Thimphu is the capital city of Bhutan and sits in the western part of the country. There are plenty of things to do in Thimphu, as the place offers a mesmerising blend of tradition, history, and modernity. An interesting fact about this place in the lap of the Himalayas is that it is at an elevation of over 2,000 metres. The altitude makes Thimphu one of the highest capital cities globally.
Thimphu caters to all kinds of travellers, from history enthusiasts and spiritual seekers to adventure lovers. This blog post explores the five best places to visit in Thimphu. We will also discuss things to do in Thimphu to help you make the most of your Thimphu sightseeing experience.
Top Places to Visit in Thimphu
- Buddha Dordenma
- Dochula Pass
- Tashichho Dzong (Thimphu Dzong)
- Thimphu Chorten (Memorial Chorten)
- Changangkha Lhakhang
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Buddha Dordenma
Of all the places to visit in Thimphu, Buddha Dordenma is a must, for it hosts a colossal Shakyamuni Buddha statue in the mountains. There are 100,000 smaller bronze and gold-gilded Buddha statues as well. The place overlooks Thimphu from the royal palace, Kuensel Phodrang. Construction began in 2006 and ended on 25th September 2015. The completed work stands at 169 feet, with 100,000 8-inch-tall and 25,000 12-inch-tall bronze Buddhas, making Buddha Dordenma a marvel worth visiting.
Things to do at Buddha Dordenma
- Become awestruck by the imposing and grand colossus of the Shakyamuni Buddha statue.
- Explore the surrounding mountains and scenic views.
- Admire the intricate details of the 100,000 smaller bronze and gold-gilded Buddha statues.
- Take delight in the panoramic views of Thimphu from the statue's location.
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Dochula Pass
Another notable place among the Thimphu places to visit is the Dochula Pass. Located 20 km from Thimphu, Dochula Pass is a captivating mountain pass adorned with 108 memorial stupas called "Druk Wangyal Chortens". Beyond the historical and religious significance, the place entices travellers with its breathtaking beauty. Perched at an altitude of 3,100 m, Dochula Pass experiences temperatures ranging from 2°C to 8°C. Its sheer beauty, occasional snowfall, and panoramic views of the mountains make Dochula Pass a tourist magnet.
Things to do at Dochula Pass
- Marvel at the 108 Memorial Stupas or Druk Wangyal Chortens.
- Enjoy the chilly weather and occasional snowfall at an altitude of 3,100 m.
- Witness the 360-degree panoramic views of the snow-covered Himalayas and their mighty peaks.
- Explore the beautiful Druk Wangyal Lhakhang temple, showcasing a blend of history and mythology.
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Tashichho Dzong (Thimphu Dzong)
Another prominent tourist place in Thimphu is the Tashichho Dzong (Thimphu Dzong). It is situated on the right side of the Wangchu River and has remained Bhutan's governmental seat since 1952. Thimphu Dzong was built in 1216 A.D. by Lama Gyalwa Lhanangpa and then rebuilt by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1641. The fortress has undergone several expansions and renovations after being damaged by fire in 1771 and an earthquake in 1897. King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck oversaw its complete renovation and enlargement.
Things to do at Tashichho Dzong (Thimphu Dzong)
- Explore the seat of the Bhutanese government since 1952.
- Learn about the rich history of the fortress, dating back to 1216 A.D.
- Admire the stunning architecture and grandeur of the Dzong.
- Attend religious ceremonies and soak in the spiritual ambience.
- Enjoy the scenic location along the Wangchu River.
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Thimphu Chorten (Memorial Chorten)
Among the important places to visit in Thimphu is the Thimphu Chorten (Memorial Chorten), in the southern central part of the capital city. Its elegant architecture attracts global tourists. Dedicated to Bhutan’s third king, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, this ancient monument showcases Buddhist culture through exquisite artwork, carvings, and sculptures. The serene and peaceful atmosphere makes it a perfect place to experience the essence of Buddhism. This marvellous structure, adorned with statues and paintings, is a true wonder to behold.
Things to do at Thimphu Chorten (Memorial Chorten)
- Climb to the gallery on the top floor for spectacular views of Thimphu.
- Circumabulate the chorten clockwise and experience a deep feeling of peace and serenity.
- Whirl the large prayer wheels for an uplifting spiritual experience.
- Enjoy the breathtaking view of the unsullied Bhutanese landscape from the chorten's surroundings.
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Changangkha Lhakhang
Another notable tourist place in Thimphu is the Changangkha Lhakhang, an ancient Bhutanese temple. Changangkha Lhakhang is said to be 800 years old and is always full of the faithful and curious. It holds immense cultural importance and is integral to the Bhutanese community. The temple boasts magnificent prayer bells with black and gilded scripts and two beautifully embedded gigantic prayer wheels. You'll find holy scriptures and the statuette of the thousand-armed Avalokitesvara. Locals worship the deity Tamdrin.
Things to do at the Changangkha Lhakhang
- Explore the ancient 800-year-old Bhutanese temple, imbibing its spiritual potency.
- Marvel at the magnificent prayer bells with black and gold scripts.
- Spin the embedded gigantic prayer wheels for blessings.
- Seek blessings for children from the deity Tamdrin and receive a monk-anointed name for newborns.