Travel Planning

The Takin: Bhutan’s National Animal & Where to See It

Explore the mystical takin—Bhutan’s national animal—and find out where to ethically spot these rare, goat-antelope hybrids in the wild across Bhutan’s lush forests and alpine meadows.

3 min

Deep in the misty forests and alpine meadows of Bhutan roams an animal unlike any other — the Takin (Budorcas taxicolor). With the body of a cow and the face of a goat, this strange yet majestic herbivore holds the status of Bhutan’s national animal, a symbol of both cultural legend and biological rarity.

For wildlife enthusiasts, understanding and observing the takin is an unforgettable experience that reveals Bhutan’s unique blend of myth, biodiversity, and conservation ethics.

The Myth Behind the Takin

The takin’s unusual appearance is often attributed to Bhutanese folklore involving the 15th-century saint Drukpa Kunley, known as the "Divine Madman." According to legend, after being asked to perform a miracle, he consumed a whole cow and a goat for lunch, then placed the goat’s head on the cow’s bones and brought the animal to life. The resulting creature, known today as the takin, began grazing peacefully — and has since remained an enduring symbol of Bhutanese mysticism.

Biological Profile of the Takin

Scientific Classification:

  • Name: Budorcas taxicolor
  • Family: Bovidae
  • Habitat: Forested valleys and alpine meadows (2,000–4,500 meters altitude)
  • Diet: Bamboo shoots, leaves, grasses, and herbs
  • Status: Vulnerable (IUCN Red List)

The takin is a relatively rare mammal found in the eastern Himalayas, particularly in Bhutan, northeastern India, and parts of China. Its shaggy golden coat, strong limbs, and ability to traverse rugged mountainous terrain make it uniquely adapted to Bhutan’s ecosystems.

Where to See the Takin in Bhutan

1. Motithang Takin Preserve – Thimphu

Best For: Easy access and education

This wildlife reserve, located just above Bhutan’s capital, is the most convenient place to observe takins in a semi-wild setting. Originally a zoo, the area was converted into a preserve in the 1970s after the Fourth King decided that wild animals should not be kept in captivity unless absolutely necessary.

Highlights:

  • A natural, forested habitat with open enclosures
  • Informative signage on Bhutanese wildlife
  • Regular sightings of takins, sambar deer, and barking deer
  • Great for families and short visits

Best Time to Visit: Year-round, though mornings offer better chances of active sightings.

2. Jigme Dorji National Park – Northwestern Bhutan

Best For: Wild encounters and eco-adventures

One of Bhutan’s largest protected areas, Jigme Dorji National Park stretches across highland meadows, river valleys, and dense forests — ideal habitat for wild takins.

Wildlife Bonus: Apart from takins, the park is home to snow leopards, blue sheep, red pandas, and over 300 bird species.

Activities:

  • Multi-day trekking (e.g., Laya–Gasa trek)
  • Guided nature walks with local ecologists
  • Birdwatching and high-altitude camping

Best Time to Visit: April to June, and September to November for clear skies and wildlife activity.

3. Bumdeling Wildlife Sanctuary – Northeastern Bhutan

Best For: Off-the-beaten-path wildlife spotting

Less visited than other reserves, Bumdeling Wildlife Sanctuary offers tranquil nature trails and the chance to spot takins in a truly wild environment. The sanctuary is also famous for hosting black-necked cranes during the winter months.

What Makes It Special:

  • Minimal tourist traffic
  • Deep cultural connections with eastern Bhutanese communities
  • High biodiversity with both temperate and alpine ecosystems

Conservation of the Takin in Bhutan

The takin is listed as Vulnerable due to habitat fragmentation and poaching in some parts of its range. However, in Bhutan, strict environmental laws and the country’s constitutional commitment to preserve 60% forest cover provide a strong foundation for conservation.

Efforts Include:

  • Protected areas such as national parks and wildlife sanctuaries
  • Wildlife education centers
  • Community-based ecotourism programs supporting habitat protection

Bhutan's approach balances cultural heritage with science-based wildlife management — ensuring that takins continue to roam freely across their ancestral lands.

The takin is more than just Bhutan’s national animal — it’s a living emblem of myth, resilience, and ecological harmony. Seeing one in its natural or semi-natural habitat offers a unique window into Bhutan’s rare biodiversity and its deep respect for nature. Whether you’re a photographer, a trekker, or simply curious about the wildlife that makes Bhutan so special, encountering the takin will add depth and meaning to your Himalayan adventure with Hi DMC.

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