Thimphu essentials

Thimphu is the capital of Bhutan. It is located in the West of the country (see map) with good road access to the airport at Paro and to India via Phuntsholing. It existed only as a village until it was established as the capital in 1961. Since that time the population has grown to around 50,000

Location of Thimphu

Thimphu

The town ........

..... lies in a small (by Himalayan standards) valley on the West bank of the River Wang. The main street, Norzin Lam runs South-North parallel to the river.

A some what quaint local regulation requires all shops to the West of Norzin Lam (the "up side") to close on Tuesdays whilst those to the East ("down side") are closed on Wednesdays.

Tashicho Dzong .....

........ must be one of the most photographed buildings in the country. It's massive presence dominates the Northern extremities of the town, where is serves not only as the Summer home of the central monk authority, Dratshang, but also contains the King's throne room & offices plus several government ministries.

Tashicho Dzong

Covered bridge

Madison County?

No ......... this is a traditionally constructed covered cantilever footbridge enabling access to Tashicho Dzong from across the river. There are many such bridges throughout the country, typically strongly built, highly ornate and festooned with flags.