10 Incredible Facts You Never Knew About Thimphu

Clear your bucket list and hit the road to the land of happiness, Bhutan. Explore its great natural breathtaking views, the local organic market, and green lush paddy fields. Thimphu is home to more than 100,000 people gathered and settled from twenty districts of Bhutan. It has both the modern and cultural aspects of life. It is also the capital of Bhutan with no airport, but do not fret; Bhutan has its airport in Paro, just 45 minutes drive away.

Now you may have heard or visualized Thimphu in jest with the vast mountain range, to long beautiful rivers and greenery all over. Some unbelievable facts will blow your mind, and you will want to visit Thimphu now. If Thimphu, Bhutan is on the top list to see, then you are on the right page. Scroll down, and know more about Thimphu.


1. The largest city in Bhutan

Thimphu, the capital city, is situated in the western central part of Bhutan. It is the largest city in the Kingdom of Bhutan though it is smaller than other cities in the world. Though Thimphu is considered the most modern city in Bhutan, people and government work together to preserve its unique culture. You will find some of the old and unique Bhutanese architectural buildings as you walk around the city. This city will offer you its authentic and unique necessities from fashion, style, food, and nightlife.

Enjoy the evening walk solo or with friends in the largest city of Bhutan which is often called a village by tourists. Avoid taking cars or taxis as you will miss the vibe of being in the largest city.



2. Omg! Thimphu is the fifth highest capital city in the world by altitude.

Take a deep breath, for you are going to be exploring the highest capital in the world. Did you know Bhutan is ranked in the fifth highest capital by its altitude that ranges from 2.248 meters to 2.648 meters? That is 7375 to 8688 feet. Omg! What a height.

3. No traffic light! Take no tensions

Did you know Thimphu is the only city in the world with no traffic lights? Thimphu, the largest city of Bhutan, the traffic signal is done by humans. Yes! You will see a police man standing in the junction, fully uniformed with white gloves giving direction to where the vehicles should go. It has been the culture of Bhutan, and the next generations will follow it. You will also find fewer accidents and traffic jams in Thimphu.

Take it as an opportunity, take a snap with the only human traffic in the world, and make it more memorable. If you also want to visit the living human traffic in the world, then visit Thimphu now.

4. More stray dogs than cars

You may think, why stray dogs? You will see many stray dogs that are healthy and happy dogs. Dogs are part of the ecosystem in Bhutan since we believe in nonviolence. It is also safe to roam or walk around the town because none of these dogs bite. You will find them sleeping most of the time, and it is rare in the world, and Bhutanese care and feed them. One fun fact about dogs in Thimphu is that they do not jump or cross the road wherever they want. They walk from the zebra cross like humans. If you don’t believe me, then visit Thimphu and be amazed.

So enjoy every glimpse of Thimphu, be it a tree, flower, a sleeping dog, or standing traffic human giving directions to a moving car.


5. Giant Buddha Dordenma, also known as Buddha point

Yes, Bhutan has the tallest Buddha statue in the world. It is a must-visit place if you are in Thimphu, Giant Buddha Dordenma, locally known as a Buddha point. It is located overlooking the beautiful city of Thimphu on a hill.

Did you know this giant Buddha Dordenma is made of bronze and gilded in gold? It was built to commemorate the 60th birth anniversary of Fourth king Jigme Singye Wangchuck. It is also known that it has fulfilled Yogi Sonam Zangpo, who had prophesied there would be a statue of Buddha, Padmasambhava, or Phurba to bestow blessing to the whole world.

If you find people with beads walking around the Buddha, join them and pass a minute prayer to the world’s entire well-being.

6. Visit a Takin Zoo in Thimphu

The national animal of Bhutan, Takin was created magically by the great saint Drukpa Kunley, popularly known as the Divine madman. He was not only a religious preacher but also a proficient tantric man. Bhutanese requested him to perform a miracle and provided lunch with a whole cow and a goat. Once the lunch was done, he then showed a miracle by joining the cow’s bones and attaching the goat’s head to its body. In a blink of an eye, he created a living animal with the head of a goat and the body of a cow locally known as Dong Gyem Tsey (Takin). Due to the magical creation with high religious implication, the animal is taken as Bhutan’s national animal.

It is one of the endangered animals in the world. It has docile nature and gives no harm to people visiting them.



7. The majestic fortress

The fortress of the glorious religion, Tashi-chho-Dzong is the next place to visit. One of the royal Dzongs in Bhutan, with intricate architectural designs. It is also the main place used for administrative purposes.

8. Spicy chillis in Thimphu, Bhutan.

People in Bhutan are known for spicy foods. Once you land and drive your way to Thimphu, you may find the roofs and windows full of red and yellow chili. Chili is one of the essential delicacies. It is also the main cash crop of Bhutan. Some are spicy, and more are not, so it is a must-try for every visitor in the town. Visit places like kalden restaurant, Bebesa Village Restaurant, and Dorji Thozay for authentic spicy food.

9. Grooving nightlife in the Thimphu city

Many think of Bhutan as a conservative country, but the nightlife is quite engaging and buzzing. Thimphu has some of the best places to hang out and jam up. As you walk down the street, you will see good numbers of clubs that will entertain you. One among them is the famous Mojo Park, where they feature local bands with the best music, food, and drinks.




Clubs, namely Vivacity, Space34, Ace club, etc., offer the best place for party lovers. There are also several karaoke rooms for those who wish to sing along. If you are a solo traveler, you can step in to any of these clubs and make your night memorable and fun.

10. World’s best guide and travel agent in Bhutan

Bhutan is the safest country to visit. You will meet the best guide and agent that won’t cheat on you. One of Bhutan’s best agents is Druk Heritage Tours. The tourist guides are well-mannered and equipped for whatever you want to know about Bhutan. The agent and the team make it possible for every visitor to have a fun and safe stay.


Now that you know these amazing facts about Thimphu, why wait. Mark your date and book a flight via Druk Heritage Tours and make your dream come true. Fulfill your bucket list this year and make a trip to Bhutan.

Say Yes to New Adventures