Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan, experiences its monsoon season from May to September. The rest of the year offers ideal conditions for visiting, with autumn being particularly enchanting. During this season, the trees change color, transforming the entire landscape into a vibrant and colorful spectacle.
We visited Bhutan in autumn, which lasts from September to November.
Here is how we spent a day in Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan :
1) Buddha Dordenma
Also known as Buddha Point, this magnificent statue is situated atop a hill in Phodrang National Park, offering breathtaking views of the valley below. Standing at 50 meters tall, the Buddha statue is one of the tallest in the world.
2) Dochula Pass
Dochula Pass, located on the Thimphu-Punakha road, is renowned for its 108 memorial chortens and stunning views of mountain peaks on clear days. There's a small restaurant at the pass that offers snacks, beverages, and meals, allowing visitors to enjoy a delightful dining experience while taking in the breathtaking scenery.
3) Royal Takin Preserve
The Royal Takin Preserve is a large enclosure nestled in the Himalayan mountains, home to the national animal of Bhutan, the Takin. This beautifully preserved area offers a glimpse of mountain vegetation and the opportunity to spot Takins in their natural habitat. The preserve also houses some mountain goats and deer, adding to its diverse wildlife.
4) Bhutan Post Office Headquarters
Visiting the Bhutan Post Office Headquarters is a fun and unique activity. Here, you can print stamps with your picture on them to send to friends and family. Just outside the post office, there is a small café where you can enjoy coffee and snacks.
5) Street Shopping
No trip is complete without shopping for souvenirs to bring home along with your memories. Street shopping in Thimphu is a fantastic experience where you can find everything from small fridge magnets and bag pins to scarves, woolen bags, and traditional kira. Don't hesitate to haggle and explore; there are tons of options in a vibrant array of colors. Indulge and enjoy!
There are many more places to visit in Thimphu that we intended to see but couldn't, as we love spending a lot of time at each location! Some of the spots we missed include monasteries, the Thimphu Dzong, and the Handicraft Museum. I'm sure these sites offer beautiful and insightful glimpses into Bhutanese culture and art. Be sure to include them in your visit!
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