An interactive living museum that takes you through the journey of knowing and exploring the tradition of Bhutan. Simply Bhutan is a junction to learn the ins and outs of Bhutanese culture. Apart for preservation of the rich culture of Bhutan that is losing its grip in the modern era, this project was also aimed at creating employment for many people.
The Visitors are greeted with a shot of local arra (rice spirit), before being guided through mocked-up village scenes. These villages and the majestic infrastructure of this museum is an epitome of ancient Bhutanese architecture. The museum itself is created of timber, door and window frames that were once a part of ancient and traditional demolished houses. It houses the collection of old equipment that were once used by the ancient Bhutanese for distinct works. Traditional cooking wares and mock-ups of old styled kitchen offers one excellent knowledge about the lifestyle of people in Bhutan from decades.
A host explaining different utilities of traditional Bhutanese kitchen
The guide here takes you through the entire museum explaining every minute things in detail to give you an excellent prehistoric experience of real Bhutanese culture and traditions. Some of the other interactive activities also include taking a photograph in traditional Bhutanese dress, trying your hand in Archery and the dart game that is locally known as khuru.
Traditional Bhutanese masks on display
How to reach
By Air: The nearest airport to Simply Bhutan is Paro airport. Taxies from the airport are available for hire.
By Rail: There are no railways in Bhutan.
By Road: Buses form Phuentsholing and Gelephu are available to go to Thimpu. You’ll to hire a cab to go to Simply Bhutan thereafter.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Simply Bhutan or Thimpu in general is between March to May. The beauty of nature is at its peak, and the flora is also in its full bloom state at this time. Apart from this museum, many trekking route in Bhutan are also open to explore.