Motithang Takin Preserve is a small forested wildlife reserve in the hills above Thimphu, dedicated to the takin, Bhutan’s national animal. The takin is an unusual Himalayan animal with a heavy body, short legs and a distinctive curved nose, and Bhutanese folklore gives it an equally unusual origin. According to legend, the eccentric Buddhist master Drukpa Kunley, known as the Divine Madman, created the animal by attaching the head of a goat to the skeleton of a cow after eating both animals.

The preserve has an equally unusual modern history. It began as a small zoo, but the Fourth King, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, ordered the animals released because keeping them in captivity conflicted with Bhutan’s Buddhist and environmental values. The takins, however, had become accustomed to human care and refused to return to the forest. They wandered through the streets of Thimphu in search of food, so the present forested preserve was established for them.

Today, the preserve covers a sizeable area of wooded hillside where visitors can observe takins in a relatively natural setting. Sambar and barking deer can also be found within the enclosure. The best chance of seeing the takins close to the viewing areas is generally in the early morning, when they are more active and often gather near the fence for food. The preserve is a simple visit, usually requiring around 30–45 minutes, and works particularly well alongside the nearby Buddha Dordenma, Dechenphu Lhakhang and Sangaygang attractions.

The preserve is located in Motithang, approximately 4 km from central Thimphu. The drive takes around 10–15 minutes, with the road climbing through the forested hills above the city. A gravel walking path follows the enclosure, with a gentle slope from the entrance.

Altitude: Approximately 2,400 m (7,875 ft)
Location: Motithang, Thimphu
Distance from Thimphu city centre: Approximately 4 km
Drive from central Thimphu: Approximately 10–15 minutes
Days Open: Tuesday to Sunday.
Days Closed: Mondays and national holidays.
Opening Hours: 9:00 am to 4:00 pm
Best Time to Visit: 9:00 am to 11:00 pm, when the takins frequently gather near the fence.