population: 0.115 million

extension: 26.1 square kilometers

Museums

If you're in Thimphu and interested in visiting museums, I would suggest checking out the Royal Textile Academy of Bhutan, which features exhibits on Bhutanese textiles and weaving techniques. Another option is the National Museum of Bhutan, which showcases Bhutan's cultural heritage through art, artifacts and exhibits. If you enjoy visiting museums, you may also want to check out the Folk Heritage Museum or the Postal Museum, both located in or near Thimphu.

Food

Some of the most recommended and popular dishes to try in Thimphu, Bhutan as suggested by locals are:

1. Ema Datshi: A spicy dish made with chili peppers and cheese, which is a staple food in Bhutan.

2. Phaksha Paa: This dish features pork cooked with red chili peppers and radish.

3. Jasha Maroo or Maru: It is a spicy chicken dish cooked with onions, garlic, and tomatoes.

4. Momos: These are steamed or fried dumplings filled with beef or vegetables and served with hot sauce.

5. Red Rice: This is a type of rice that has a nutty flavor and is grown locally in Bhutan.

6. Suja: Also known as butter tea, this is a common drink in Bhutan that is made from tea leaves, butter, and salt.

7. Shakam Ema Datshi: This is a dried beef curry cooked with chili peppers and cheese.

8. Khur-le: It is a type of bread made with buckwheat flour and is a common breakfast food in Bhutan.

These dishes are typically eaten with the hand or spoon rather than with chopsticks or forks.

Activities

Some fun activities that local people in Thimphu enjoy include attending festivals, such as the annual Thimphu Tshechu festival which is held in the fall and features traditional mask dances, music, and performances. They also enjoy hiking or walking to the scenic Buddha Dordenma statue, visiting the weekend market (Thu-Sun) for fresh produce and handicrafts, and watching archery matches which are a popular sport in Bhutan. Additionally, you could visit a local monastery or temple, such as the Tango Monastery or the Cheri Monastery, both of which offer beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.