Royal Takin Preserve

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Description

The Royal Takin Preserve in Thimphu is one of those places that quietly steals your heart without even trying. Set in the Motithang district, this wildlife preserve is home to Bhutan’s national animal—the takin. And let me tell you, the takin is unlike anything else you’ve probably seen before. It’s got the body of a cow and the head of a goat, which sounds odd until you see one in person. Then it just makes sense somehow. The preserve was originally a small zoo, but when the animals refused to leave even after being set free, it was turned into a protected area. There’s something poetic about that, isn’t there? The takins chose to stay, and so the people decided to protect them right where they were.

Walking through the preserve feels like stepping into a calm, green pocket of Bhutanese wilderness. The trails are shaded by tall trees, and if you go early in the morning, you might hear birdsong echoing through the forest. The air smells fresh—pine and earth mixed together—and it’s the kind of place where you end up slowing down without realizing it. You’ll spot takins grazing lazily, maybe a sambar deer peeking from behind a tree, or a goral climbing the slope like it’s no big deal. It’s not a flashy attraction, but that’s what makes it special. It’s peaceful, real, and deeply tied to Bhutan’s sense of respect for nature.

Now, not everyone who visits falls in love instantly. Some people expect a large safari-style experience and end up calling it too small or quiet. But if you go in with the right mindset—curious, patient, and open to subtle beauty—you’ll find it’s a wonderful place to spend a couple of hours. It’s especially good for families, kids, and anyone who wants to see Bhutan’s wildlife in a responsible way. Plus, the preserve doubles as a rehabilitation center for injured animals, which adds a layer of meaning to your visit. You’re not just sightseeing—you’re supporting conservation.

Key Features

• Home to Bhutan’s national animal, the takin—a rare and fascinating species found only in the eastern Himalayas.
• Originally a mini-zoo, now transformed into a natural preserve that allows animals to roam semi-wild.
• Scenic walking trails that wind through forested terrain, perfect for short hikes and nature walks.
• Other wildlife residents include barking deer, sambar deer, and goral.
• Picnic areas with tables for visitors who want to relax and enjoy lunch outdoors.
• Public restrooms and wheelchair-accessible parking make it convenient for all travelers.
• Kid-friendly environment with easy trails and educational opportunities about Bhutan’s wildlife.
• Serves as a rehabilitation center for injured or rescued wild animals.

Best Time to Visit

If you ask me, the best time to visit the Royal Takin Preserve is during spring or autumn. From March to May, the weather is mild, the forest is lush, and the air feels crisp. You’ll see the takins grazing more actively, and the light filtering through the trees is just magical for photography. Autumn—around September to November—brings clear skies and comfortable temperatures, making it perfect for walking the trails without breaking too much of a sweat.

Winter can be chilly, but there’s a certain charm in seeing the takins against the backdrop of frost-tipped grass. Summer, on the other hand, can get quite wet due to monsoon rains, which makes the paths slippery and sometimes muddy. But if you don’t mind a bit of drizzle and you love that earthy smell after rain, it could still be worth it. Just bring a rain jacket and good shoes—you’ll thank yourself later.

How to Get There

Reaching the Royal Takin Preserve is actually pretty easy if you’re already in Thimphu. It’s just a short drive from the city center—about 15 to 20 minutes depending on traffic and how often you stop to take pictures (which, trust me, will be often). Most travelers either hire a local taxi or include it as part of a guided city tour. The road winds gently uphill, and as you climb, you start to get glimpses of the valley below. It’s one of those drives where you roll down the window just to feel the cool mountain air on your face.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even hike up from certain parts of the city. It’s not too strenuous, and the walk gives you a nice taste of Thimphu’s quieter neighborhoods. Just make sure to carry water and maybe a snack—you’ll want to linger once you get there.

Tips for Visiting

Here’s where a bit of insider advice comes in handy. First off, go early in the morning or late in the afternoon. The animals are more active during these times, and the lighting for photos is softer and more flattering. Midday visits can be hot and the takins tend to laze in the shade, which makes them harder to spot.

Wear comfortable shoes because while the trails aren’t long, they can be uneven in spots. If you’re traveling with kids, keep an eye on them—there are some small slopes and rocky areas. And bring a light jacket. Even on sunny days, the breeze can get surprisingly cool once you’re under the trees.

One thing I always tell people: don’t rush through. Take your time to watch the animals, listen to the birds, and just soak in the stillness. It’s not a place that demands excitement—it rewards patience. And if you’re into photography, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to capture those quiet, candid moments that feel authentically Bhutanese.

There’s also a small information area where you can learn about the takin’s origin story. According to local legend, the takin was created by Lama Drukpa Kunley, the Divine Madman, who magically fused the head of a goat and the body of a cow after a feast. Whether you believe the story or not, it adds a touch of mystique to the experience. Bhutan has a way of blending myth and nature so seamlessly that you start to see both as part of the same story.

If you’re planning a picnic, the preserve has designated spots with tables where you can relax and enjoy your meal. Just remember to clean up after yourself—Bhutan takes environmental preservation seriously. And honestly, it’s refreshing to see how clean and well-maintained the area is. Even the locals treat it with quiet reverence.

For accessibility, the preserve has parking areas that accommodate wheelchairs, and the main paths are fairly easy to navigate for most visitors. It’s one of those rare attractions that manages to be both wild and welcoming at the same time.

On a personal note, I still remember the first time I saw a takin there. It was standing on a small ridge, chewing lazily, completely unbothered by the few of us watching from below. There was something oddly majestic about it—like it knew it was being admired but didn’t care either way. That’s the mood of the Royal Takin Preserve in a nutshell: calm, grounded, and quietly beautiful. It’s not trying to impress you, but it does anyway.

So, if you’re planning a trip to Thimphu and want to experience a piece of Bhutan’s natural and cultural soul, this preserve deserves a spot on your itinerary. Go with an open heart, a bit of curiosity, and maybe a camera—you’ll leave with more than just photos. You’ll leave with a story.

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