Thimphu, Bhutan

Thimphu, Bhutan

Thimphu Bhutan

Thimphu is the capital and largest city of Bhutan. It lies in the west‑central part of the country, in a valley that forms the Thimphu District, one of Bhutan’s dzongkhags. Thimphu replaced the ancient capital of Punakha in 1955, and in 1961 it was officially declared the capital of the Kingdom of Bhutan by the 3rd Druk Gyalpo, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. The city stretches north–south along the west bank of the valley carved by the Raidāk River, known in Bhutan as the Wang Chuu or Thimphu Chuu. At its high elevation, Thimphu is the fourth-highest capital city in the world. Unlike most capitals, Thimphu has no airport of its own and relies on Paro Airport, which is connected by road about 54 kilometers away. Tourism is tightly regulated, contributing to the economy while preserving a balance between tradition, development, and modernization. Thimphu is home to many of Bhutan’s key political institutions, including the National Assembly of the parliamentary democracy and Dechencholing Palace, the King’s official residence, located to the north of the city. The culture of Bhutan is strongly expressed here in literature, religion, customs, national dress, monastic life, music, dance, and the media. One of the city’s most important cultural events is the Thimphu Tshechu, a four-day annual festival held in September or October. During Tshechu, elaborately costumed mask dances, known as Cham dances, are performed in the courtyards of Tashichho Dzong, drawing both locals and visitors.
Recommended airport
Paro (PBH)
Points of interest
  • Le Méridien Thimphu
Nearby destinations
  • Punakha a 26.86 km
  • Paro a 23.29 km
  • Timbu a 2.15 km
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