Why visit
Thimphu is the capital of Bhutan. A practical starting point for museums, food, and onward routes into the country.
Bhutan at a glance
Country center
27.5°, 90.5°
Coast
Landlocked
Country area
38,394 km²
14,824 mi²
Country population
787k
20/km²
Subregion
Southern Asia
Currency
Bhutanese ngultrum (Nu.)
BTN
Dial
+975
Language
Dzongkha
Demonym
Bhutanese
Internet
.bt
UN
Member state
ISO code
BT / BTN
Where in the world
27.5° · 90.5°
Bhutan
Open in Google Maps ↗
Click the map to open in Google Maps. Outline via svg-maps/world · CC BY 4.0
Did you know
- Bhutan measures Gross National Happiness instead of GDP: it's the only country to do so officially.
- The country is carbon-negative: forests absorb more CO₂ than the nation emits.
- Bhutan only opened to foreign tourists in 1974, and visitors must pay a daily Sustainable Development Fee.
Bordering Bhutan
Plan checks
- Choose a neighborhood first: many capitals have tourist centers that are not the best places to stay.
- Public transport passes usually beat taxis and rideshares for multi-day visits.
Explore more
Frequently asked about Thimphu
What currency is used in Thimphu?
Thimphu uses the Bhutanese ngultrum (Nu.), ISO code BTN.
What languages are spoken in Bhutan?
The primary language is Dzongkha.
What is the international calling code for Bhutan?
The calling code is +975.
Other Asia destinations
Bhutan
Bhutan is a destination in Asia where the landscape is the point. National parks, coastlines, forests, or mountain travel anchor most itineraries.
Brunei
Brunei is a destination in Asia known for its cultural identity: local traditions, music, crafts, and a distinctive regional character that differs from its neighbors.
Cambodia
Cambodia is a destination in Asia layered with historical sites and heritage routes. Plan an itinerary around ruins, old quarters, monuments, and museums.
China
China is continent-sized travel. The Great Wall, Forbidden City, Xi'an's Terracotta Army, Chengdu pandas, Guilin karst rivers, and Shanghai's skyline. With high-speed rail linking most of it.
Cyprus
Cyprus is a destination in Asia with coastlines and warm-water travel at its core. Plan around season, swim conditions, and regional island or coastal routes.
Georgia
Georgia (the country) is Caucasus travel. Tbilisi's old town, Kazbegi mountains, Kakheti's 8,000-year wine tradition, and a food scene that stands alongside any in the region.