Thimphu

4.4 /5 33 votes

Rate

$ 199 onwards View Packages
View Thimphu Hotels

Top Hotel Collections

View All Hotels In Thimphu

Thimphu Travel Packages

Compare quotes from upto 3 travel agents for free

Thimphu Travel Essentials

Rating:

 
4.4 /5 (33 ratings) Rate This Destination

Weather:

Ideal duration: 1 day

Best Time: September to November, March to May Read More

Planning a Trip? Ask Your Question

"Third Highest Capital of the World"

Thimphu Tourism

Nestled in the western central region, Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan, captivates travelers with its blend of ancient traditions, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant cultural heritage. As the political, economic, and cultural center of this enchanting kingdom, Thimphu offers visitors a rich tapestry of experiences that span from spiritual sanctuaries to outdoor adventures and culinary delights.

Begin your exploration of Thimphu with a trek along the legendary Druk Path, winding through pristine alpine forests and past serene lakes up to Jili Dzong. Along the way, immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature and witness panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks. For a deeper spiritual experience, visit the revered Changangkha Lhakhang Temple, where ancient cave murals and sacred rituals offer a glimpse into Bhutan's spiritual heritage.

Delve into the city's architectural wonders with a visit to Tashichho Dzong, a magnificent fortress-monastery adorned with intricate woodwork and gold-leafed roofs. This iconic landmark serves as the seat of Bhutan's government and is a testament to the country's rich history and culture. Nearby, the National Memorial Chorten stands as a symbol of world peace, its whitewashed walls adorned with colorful prayer flags fluttering in the breeze.

No visit to Thimphu is complete without marveling at the awe-inspiring Buddha Dordenma statue, towering over the city at 51 meters tall. This majestic monument, plated in gold, exudes a sense of tranquility and serves as a reminder of Bhutan's deep-rooted Buddhist traditions. Explore further to discover hidden gems like Gangtey Monastery, the National Bhutan Library, and the Royal Botanical Garden, each offering unique insights into the country's cultural and natural heritage.

For a taste of adventure, ascend the Bhutan Broadcasting Service Tower for panoramic views of the cityscape, or embark on a safari through the Motithang Takin Reserve Forest to spot Bhutan's unique wildlife, including the rare takin. Indulge your senses at Norling Market, where the aroma of sizzling beef noodles mingles with the lively chatter of locals bargaining for handicrafts and souvenirs.

As the sun sets over the Wang Chu river, embark on a leisurely cruise to soak in the serenity of Thimphu's natural beauty, with the Himalayan peaks casting their shadow over the tranquil waters. Don't forget to buy the kukri knives and traditional garments at Weekend Handicrafts Market.

Must Know Before You Travel to Thimphu

Visitors are required to obtain a permit to visit Thimpu.
Border Immigration Office:
Jaigaon – Phuentsholing border entry point is commonly used. Jaigaon is the Indian bordering town, and Phuentsholing is the Bhutan bordering town. Stays in Phuentsholing are permitted without permits.

Location: Bhutan Immigration Office /Kharbandi Check Post, Phuentsholing
Open Hours: Closed on weekends and Bhutan Govt. holidays. Weekdays operational from 9AM to 5PM with a one-hour lunch break from 1PM to 2PM.

Online Permit: Currently not available to the public; travelers must contact Authorized Bhutanese Tour Operators in advance to arrange permits. If opting for Online Permit, booking the entire package (hotels, vehicle, and tour guide) through them is mandatory for permit processing.

ILP (Inner Line Permit): Required for travel within Thimphu and Paro Districts. For destinations beyond, like Haa or Punakha, apply for ILP at Thimphu Immigration Office. Open on weekdays from 9AM to 5PM, closed on weekends and holidays. Provide a photocopy of Entry Permit for ILP.

Extension Permit: Obtain if initial permit days are insufficient. Available at Thimphu Immigration Office.

Timing: Immigration Offices open weekdays from 9AM to 5PM with a lunch break from 1PM to 2PM. Closed on weekends and Bhutan Govt. Holidays. Paro Airport Immigration Counter operates daily. Timezone: BST is +6:00 from GMT and 30 minutes ahead of Indian Standard Time (IST).

To acquire the permit, travelers must present:
  • a valid Indian Passport with a minimum of six months validity
  • or an Original Voter ID card.
  • For children below 18 years, a birth certificate (in English) or passport is required, accompanied by a legal guardian.
  • Additionally, two passport-size photographs are necessary.
  • It's advisable for tourists to have travel insurance for the duration of their stay, which can be purchased from Bhutanese insurance providers at the Pedestrian Terminal.

Top Hotels In Thimphu

More on Thimphu Travel

Currency in Thimphu

The primary currency utilised in Bhutan is Bhutanese Ngultrum. This currency is utilised all over Bhutan including the areas such as Thimpu and Paro.

To know more read about the Currency of Bhutan.

Shopping in Thimphu

In Bhutan, you would be able to mainly find three categories of products - books, hardware and handicrafts. Reflecting Bhutan’s rich culture and arts, Thimphu has an excellent selection of handicraft shops selling high-quality paintings, ready-made and handmade ethnic kiras and khos, textiles, jewellery, masks and carpets. From scaling vibrant bazaars, exploring phenomenal indigenous designs, to collecting priceless antiques, here is how to enjoy shopping in Thimphu -

  • Pick up cotton, silk, bura, kushithara fabrics, upscale evening bags, silk pillowcases, pashmina shawls and textiles from Adang Village, Druk Trin Handicrafts and Sephub Gyeltsen Tshongkhang.
  • Make a stop at Thimphu’s shopping malls, including Gaa Phel Shopping Centre, Thimphu Plaza and Shearee Square.
  • Collect Bhutanese handicrafts, bamboo baskets, masks, paintings and gems from the National Handicrafts Emporium, Street craft stalls, the philatelic shop at Thimphu Post Office, and Lungta Handicrafts.
  • Purchase fresh fruit, metal and woodwork, hand-made garments, trinkets and snacks from Thimphu Weekend Market and Centenary Farmers’ Market. The Weekend Market in Thimphu is open on all Saturdays and Sundays selling everything from postal stamps to accessories.

Pro Tips -

  • Always carry cash while shopping in Thimpu.
  • For items without price tags in local markets, humble bargaining for reasonable 10-30% discounts is common.

Read more about Shopping in Bhutan.

Nightlife in Thimphu

The Bhutanese culture may not have been too much affected by modernisation, however, you would still find a good nightlife here. The city is known to be a bit small however the clubs over here have witnessed stars such as Cameron Diaz etc. gracing their parties. You can easily find numerous clubs as well as pubs over here some of the prime ones being Vivacity, Mojo Park and Club Ace.

Read more about the Nightlife of Thimphu

History of Thimphu

Thimphu wasn't the capital or the largest city since the beginning. Initially, it used to be a small hamlet which consisted of very few houses. Gradually, this city grew alongside the river as well as on the mountain cliffs. Over the years this city has seen rapid development and you would find it to have the most modernised facilities as compared to any other city present in Bhutan.

Read more on History of Bhutan.

Language of Thimphu

Dzongkha is the national language in Bhutan and hence you would find most of the people conversing in this language. The educated people of this city can also speak English as this is the language which is used for the purpose of education in Bhutan. You would also be surprised to find some people to be able to speak in Hindi, although not as fluently.

Read more about the Language of Bhutan.

Thimphu Customs

  • Being one of the traditional nations located in and across the world, Bhutan has been known to follow a very refined etiquette.
  • People here are normally dressed in the traditional Bhutanese dress where men wear a knee-length robe which is called Gho, while the women are known to wear what is known as Kira.
  • Also, certain etiquettes are observed while speaking, eating in public, while sending as well as receiving gifts and hence at many such occasions. 

Religion of Thimphu

You would find most of the people in Bhutan following Buddhism as their religion. However, over time there has been a considerable increase in the levels of people who follow Hinduism.

Read to know more about other Religion in Bhutan.

Daily Budget for Thimphu

On average you would be spending BTN 350 per day, which includes meals as well as basic travelling. However, in case you are shopping and travelling to nearby places, this cost would rise up to BTN 700 - 800 per day. These charges do not include any alcohol or any other luxury expenditures.

Exchanging Money in Thimphu

You can get your currency converted into the local Bhutanese currency easily at the Airport. Also, it is advised to carry cash all the time as there are times when ATMs won't work or you wouldn't be able to find one in some parts. Indian currency is widely accepted in Bhutan. 

Exchange Rate
The exchange rate for the Bhutan currency works similarly to that of India's. The currency value is floating, rather than being fixed. It depends on various factors such as demand and supply of the Bhutan currency, demand and supply of foreign currency, interest rates applicable etc.

Currently, BTN 69 is approximately equal to USD 1. In the 1990s, USD 1 approximately equated BTN 26.
Approximately BTN 80 exchanges for 1 Euro.

Best Time to Visit Thimphu

Thimphu Photos

Thimphu, Bhutan
Thimphu Bhutan
Thimphu Valley
Buddha Dordenma, Thimphu

+ 48
photos

FAQs on Thimphu

What are the things to do in Thimpu?

The top things to do in Thimpu are Buddha Dordenma, Tashichho Dzong, Changangkha Lhakhang, Memorial Chorten, Thimphu Weekend Market, Folk Heritage Museum of Thimphu. You can see all the places to visit in Thimpu here

What are the places near Thimpu?

The top places near to Thimpu are Paro which is 22 km from Thimpu, Punakha which is located 27 km from Thimpu, Wangdue phodrang which is located 25 km from Thimpu, Phobjikha valley which is located 57 km from Thimpu, Trongsa which is located 85 km from Thimpu

How much does a package cost for Thimpu?

The packages for Thimpu start at INR 17952 which can be further customized based on number of people, days, hotel category, vehicle type and customizations. You can have a look at all packages here

What is the best way to reach Thimpu?

What is the local food in Thimpu?

Rice is the main component of the numerous meals cooked in Bhutan. Here you would find rice being served along with two or one type of side meals, including meat as well as vegetables. Some of the common vegetable eaten or consumed in Paro are tomato, spinach, pumpkin etc. There are a number of Bhutanese dish such as Ema Datshi, Phaksha Paa and everyone's favourite Dimsum or Momos which you should definitely try.

Read more about Bhutanese Dishes

Read More

What is the best time to visit Thimpu?

September - November (Spring) March-May (Spring) is the best time to visit Thimphu. This is the time when the skies are clear, the Weather in Thimphu is pleasant and feasible to travel. This is also a great time for adventure activities and trekking.

Paro Tsechu is also celebrated during the spring season and it is one of the best times to be in Bhutan. The end of November could turn out to be cold so don't forget to pack woollens. During the months of summer, the weather turns out to be extremely wet as well as humid and hence there are high chances of rain. During the months of winter, it is excessive cold as well as dry weather.
Read More

Have a Question on Thimphu?

Ask a question from the travellers who have
experience.

Popular Questions And Answers on Thimphu

Q. How to reached Thimpu from Guwahati?

Mikul's Vlog

5 years ago
Take a bus to Coochbehar. It will take 6-7 hours. After that take another bus to Jaigaon from Coochbehar. It will take 2-3 hours. From Jaigaon cross the border gate and reach Phuentsholing and do nec (Read More)essary documentation at Immigration office. After that take taxi or coaster bus to Thimphu which will take another 6-7 hours.
Add Your Answer

Thimphu Reviews

Your rating
View 51 Packages