Folk Heritage Museum, Thimphu

Nestled in the heart of the Bhutanese capital, the Folk Heritage Museum, also known as Phelchey Toenkhyim, offers visitors a window into the rich cultural history of this Himalayan kingdom. Established in 2001 in Thimphu, this museum is dedicated to connecting people to the Bhutanese rural past through exhibits, demonstrations, educational programs, and documentation of Bhutanese rural life.

The museum itself is housed in a traditional three-story rammed mud and timber house that is over 150 years old, reflecting the rural architecture and lifestyle of Bhutanese families. It serves not only as a display area but also as a perfect example of Bhutanese craftsmanship and building techniques. The museum's tag as a "living" museum is apt, as it replicates a traditional farmhouse and provides a glimpse into Bhutanese life before the advent of modern amenities.

Inside, visitors can explore a range of household objects, tools, and equipment that were part of the daily life of Bhutanese families. The museum showcases different kinds of traditional kitchenware, clothes, and farming tools, along with a variety of other artifacts that have been used for centuries in Bhutan. It also illustrates how the people of Bhutan lived in harmony with their environment, making use of natural resources to craft items essential for their subsistence.

The Folk Heritage Museum also offers educational and interactive experiences, such as demonstrations of traditional food preparation, which includes a variety of Bhutanese cuisines made from homegrown ingredients. Traditional arts and crafts demonstrations are also a part of the museum's effort to preserve and promote Bhutan's intangible cultural heritage.

Visitors to the museum can also enjoy seasonal exhibitions that reflect the diverse cultural traditions and practices of different regions of Bhutan. These exhibitions provide a deeper understanding of the country’s regional differences and the richness of its cultural tapestry.