Thimphu
From Bhutannica
Thimphu is the capital of Bhutan, and also the name of the surrounding valley and dzongkhag, the Thimphu District. With a population of 100,000 (2007), it is the largest population centre in the country. Thimphu is located at 27 degrees 28 minutes N and 89 degrees 38 minutes E. The name is sometimes seen misspelled as Thimbu or Thimpu or Timpu.
Tashichoedzong, the fortress monastery on the northern edge of the city, built in the 17th century, has been the seat of Bhutan's government since 1952.
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Average high °C | 12,3 | 14,4 | 16,4 | 20 | 22,5 | 24,4 | 18,9 | 25 | 23,1 | 21,9 | 17,9 | 14,5 | |
| Average low °C | -2,6 | 0,6 | 3,9 | 7,1 | 13,1 | 15,2 | 13,4 | 15,8 | 15 | 10,4 | 5 | -1,1 | |
The city sprawls across the western slopes of the Wang Chhu river valley, with a government quarter centred on Tashichoedzong. Rapid expansion following the pattern of rural exodus has resulted in considerable rebuilding in the city centre and mushrooming suburban development elsewhere. Norzin Lam, the recently upgraded main thoroughfare, is lined with shops, restaurants, retail arcades and public buildings. Elsewhere, there is a mix of apartment blocks, small family homes and family-owned stores. By regulation, all are required to be designed in traditional style with Buddhist paintings and motifs. A lively weekend market near the river supplies meat, vegetables and tourist items. Most of the city's limited light industry is located south of the main bridge.
Dechenphu, Tango and Cheri monasteries, and Dechenchoeling Palace, the official residence of the King, are located to the north of the city.
Tashichoedzong hosts a colourful masked-dance festival (tsechhu) at the end of summer, which is popular with tourists.
Thimphu now has a problem-riddled 'structure plan' known as the Thimphu Structure Plan that is meant to guide the future development of the capital city.
Thimphu also has Bhutan's first expressway.