Bhutan

Bhutan, The name itself is enchanting enough to arouse the most connoisseur of travelers to wonder and daydream. The Kingdom of Bhutan is considered one of the last Shangri-Las on earth. It is located in one of the remotest corners of the world in the cusp of the Himalayas. 

Bhutan lies close to Tibet along the eastern Himalayan ranges that are over 7000m and was once part of Silk Road route. Bhutan’s history, culture and civilization stretches far back into time and has strong cultural links with Tibetans. In fact Bhutan was once ruled by Tibetan king Songtsän Gampo. 

The original inhabitants of Bhutan are Monpo people and national language of Bhutan is Dzongkha. Bhutan follows Buddhism as its state religion and has just over 700,000 people. Today the capital of Bhutan is Thimphu and modern cities include Paro and Phuntsoling. 

The topography ranges from subtropical plains in the south to sub-Alpine Himalayan ranges. There are 12 protected areas that include natural parks and wildlife sanctuaries in Bhutan that cover almost 42% land area of Bhutan. Some of the rare wildlife species found in Bhutan are Golden Langur, Tiger, Clouded Leopard, Hispid Hare, Sloth Bear, Red Panda, Himalayan Marmot, Tibetan Wolf, Snow Leopard etc. Similarly more than 5,400 plant species have been recorded in Bhutan. Today The world regards Bhutan as a role model and leader in environmental conservation because of its proactive and progressive environmental policies.  

Bhutan has some of the most exquisite Buddhist monasteries or Dzongs in the world. Chagri Dzong, Taktsang Dzong, Punakha Dzong, Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu Dzong, Tango and Tongsa Dzong etc. These monasteries host impressive festivals every year that remain major attractions for tourists as well.  

Paro Tshechu, Thimpu Tschechu, Jambey Lhakhang, Punakha Dhrubchen, Ura Yakchoe, Wandue, Tamzhing Phala Choetpa, Rhododendron Festival are some of the major festivals observed in Bhutan. 

Traveling to Bhutan today is like traveling back in time to an idyllic past where one encounters sustainable, healthy, colorful, enjoyable and a thoroughly satisfying life. That is why the country today is among the most sought travel destination despite the travel limitations imposed by the country so that this lifestyle is preserved for eternity. Trekking, Mountaineering, Bicycling, City Tours, Culture Tours, Wildlife Tours are some of the popular tourism activities in Bhutan.

Bhutan allows limited number of tourists every year to curb the negative impact mass tourism might bring on the environment and culture. Today national Dragon Airlines of Bhutan operate direct flights from Nepal to Bhutan throughout the year. Nepal Environmental Treks and Expedition organizes and operates Bhutan tours and treks in close coordination with Bhutanese travel agents.