THIMPHU

At an elevation of 2320 m, in a lovely valley lies Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. It is unique with modern developments taking place alongside ancient traditions. With a population of around fifty thousand this city is the centre of government, religion and commerce.

 Places of Interest:

• Tashichho Dzong: This "fortress of the glorious religion" contains the main secretariat building, the throne home of His Majesty the King of Bhutan and is also the summer residence of the Je Khenpo, the Chief Abbot of Bhutan. It was built in 1641 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal and renovated and reconstructed by the Late King of Bhutan, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck.
  
• Semtokha Dzong: This is the oldest Dzong in Bhutan and was constructed in 1629 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. It is now a school for Buddhist studies.

• Memorial Chorten: This gold capped stupa was built in 1974 as a memorial to the third King of Bhutan, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. The Buddhist paintings and images inside are a must for those wishing to glance into Buddhist philosophy.

• Traditional Medicines Institute: Also known as the Indigenous Hospital allopathic medicines are administered here. In Bhutan both modern and traditional treatments are given equal importance with people turning to traditional doctors (Drungtshos) as often as to modern doctors.

• Handicraft Emporiums: Pretty basketwork, silver jewellery, thangkas and exotic weavings of wool, silk and cotton are available in a number of the emporiums in Thimphu.

• Painting School: Traditional paintings are taught here and students can be seen producing intricate and lovely designs on cloth.

• The Weekend Market: Every weekend most of the residents of Thimphu valley can be seen on the banks of the Thimphu river where farmers from in and around Thimphu come to sell their vegetable  and diary products. An interesting place to visit offering a chance to mingle with the locals.