Duration: | 8 Hour(s) - 0 Minute(s) |
Tour Category: | Full Day Tours |
National Memorial Chorten:
Meet the elderly generation in circumambulation at the National Memorial Chorten. Chorten means ‘Seat of Faith’ and Buddhists often call such monuments, the ‘Mind of Buddha’. Treat yourself to the extraordinary depiction of Buddhist teachings in the form of paintings and sculptures. As the name denotes this National Memorial Chorten was consecrated on July 28, 1974, in memory of the Third King.
Tashichhodzong:
The “fortress of the glorious religion” was initially erected in 1641 and rebuilt by King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck in the 1960s. Tashichhodzong houses some ministries, His Majesty’s secretariat, and the central monk body.
Simtokha Dzong:
Stroll through the very first dzong, built in 1627 by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. The Institute for Language and Cultural Studies is located here. Enthrall yourself with the most noteworthy artistic feature in the form of over 300 finely worked slate carvings behind the prayer wheels in the courtyard.
Changangkha temple:
This temple situated atop a small hound overlooking the Thimphu valley was built in the 13th century by the illustrious Lam Phajo Dugom Zhigpo. The temple is considered the spiritual home of children born in Chang Valley.
Thangtong Dewachen Nunnery:
The only nunnery in the Capital is popularly known as Zilukha Anim Dratshang. It is located above Zilukha Lower Secondary School, overlooking Tashichodzong in Thimphu Valley, and is a few minute's drive from the town. It was built in 1976 by the 16th emanation of Thangtong Gyalpo, Drubthob Rikey Jadrel. You may interact with some 60 nuns or so that has devoted their lives to spirituality and Buddhism.
National Library:
The National Library was established in the late 1960s primarily to conserve the literary treasures that form a significant part of Bhutan’s cultural heritage. It now houses an extensive collection of Buddhist literature mostly in block-printed format, with some works several hundred years old. There is also a small collection of foreign books, the stock of which mainly comprises works written in English. Take the opportunity to see the world’s biggest book stationed on the ground floor.
Institute for Zorig Chusum:
Commonly known as the Painting School, the Institute offers you a glimpse of novices learning 13 traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan. It is a hands-on trip for you. Enjoy a few moments with the future artists of the country.
National Institute of Traditional Medicine:
In Bhutan, equal emphasis is given to both allopathic and traditional medicines. The rich herbal medicines made from medicinal plants abundant in the kingdom are prepared and dispensed here. The Institute is also a training school for traditional medicine practitioners. The complex is closed to visitors due to considerations of hygiene, but one can still walk around and visit the showroom.
Folk Heritage and National Textile Museums: These museums, both of which opened in 2001, provide fascinating insights into Bhutanese material culture and way of life. One may come across some interesting facets of rural Bhutan that are slowly being replaced by modern amenities. The water-driven grinding mill may captivate your zoom lens.
Handicrafts shops:
A wide assortment of colorful, hand-woven textiles and other craft products is available for purchase at the government-run Handicrafts Emporium and many smaller handicraft shops around the town. One can pick up small items as souvenirs.
Weekend Market:
Most of Thimphu’s population and many valley dwellers converge on the bustling weekend market, held by the side of Wangchu River. A wide range of foodstuffs and local arts and crafts are sold at the market, which runs from Friday afternoon till Sunday evening. A visit to the market provides great photo opportunities, as well as the chance to mingle with local people and perhaps buy souvenirs.
Sangaygang Hill:
The best place for photographers is perhaps a visit to Sangaygang Hill. A short drive from the town, the hill provides visitors with an opportunity to pause and reflect on the hustle-bustle of busy city life. You can also have a panoramic view of the valley. On the way back you can visit the small zoo dedicated to the Takin, the national animal of Bhutan.
Buddha Point (Kuensel Phodrang):
Another place from where you can get a good overview of the Thimphu Valley is Buddha Point (Kuensel Phodrang). It is again a short drive from the town. You can pay your obeisance and offer prayers to the Buddha, the largest statue in the country, and then walk around and take a glimpse of the valley.