What is the Capital of Bhutan? Check Its History Here!

Do you know the capital of Bhutan? If not, let’s take a simple journey into the heart of this Himalayan kingdom. The capital city of Bhutan is a place where tradition meets modern life and where culture pulses at every corner. Let us find through this article where in Bhutan it's located, its history, old name, population and more.

What is the Capital of Bhutan?

(Credits: TripMall)

The capital city of Bhutan is Thimphu. It sits in the western-central part of the country, high in the Himalayas. This city is the political, cultural, and economic center of Bhutan.

History of Thimphu

Thimphu hasn’t always been the capital. Do you know that Bhutan once had a different main city? The old capital was Punakha. In 1955, the third king of Bhutan, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, moved the seat of government from Punakha to Thimphu. Then, in 1961, Thimphu officially became the capital of the Kingdom of Bhutan.

Before it was declared a city, Thimphu merely consisted of a scattering of little villages and farms. The capital has grown to become a teeming capital with modern buildings, government offices, and cultural landmarks, all with its inimitable Bhutanese charm intact.

What is the Old Name of Thimphu?

Unlike many old cities, Thimphu doesn’t have a widely known different historical name. Locally and officially, it has always been known as Thimphu in the Dzongkha script, some older sources also spell it as Thimbu.

What is the Thimphu Population?

So how many people live here? As of the 2017 official census, the population of Thimphu city was 114,551 people. It therefore makes it the largest urban area in Bhutan.

This number is still growing, as people move from rural areas into the capital for jobs, higher education, and other beneficial services.

What is Thimphu, Bhutan, Known For?

Thimphu is known for having a perfect blend of modern schooling, government, and other services, coupled with a Passion for tradition, as stated in Thimphu is known for its cultural richness and unique city life.

The city also hosts festivals, markets, museums, and places of worship that celebrate Bhutanese culture. Therefore, for many travellers, Thimphu represents the true soul of Bhutan.

Source: capital-cities organization 

Why is Thimphu So Famous?

Thimphu is famous for being the seat of the Bhutanese government, where the King and national leaders work. Moreover, it keeps Bhutan’s cultural identity alive with its ancient treasures. 

(Credits: eSikkim Tourism)

In addition, you will find historic sites like the Tashichho Dzong, a fortress and monastery that houses government offices, as per Encyclopedia Britannica.

• Traditional Bhutanese architecture

• Festivals full of dancing and music

• Museums and art galleries

• Peaceful streets lined with colourful markets

Is Thimphu a Walkable City?

It may come as a surprise, but yes, Thimphu is quite walkable by Asian capital standards. Its roads and city paths aid in connecting major attractions, markets, and government areas all together. Visitors and locals alike love moving around on foot or by short drives. The city does not hold a lot of congestion, so it is pretty pleasant to see by means of walking.

You may also like to read: How Tall is the Pyramid of Giza? 

To conclude, Thimphu is more than just the capital of Bhutan as its a symbol of tradition, peace, culture, and gradual growth. From a small valley town to a lively capital, Thimphu tells the story of Bhutan itself.