Dechen Phodrang
Dechen Phodrang is the site of Thimphu’s original Trashi Chhoe Dzong. Since 1971 it has housed the state monastic school. The 12th-century paintings in the goemba’s Guru Lhakhang are being restored by a United Nations Educational, Scientific, Cultural Organization (UNESCO) project. The upper floor features a large figure of Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal as well as the goenkhang (chapel devoted to protective and terrifying deities).
Near Dechen Phodrang
More to see around Thimphu.
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Restaurants
Ambient Cafe
A relaxed café above the city square with coffee, salads, sandwiches, hummus and vegan cakes. A good choice for vegetarians or a light lunch.
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Restaurants
Babesa Village Restaurant
Only traditional Bhutanese food, from ema datshi and sikam paa to jaju soup, served in an old rammed-earth farmhouse on the city's southern edge.
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Museums & Institutions
Bhutan Postal Museum
The museum features images that chronicle this journey, along with rare artifacts and Bhutan’s unique stamps, highlighting the nation's rich traditions and cultural heritage.
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Temples & Monasteries
Buddha Dordenma
Great Buddha Dordenma is a gigantic Shakyamuni Buddha statue located on Kuensel Phodrang ridge overlooking the city.
