Bhutan
Overview
Peacefully snuggled between Nepal, north-eastern India and Tibet, for those in the know the Kingdom of Bhutan is one of the most sought after traveler destinations. Tiny, isolated and with a passion for the preservation of its heritage and nature, the Land of the Thunder Dragon has so far adopted a cautious approach to tourism, only extending its welcome to outsiders in the 1970s. It is fair to say that this heavily Buddhist country is not the easiest place to visit, but for those lucky enough to make it in, a whole new world of breathtaking natural beauty and ancient traditions awaits.
For anyone traveling to India and Nepal it may seem simple enough to cross the border and explore what is often described of as the Last Shangri-La. However, with government restriction on tourism numbers and an enforced daily minimum expenditure imposed on visitors, things are not so simple. This is not backpacker friendly but more of an upmarket Nepal. Current ruling states that all foreign entrants (besides Indians) must pay a minimum tariff of between US$200 and $250 per day. On the upside, whereas you may be encouraged to sign up with a local tour operator there is no enforcement to travel in groups or with a pre planned tour.
There is a loophole however, although the chances of succeeding are considered rather slim. Should, on the off chance, you meet or become friendly with a Bhutanese national then the daily fee can be avoided. This goes on the assumption that said national writes a letter to the government/immigration stating that they are inviting you into their home and thus willing to show you the country themselves.
Regardless of cost, there is no denying that Bhutan remains one of the worlds last pristinely kept paradises. Visiting the country allows the opportunity to witness a country that still runs on medieval traditions, where Buddhism prevails, archery is the national sport and the grass is greener than anywhere else on the planet. Furthermore, Bhutan is one of the last survivors on earth that thrives on the thing that really matters in life…..happiness.
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Bhutan
Destination Reviews
Things to do in
Bhutan
Thimpu - The country’s capital city and perhaps the world’s smallest capital, Thimpu is a mind-blowing showcase of Bhutanese architecture, art and culture. Explore the markets for exotic handicrafts and sample the delights of the nations spicy cuisine.
Paro - Explore this quaint little town that had its principal street constructed as recently as 1985, a great place for shopping. Paro is also home to the Taktshang Goemba, a remarkable monastery perched on the edge of a seemingly crumbling 900m cliff.
Trashi Yangste - Explore the remote side of Eastern Bhutan where rice fields shine above a sparkling river and local women while away the day weaving on their doorsteps.
Tongsa Dzong - Visit the family home of Bhutan’s royalty towering above a verdant valley. Experience history, seriousness and artistic flair at one of the country’s most prized possessions.
Bumthang - Drop down from Tongsa Dzong to Bumthang and lose yourself amidst the heart of Bhutan’s religion and culture, one of Buddhism’s oldest and most revered sites. Open the map and set off on two feet to uncover remote monasteries.
Phobjika - Spot endangered black-neck cranes, barking deer and leopards at the spectacular Phobjika glacier valley which boarders BlackMountainNational Park.
Buddhist Festivals - Festivals are an important part of Bhutanese culture and to the traveller a bombardment of colour, music and dance. Tschechu, celebrated throughout, is the most important festival and attracts over 30,000 revellers to Thimpu.
Archery - Archery is the national sport and competitions take place every weekend the length and breadth of the country. With the beer flowing freely the events get boisterous and visitors are encouraged to take part in the fun.
Trekking - See Bhutan’s breathtaking landscape and nature at its best on any one of numerous organised treks. Seasoned trekkers will be tempted by the challenging 25-day Snowman Trek. Less-experienced trekkers can take on the equally impressive Jhornolhari Trek which explores far off villages and the country’s most sacred mountain.
Gravity Defying Drives - Test the nerves and buckle up whilst driving over some of the world’s highest mountain passes. Gawp at the view from 3810metres along the Cheli La between the Haa and ParoValley. Travel along the Thrumhing La, the gateway to Eastern Bhutan. Dare to look down the bottomless drops of the Namling Cliffs.
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Bhutan
Activity Reviews
Hotels in
Bhutan
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Bhutan
Hotel Reviews
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Bhutan
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