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THIMPU |
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THIMPHU (7,600 ft.)
The capital city of Bhutan, Thimphu is the center of
government, religion and commerce. It is a unique city with
unusual mixture of modern development alongside ancient
traditions. Although not what one expects from a capital
city, Thimpu is still a fitting and lively place. Home to
civil servants, expatriates and monk body, Thimpu maintains
a strong national character in its architectural style.
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WHAT TO SEE IN THIMPU |
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MEMORIAL CHORTEN
This stupa was
built in 1974 in the memory of Bhutan’s third King, His Late
Majesty, King Jigme Dorji Wangchuk, who is popularly
regarded as father of Modern Bhutan. The paintings and
statues inside the monument provide a deep insight into
Buddhist philosophy. |
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TASHICHHODZONG
Also known as
fortress of the glorious religion, the dzong was initially
built in 1641 and rebuilt by King Jigme Dorji Wangchuk in
1965. Tashichhodzong house the main secretariat building and
the central monk body. It is open to visitors during Thimpu
Tshechu and when the monk body moves to warmer Punakha in
the winter months. |
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SIMTOKHA DZONG
Five miles from Thimpu, on a lofty ridge stands Simtokha Dzong built in 1627
by Shabdrung Nawang Namgyal. The oldest fortress of the
kingdom, it now houses the school of Buddhist studies. |
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NATIONAL LIBRARY
The history of
Bhutan lies imprinted in archaic texts which are preserved
at the National Library. Beside thousands of manuscripts and
ancient texts, the library also has modern academic books
and printing blocks for prayer flags. |
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PAINTING SCHOOLS
This school
teaches the techniques of traditional paintings. On our
visit one can actually see students at work producing
intricate design on cloth. |
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TRADITIONAL MEDICINE INSTITUTE
In
Bhutan equal emphasis is given to both allopathy and
traditional medicines. The rich herbal medicines abundant in
the kingdom are prepared here. This Institute also imparts
the art of herbal medicines. |
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HANDICRAFTS EMPORIUM
There are
various handicrafts emporiums in the town such as government
owned Emporium and Druktrin rural handicrafts, displaying
wide assortment of beautifully hand woven and crafted
products. |
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WEEK END MARKET
Every Saturday
and Sunday most of the residents congregate on the banks of
the river where the weekend market is held. It is an
interesting place to visit and provided opportunity to mix
with the local people.
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