“Did they really just wander off?” a surprised voice echoed through the crisp mountain air. We’re standing here at the Zoo Junction Behind Ministry Enclave, and this very spot was once part of a curious tale involving the national animal of Bhutan: the Takin. Now, before you picture a majestic lion or a powerful tiger, let me clarify. The Takin is an unusual creature, a blend of goat and antelope, with a unique, almost comical appearance. The story goes that the Takin’s existence is linked to a 15th-century Tibetan saint known as Drukpa Kunley, or “The Divine Madman”. Legend has it that he was challenged to perform a miracle and, in a feat of bizarre brilliance, combined the head of a goat with the body of a cow, bringing forth the first Takin.
For a time, Thimphu had a mini-zoo for these fascinating creatures. However, Bhutan’s fourth king, deeply respecting the nation’s environmental and religious beliefs, decided it wasn’t right to keep them captive. The Takin were released into the surrounding forests, free to roam as they pleased. What followed was a rather amusing predicament. The Takin, accustomed to human company and handouts, decided the bustling streets of Thimphu were more appealing than the wilderness. These gentle giants could be found strolling down roads and looking for treats outside shops. Imagine the sight of a Takin casually joining the morning market rush!
This charming habit, while endearing, posed a risk to both the Takin and the city dwellers. Thus, the Motithang Takin Preserve was born, a spacious, forested area on a hilltop overlooking Thimphu valley. Not quite a zoo, not quite the wild, the preserve provides a safe haven for the Takin while allowing visitors to appreciate these unique creatures up close. So next time you hear “national animal,” remember the curious case of the wandering Takin, a testament to Bhutan’s compassion and the quirky side of nature. This junction, forever linked to their tale, stands as a silent reminder of their adventure.