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What is the capital city of Bhutan? A) Kathmandu B) Thimphu C) Dhaka D) Colombo

Answer
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Answer: B) Thimphu


Explanation:

Thimphu is the correct answer as it serves as the capital and largest city of the Kingdom of Bhutan. This unique city holds the distinction of being one of the few capital cities in the world without traffic lights, relying instead on traffic police to manage the flow of vehicles at major intersections.


Located in the western central part of Bhutan, Thimphu sits in a valley at an elevation of approximately 2,320 meters (7,610 feet) above sea level. The city is home to around 115,000 people and serves as the political, economic, and cultural center of this Himalayan kingdom. It houses important government buildings, including the royal palace, parliament, and various ministries.


Let's look at why the other options are incorrect. Kathmandu is the capital of Nepal, not Bhutan. Dhaka serves as the capital of Bangladesh, while Colombo is the commercial capital of Sri Lanka (though Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte is the official administrative capital). These are all South Asian capitals, but they belong to different countries in the region.


Thimphu became the capital of Bhutan in 1961, replacing the former capital Punakha. The city beautifully blends traditional Bhutanese architecture with modern development, maintaining strict building codes that preserve its cultural heritage. Visitors to Thimphu can explore attractions like the Tashichho Dzong (fortress), weekend markets, and various monasteries that showcase Bhutan's rich Buddhist culture and traditions.