Thari Goempa hike

This is a pleasant walk that’s easy to do in one day, but it does have a lot of elevation gain! Thari Goempa is visible east of Thimphu, nestled in the side of the mountain as you drive into Thimphu.

The start point is just above YHS School, you’ll have to walk through school grounds to get to it, but that’s perfectly acceptable. If you get lost, the staff on-site will happily point you in the right direction.

Keep heading up until you see a path veering off to the left of the road. Expect a collection of dogs to accompany as you walk. This walk will afford you excellent views of Thimphu valley from the east, and you’ll be able to see Phudjoding and Doedaydra on the opposite range at various points, and will end up looking down on Buddha Point. Depending on the season, the mountains behind the closest range will also have snow.

There are several places to stop and take in the view along the way—these are often dotted with prayer flags. In summer, wear a bell or talk/sing as it’s a known bear hillside. There are also wild boars, but they will likely keep their distance. In this way, the dogs are great companions and will alert you to anything lurking about.

The large Tibetan mastiff that greets you at the entranceway to the Thari Goempa is actually very friendly. He will join you at the picturesque picnic spot just inside, in the shadow of the chorten overlooking the valley. Head back the way you came, but note that there are a few branching tracks that take you along the mountain wall and all end down in Thimphu. Allegedly there’s a path over the top behind the goempa that will take you all the way to Dochula. Leave yourself plenty of time (8-10 hours) if you’re going to attempt this one.

Return the way you came down to YHS school.