Motithang Takin Preserve

What creature has the face of a goat and the body of a cow? Here at the Motithang Takin Preserve, you’ll meet the Takin, Bhutan’s national animal. The Motithang Takin Preserve isn’t just a home for these unusual animals. It’s a testament to Bhutan’s respect for its wildlife. Originally a mini-zoo, the King decreed the Takin should roam free. Released into the surrounding forests, the Takin, accustomed to the confines of the zoo, wandered the streets of Thimphu. They stubbornly refused to reintegrate into the wild. Thus, the Motithang Takin Preserve was born, a dedicated space where they could thrive. The Takin’s story is steeped in legend. It’s said that in the 15th century, the Divine Madman, Drukpa Kunley, created the Takin during a religious gathering. Asked to perform a miracle, he devoured a whole cow and goat, leaving only bones. He then attached the goat’s head to the cow’s skeleton. With a snap of his fingers, the Takin sprang to life. This magical creation cemented the Takin’s place in Bhutanese culture. At the Motithang Takin Preserve, you can witness these fascinating creatures up close. Observe their golden coats shimmering in the sunlight. Notice the powerful build that allows them to navigate their mountainous habitat. The preserve isn’t just a zoo. It’s a symbol of Bhutan’s commitment to conservation and its reverence for the legendary Takin.