Thimphu is the capital of Bhutan, and also the name of the surrounding valley and dzongkhag, the Thimphu District.
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.
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 is the only national capital in Asia that does not have traffic lights. When local authorities installed a set of lights a few years ago, people complained that they were too impersonal. The authorities gave in, and took them down.