Motithang Takin Preserve

Originally established as a zoo, Motithang Takin Preserve is a large fenced enclosure. Takins are a rare type of goat-antelope living in the Eastern Himalayas, and it’s worthwhile taking time to see these oddball mammals. The four subspecies of the Takin reside in high altitudes throughout Bhutan, Northeast India, Northwest Myanmar, and the Chinese section of the Himalaya. The Preserve has been an essential part of Thimphu city and is one of the major tourist attractions. The tourist can enjoy a short stroll in the nature around the enclosed area and watch these magnificent mammals.

About Takin
Due to its strong association with the history of Bhutan, Takin earned the recognition as the national animal of Bhutan in the year 2005. Takin looks like a cross between cow and a goat, and as per a local legend, a 15th century saint invented the creature after he agreed to conjure up a miracle in exchange for lunch.
The saint then slapped the head of a goat atop a cow’s skeleton and brought this new animal to life. Although the animal resembles a muskox, it is actually more genetically similar to sheep; this is the reason why the biologists and zoologists are all keen to study more about this creature.

About Motithang Takin Preserve
The legend behind establishment of the preserve is that few years ago, the fourth king of Bhutan decided that all the animals from the zoo should be released, and the zoo be dispersed as it was not in keeping with Bhutan’s environmental and religious convictions. But, the Takins were so domestic and docile that they wandered around the streets of Thimphu looking for food and shelter. So, the only solution was to put them back in.
Motithang Takin is an enclosed area in the woods away from the settlement, and houses herds of Takin and some other rare animals such as Muntjac deer, Sambar, and Serow. The Takins now live within the 8.4 acres of carefully managed forest land. It’s because of the Takin’s status as the national animal; they are being given proper care and attention by the Bhutanese authorities.

Best time to visit
The best time to see the Takins is early morning, when they gather near the fence to feed. Other Takins roam in the Dihang-Dibang Biosphere Reserve in India.