Thimphu Voyage Tips and guide

Contents

Thimphu (Dzongkha: ཐིམ་ཕུག།) is the capital of the Kingdom of Bhutan, and with a population of around 115,000 (2017), it is the nation's largest city.

Although the Thimphu Valley has supported small settlements for many centuries and a dzong has existed there since 1216, the city didn't really develop until the king declared Thimphu the new capital in 1961. Vehicles first appeared on the streets a year later, and slowly the city began to adapt to its role as the nation's capital. Since then, the town has undergone massive development. Tree-lined streets have been laid and the clock tower area in the center of the city is now a park-cum-open air theater where fairs and live cultural performances take place. In 2008, the national stadium and a new river-side park were completed. The area around the dzong and government buildings is a particularly green and an attractive district.

Norzin Lam is the city's main thoroughfare and is lined with small hotels and shopping complexes.

The winter season in Thimphu is very cold but dry, while the summers are wet and humid. The best times to visit are from mid September to the end of October and from March to May.

27.40888989.4205561 Paro Airport (PBH ^IATA).   is the country's sole international airport and a 45-minute to 1-hour drive from the capital. Bhutan has four domestic airports and two domestic and international carriers.

To avoid the hefty airfare rates charged to foreigners flying into Bhutan, many overseas nationals opt to fly to Bagdogra Airport in Siliguri and then travel overland to Bhutan. The journey from Siliguri to Thimphu takes 9-10 hours. There is no direct bus, and passengers will need to change transportation in Phuentsholing. Indian taxis will travel as far as the border town of Jaigaon and will not enter Bhutan.

All inter-district buses arrive and depart from the city's bus station across the river from the city centre. It is a 5 hour drive (mostly through Chukha (district) from the border town of Phuentsholing.

Various private operators like Dhug, Meto and Sernya run Toyota Coaster bus services from Phuentsholing to Thimphu. These buses can seat 22 and are very comfortable. Advance reservation can be made at Phuentsholing bus station or online: https://www.drukride.com/

The city center is small enough to negotiate on foot.

The city operates an efficient public bus service connecting the downtown with outer suburbs. The station for local buses, known locally as 'Bus Parking' is located just east of Changlimithang Stadium.

There is a set rate for taxis plying city routes — within the core area the rate is Nu 120 (Bhutanese ngultrum), while it costs around Nu150-160 to nearby suburbs. There are taxi ranks on Norzin Lam (near the cinema hall and Punjab Bank). Taxis also cruise and can be hailed at any point. There are shared taxis from the city bus station ('Bus Parking), and the rate is around Nu35-40 to suburbs within a 20- to 30-min drive.

Although lacking the charm and culture associated with ancient capitals, Thimphu has several attractions of note. A hefty entry fee is charged to all foreign nationals (including those with work permits or who are paying the daily tariff of US$100 to the government sustainable fund) at religious structures and buildings of national significance.

Monasteries are referred to by their Dzongkha title of lhakhang or gompa.

• 27.47351489.6283341 Changangkha Lhakhang. Constructed in the 15th century, this is one of the oldest temples in the Thimphu Valley, and is dedicated to Avalokiteshvara, the Buddhist emanation of compassion. The temple affords wonderful views over the entire valley. Go to see the prayer ritual inside the monastery and talk with the students here. Nu 500 for all non-Bhutanese. (updated Jun 2018)
• 27.44378689.6456272 Statue of Dordenna Buddha. Sitting on top of Kuensel Phodrang hill is a 51.5-m bronze statue of Shakyamuni Buddha. The site also offers unobstructed views over the Thimphu Valley - especially stunning at sunset. Nu1,000 for all non-Bhutanese. (updated Jun 2018)
• Thangtong Dewachen Nunnery (Ziluka Nunnery) (Ziluka, on left side of the main road from Thimphu to Hejo/Jungshina). The seat of the 17th emanation of Thangtong Gyalpo. Built in 1976, the nunnery is home to over 60 nuns. Large statue of Thangtong Gyalpo, views over Thimphu Dzong. (updated Mar 2021)

• 27.46636889.6376183 The National Memorial Chorten (Off Jangchhub Lam). A good place to visit in the evening when the locals are doing their evening prayers. The stupa was built in 1974 in memory of the third king. Nu 500 for all non-Bhutanese. (updated Jun 2018)

• 27.473789.64084 Zangthoperi Lhakhang, Dungkhor Lam (lower Thimphu — follow the path down from below the GPO). The present structure was built in 1960s and although lacking the charm of many of the older temples, Zangdopelri still possesses some impressive murals and art treasures and is worthy of a visit. The site of the temple is a former battle ground, and the temple was constructed there in order to pacify energies. (updated Jun 2018)

• 27.48256989.631985 National Folk Heritage Museum (behind the National Library). M-F 10:30-16:30, Sa 10:30-13:00, Su 11:30-15:30. A traditional house that showcases rural life. Exhibits and cultural shows are held in the museum compound. Nu 150. (updated Jun 2018)
• 27.47891389.6356876 The Royal Textile Museum (Textile Museum) (Norzin Lam). M-Sa 09:00-16:00. A display of exquisite Bhutanese textiles from the 1600s to the present day. Nu 150. (updated Jun 2018)

• 27.43809389.6697067 Simtokha Dzong (Semtokha Dzong) (5 km south of Thimphu). Built in 1629 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, Simtokha was the first dzong to be built in a unified Bhutan. It houses the country's main Dzongkha language learning institute. (updated Jun 2018)
• 27.48993989.6348848 Tashichho Dzong (Tashi Chhoe Dzong). Built in the 18th century by Shabdrung Rinpoche to house government officials. Later it was enlarged to accommodate both the monastic and civil bodies. Three times suffering severe damage from fire and once from an earthquake in 1897, much of the historic building dates from the rebuilding in 1902. To accommodate the national government and the central monastic body, the dzong was totally refurbished and enlarged in 1962, a year after Thimphu was designated the nation's capital. The main structure of the whitewashed building is two-storeyed with three-storeyed towers at each of the four corners topped by triple-tiered golden roofs. There is also a large central tower or utse. The towers and roof are beautifully lit at night. (updated Jun 2018)

• 27.42496989.6500329 Botanical Gardens, Serbithang. On lush hillside about 10 km from the city, the gardens offer a peaceful and relaxing environment to spend a few hours. Botanists will find the wide selection of indigenous trees and plants of interest. (updated Jun 2018)
• 27.47096489.64257510 Centenary Park (Coronation Park). On the banks of the river (near the city stadium), this 5.6 acres of parkland offer a pleasant and relaxing environment to stroll or to sit and watch the river flow by. (updated Jun 2018)
• Changyul Park, Babesa-Thimphu Expressway (Left side of highway when driving towards Babesa). 5AM-10PM. A 7-acre river-side park. Traditional Bhutanese structures. Community hub. Cafeteria. Performance plaza. Nu 20. 
• Ludrong Memorial Garden, Langjopakha. A lovely garden with ponds and bridges and unobstructed view of Thimphu Dzong. The garden was donated to the public by the Royal Grandmother, HM Kesang Choden, in memory of her late brother. (updated Jan 2021)
• 27.48162889.61139211 Takin Preserve (Motithang). The Takin is the national animal of Bhutan, and looks like a cross between a cow and a goat. Legend has it that the animal was created by the great Buddhist yogi, Drupa Kunley, and it can be found only in Bhutan and nearby areas. Taxonomists place the animal in a category of its own as it is not similar enough to any other animal to fit established categories. (updated Jun 2018)

• 27.48282189.63159412 Zorig Chusum School of Traditional Arts (Near National Library). Zorig Chusum was established in 1971 to preserve the 13 traditional arts of Bhutan, and visitors are able to observe students honing their skills. There is also a small gift shop selling work created at the school. The thirteen arts are paintings, carpentry, wood carving, sculpture, casting, metal work, bamboo carving, gold & silver work, weaving, embroidery, masonry, leather work and paper making. (updated Jun 2018)

• 27.4772189.6358911 Jigme Dorji Wangchuck Public Library, National Library and Archives of Bhutan, Kawajangsa (left side), ☏ +975 17856307. A modern facility. Child friendly. Good selection of English books. Appreciates donations of popular titles, especially those on Buddhism and Bhutan. (updated Jun 2018)
• 27.48027389.6293672 The National Institute of Traditional Medicine, ☏ +975 2 324-647. M-F 09:00-15:00, Sa 09:00-13:00. Serzhong Lam. A place to have any chronic ailments diagnosed and treated using herbal compounds. Ensure to retain the prescription. (updated Jun 2018)
• 27.48321589.6326053 The National Library, ☏ +975 2 322-885. M-F 09:30 - 13:00 & 14:00 - 17:00. Pedzoe Lam. It houses a rare collection of Buddhist texts on the second floor, and there is a small selection of English books on Buddhism (mostly donated by Taiwan) and on Bhutan on the first floor. (updated Jun 2018)
• Tsal Parkour Gym, Chubachu, ☏ +975 17979868. A creative energy gym run by Bhutan's most famous parkour practitioner. Emphasizes having fun while getting fit. (updated Jun 2018)

• Bhutan Echoes Literary Festival. 2-4 August 2024. Events to promote literature, culture, and art in Bhutan (updated Jun 2018)
• Thimphu Drupchen (religious ceremony). 28 September 2025 (updated Jun 2018)
• Thimphu Tshechu (religious festival). 2-4 October 2025 (updated Jan 2021)

Bhutan's small population means demand for new and innovative goods is limited. Thimphu has three kinds of stores: clothing, handicraft and hardware. Between these, there is a small assortment of stationery, bookshops, and supermarkets. Almost all shops stock the same goods, so if you cannot find the required items in the first couple of stores it is generally useless to persist.

Haggling at tourist-oriented shops is expected, but the margin for discount is small (unless you make a bulk purchase). However, shop owners are generally honest and there is little possibility to be cheated or offered an inflated price.

Most handicrafts sold in Thimphu are made in Nepal or other Himalayan areas. Exceptions are cloth items, some thankas, goods made of lemon grass oil, incense, and Bhutanese coffee.

• Miri Art Gallery, Basement, Thimphu Plaza, Chang Lam (Between the Post Office and Bus Parking), ☏ +975 17129399. 10AM-9PM. Displays works of contemporary local artists. Workshop space for art classes. 

• Bookworld, Yarkay Complex, Wogzin Lam (from main traffic towards the stadium, first lane on right, directly below the Druk Punjab Bank), ☏ +975 2 328-539. Every day 10:00-20:30. Good selection of books on Buddhism (updated Jan 2021)

• 27.4698489.640371 DSB Books Enterprises, PO Box 435 (Jojo Building near Druk Hotel), ☏ +975 2 326-275, +975 2 326-276, [email protected]. A wide selection of books in English — novels and children's books are a specialty. (updated Jun 2018)
• Junction Bookstore, Tashi Pelkhil Village, off Babesa Highway (Near Pelkhil School), [email protected]. M-Sat: 11AM-7PM. A lovely cabin-style bookstore set in a garden. Patio. Wide selection of books — Classic novels. Supports local creative industries through non-profit sales of the work. (updated Jun 2018)

The weekend market in Lower Market (across the river from the vegetable market) has over 100 stalls selling hand woven cloth and other handicrafts. }}

• CSI Market, Babesa Highway, Changzamtok (near Kuensel office), ☏ +975 77816723. M-Sat: 9:30AM-8PM, Sun: 10AM-7PM. A wide range of quality handicrafts under one roof. Cafe. (updated Jun 2018)
• Dolkar Handicrafts, GF, Norling Cable Building, Chorten Lam (Opp Dusit D2 Yarkay and Le Meridien Hotel.). 09-00-21:00. Specializes in antique handicrafts, used woven cloth, traditional silver buckles, antique jewelry, and wooden eating bowls, etc. (updated Sep 2022)

• Drukpro Bhutan, Dorji Elements Hotel, Chubachu (Opposite Tarayana/Tourist Council Building), ☏ +975 17110591, [email protected]. Daily: 10AM-7PM. Products designed by local artists. Creative silk scarves. Purses and bags. T-shirts. (updated Jun 2018)
• 27.46110589.6437532 Gagyel Lhundrup Weaving Centre (Changzamtog). A weaving centre employing around 20 professional weavers. Showroom on top floor. (updated Jun 2018)
• 27.47367889.6393383 Lungta (opposite the post office). One of the largest handicraft shops in the city centre. Good selection of hand made goods from all over the Himalayan region. (updated Jun 2018)
• 27.4772889.636154 Norzin Lam Handicraft Market (in front Pemako Hotel). A line of handicraft stalls. All items are from Bhutan. (updated Jun 2018)
• 27.47883689.6390865 Tarayana Foundation (top end of Norzin Lam — next to the town library). Tarayana trains and supports the vulnerable and disadvantaged to make traditional handicrafts. Displays are uninteresting and the selection of goods is limited but the quality of the handicrafts is excellent and they offer a more rustic and genuine feel that those on sale at the commercial handicraft shops. (updated Jun 2018)
• Thridung Nima Namza, B1, Etho Metho Plaza, Norzin Lam (near the 'Picture Hall'), ☏ +975 17634627, +975 17613550. 10AM-8PM. Hand woven fabric from some of the best weavers in Bhutan. 
• 27.4719689.638756 Yarkay Central. This shopping centre across from Hotel Norling on Norzin Lam has two good quality craft shops: (updated Jun 2019)

• Kelzang Handicrafts, ☏ +975 2 322-469. Most commercial and sells a range of goods, including t-shirts. (updated Jun 2018)
• Druk Handicraft, ☏ +975 2 322-258. (updated Jun 2018)

• 27.47388189.6387887 Thimphu Central Post Office. The post office has a large selection of stamps for sale. The special feature of the post office is that you can get a postage stamp made with your own photo printed on it, and these stamps can be used for postage purposes. The cost is nominal. (updated Jun 2018)

Most restaurants (including those in 2- or 3-star hotels) in Thimphu stop serving food between 20:30 and 21:30. For information about restaurants in hotels, check the sleep section of this article.

• 27.47147389.6386311 Zombala restaurant. One of the best Momos in town. Kuka and pakoras are really good, Thupka is a bit bland. (updated Oct 2015)

• Dim Sum Basket, 2F, Gaa-phel Shopping Center, Chorten Lam (below Le Meridien Hotel, opp Hotel 89). Authentic and tasty Cantonese cuisine. Veg and non-veg dishes. Bright, but uninspired interior. Large street-viewing windows. (updated Jun 2018)
• 27.4745989.639382 Hayate Ramen (https://www.facebook.com/BhutanRamen/), 2F Peljor Lhendrubling Building, Changlam (opposite the central police station), ☏ +975 17957458, +975 2 330240. 11AM-9PM (closed Tu). Owned by a Japanese lady and her Bhutanese husband. Hayate offers authentic ramen and sushi. Japanese-style decor. (updated Oct 2018)
• Phang-Guu, Taba Gom Lam 7, house G1, Taba (a 20 mins drive from the centre of town in the direction of Dechencholing), ☏ +975 77222499. W-M 9AM-10PM. Authentic Bhutanese delicacies and meals. A fusion of traditional and modern interior. Outdoor seating. 
• Sa-Toh, 3F. Jattu Building, Chang Lam (above City Hotel, vertically opposite the Post Office), ☏ +975 17835112. Noon-8:30PM (closed Mo). Excellent Korean cuisine. Warm and minimalist interior. Fast and friendly service. 
• 27.47307189.6373583 The Seasons Restaurant Pizzeria, Namsay Shopping Complex, Phenday Lam, ☏ +975 2 327-413. W-M. Serves authentic pizza and Italian salads. Selection of filter coffees. Outdoor patio. (updated Jun 2018)
• Yolo Eateries, Norzin Lam (Entrance from opposite 8-11 supermarket. Next to Shantideva Hotel.), ☏ +975 77454567. Daily, 9AM-10PM. Chic design. Japanese fusion cuisine. Coffee. Cocktails and drinks. Views over the Clock Tower. 

Upscale hotels (see the Splurge section in Sleep below) have restaurants.

• 27.47138889.63871 Ambient Cafe, 1F R. Penjor Building, Norzin Lam (between the Traffic Circle and Clock Tower, west side of main street, opposite Punjab National Bank), ☏ +975 2 325-578. Daily 08:00-21:00 (last order for food - 20:30). An elegant and relaxing cafe in a central location. A professional Turkish coffee roaster ensures the coffee is always fresh. Full range of espresso-based coffees. Cold brew. Freshly roasted beans (ground or whole). Wide selection of delicious cakes. Large range of teas. Fresh juices. Homemade ice-cream. Healthy vegetarian snacks and meals. Sourdough bread and baguettes. Panoramic views over the city streets and mountains beyond. Free Wi-Fi. Nu 100–125 (coffee), Nu 80–100 (cakes). (updated Feb 2018)
• Bingsu, Kuenphen Rabten Resort, Changjalu (inside Khuenphen Rabten Resort compound, above helipad). Open W-Su. A small cosy cafe inside a resort courtyard. Open to non-resort residents. Serves cappuccino and Americano. Specializes in East Asian shaved-ice desserts and custard tarts. A wide rage of homemade ice-cream. (updated Oct 2018)
• Brusnika Russian Cafe (Russian Bakery), Lanjopakha (above the Ludrong memorial garden). 09:00-20:00, Tu-Sun. Full range of coffee. Continental cafe-style meals with good selection of bread. Views over Ludrong Park and Thimphu Dzong mid-range. (updated Jan 2021)
• 27.481689.63162 Cafe Luna, Kawajangsa (above the Folk Heritage Museum), ☏ +975 17669798. A very small, cozy cafe. Good selection of books. Excellent coffee and teas. Simple and wholesome meals. (updated Oct 2018)
• 27.47252489.6401713 Coffee Culture, Chang Lam Square (near the Lower Market). Tu-Su. A pleasant cafe. Excellent selection of cakes and desserts. Small number of outdoor seats. (updated Jun 2018)
• Daily Delight (Kangen Cafe), 2F, Gaa-phel Shopping Center, Chorten Lam (Below Le Meridien Hotel, opposite Hotel 89.), ☏ +975 77457756. 09:00-21:00 daily. Bright and atmospheric cafe. Coffee. Wide selection of boba tea and shakes. (updated Oct 2022)
• Elsewhere Art and Cafe (Elsewhere Cafe), Chorten Lam (next to Hotel 89, below Yarkey Hotel), ☏ +975 77357838. 09:30-21:30. A quirky cafe among art work. Full range of coffees. Light meals and snacks. (updated Jan 2021)
• Meraki Cafe and Pâtisserie, Thori Lam, Kawajangsa (Between the Ministry of Labour and Ministry of Heath offices), ☏ +975 17718272. Th-Su 10:00-21:00. A high-end cafe. Specializes in fancy cakes and quality food. (updated Feb 2021)
• My Elements Cafe, Yardren Lam (Next to Dorji Elements Hotel/Opposite Tarayana Building, Chubachu), ☏ +975 17660484. Daily 10AM-10PM. A small cosy cafe. Full range of coffees. Healthy meals. Outdoor seating on wooden decking. (updated Jun 2018)
• Tower Cafe, Clock Tower (Ground floor of Thimphu Tower Hotel), ☏ +975 77906090. Daily 10:00-23:00. A lively cafe popular with youth. Rap and rock played from flat screen TV. Espresso based coffees. Tasty light meals and snacks. Small outside seating area with view over the Clock Tower. (updated Apr 2021)

Thimphu has few scintillating night clubs. Once inside any of these night clubs, it's a complete glamorous affair. The cost of the entry is quite low too (approx Nu 250 per person). Some clubs allow stag entry as well. The drinks are generally inexpensive and the staff friendly. However, the local youths can create problems on small or no issues and might enter into a scuffle with people from neighbouring countries.

• Druken Yeti (The Yeti), Chubachu (Directly behind City Mall), ☏ +975 17811122, [email protected]. W-M 3PM-11PM. A cute, small bar. Popular with the cool middle-aged crowd. Wide range of alcoholic beverages. Simple wholesome meals. 
• 27.47189.640074 Mojo Park, Chang lam (opposite the national stadium), ☏ + 17110975. W-M 17:00-00:00. Live music. The hangout place for Thimphu's aging hip crowd. (updated Aug 2018)

• Smilers Cafe-Bar (Smilers), Wogzin Lam (From Main Traffic towards the stadium, first lane on right. Smilers is on the first floor of the first building on the left.). A cool bistro with a distinct urban tone. Excellent continental food. Espresso-based coffees. Wide range of alcoholic drinks. Fast and efficient service. (updated Jun 2021)

• The Grey Area Coffee Lounge Bar, 1st floor, building 8, Wogzin Lam (Located in Terton Gallery), ☏ +975 77889999. Run by well-known personality and Bollywood actor Kelly Dorji. Chic and cosy interior. Live music. Coffee. International cuisine. (updated Jan 2021)

Most of Thimphu's budget hotels are on Norzin Lam (the main road through the city), especially above the Clock Tower. Anything that costs less than Nu 1,000 will offer nothing more than a worn bed, a basic toilet, and about enough space to place a bag. The main door will probably be closed by 22:00 at the latest. Negotiate the rate, especially off season.

• 27.47055189.6390131 Hotel Ghasel, Norzin Lam (opposite the clock tower), ☏ +975 2 323-341, +975 17117100 (mobile). Rooms with attached bathroom and hot water facility, cable TV. There are also restaurant, bar and fast food facilities — for those pining that backstreet Indian vibe, the hotel's vegetarian restaurant is the place to come. Under the sound of Hindi songs blasting from a TV, Ghasel produces delicious dosa and thali and a range of other Indian and Bhutanese specialties. (updated Jun 2018)
• 27.47219489.6385162 Hotel Tandin (Norzin Lam, just past the first traffic circle — restaurant on the first floor). Cheap Indian and Bhutanese dishes. (updated Jun 2018)

• 27.47445689.639913 City Hotel, Jattu Commercial Complex, Changlam, ☏ + 2 338812. A chic hotel in the heart of the city. (updated Mar 2018)
• 27.46999689.6400764 Hotel Druk, ☏ +975 2 322-966, +975 2 322977, [email protected]. A large city center hotel next to the Clock Tower. Health club with massage, sauna, steam facilities. Standard single Nu 2,000, standard double Nu 2,500. (updated Jun 2018)
• 27.47497989.6197115 Hotel Motithang, ☏ +975 2 322-435. A pleasant hotel on the mountain side above Thimphu. Wonderful views over the valley. A great place for people looking for peace and quiet or some inspiration. (updated Jun 2018)
• Tara Phendeyling Hotel, Babesa Highway, Olakha (Near Helipad), ☏ +975-2-341260, +975-17127752, [email protected]. Comfortable rooms. French, Continental, and Indian cuisine. Cafe. Gym. Steam and sauna. (updated Nov 2023)
• 27.47933589.6161686 Zhiwa Ling Ascent, Kawang Dajo, Upper Mothitang,, ☏ + 2 336486, [email protected]. A chic and minimalist hotel among a forest. (updated Mar 2018)

• 27.47869789.6118857 Amankora Thimphu (near Kuenga Chhoeling Palace, Upper Motithang), ☏ +975 2 331-333. Part of the Aman super-luxury hotel chain. A 16-room lodge offering five-star facilities. From US$1,500 per night. (updated Mar 2018)
• 27.4702589.6379878 Le Meridien, Chorten Lam, ☏ +975 2 337788. Large and centrally located. Contemporary decor. (updated Jun 2018)
• 27.47605889.6374259 Pemako (formerly Taj Tashi), Samten Lam, ☏ +975 2 236-699. Opened in 2008, a large and centrally located hotel offering full amenities. From US$275 off season, or US$350 in peak season. (updated Jun 2018)
• Six Senses, Serbithang, ☏ + 975 2 350-773. A luxurious, minimalist resort offering views over the Thimphu Valley and landmark Statue of the Buddha. World-class service and menu. From US$2,000. (updated Jan 2021)
• Yarkay, Choten Lam, ☏ +975 2 339-988. A chic and modern hotel with traditional touches. Centrally located. (updated Jan 2021)

The area code for Thimphu is 02. When calling from overseas dial +975 2 XXXXXX

Internet cafes in Thimphu are linked to broadband. Connections are reasonably swift.

• Gems Internet Cafe, The Woods Hotel Building, Wogzin Lam (from the Clock Tower, next building from Tower Hotel), [email protected]. 9AM-7PM. internet, photocopy, fax, scan 
• 27.46987389.6392671 TeeBee's Cyber Cafe, GF. Norzoed Plaza (Above the Clock Tower). internet, photocopy, fax, scan 11AM-8PM. (updated Jun 2018)
• Workspace, Changlam Corner. 3F, Shop 36 (At the bottom end of Changlam Square), ☏ +975 17285891, +975 17279398, [email protected]. Everyday 10:00-00:00. Workspace with high speed internet access, printing and screening, panoramic views, coffee, snacks, bar (evening only). Day pass Nu500. (updated Jul 2022)

Getting work done in Thimphu is relatively straight forward. All offices are computerized and the staff are generally helpful. However, it is often said that Bhutan has one of the world's highest rates of meetings and workshops per working hours. This cannot be substantiated, but certainly meetings are very much part of the civil service culture here. In fact, it is often joked that the last place you should begin a search for a civil servant is at his or her desk! As a result, you should be prepared to make several visits to an office in order to get a task complete as there is a very high possibility that the person dealing with your case will be out of the office.

• ATM. Bhutan operates an international ATM service, though as it is sometimes out of order, it is advisable to bring sufficient cash to at least cover basics.
• Banks. The three main banks in Thimphu are 'Bank of Bhutan', 'Bhutan National Bank' and 'Punjab National Bank'. The first two are both located on the upper part of Norzin Lam, while the Punjab National Bank is on the lower part of the street, near the Clock Tower.
• Money Exchange. All banks offer money exchange facilities for common convertible currencies. Druk Currency Exchange, !F, Gaaphel Shopping Complex (below Le Meridien Hotel) exchanges a number of foreign currencies at more convenient hours and at better rates than banks.
• Post Office. The central PO is in the lower part of town on Chang Lam. It is a large and well organized facility that includes a philatelic department. Mailing letters or packages in Bhutan is usually very safe though, like elsewhere, anything of value should be registered. The post office also offers a custom made stamp and packing service.
• Visa extensions and route permits are available at the Immigration Office, Kawajangsa (above the golf course). Route permits should be applied for at least one full working day before the intended date of travel. A photocopy of passport (pages containing personal information and Bhutanese visa) is required.
• Western Union, Thimphu Post Office. This facility can receive transfer of funds from overseas, but cannot make outward payments.

Pharmacies

• CityCare, The Woods Hotel Building, Wogzin Lam (from the Clock Tower, next building from Tower Hotel). ☏ +975 77619730. A well stocked medical shop. Very polite and helpful service. 9AM-9PM
• Kuenphen Pharmacy, 2f. corner or Norzin Lam and Wogzin Lam (near main traffic). ☏ +975 17603802 The largest medical shop in Thimphu. Wide range of over-the-counter medicines, toiletries, and supplements.

Supermarkets

• 8-11, Gongdzin Lam 23 (a one minute walk from Dusit Hotel). Thimphu's most popular supermarket. A wide variety of imported and domestic goods. 10AM-7PM
• Chuniding Food, Changlam Square. ☏ +975 17320895. Natural food. Organic and local products. Healthy snacks. Bring own bag, as most items are surprisingly wrapped in single-use plastic. Daily: 9AM-9PM.
• C-Mart, 1F Gaa-phel Shopping Center (just below Hotel Le Meridien). A well stocked supermarket. 10AM-9PM

Government hospitals

• Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Referral Hospital (JDWRHl), Changzamtok. This is Bhutan's largest hospital and has a full range of departments, including emergency.

Private clinics

• Paekar Diagnostic Centre. Olakha (near Hotel Ariya). ☏ +975 2-338044, 17304863. A private clinic with a wide range of diagnostic facilities.

• Bangladesh, HIG-3, Upper Chubachu, ☏ +975 2 332-771, [email protected]. 
• India, India House, Jungshina, ☏ +975 2 322-280. 
• Kuwait, H. No. 5, Thorilam, Chubachu, ☏ +975 2 323-978. 
• Thailand, 4F, Singye Building, Gonor Lam (Opposite Jigme Losel Primary School, next to Golden Roots Hotel.), ☏ +975 2 324 030, +975 2 324 051, [email protected]. (updated Jan 2021)

Buses depart the inter-district bus station (known locally as 'Bus Booking') throughout the day, though most, especially those heading to the east and Jakar/Bumthang leave between 06:30 and 07:30. As the inter-district buses are often full, it is advisable to purchase a ticket a few days in advance, either at the bus station or online: https://www.drukride.com/. Buses to Phuentsholing depart every half hour until 4PM. Most districts are served by small Japanese Coaster Buses, which are comfortable and sturdy.

Shared taxis are a quick and comfortable means to travel to nearby places, such as Paro (Nu 250) and Punakha (Nu 350) or even to Phuentsholing (Nu1,000) (as of February 2024). Shared taxis depart from the inter-district bus station, with drivers approaching potential passengers. They depart once full.

Monastic complexes are referred to by their Bhutanese title of 'gompa', not 'monastery'.

• Cheri Gompa — It is the first Drukpa Kagyu Monastery established in Bhutan and is at the site where Shabdrong Rinpoche gained enlightenment. Consequently, Cheri is one of the most important monasteries in Bhutan. The structure is cut into the steep mountainside and has a very atmospheric stone stairway connecting its various levels. Located about an hour's drive north of Thimphu, the trek begins from a prayer flag covered bridge and takes about one hour. Tango and Cheri are about a one hour hike apart, and so are usually visited on the same trip.
• Dochula Pass — The highest point on the journey between Thimphu and Punakha, it has a very good view of a lot of Himalayan peaks, including the Gangkhar Phuensum, which is claimed to be the highest unclimbed mountain in the world. Also has a cafe which serves good coffee and decent parathas.
• Jakar — A town at the heart of a sacred and beautiful valley. The journey from Thimphu takes between 9 and 11 hours. A minimum of three days are needed to do justice to a visit.
• Phajoding Gompa — Founded in the 13th century by Togen Pajo, a yogi from Tibet, this monastic complex is a three-hour hike from Thimphu (start from Motithang or BBS Tower). At a height of 3,640 m, it commands excellent views over Thimphu. There is space for camping. Otherwise, the small Thujidrag Gompa (a 40-minute walk from Phajoding) offers simple accommodation (often full at weekends) and cooking facilities - offer donation directly to monk in charge. Even if you do not plan to stay at Thujidrag, this cliff hanging monastery is still definitely worth a visit. Locally, it is famous for its sacred spring water. There are several sacred lakes in the area, though these are a full day's circular hike from Thujidrag.
• Paro — The location of the international airport and center of a sacred valley. Paro is a 45-minute to one-hour drive from the capital - an easy day trip.
• Punakha — The former capital; a 90-minute journey.
• Tango Gompa — About an hour's drive from Thimphu down town followed by a one hour hike, this is one of Bhutan's historical monasteries in the Kagyu tradition. It was founded by the grandson of the Divine Madman, Drukpa Kinley, and houses some of his relics. The monastery offers spectacular views over the Thimphu Valley.