Thimphu is the largest city in Bhutan. It is considered the repository of Bhutan’s beautiful religious practices and cultural art forms. If one wishes to experience Bhutan in its prime, Thimphu in January would be ideal. Considering all of the abovementioned facts, Thimphu could be one of the top destinations to explore during the New Year. Here are a few activities you can indulge in at Thimphu in January.
Top 10 Things To Do In Thimphu in January
For those of you who are still not convinced of Thimphu’s exquisite nature, allow us to change your mind as we list the various things you can indulge in at Thimphu in January:
1. Vajrayana: Rejuvenate your body and soul
Thimphu is one of the few destinations where the Vajrayana art of Buddhism is still followed with extreme diligence. For those who are oblivious to this variant of Buddhism, Vajrayana Buddhism is a subtype of religion that focuses on rites and rituals to heal or provide a shorter path towards enlightenment. By following this, you don’t need to go through several rounds within the ‘Samsara’, which, in the Buddhist culture, is a term used for the never-ending cycle of birth and rebirth. Regardless of whether you believe in Buddhist beliefs, Vajrayana Buddhism is known to heal mental and, sometimes, even physical wounds efficiently.
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2. Thimphu: Learn about Buddhist culture
One can seek spiritual well-being not only through the intricate religious practices within the Buddhist culture. Thimphu is also one of the few destinations where nature exists in its purest and unadulterated form. One who finds solace within dense woods can venture into the expansive mountains surrounding Thimphu to seek inner calmness. That is the beauty of Thimphu – it acknowledges several methods to seek peace through spirituality instead of forcing seekers to traverse one path. If you’re someone close to the Buddhist culture or seek peace in silence, Thimphu will welcome you with open arms and offer you everything you want.
3. Thimphu: Visit the protective deity of Bhutan
Image Credit: Bernard Gagnon For Wikimedia Commons
Believed to have been built as a protective barrier to saving travellers from an evil spirit, the Simtokha Dzong stands tall as a symbol of protection for Thimphu.The Simtokha Dzong is as historically informative as it is spiritually vital for the people of Thimphu. A large statue of Yeshe Gonpo, the chief protective deity of Bhutan, is housed within the structure, which coexists harmoniously with the chambers of both Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel and Jigme Namgyel, two of the most important figures in Bhutanese history.
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4. Thimphu: Go hiking
Given the rich spiritual background of Thimphu, one would be wise not to assume that the heart of Bhutan doesn’t have anything for individuals who seek a thrill through an adventure. Thimphu offers an array of treks ranging from an easy 3-day adventure that you’ll find within the trails of the Bumthang Cultural Trek. Whether it is someone who wants to experience the scenic beauty of the mountains enclosing the city or who wants to push their physical being to the extreme as an opportunity to explore themselves, Thimphu always has something in store that pertains to your preferences.
5. Bumthang: Explore the scenic trails
Image Credit: Phuentsho For Wiki
Thimphu in January is the perfect time to experience the scenic trails of the Bumthang Cultural Trek, often called the ‘Cultural Heartland of Bhutan’. The Bumthang Cultural is one of the easiest treks and is the perfect option for those who have never experienced the thrill of trekking. Spanning over 3 days, the Bumthang Cultural Trek explores the vibrant displays that the mountains collectively create for the tourists. Along with being the most viable option to experience the beautiful landscapes of Thimphu, the Bumthang Cultural Trek also acquaints explorers to the culture of the land.
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6. Thimphu: Indulge in adrenaline-rushing activities
Along with Thimphu’s various treks, Thimphu also hosts multiple activities brimming with a nostalgic sense of adventure. Biking and kayaking are the most popular choices in the area. Off-road and on-road biking allow visitors to experience nature, unlike how one would experience it while travelling on well-paved roads. Travellers opting to bike around the landscapes of Thimphu will find an opportunity to interact with nature in a rather intimate and personal fashion, one that you would fail to see within the hustle and bustle of an urban area. Bikers can opt for a trail that fits their style, speed, and skill, allowing veteran bikers to witness unexplored corners through off-road trails. In contrast, the more novice bikers can opt for an on-road trail that still offers scenic views you’ll seldom experience on a four-wheeled vehicle.
7. Thimphu: Get inside a mineral-rich hot spring bath
Given the repository of rites and practices practised here, Thimphu, Bhutan, would be the ideal destination if one is seeking to escape from a mundane routine to refresh one’s soul. For that very purpose, Thimphu is brimming with opportunities to achieve the same. It offers a wide selection of spots for an extended meditation session and allows visitors to refresh through a mineral-rich hot spring bath.
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8. Explore The Great Buddha Dordenma
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This spiritual tourist attraction comprises 125,000 smaller Buddha statues lined within the larger structure, each made of bronze and gilded with gold, built to symbolize the innumerable Buddhas that take birth within one ‘Kalpa’. The Buddha Dordenma statue symbolizes Bhutan’s dedication and respect for the Buddhist culture and is also said to have been built to fulfil an ancient prophecy. Regardless of whether one believes in the concepts of prophecies, the Buddha Dordenma statue remains one of the most intricately designed man-made structures.
9. National Memorial Chorten: Witness a true architectural miracle
Image Credit: Bernard Gagnon For Wikimedia Commons
Another attraction sure to bewilder the hearts of tourists is the National Memorial Chorten. The National Memorial Chorten is a monument dedicated entirely to world peace, justifying the beliefs of Buddhism to usher the world into a non-violent era. The word ‘Chorten’ literally translates to ‘Sea of Faith’, representing the hopes of everyone within the city to one day witness a world where the human race is united as one. The Memorial Chorten lines with gorgeous paintings and artwork; the locals call it the ‘Mind of Buddha’. It is structurally sound and complete with vibrant displays and the wishes for the well-being of every tourist that sets foot through its doors. The National Memorial Chorten can be experienced best in Thimphu in January.
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10. Thimphu: Embrace the harmony between the flora and fauna
Because of the unwavering dedication towards spiritual beliefs, Thimphu is a city where humans live in perfect harmony with animals that roam the land. As Buddhism emphasizes the act of ‘Karma’ and being against all that is violent, every stray animal that roams the city of Thimphu is always well-fed and cared for. If you find yourself bubbling with the joy of seeing animals treated as they should be, then Thimphu will pique your heart to extreme happiness levels.
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Thimphu is the land of religion, festivals and many adrenaline-inducing adventures. That alone justifies its place on a traveller’s list. Brimming with a rich cultural history and various art forms, Thimphu is nothing short of an explorer’s paradise. Book a trip to Bhutan in January if you plan a trek during the New Year. You can also pre-book your tickets to avail of exciting discounts.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Thimpu In January
Is it a good time to visit Thimpu in January?
Yes, January is a good time to visit Thimpu if you plan to visit the destination during winter. Apart from this, October to December is also an excellent time to visit the destination as the weather is pleasant, with sunny skies.
What is the weather like in Thimpu in January?
The weather in Thimpu in January is typically cold. The temperature ranges from 7 degrees Celsius to -6 degrees Celsius. So, if you are someone planning to visit the destination during the winter season, January would be the best time to visit.
Does it snow in Thimpu in January?
The temperature during January is reasonably cold. It is also the best time to visit for anyone planning a winter trip. However, you can only find one or two-day snowfalls there, and the temperature usually drops by the end of January.
What are the things to do in Thimphu in January?
There are many exciting things to do in Thimpu in January, including learning about Buddhism, temple hopping, hiking, boating, cycling, exploring flora and fauna, and witnessing the surreal views.
What are the places to visit in Thimphu in January?
Thimphu is the sixth-highest capital in the world by altitude. Thimphu is famous for its culture, peaceful music, and picturesque views. Thimphu has many places to visit, including Buddha Dordenma, Dochula Pass, Tashichho Dzong, Thimphu Chorten, Changangkha Lhakhang etc.
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Gaurav is an entrepreneur by profession and an avid Yoga enthusiast. He loves to explore and know about Varied traditions, arts and colourful cultures of people at different places around the world. He loves to spend time in nature and to read books.
