Thimphu
Thimphu is the capital of Bhutan with an area of 2,067sq.km and a population of 104,214(2010), making it Bhutan’s largest city. It is, however, the only capital after Pyongyang in North Korea with no traffic lights.
It lies at an elevation of 7,600 feet sprawling across the western slopes of the Wang Chuu river valley. Thimphu features a monsoon-influenced subtropical highland climate with mild summers and relatively cool winters.
Places of interest:
- Tashichho Dzong: It houses the Throne Room of the King of Bhutan, the Home Ministry and is the summer residence of the monastic body.
- Weekend market: A lively weekend market near the river supplies meat, vegetables and other items.
- The Handicrafts Emporium: Displays a wide assortment of beautiful hand-woven and crafted products.
- National Memorial Chorten (stupa): It is monument built in memory of the Third King of Bhutan who is remembered as the Father of Modern Bhutan. The paintings and statues inside the monument provide a very rare insight into Buddhist philosophy.
- Simtokha Dzong: It is the oldest Dzong in the country and presently houses the School of Buddhist Studies.
- The National Library: Built in the style of a traditional temple, it contains a large collection of religious books and Bhutanese manuscripts along with a huge collection of English-language books. It also contains a copy of the largest published book in the world.
- The Buddha Dordenma statue: It is one of the largest Buddha statue in the world constructed atop a mountain called Kuensel Phodrang.
- The National Post Office: It is located along the Chang lam (road) and has a wide collection of Bhutanese stamps.
- The National Folk Heritage Museum: The place gives a rare insight into the Bhutanese way of life through a series of dances and exhibits.
- The Institute of Traditional Medicine Services: The institute provides medical services using the centuries-old remedial medicines and methods.