Preserving Bhutan's Ancient Wisdom
Bhutan is renowned for its ancient Buddhist culture that can be experienced through carefully preserved manuscripts and literature. Among all the places in the Kingdom, the National Library Thimphu stands out as a premier destination that has preserved the nation's unique history, tradition, and culture through literary works. Dooars Bhutan Tours includes this cultural landmark in its customizable tour itineraries so that you can take a close look at the country’s rich history.
The peaceful atmosphere of the library offers a perfect setting to explore the centuries-old literary and cultural heritage.
It was established in 1967 by Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, the third King of Bhutan. The architecture of the library reflects traditional Buddhist-style architecture featuring hand-painted wooden beams and intricate geometric carvings. On the ground floor of the library, you will find the “world’s largest book” measuring more than two meters high. On the upper floors, you will find thousands of classical Buddhist texts and xylographs.
One of the library's most famous treasures is the “Kangyur”, a collection of Buddhist teachings believed to contain the words of Lord Buddha.
The National Library of Bhutan offers much more than just a general library. Here are the top reasons to visit this historical library:
The operating hours of the National Library of Bhutan vary due to seasons:
| Days | Operating Hours |
| Monday - Friday (Summer) | 9 AM to 5 PM |
| Monday - Friday (Winter) | 9 AM to 4 PM |
| Saturday & Sunday (Weekends) | Closed |
| National Holidays | Closed |
As compared to other historical sites’ entry fees, the National Library, Thimphu, offers a budget-friendly entry option.
| Visitors Category | Entry Fee |
| International Tourists | INR/Nu. 100 |
| Bhutanese Citizens | Free |
Having proactive knowledge about essential travel tips before visiting the National Library, Thimphu can help you enjoy a smooth, respectful, and deeply enriching experience. Here are some essential tips that you need to consider:
The best time to visit the National Library of Bhutan is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) months. This is because both these seasons align perfectly with the country’s peak tourist visit windows. Here is a seasonal breakdown for a clear understanding:
No, photography is not allowed inside the main halls out of deep cultural and religious respect.
The book consists of beautiful visual narratives that document the landscapes, cultural festivals, architecture, and daily life of the Bhutanese people.
Yes, you must wear modest, respectful clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. This is because the library houses many holy Buddhist texts.
Generally, it takes around 45 - 60 minutes to explore the National Library, Thimphu.
Yes, the National Library of Bhutan is a signature inclusion in our customizable Thimphu tour itineraries.
We offer carefully curated Bhutan tour packages from Jaigaon that cater to the diverse tastes and preferences of our customers. By choosing from our packages, you can eliminate the stress of cross-border logistics.
Here are the tailored Bhutan Holidays that we offer:
Although choosing a reliable travel agency in Jaigaon ensures that you receive comprehensive guidance and support throughout your vacation, self-knowledge helps boost confidence. Here is a comprehensive Bhutan travel guide prepared by our travel experts: