Afternoon Tour of Thimphu
Enjoy an afternoon of sightseeing around Thimphu. This tour includes a visit to Tamchog Lhakhang, the beautiful National Memorial Chorten, the golden Buddha Dodernma before taking in the views and enjoying the local farmers' market.
Area
Thimphu
Type
Art & Architecture
History
Grade
Standard
Who
Adults
Difficulty
Leisurely
Duration
Half Day
Today you will visit the Tamchog Lhakhang, a famous iron chain bridge built by Thangtong Gyalpo. Cross this bouncy bridge or simply marvel at its structure.
Next, you'll stop for a rest before continuing with a visit to the National Memorial Chorten. Constructed in 1974, this four-storey tall white building is an extraordinary example of Buddhist architecture and artwork. Filled with statues and iconography of Buddhist deities, this Tibetan-style chorten is a place of daily worship for many.
Drive onwards to Buddha Dodernma, a bronze statue of Shakyamuni gilded in gold. Located on top of a hill in Kuenselphodrang Nature Park, this astonishing statue stands over 50m tall and is one of the tallest Buddha statues in the world.
From there you will drive on to Motithang and the the Takin Preserve, home to many takin, Bhutan's national animal. Found only in Bhutan and nearby areas, it is a cross between a cow and a goat. Myth has it that the animal was created by the great Buddhist yogi, Drupa Kunley or Divine Madman.
Your next stop will take you further upwards towards Sangaygang. Enjoy the breathtaking view of Thimphu Valley here. You will then visit the Farmers’ weekend market, popular among Thimphu’s local people. Immerse yourself in Bhutanese culture here an expect to find a wide range of food produce and local arts and crafts before heading to your hotel for the night.
Recommended Hotels Nearby
A selection of luxury hotel options in the area, handpicked and recommended by our travel specialists.
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View AccommodationSix Senses Paro
Situated high in Paro Valley, perched above The National Museum of Bhutan, Six Senses Paro offers beautiful views over the surrounding forested peaks and is sympathetically designed, incorporating the 16th century ruins that it sits.
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View AccommodationAmankora Paro
Amankora Paro is beautifully set into the forest and delivers some breathtaking views. Traditional in design with carved wooden roofs, white wash walls and wood clad interiors.
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View AccommodationSix Senses Punakha
Taking inspiration from the terraced farms of Punakha's valley, Six Senses Punakha is an elegant rustic retreat with excellent spas, dining and service.
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View Accommodation
Druk Hotel
The Druk is a charming, yet simple traditional city hotel and is located in the heart of Thimphu, Bhutan's capital city. With 51 comfortable good value rooms, tasty food and friendly service, the Druk provides a great base from which to explore the city.
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View AccommodationPemako
Pemako is a luxurious property located in the heart of Thimphu and allows guests to explore the sights and shops of the capital city of Bhutan. One of the largest buildings in Thimphu, it offers international levels of service and cuisine.
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View AccommodationSix Senses Thimphu
Hugged by lush green forest on Thimphu's steep valley, Six Senses Thimphu blends spectacular view, rustic luxury and relatively easy access from Bhutan's capital.
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View AccommodationAmankora Thimphu
Amankora Thimphu, which is part of the Aman collection in Bhutan is the perfect base to either wander through the streets and markets of the nation’s capital or start to explore the dramatic landscape of the happiest country in the world.
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View AccommodationZhiwaling Ascent
Zhiwa Ling Ascent is located in the hills above Bhutan's captial city; Thimphu. This contemporary hotel boasts stunning views of not only the city from a distance but the rolling hills beyond. Explore the Bhutanese capital, returning to panoramic views.
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View AccommodationDhensa Punakha
Dhensa Punakha is a luxury 24-suite boutique hotel located in the Punakha Valley in Bhutan. The resort enjoys a wonderful location surrounded by thick pine forest overlooking the valley, village houses and paddy fields.
More Experiences in This Area
Discover more things to do in the area and chat to our specialists about crafting these experiences into your tailor-made holiday.
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View ExperienceCultural Tour of Thimphu
Spend the afternoon visiting some of Thimphu's cultural artistic sights. Your guide will take you to the impressive Zorig Chusum, Weaving centre, Folk Heritage Museum & Jungshi Paper factory. All play an important role in understanding Bhutanese culture.
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View ExperienceThimphu Market
You shouldn’t miss the weekend market in Thimphu. People from nearby valleys arrive on Thursday afternoon and stay to sell their goods – vegetables, other foodstuffs and handicrafts – until Sunday evening.
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View ExperienceMorning Hike to Cheri and Tango Goempa
Enjoy a hike through the beautiful and beguiling Bhutanese countryside. Visit the Cheri and Tango Goemba, two beautiful monasteries in the hills between which lies the Thimphu Chu River.
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View ExperienceLocal Archery Experience
Archery is the national sport of Bhutan and can be seen played throughout the Kingdom. Traditional bows are made from bamboo and witnessing an archery competition is an absolute highlight. We can easily arrange for you to have a go should you wish.
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View ExperienceDay in Thimphu
You can easily fill an afternoon or day exploring Thimphu. It is worth visiting the Tashiccho Dzong, where essentially Bhutan is governed from. Also of interest is the Simtokha Dzong, Memorial Chorten, Changagkka Temple & Folk Museum.
Call us on 020 8682 5060 to start planning