The modern capital of Bhutan lies at an elevation
of 2300m in a valley traversed by the Wang Chu (river). Tashichho
dzong the main Secretariat building which houses the throne room
of His Majesty and a summer residence of the central monk body.
Although not what one expects from a capital city, Thimphu is
a fitting and lively place. Home to civil servants, expatriates
and the monk body, Thimphu maintains a strong national character
in its architectural style. It is also an ideal spot for day walks.
Phajoding monastery is a 4 hrs hike from the motithang area. Tango
& Cheri monasteries are also another ¾ hrs hike from
the capital or all the way to the top of telegraph hill where
thousands of prayer flags obscure the view over Thimphu.
Memorial Chorten: this stupa was built in 1974
in the memory of the late third King Jigme Dorji Wangchuk. The
paintings and images inside the monument provide a rare sight
into Buddhist philosophy.
Tashichho Dzong: was initially built in the
17th century, was rebuilt in early 1960s by the third King Jigme
Dorji Wangchuk. Tashichho Dzong houses the main Secretariat building
and the central monk body. It is open to visitors during Thimphu
festival and when the monk body moves to their winter home in
Punakha.
Changangkha temple: built in the 15th century
by lama Phajo Drigom lies on a hill top commanding the Thimphu
valley. The temple has very old scriptures and Thankhas. The main
deity of the temple is Avalokiteshvara, God of compassion.
Simtokha Dzong: the oldest dzong in the country
stands on a lofty ridge at the end of valley. It was built in
1627 – 1629 and now houses the school for Buddhist studies.
All the Bhutanese language teachers pass out from this university.
Indigenous hospital: Since Bhutan has its own
brand of Himalayan medicine the Government has given equal emphasis
to both allopathic and traditional medicines. The rich herbal
medicine is prepared here. The old art healing like acupuncture
is still practiced.
National Library: the history of Bhutan lies
imprinted in archaic texts which are preserved at the National
Library. Besides thousands of manuscripts and ancient texts the
library also has modern academic books and printing blocks for
prayer flags.
Painting school: where young children learn
the ancient art of paintings. One can actually see students at
work. Education is free for the students since the government
wants to attract more students. These children after passing out
they are distributed to different districts to apply the same
art of traditional paintings in these areas which is one reason
that the Bhutanese houses have almost the same type of colour
& design.
Vegetable market: Every Saturday & Sunday
most of the Thimphu’s population and many valley dwellers
congregate on the banks of the river where the weekend market
is held. This is the only time in the week when fresh vegetables
are available and Saturday mornings are a hive of activity.