Bhutan
Bhutan, Land of the Thunder Dragon, is a small Himalayan Kingdom about the size of Switzerland where the importance of Gross National Happiness is greater than that of Gross Domestic Product. Wedged between Tibet and the Northern Indian states of Assam, West Bengal and Sikkim, Bhutan has retained its cultural legacy whilst avoiding thoughtless modernisation and today is a curious mixture of Buddhist traditionalism and capitalist progression. With striking natural beauty, mountain fresh air, pristine rivers and a rich heritage, the Kingdom welcomes visitors from afar with genuine congeniality.
With an emphasis on the modernisation of education, health services, rural development and communication, King Jigme Singye Wangchuck is the architect of Bhutan’s development and his environmental conservation policies give precedence to ecological considerations over commercial interests. As a result, the country is free from any major industries that pollute the environment, the roads are not congested and the vistas are of pristine forests, fertile valleys and snow capped peaks. The people are genuinely happy, crime almost non existent and a total ban on smoking in the kingdom is in place.
Architecture is dominated by fortress-monasteries called Dzongs, living institutions that combine local government, public meeting areas and places of worship in grand design. Often perched on cliff tops overlooking the valley below, they are a dramatic reminder of the countries turbulent past when whole communities would take refuge from marauding armies within their walls.
Tourism to Bhutan can best be described as developing. The roads, which cling to the sides of the valleys and snake their way through mountain passes, are mostly in good condition and are far from busy, but progress is often slow and long journey times between places are common. Hotels are generally basic with local cuisine served from a buffet. International chains are slowly filtering into the country and there is a chain of 6 luxury lodges offering stylish rooms, international menus and relaxation massages. For the more adventurous, Bhutan is one of the best places to experience the Himalayas on foot and a wide variety of hikes and treks are available and white water rafting can also be easily arranged.
A holiday in Bhutan combines spectacular scenery, intriguing history and genuine hospitality with a sense of adventure and discovery. Call one of our Destination Specialists to start planning your trip to this beautiful Kingdom.
|