BHUTAN

The political, economic and religious centre of Bhutan, Thimphu is a bustling town where contemporary and traditional Bhutanese lifestyle can be observed side by side. The town is home to Bhutan’s royal family, the civil service, and foreign missions. Historic monuments built in the traditional architecture have been carefully maintained, a fine example being the Tashi Chho dzong monastery which has been remodelled to house the offices of the royal government. Restaurants, nightclubs, internet cafes and shopping centres abound, making it the Bhutan’s only modern city. Modern as it may be it has not lost its Bhutanese charm, with terraced fields and pine scented forests surrounding the town. Red robed monks, locals clad in traditional attire and farmer’s markets make it a wonderful town to explore and photograph.

One of the important highlights of Thimphu is the four-day Tshechu festival. Masked dances, popularly known as Chams, are performed in the courtyards of the Tashichho Dzong to honor the Guru Rinpoche the “Lotus-Born Teacher”, who brought Tantric Buddhism to Bhutan in the 8th century.

Thimphu is the most modern city in Bhutan and well equipped with ATM banking facilities, this is a good place and probably your last chance to stock up on some much-needed cash.

One of the important highlights of Thimphu is the Tshechu festival. Masked dances, popularly known as Chams, are performed in the courtyards of the Tashichho Dzong. This four day festival is held every autumn during September and October, honor the Guru Rinpoche the “Lotus-Born Teacher”, who brought Tantric Buddhism to Bhutan in the 8th century.

Tashichho Dzong, has a long history dating back to 1216 A.D when it was first constructed. This Dzong has been the seat of the government since 1952 and presently houses the throne room and offices of the king, the secretariat and the ministries of home affairs and finance.