45 Things to Do In Thimpu

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1. Buddha Dordenma

3 km from city center

Buddhist Temple

The quaint town of Thimphu is home to a 51 metres tall gold-plated statue of Buddha Dordenma, which is entirely made up of steel. The night sees this statue beautifully illuminated and makes it even better sight to behold. The statue houses around 125,000 spectacular smaller Buddha statues made of bronze and plated in gold, each of which looks like the Dordenma itself.

Popular among Locals 4.4 /5

2 km from city center

Buddhist Temple

Highlights: Tashichho Dzong at Night, Tashichho Dzong Fes (Read More)tival

Tashichho Dzong is a fortress located about 2 km away from the city of Thimphu in Bhutan. It had been constructed in 1641 and underwent several restorations since then. It currently serves both as a monastery and the central secretariat of the present government. Also known as the "fortress of the glorious religion", it is found right on the banks of the Wangchhu River.

4.3 /5

1 km from city center

Buddhist Temple

The Changangkha Lhakhang is an ancient temple situated at a distance of around 1 km from the downtown Thimpu. The temple was built in the 12th Century on a site which was chosen by the founder of the Drukpa Lineage in Bhutan, Phajo Drukgom Shigpo. This one is a traditional Bhutanese monastery which is miraculously suspended like a castle on a ridge over the central Thimpu mountain ranges.

Top Attraction 4.2 /5

1 km from city center

Historical Site

The Memorial Chorten, also known as Thimphu Chorten/ Memorial Stupa is one of the tallest monuments in Thimphu. Located in the southern central part of the city, in Doeboom Lam, the Stupa attracts tourists from all around the globe with its elegant architecture. The Chorten is a place that would give you an insight into Buddhism through its great artwork, wall carvings and marvellous sculptures. T (Read More)his ancient monument highlights Buddhist culture, serving as a great place to wander around while enjoying the aura of the site.

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$384/person

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5. Thimphu Weekend Market

Top Things To Do 4.2 /5

0 km from city center

Offering endless opportunities to peek into the culture of the country and to interact with locals, the Weekend Market of Thimphu is the city's star on Saturdays and Sundays. Located at the north of Changlimithang Stadium, at the west bank of the Wang Chhu, the market is bustling with traders and customers, it looks colourful and vivid and it is an ideal place to buy souvenirs. Everything, from ve (Read More)getables to accessories to postal stamps, is sold here at unbelievably low prices.

Tours starting from
₹3,732

4.0 /5

1 km from city center

Museum

Giving an insight into the culture of Bhutan under one roof, Folk Heritage Museum preserves and flaunts the folk tradition of the country. Set up in 2001, the museum is set up inside a three-storeyed house, having the soberest facade, which makes the place even more distinguished. Bhutanese cuisine, important trees, farming tools, household objects and whatnot! This impressive museum displays it a (Read More)ll.

Tours starting from
₹3,732

7. Simtokha Dzong

4.1 /5

5 km from city center

Buddhist Temple

Overlooking the entire Thimphu valley, the Simtokha Dzong is located 5kms south of central Thimphu. Simtokha Dzong is also known as Sangak Zabdhon Phodrang, which means "Palace of the Profound Meaning of Secret Mantras". Not just a religious structure, it is also a prominent Dzongkha learning institute in the country. It is often said to be the first Dzongs built in Bhutan.

Top Attraction 4.2 /5

3 km from city center

Zoo

The crown jewel of Thimphu, Motithang Takin Preserve is a protected area where the national animal of Bhutan, Takin, is preserved. A half an hour walk here would unveil many exotic birds and animals to you, who wander around the area freely and in the most natural of habitat. Overflowing with serenity, the wildlife here is exquisite and should be seen once.

4.7 /5

4 km from city center

Factories & Industries

Using traditional Bhutanese methods to produce an authentic handmade paper which is called "Dehsho"; the Jungshi Handmade Paper Factory preserves the age-old Bhutanese traditions. It makes one rich in knowledge about the process of paper-making and also produces a variety of handmade products. A tour of the entire factory will show you the wholesome process of paper-making.

4.1 /5

14 km from city center

Buddhist Temple

Tango Monastery enriches one's travel experience with its serene aura and quaint environment keeping in with Bhutanese tradition of focusing on spirituality more than fancy facades. Located near the Cheri Mountains in Thimphu, the Tango Monastery is a prominent Buddhist learning centre in Bhutan. The one-hour long hike up to the top of the monastery is worthwhile.

Tours starting from
₹94,051

4.0 /5

1 km from city center

Art Gallery

National Institute for Zorig Chusum, commonly known as the painting school, not only preserves the traditional Bhutanese Art but also passes it on to the next generation. Watching young people work with undivided attention is quite mesmerising and inspiring. Sewing, ornament-making, painting and carving are just some of the thirteen crafts that are taught here. The traditional Thangkha painting is (Read More) also taught to a few foreigners who come to Bhutan.

4.8 /5

14 km from city center

Buddhist Temple

Bhutan's first-ever monastery, Cheri Gompa was founded in 1620 by Zhabrung Ngawang Namgyal. An hour-long hike to Cheri Gompa's topmost part greets you with a picturesque view of lush valleys and green forests. The trail takes you through Tango Monastery, crossing the bridge over Wang chhu which then leads you to Cheri Goemba. A significant attraction of the Goemba is a silver chorten which holds t (Read More)he ashes of Zhabrung's father. Apart from this, it's a meditation retreat so make sure you don't distract anyone who's there.

13. Bhutan Post Office Headquarters

4.0 /5

0 km from city center

Landmark

Bhutan Post Office Headquarters of Thimphu is home to the world's largest photo book. It is situated close to Changlam Square, preserving the ancient tradition of sending out postcards. It's a paradise for a philatelist with all types and shapes of stamps, ranging from circular to rectangular to the ones having attractive designs found here. If you want your personalised stamps, then Bhutan Post O (Read More)ffice Headquarters are the way to go! Antique coins can also be bought here.

Tours starting from
₹81,126

4.5 /5

3 km from city center

Buddhist Temple

Dechen Phodrang, also known as Palace of great bliss, is a monastic school (Lobra) in Thimphu. It is home to above 500 monks and provides them with a prestigious eight-year course. Situated on a valley 4km away from Gaden Lam, it offers a mesmerising view of Thimphu. This two storey splendid dzong houses many ancient paintings and the central statue of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, which are truly pi (Read More)cturesque.

4.0 /5

1 km from city center

Museum

A spectacular building in Thimphu, Royal Textile Academy of Bhutan was founded in 2005 to preserve the cultural art of weaving textiles. Here, young Bhutanese students are taught weaving without any profit-making. Adorned clothes and beautiful textiles can be seen on display here, which give an insight into the traditions of Bhutan. You can also visit the Bhutan textile museum while you're here.

Tours starting from
₹34,158

National Institute of Traditional Medicine

3.9 /5

1 km from city center

Landmark

The National Institute of Traditional Medicine in Thimphu has been preserving the herbs and animal parts used in traditional Bhutanese ointments and medicines collected from the Himalayas for ages. Here, all the diseases, no matter how acute or severe, are treated using these ancient practices. Preserving around 300 different kinds of natural materials, a visit here will tell you the significance (Read More)of traditional medicine in people's lives.

3.7 /5

1 km from city center

Museum

The National Textile Museum gives a glimpse of Bhutanese history in terms of clothes and textiles. One can find traditional Bhutanese artefacts such as the wedding dresses worn by former kings and queens, the conventional nomadic textiles and much more. This building is a storehouse of information and knowledge on the textile heritage of Bhutan.

Tours starting from
₹854

3.8 /5

1 km from city center

Landmark

Established in 1967 in the heart of Thimphu, the National Library of Bhutan houses national archives of Bhutan along with Tibetan and Bhutanese texts and manuscripts. There are photo frames of historical incidents hanging on the wall, which are also quite fascinating. The place is tranquil, and you can find yourself engrossed in reading about Bhutanese history here.

Tours starting from
₹854

3.5 /5

9 km from city center

Choki Traditional Art School exhibits the dedication of little kids towards art. Established in the year 1999, the school was founded by Thrimdep Choki Dorji who was keen on teaching arts to the rural and economically unstable children. These kids were interested in learning arts but couldn't make it to the National Painting School. Dorji's interest and zeal to keep the art alive, led him to estab (Read More)lish Choki Art School.

Top Things To Do 3.4 /5

1 km from city center

Museum

Flaunting the rich Bhutanese culture to the world, Simply Bhutan Museum displays the impressive traditions and gives a glimpse of the country's history. A one-of-its kind "living" museum, visitors get to enjoy the Bhutanese songs, folk dances and finger-licious cuisine. One can actually live the country's culture by trying on traditional clothes and archery.

Tours starting from
₹81,126

3.3 /5

1 km from city center

Art Gallery

Popularly known as VAST, Voluntary Artists Studio in Thimphu provides vocational art and painting classes to young people. It is the most significant art gallery in Thimphu which was started by a group of professional artists in the year 1998. Here, people keeping a deep passion in art come together to discuss its beauty and significance. The primary aim was to provide young Bhutanese children an (Read More)d youth with an opportunity to develop their artistic talents and increase their potential.

Tours starting from
₹3,732

3.3 /5

0 km from city center

Monument

Situated in the heart of town, Clock Tower Square is an architecture marvel and a pleasure to eyes. It is basically a tower with four clock faces, which makes it different from any other building or structure in Bhutan. One of the most popular site among visitors, people usually visit here in the evening to enjoy the beautiful paintings and carvings. There are many restaurants, souvenir shops and (Read More)hotels near this tower, making it one of the most busy sites in the town.

Tours starting from
₹3,732

4.8 /5

7 km from city center

Buddhist Temple

Located at 3 hours uphill trek from Thimphu, Phajoding Monastery is one of the most peaceful sites in Bhutan. Currently, it is a residence for around 30 monks, all of whom are very friendly to talk to. Built in 13th century, the architecture of this monastery is simple, yet attractive. It is best visited for the spectacular view of Thimphu which it provides.

Tours starting from
₹94,051

3.3 /5

0 km from city center

Adventure & Gaming Zone

Promoting archery among the locals and visitors, Changlimithang Archery Ground is a good site to try Archery in Bhutan using professional help. Here, one can always find archery enthusiasts practising in the early morning. The Tournaments here are a wonderful spectacle with shooters and their high-tech carbon fibre compound b (Read More)ows. Seeing them hitting the target bulls-eye from a distance of more than 100 metres is truly inspiring.

1 km from city center

Factories & Industries

An excursion to the Nado Poizokhang Incense Factory is indeed a fragrant filled experience. It is the oldest and the largest incense factory in all of Bhutan. Producing more than ten thousand incense sticks of different kinds every month, the factory is a traditional workshop with a showroom nearby. It is situated right next to the Changangkha Lhakhang.

3.3 /5

2 km from city center

Buddhist Temple

Built more than half a century ago, Zilukha Nunnery is also known as Druthob Goemba. Housing around 60 nuns in its premises, a visit to the site energizes the soul because of its peaceful surroundings, which lures one's mind to never leave the site. From here, the spectacular view of Tashichho Dzong can be captured in a camera to make for a beautiful photo album.

3.3 /5

0 km from city center

Local Experience

Probably the richest building in Thimphu, Goldsmiths Workshop witnesses hundreds of copper and silver items made everyday by young Bhutanese men. From melting to moulding to hardening, the entire process of making a jewelery item can be seen here. Not just jewelery, but other metal items such as monasteries' toranas (arches found over monastery statues) are also produced here.

3.2 /5

7 km from city center

Buddhist Temple

Pangri Zampa is Bhutan's national centre of traditional astrology. Situated at about 8kms from Thimphu, the monastery is on the way to Tango and Cheri Gompa. Known to be one of the oldest monasteries in (Read More)Bhutan, Zhabdrug Ngawang Namgyal founded it in 1616.

3.2 /5

2 km from city center

Monument

Bhutan Broadcasting Service Tower or BBS Tower is at an elevation of 2,865 metres which offers an exquisite view of the whole town of Thimphu. Also known as Sangaygang Viewpoint, this is very popular among visitors because of the beautiful panorama of the lush valleys that it provides. The route to the Wangditse Goemba starting from this point is a hikers and mountain bikers favourite trail.

Tours starting from
₹3,732

3.2 /5

39 km from city center

National Park

Bhutan's largest national park, spanning across western Thimphu, Paro and the entire Gasa district, Jigme Dorji National Park houses many exquisite wildlife species such as Red Panda, Snow Leopard, Markot etc. The sight of some of the most popular mountain peaks from here, such as Mount Jomolhari, makes one go open-mouthed by the beauty of nature. Not just wildlife, but flora also blossoms here, w (Read More)hich makes it an impeccable site in the country.

3.2 /5

1 km from city center

Landmark

Located on the south end of Thimphu in Changzamtog, the Gagyel Lhundrup Weaving Centre provides Bhutan's finest fabrics. Promoting the traditional Bhutanese art of weaving, Gagyel Lhundrup Weaving Centre makes sincere efforts to keep roots of the country alive. Here, the weavers and handloom workers work with such undivided attention.

3.2 /5

26 km from city center

Buddhist Temple

A Buddhist monastery in Paro, Zangto Pelri Lhakhang is a replica of Guru Rinpoche's celestial abode and truly a glory in itself. Built in 1990 by Dasho Aku Tongmi, who also composed the National Anthem of Bhutan, this beautiful structure houses several statues of Buddhist Gurus, many of which are as high as 4 metres.

3.2 /5

0 km from city center

Sporting Events & Stadiums

The national stadium of Bhutan, Changlimithang Stadium holds many events apart from that of sports' and has a rich history. It is founded on the battle ground of 1885, which holds a great political significance for Ugyen Wangchuk, the first king of Bhutan. Archery matches are conducted here and from 21st to 23rd February, the celebrations for King's birthday make this site a marvel to behold.

3.2 /5

0 km from city center

Museum

Established in 2015, Bhutan Postal Museum is a philatelist's paradise. Displaying the evolution of Bhutanese stamps from ancient to modern times, all kinds of postal stamps, ranging from a square shape to 3D designs, are shown here. The main objective was to narrate the evolution of communication in Bhutan, from legendary messengers to postal services. There are five galleries in the museum, each (Read More)one showing stamps, artefacts and anecdotes from a different era. The museum also has a cafe right at the entrance for visitors.

Tours starting from
₹854

3.2 /5

5 km from city center

Garden & Park

Situated on the Punakha road near Dochula Pass, Royal Botanical Garden is the first-ever botanical garden in Bhutan. It is an excellent place for horticulturists offering a variety of flora. The Botanical garden also houses a children's park and is a favourite picnic spot among locals.

Tours starting from
₹3,732

3.2 /5

0 km from city center

Garden & Park

Coronation Park, also known as the Centenary Park is located at the entrance of Thimphu on the banks of Wangchu (River). It is a popular picnic spot adorned by a statue of Buddha which is placed at the centre of the park. With beautiful varieties of flowers, sixty species of plants and trees, the park is also lined with a number of benches around it. The view of the river and the magnificent Buddh (Read More)a statue is picturesque and sublime.

Tours starting from
₹3,732

3.2 /5

0 km from city center

Buddhist Temple

Mostly visited by hikers on their way up from Sangaygang (BBS Tower), Wangditse Goemba is a hillside fortification, surrounded by pine and rhododendron forests. Founded in the year 1750, the Goemba was reconstructed by the craftspeople and graduates of Zorig Chusum. The main highlight of this monastery is a two-storey high statue of Sakyamuni Buddha. It's a little ahead of Trashi Chho Dzong, one can visit the Zilukha Nunnery or Dechen Phodrang on their way back.

3.1 /5

0 km from city center

Landmark

Proudly housing the national assembly, SAARC Building in Thimphu was built in the 1990s to hold SAARC conferences and meetings. It is located near Trashi Chho Dzong across Wang Chhu. An architecture marvel, the building is colourful and vibrant. Since it is an important government site, entry is not allowe (Read More)d due to security reasons. But the building is a good view from outside.

Tours starting from
₹3,732

3.1 /5

0 km from city center

Garden & Park

Bhutan Thailand Friendship Park is a little park in the heart of the town which remarks the friendly and compassionate relationship between the two countries Bhutan and Thailand. Known for its Thai Style pavilion, this park has many children rides and a beautiful prayer wheel. An auspicious chapel called Dolma Lhakhang is located here and paying a visit here is always a worth.

Tours starting from
₹81,126

3.1 /5

0 km from city center

Buddhist Temple

Located on the road from Thimphu to Punakha, Hong Tsho Goemba is an ancient temple. Built-in 1786, the interiors of the monastery are rich in old and beautiful tangka on the walls. Housing monks and nuns, the colourful paintings of lotus and Buddhist Gurus add glory to this already glorious place. It's a quaint little temple over a hill, not frequented by visitors; so if you are looking for a peac (Read More)eful time away from the crowd, take a detour to Hong Tsho Goemba on your way to Punakha.

3.1 /5

0 km from city center

Art Gallery

Terton Gallery is one of the premier art spaces, run by Bhutanese artist Kelly Dorji. Founded in 2001, it has several mind-blowing artefacts and antiques well preserved and displayed most impeccably. It is situated at the heart of Thimphu, promoting contemporary art style also boasting traditional crafts and antiques.

3.1 /5

0 km from city center

Buddhist Temple

Located on a small hill just outside Thimphu, the hike to Thadrak Goemba is moderately difficult taking about two hours to reach up, since the path is steep. However, the beautiful view of the surrounding hills and valleys from the top make all the efforts worth. It has tended pathways with miniature gardens that were designed by the monks making it all the more beautiful.

3.2 /5

2 km from city center

Garden & Park

Located right next to the royal palace, Ludrong Memorial Garden is an ideal place to visit if you wish to relax and admire nature at its best. Founded in the memory of Late Prime Minister Jigme Palden Dorji, the park is adorned with an endless variety of trees, shrubs and flowers. Providing visitors with an expansive space for a picnic, the park also has small fish ponds that add on to its beauty. (Read More) The colourful flowers, bushy trees and serene atmosphere make this a popular spot in the city.

3.5 /5

6 km from city center

Forts & Palaces

The three-storeyed lavish Dechencholing Palace is located in the heart of city and adds to its glory. Built in 1953, the wooden windows on the whitewashed walls makes for a spectacular sight. It is the residence of the country's royal family, but king does not reside here. Visiting this place gives a royal feeling to anyone who has the eyes to appreciate this marvellous structure.

3.6 /5

3 km from city center

Buddhist Temple

Kuensel Phodrang marks your entry in the quaint town of Thimphu. It is also known as the Buddha Point which was the palace of the thirteenth Druk, Sherab Wangchuck that houses the Shakyamuni Buddha. In the centre, a grand statue of Buddha called Buddha Dordenma is placed, which is considered sacred and oft (Read More)en visited by tourists. The hundreds of small statues are also a mesmerizing sight to watch and appreciate Buddhism. This glorious Buddha statue can be seen from any corner of the city and is one of the most significant attractions in Thimphu.

Paro

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Punakha

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Wangdue Phodrang

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Phobjikha Valley (Gangtey)

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FAQs on Thimphu

What are the top activities in Thimpu?

The top activities in Thimpu are 9D8N Classic Bhutan Tour, 7D6N Classic Bhutan Tour, 8D7N Classic Bhutan Tour, 3D2N Sagala to Paro Trek , 5D4N Classic Bhutan Tour, 9D8N Jomolhari Trek.

What are the top sightseeing places in Thimpu?

The top sightseeing places in Thimpu are Buddha Dordenma, Tashichho Dzong, Changangkha Lhakhang, Memorial Chorten, Thimphu Weekend Market, Folk Heritage Museum of Thimphu.

How much does a package cost for Thimpu?

The packages for Thimpu start at INR 17952 which can be further customized based on number of people, days, hotel category, vehicle type and customizations. You can have a look at all packages here

How can I commute within Thimpu?

Although this city is pretty small and you can try and walk over numerous areas present in here. If not, then there are taxis present which would help you move around.
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Places To Visit In Thimphu

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45 Things to Do In Thimpu

1. Buddha Dordenma

2. Tashichho Dzong

3. Changangkha Lhakhang

4. Memorial Chorten

Thimphu Travel Packages

Mesmerising Cultural Bhutan Tour for 4 Nights -...

Enchanting Bhutan Holiday Package - Excursion t...

Bhutan 7 Nights Itinerary- Dochu La Pass

Bhutan Itinerary for 8 Days with Trek to Tiger'...

Cheapest Bhutan Tour Package - Thimphu and Paro

Beautiful Bhutan - Punakha, Paro from India

5. Thimphu Weekend Market

6. Folk Heritage Museum of Thimphu

Top Hotels In Thimphu

7. Simtokha Dzong

8. Motithang Takin Preserve

9. Jungshi Handmade Paper Factory

10. Tango Monastery

11. National Institute for Zorig Chusum

12. Cheri Gompa

Discover More About Sightseeing & Tourist Attractions in Thimphu

13. Bhutan Post Office Headquarters

14. Dechen Phodrang

15. Royal Textile Academy of Bhutan

16. National Institute of Traditional Medicine

17. National Textile Museum in Thimphu

18. National Library of Bhutan

19. Choki Traditional Art School

20. Simply Bhutan

21. Voluntary Artists Studio Thimphu

22. Clock Tower Square of Thimphu

23. Phajoding Monastery

24. Changlimithang Archery Ground

25. Nado Poizokhang Incense Factory

26. Zilukha Nunnery

27. Goldsmiths Workshop

28. Pangri Zampa

29. BBS Tower, Thimphu

30. Jigme Dorji National Park

31. Gagyel Lhundrup Weaving Centre

32. Zangto Pelri Lhakhang

33. Changlimithang Stadium

34. Bhutan Postal Museum

35. Royal Botanical Garden, Thimphu

36. Coronation Park, Thimphu

37. Wangditse Goemba

38. SAARC Building, Thimphu

39. Bhutan Thailand Friendship Park

40. Hong Tsho Goemba

41. Terton Gallery

42. Thadrak Goemba

43. Ludrong Memorial Garden

44. Dechencholing Palace

45. Kuensel Phodrang

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What are the top activities in Thimpu?

What are the top sightseeing places in Thimpu?

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