Biggest Cities And Towns In Bhutan

Bhutan is a landlocked sovereign state in the Eastern Himalayas. China and India are the bordering countries of Bhutan. In 2008, the governance of the country transitioned from an absolute to a constitutional monarchy, and the first general elections of the country were held in the same year. Bhutan’s cities and towns each have their unique characteristics. Thimpu is the nation's biggest and capital city. Paro is the site of the country’s international airport. Bhutan's commercial hub is Phuntsholing and Punakha is the country’s former capital. The administrative headquarters of Tsirang District and the Bumthang District are Damphu and Jakar respectively. Mongar is the nation’s eastern commercial hub.

The Four Biggest Cities/Towns Of Bhutan

Thimpu

Thimpu is the Kingdom of Bhutan’s largest and capital city. Thimpu stretches from north to south on the west bank of the Raidāk River’s valley. It is the world’s third highest capital city and lies at an altitude of 2,248 meters to 2,648 meters. Thimpu is the economic and political center of the country and its agriculture and livestock industry contributes to 45% of the Gross National Product. Tourism is also a popular source of income in the city. The National Assembly of Bhutan and the Dechencholing Palace of the King of Bhutan as well as other political buildings of Bhutan. Thimpu has a rich cultural heritage and the art, architecture, and people’s way of life in Thimpu reflects the culture of the country.

Phuntsholing

Phuntsholing, a border town of Bhutan on the India-Bhutan border, is located in southern Bhutan. It is the Chukha District’s administrative seat. The cross-border trade between the Indian town of Jaigaon and Phuntsholing has greatly boosted the economy of this Bhutanese city. Phuntsholing is a major industrial, trading, and financial hub of the country. The town is regarded as the gateway to the trade centers in India. The border is also one of the friendliest ones in the world and tourists and traders from both the countries pass peacefully across the border to visit or conduct trade in the neighboring country.

Punakha

Punakha is Punakha dzongkhag’s administrative center. Until 1955, the city served as the capital of the country and seat of government. Punakha can be reached by a 3 hours drive from Thimpu that is 72 km away from the city. Punakha is relatively warmer than Thimpu in winter and is at an elevation of 1,200 meters above sea level. Punakha is also home to the Palace of Great Happiness that was constructed in 1637 and is the most beautiful Dzong in the country.

Samdrup Jongkhar

Samdrup Jongkhar is a town located in Bhutan’s Samdrup Jongkhar District in the south-eastern part of the country. It is the main trading town in eastern Bhutan. Coal mining around this town contributes significantly to the country’s economy.