Did you know about the national animal of Bhutan? Well if your answer is no, then you’re not alone in that. Located in the district of Motithang in Thimphu, Motithang Takin Preserveserves as the home of the famous species of takin. Many travelers consider visiting this zoo-converted-reserve as one of the best tips while traveling to Bhutan. The Takin is a rare type of animal and falls under the goat species and their actual habitat is the eastern Himalayas. These animals live in the high altitudes of the country, also found in Northwest Myanmar, northwest India as well. These odd-looking animals according to the local legends were assembled by a 15th-century saint who agreed to create a miracle.
This saint joined the head of a goat at the top of a cow’s skeleton and brought this new type of animal to life. Apart from myths, this animal is the result of evolution and has a protracted nose, large head, and strong torso provides it a different look. The Takins live around the 8.4 acres from the rainforest and the Bhutan government is taking good care of them by preserving the species and they do not keep the animals in a zoo because they believe in non-confinement of animals in a Buddhist country.
Timings: Tuesday to Sunday – 9 AM to 4 PM; Closed on Mondays
Entry Fee:
- Locals: INR 10 per person
- SAARC National: INR 30 per person
- Foreigners: INR 50 per person