Thimpu

INTRO
Thimpu or Thimphu is the capital of Bhutan and its largest economical and industrial center. The city cuddles in a charming valley and didn't really developed until the 1961 when it became a capital. Now there are many shopping complexes, malls, government buildings and even an open-theatre.

City Profile
City: Thimpu
Country: Bhutan
Population: 98,676
Language: Chinese, Indian

LOCATION
Around the city are the hills of Thimpu valley and the banks of the Thimpu Chuu. Thimpu lies in the western part of Bhutan close to the border with India and China.

TIME TO VISIT
Autumn is the loveliest season and the most agreeable time to visit Thimpu. Summers are humid and rainy due to the monsoon, that starts in mid June and last until late September. Springs have warm days but freeze nights and winters are a bit cold. The high valley of Thimpu makes its winters very snowy but that might be enjoyable as well.

POPULATION
Thimpu's population was around 98,676 in 2005 and it grows quite rapidly. The main religion in the region is the tantric form of Mahayana Buddhism which influence upon the way of living. For example: in every Bhutanese family there is a special room in the house, Chosum, which is for prayers.

DISTRICT
Thimpu itself as well a capital of Bhutan is also its district and is divided into ten small areas called "gewogs". Their names are: Bapbi Gewog, Chang Gewog, Dagala Gewog, Genyekha Gewog, Kawang Gewog, Lingzhi Gewog, Mewang Gewog, Naro Gewog, Soe Gewog, Toepisa Gewog
In 1991, they became official administrative units in the kingdom.

SIGHTS & ATTRACTIONS

Tashichhodzong - its name means : "The Fortress of the glorious religion" and is a monumental forteress with a pink roof and also the seat for Nepal's government. The famous annual 5-day Tshechu festival is celebrated there.
http://www.raonline.ch/pages/bt/visin/bt_tashichho01.html
Tangu Cherry - a very sacred and religious place, this monastery is a primer tourist spot.
Thimpu Markets - an incredible place so colorful and vivid that will easily impress you. The shops sell mainly handcrafts and Indian jewellery.
Buddha statue - the statue isn't finish yet but in 2008 it will be the largest one and it will be overlooking the city from Kuensel Phodrang, that is a mountain nearby.
The Clock Tower Square - the first tower in Bhutan, this place is a real hot spot. It is the plae for all kind of attractions, events etc. Very busy and dynamic place for sure. It has been redeveloped recently and extra space was created for more people to enjoy the events.
http://bhutan2008.blogspot.com/2007/05/clock-tower-square-of-thimphu.html

AIRPORT
Paro Airport is an airport located 2 hours from the city that operates many international flights. It easily reached by regular buses, taxis and car rental. The buses are the best choice, because they are cheap and convenient.

LOCAL TRANSPORTATION
The city center is easily reachable by foot and it will be more pleasurable that way. But if you want there are other ways to get around:

Taxis: They are quite cheap and have a set rate. It is curious that the city has no lights. It can be quite confusing but the locals decided it is better that way.
Buses: Thimpu has a well-maintained bus service that goes all around the city. The buses are clean, regular and cheap.

HISTORY
Before 1961 Thimpu was a small town with one lonely clock tower little market and few citizens. But after the king proclaimed it to be the capital of the kingdom the city thrived. Nowadays the clock square is the place where all events take place, the dusty streets are three-lined roads and the little market grew into many big and fashion stores.

CITY LINKS

Thimpu map - http://www.raonline.ch/pages/bt/visin/bt_map03a.html
Travel information - http://www.east-himalaya.com/bhutan/thimpu.htm
Thimpu at Wikipedia - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thimphu
How is Thimpu developing - http://www.bhutan.gov.bt/government/dzongkhags.php?dz_id=32

EDUCATION

Royal University of Bhutan - http://www.rub.edu.bt/
Royal Institute of Management - http://www.4icu.org/reviews/8257.htm