Sculptures and monuments inThimphu

Answer: The visiting card of the capital of Bhutan is the monastery-fortress Trashichho Dzong, the residence of the king and the center of spiritual power. Built in 1641 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the complex combines traditional Dzong architecture with carved wooden balconies. A must-see is the King Jigme Dorji Wangchuk Memorial Chorten, decorated with a gilded spire and mandalas.

Answer: Bhutanese temples display the classic 'dzong' style with massive whitewashed walls tapering upwards and red stripes under the roof. The XII century Changankha Monastery illustrates early Buddhist architecture with Thonka paintings and a gilded statue of Avalokiteshvara. A feature is the absence of nails in the design: the beams are fastened according to the "kagyu" system.

Answer: The National Museum of Textiles offers interactive exhibitions on traditional weaving of 'kira' and 'gho', where antique machines are displayed. In the Park "Forge Bridge" children will see craftsmen creating ritual bells "drillbu". To get acquainted with nature, the Motithang reserve is suitable, where takinas - the national animals of Bhutan live.

Answer: The observation deck at the giant statue of Buddha Dordenma opens panoramas of the city with monasteries against the background of the Himalayas. Norzin Lam street with painted facades of houses and carved window frames "carcher" is ideal for portraits. Unique frame - golden dragons on the roof of the National Library, symbolizing the "Druk" - Thunder Dragon of Bhutan.

Answer: Detsang Phubra Monastery, 7 km from the center, preserves ancient tanks depicting Padmasambhava, painted with mineral pigments. The Academy of Traditional Arts "Zorig-Chusum" allows students to learn 13 crafts, including casting masks "tsam". In the secluded sanctuary "Dolu-Lhakhang" there is a stone with the imprint of the body of Guru Rinpoche.

Answer: According to legend, the place for the dzong was indicated by Lama Phajo Friend Shigpo, who saw a flying crow here - the incarnation of Mahakala. In the 'Kunrei' (meeting hall) there is a ritual dagger 'Phurba', given to Shabdrung by Tibetan monks for protection from evil spirits. Every year, during the ceremony "Tshechu" in the courtyard, mysteries with masks "datsang" are played.