A 15 minutes drive from Thimphu Town, the preserve houses herds of Takin and some other rate animals.
Takin Preserve is located at Motithang, a 15 minutes drive from the Thimphu Town. An enclosed area in the woods away from the settlement houses herds of Takin and some other rare animals such as Muntjac deer, Sambar, and Serow. These mammals are protected and fed. Initially established as a mini-zoo, keeping animals in captive did not align with the national value of environmental conservation and Buddhism, therefore His Majesty the Fourth King decreed the animals be set free however these mammals refused to inhabit the surrounding forests and were seen wandering the roads of Thimphu looking for food, hence were put back into captivity.
Takin was recognized as the national animal of Bhutan in 2005 due to its strong association with the history of Bhutan. Legend has it that this unique animal which has a head of a goat and a body of a cow was created by a Tibetan saint Drukpa kunley, popularly called by the epithet “The Divine Madman”. The Motithang Takin Preserve has been an essential part of Thimphu city and is one of the tourist attractions in Thimphu.
The tourist can enjoy a short stroll in the nature around the enclosed area and watch these magnificent mammals. There is also a small cafeteria where the visitors can enjoy some snacks.
Timings:
Open on: Tuesday – Sunday
Closed on: Monday
Opening Time: 9 AM- 4 PM