Ara beverage and regional snacks as you explore the museum's exhibits. Don’t forget to wear Gho and Kira to click some unforgettable pictures during your visit to this museum.
9. Clock Tower Square
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The Clock Tower Square, which is encircled by a variety of stores, cafes, and eateries, is regarded as the center attraction of Thimphu. While visiting this tourist attraction, you will also see the famous four-faced clock.
You can have some time with your loved ones here while you take in the beauty of the prayer wheels and water fountain. This location's distinct spiritual and historical charm will undoubtedly astound you. Remember to take in the breathtaking view of the whole Thimphu valley that is available from this location while enjoying a traditional concert.
10. Bhutan Postal Museum
The unique Bhutan Postal Museum situated in the middle of Thimphu is a heaven for philatelists. In the museum's five galleries, you may see both historical and contemporary stamps in addition to a variety of artifacts and anecdotes. Even personalized stamps are available here to serve as a keepsake for your loved ones.
You must know that this is a newly added sightseeing attraction in Thimphu that not only houses stamps but also various religious artifacts and coins. Herein, tourists have to pay 250 Nu to visit this place which is open for all from 9 am to 5 pm all days of the week except Sundays.
11. Royal Botanical Garden
The nation's first botanical garden is the Royal Botanical Garden in Thimphu which is another worth-adding attraction in your Thimphu sightseeing. The Royal Government of Bhutan inaugurated this tourism destination in 1999 for lovers of the natural world and flora. This garden was designed to highlight the region's rich flora and encourage more people to conduct scientific studies on it.
You will see a variety of ferns and nearly 46 vivid species of rhododendrons as you stroll around the garden's grounds. In addition to the flora, you may be able to see some exotic species such as red pandas, tigers, musk deer, and leopard cats.
12. Changangkha Lhakhang
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Thimphu is known among tourists due to its mesmerizing Buddhist temples. Apart from Thimphu Dzong, your spiritual tour in Thimphu will be incomplete if you don’t discover the unique beauty of Changangkha Lhakhang.
This 12th-century Buddhist temple is not only visited by tourists but also by the local people to seek
blessings for their newborn baby. The fortress-style architecture, colourful murals, stunning interior, and black-gold prayer wheels are some of the elements that add to the mystical aura of this place.
13. Dechen Phodrang
Another religious site that ranks high in Thimphu is Dechen Phodrang. This is considered the main site of the renowned Thimphu Dzong which was built during the 12th century but was later destroyed due to a deadly fire. Currently, this Phodrang acts as a school that teaches almost 250 students.
Apart from the classrooms, there is also a chapel that you can visit here to witness various paintings and murals that are almost 800 years old. Note that tourists have to pay 300 Nu as an entry fee to explore this sightseeing attraction.
14. National Institute of Zorig Chusum
If you love witnessing traditional art forms then you must also consider adding the National Institute of Zorig Chusum in your Thimphu sightseeing. This renowned painting school of the country was created to preserve and promote the traditional art techniques of Bhutan. While exploring this place, you can see the local children learning thirteen different art skills.
Some of the craft techniques that are taught here are carpentry, paper making, sculpturing, painting, bronze casting, weaving, embroidery, and many more. If you have an artistic sense then you can also buy some locally made souvenirs here.
15. Changlimithang Archery Ground
The national stadium of Bhutan, Changlimithang Stadium & Archery Ground, was constructed on the site of the 1885 conflict that aided the first monarch in gaining political dominance. It is the ideal location to see archery contests of all levels if you wish to enjoy the national sport of Bhutan.
Since most locals practice traditional Gho and Kira, the archery tournaments here are a visual sight. Herein, archery instruction is also available for both conventional wooden bows and cutting-edge carbon fibre compound bows. For the best experience, take part in a cultural tour of this archery ground.
Section 2: Explore The Best Thimphu Travel Packages
2.1. Weekend Gateway Itinerary For Thimphu
Tourists often explore Thimphu during their all-inclusive Bhutan trip. However, you may need almost 4-5 days to complete the entire tour itinerary. Herein, you will be happy to hear that it is also possible for you to visit Thimphu on your weekends if you have limited time on your hands. There are some reputed travel agencies for Bhutan that offer 2 days Thimphu vacation packages that enable you to discover the best sightseeing attractions of the city. Take a look at this sample Thimphu tour itinerary that you can consider during your weekend getaway-
Day 1:
Morning: After arriving in Thimphu, you can check in at your hotel and freshen up.
Afternoon: Enjoy an exploration tour of the popular Tashichho Dzong showcasing Bhutanese architecture and culture.
Evening: Take a leisurely stroll through the clock town square and explore the nearby market areas and food outlets to try authentic Bhutanese cuisine.
Day 2:
Morning: Wake up and pay an early morning visit to the stunning National Memorial Chorten and Buddha Dordenma Statue.
Afternoon: After a scrumptious lunch, visit the popular Motithang Takin Preserve to spot takins and other endangered species.
Evening: You can spend the last evening in Thimphu by exploring the local markets and eating delicious dishes.
2.2. Ways To Customize The Thimphu Sightseeing Itinerary
1. Determine your budget
The first step in customizing your Thimphu holiday packages is to determine your budget. It is always advised to plan the sightseeing trip in accordance with your budget as there are many attractions in Thimphu that need entry fees.
2. Identify the travel needs and preferences
You can also consider customizing the tour itinerary based on your travel needs. Whether you’re interested in culture, history, nature, religion, or wildlife, there are sightseeing attractions in Thimphu for everyone.
3. Choose the accommodation
Certain tourists have specific lodging preferences and while customizing the Thimphu travel packages you can also look at the accommodation options. Herein, you can either opt for homestays and budget hotels or stay at luxury hotels.
4. Hire a local guide
While booking the package, you can ask for a local guide. This is a great way to be flexible during the trip and customize the sightseeing trip as per your choices and timetable.
5. Include any optional activities you want to try
Thimphu offers a wide variety of activities and you may have an interest in doing certain activities. Herein, you can customize the trip by considering your interest which may include cooking classes, farm visits, or archery classes.
6. Select a particular season
You can also customize the Thimphu vacation packages as per the season. Many tourists want to visit Thimphu during the autumn and spring months due to the festive vibes, vibrant rhododendron blooms, and comfortable weather.
2.3. How To Select The Best Thimphu Tour Operator?
Factors To Choose The Best Thimphu Tour Operator
1. Local knowledge: It is always a better option to select a tour operator who has fine local knowledge about the best sightseeing attractions of Thimphu. This will help you get the best deals and discover hidden gems.
2. Experience: While booking Thimphu holiday packages, always choose an experienced tour operator. This is because experienced travel experts will always ensure your high-quality travel services.
3. Reputation: The selected Thimphu tour operator must have a good reputation in the industry. Herein, you can check the reputation by discovering the recent online reviews and ratings.
4. Customer service: The tour operators must have a 24/7 available team to offer customer service. This will help you get constant assistance during the Thimphu vacation.
5. Price: Considering your budget, it is vital to contact a tour operator who offers travel services for all budgets. This will enable you to select a tour itinerary based on your budget requirements.
6. Available tour packages: The best tour operator will always have diverse Thimphu travel packages so that you can select one based on your travel needs and desires.
7. Guides: While booking the package, you must check whether the tour operator provides experienced tour guides or not. Getting a local tour guide can be extremely helpful for an immersive sightseeing experience.
8. Customization options: The tour operator must provide tourists with the facility of customizing the tour packages. This is a beneficial option to ensure an unforgettable vacation experience.
Section 3: Planning The Perfect Thimphu Sightseeing Tour
3.1 Best Time To Visit Thimphu
Peak Season: March through May and September through November are the ideal times of year to book one of the best Thimphu sightseeing packages. The spring and fall seasons in Thimphu are ideal for providing you with nice weather and clear skies for outdoor activities and sightseeing tours. In this context, these times of year are also regarded as the city's busiest travel seasons.
Festive Season: If you want to attend the popular and vibrant Thimphu Tshechu Festival in Thimphu then you can consider planning the trip during September.
Summer Months: The city experiences extended summers with a higher likelihood of intense rainstorms. Because of the unforeseen obstacles and landslides that could cause disruptions to your planned sightseeing, it is recommended that you do not schedule the excursion during this period.
Shoulder Season: November through December and February to early March can be great times to have a tranquil visit to Thimphu. Fewer tourists and pleasant weather for a more sedate vacation are experienced in Thimphu during these periods.
3.2. How To Travel To Thimphu?
By Air: Paro is home to Bhutan's only international airport, as Thimphu lacks one of its own. To get to Paro in about 40 minutes, you can purchase airline tickets from Bhutan Airlines or Druk Air and travel from Bagdogra Airport in Siliguri. You can rent a car in Paro and drive to Thimphu, which should take about one hour and fifteen minutes. Paro Airport has excellent connections to Guwahati, Delhi, Kolkata, and Bagdogra in addition to Bagdogra.
By Road: Booking Thimphu travel packages and traveling by road is one of the most picturesque routes to Thimphu. After landing in Siliguri, you can rent a car and drive to Thimphu, which offers luxuriant green tea plantations, deep forests, and breathtaking vistas of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks. By the Bhutan Gate and Phuentsholing - Thimphu Hwy, it will take around 8 hours to get to Thimphu from Siliguri.
By Train: At the moment, Thimphu and India are not connected by rail. The nearest Indian railway station to the Bhutan border is Hasimara Station, and you can take a train there from the NJP station in Siliguri. You can rent a car in Hasimara and drive five hours to reach Thimphu through the Bhutan Gate in Phuentsholing.
3.3. Essential Packing Tips For First-Time Travellers In Thimphu
1. Documents: For visiting Thimphu, you need to apply for an entry permit at the immigration office in Phuentsholing. This makes it essential for you to carry all the important documents such as travel insurance and government-recognized ID proof.
2. Layers of clothing: After booking the Thimphu sightseeing packages, you must prepare well to pack layers of clothing with you. The time of the year and altitude of Thimphu can vary and hence, it is vital for you to carry breathable and comfortable clothes.
3. Comfortable shoes: There are certain sightseeing attractions in Thimphu that can be reached through hiking. This makes it mandatory for you to carry comfortable shoes and hiking boots with you.
4. Sun protection: You must always remember that high-altitude areas have stronger UV rays. This is why while packing for your Thimphu trip, always carry sun protection such as a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and SPF sunscreen.
5. Traditional attire: Before booking one of the Thimphu travel packages, you must note that modest clothing is required here while visiting religious sites. This is why you must always consider carrying a set of traditional and covered attire with you.
6. Medications: Many people travelling to Thimphu suffer from high altitude sickness and to avoid this, you must pack the necessary medications. You can also consider carrying other required medicines and a first aid kit for emergencies.
3.4 Ideal Ways To Select A Budget-Friendly Hotel In Thimphu
While booking Thimphu sightseeing packages, we often worry about the high room tariff of the hotels. However, you must know that there are various strategies that you can adopt to get hotel rooms at a budget-friendly price. Some such measures include-
- Booking the rooms in advance
- Comparing the hotel room prices
- Negotiating the rates
- Looking for special discounts and early bird offers
- Travelling during off-season
- Staying at homestays
Section 4: Enjoy Immersive Experiences In Thimphu
4.1. Cultural Guide Tips For Your Thimphu Vacation
1. Plan your trip during a local festival- To enjoy cultural immersion, you must consider booking Thimphu sightseeing packages during the festive season. The religious practices, masked dances, and authentic cuisine will make your trip remarkable.
2. Learn the Bhutanese language- To mingle with the local people and get an authentic cultural insight, you can learn some phrases in the Dzongkha language. This is also a great way to show respect towards the Bhutanese culture.
3. Respect the culture and traditions- During your Thimphu tour, you should always be culturally sensitive. Be respectful towards the cultural values and norms followed by the local people.
4. Wear modest attire- While visiting the religious sites and monasteries in Thimphu, always consider modest attire by covering your shoulders and knees. For an amazing experience, you can also try wearing traditional Gho and Kira.
5. Try to avoid revealing clothes- During your Thimphu trip, it is always advised that you avoid revealing clothes. Wearing clothes without covering the thighs, shoulders, and chest can be disrespectful to the Bhutanese culture.
6. Ask permission before clicking pictures- There are certain sightseeing attractions in Thimphu that may not allow clicking pictures. This is why it is always recommended to ask permission before capturing photos.
4.2. Hidden Gems You Can Explore In And Around Thimphu
Hidden Treasures In Thimphu:
1. Semtokha Dzong
2. Jungshi Homemade Paper Factory
3. Cheri Monastery
4. Garden of Phallus
5. Pangri Zampa Monastery
6. Voluntary Artists Studio
7. Zilukha Nunnery
8. Gagyel Lhundrup Weaving Centre
9. Coronation Park
10.Hong Tsho Goemba
Hidden Treasures To Visit Around Thimphu:
1. Dochula Pass
2. Phobjikha Valley
3. Gangtey Monastery
4. Bumthang Valley
5. Druk Wangyal Lhakhang
6. Trongsa
7. Chorten Kora
8. Lhuntse Dzong
9. Wangdue Phodrang
10.Jakar Dzong
You can book one of the Thimphu vacation packages from a reputed tour operator and customize the itinerary to explore some of the hidden treasures in and around the city.
4.3. Food And Shopping Guide In Thimphu
Food Tips To Follow For A Gastronomic Expedition in Thimphu
Your Thimphu trip will be incomplete if you don’t try the amazing Bhutanese cuisines. Thimphu is known for its vibrant marketplaces that are packed with street-side stalls and restaurants selling authentic dishes. There are also various lavish restaurants where you can enjoy a unique dining experience. Some of the dishes that you shouldn’t miss here are Ema Datshi, Momos, Jasha Maroo, Hoentay, Ara, and Suja. To try these dishes, you can consider visiting
- Kuenga Restaurant
- Folk Heritage Museum Restaurant
- Bhutan Kitchen
- Babesa Village Restaurant
- Silver Wok Restaurant
- Momo Corner
- All About Shopping In Thimphu
When you visit Thimphu, it is quite impossible for you to stop yourself from shopping for some unique products. The vibrant weekend markets and emporiums here are perfect to buy some Bhutanese souvenirs. Starting from food items and traditional attire to handicrafts, you can buy various items from these markets. Some of the places in Thimphu that you can visit for shopping are-
- National Handicrafts Emporium
- Handicrafts Market
- Thimphu Weekend Market
- Archery Market
- Centenary Farmer’s Market
- Gaa Phel Shopping Centre
Conclusion
Thimphu is one of the most amazing places to visit in Bhutan as it is surrounded by various worth-visiting sightseeing attractions. Starting from protected forest areas and century-old monasteries to vibrant marketplaces and food outlets, you can get everything here in Thimphu. You can book a Thimphu sightseeing itinerary from AV Holiday World to take your vacation to the next level. The customized sightseeing arrangements, tour guide, and hotel booking assistance will ensure you a hassle-free Bhutan expedition.
Plan your unforgettable journey and book Thimphu vacation packages from AV Holiday World by dialling +91 90024 49973.
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