Thimpu Travel Guide
What began as a lowly settlement of the Bhutanese people, Thimpu has now turned into an urban sprawl, providing a counterpoint to the traditional Bhutan and its former capital Punahkha, and slowly climbing into the fold of modernity. But despite this, Thimphu is still not dancing to the beat: neon lights are still virtually non-existent. Its new buildings and apartment blocks decidedly feature traditional designs in the form of elaborately painted window and nail-less wooden frame and the presence of Buddhist motifs and paintings.
A visit to Thimpu is the gargantuan temple of Changangkha Lhakhang set southeast of the steep hillside of Motithang, the home of Thimpu's well-to-do families. From here, visitors can get to the Memorial Chorten and the Tashicho Dzong, a century-old structure built by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. Other landmarks and museums include Tango Gonpa, Simtokha Dzong, Textile Museum and National Folk Heritage Museum.
After swimming through artifacts, architecture, and accoutrements of a decidedly Buddhist sensibility, visitors may want to explore the Thimpu fort its excellent trekking routes. Jhomolhari, for instance, provides a worthwhile venue and ample opportunities for trekking, river rafting and wildlife excursions.
Visiting the weekend market in Chubachhu provides the chance for visitors to meet the locals who converge on the bustling area, selling anything from exotic Bhutanese jewelry to a wide-range of local arts and crafts coming from Bhutan's its neighboring countries India and Nepal. Colorful hand-woven textiles and crafts can also be great souvenirs to take home since they capture the spirit of the place. An area in the market is devoted to the selling of fresh red rice, fruits and vegetables.
Thimpu Attractions:
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