BHUTAN - THE LAND OF HAPPINESS
Bhutan is famously known as “The land of the thunder dragon”, and is called Druk Yul by its people. It is also called the Switzerland of Asia because of its exotic natural paradise and cultural content. The predominantly Buddhist kingdom of Bhutan is nestled between two powerful nations, India and China. Located on the eastern edge of the Himalayan Mountain region, Bhutan is a tranquil landlocked country. Its capital city is Thimpu, whereas Dzongkha is its national language.
Bhutan is a natural paradise; you can explore its vibrant cultural heritage and tradition in its largely unspoiled natural environment through short hiking and trekking. Bhutan has world-famous places such as Paro, Thimphu, Bumthang, and Punakha, which are considered the best of Bhutan. Bhutan is also referred to as The Last Shangri-La for its clean, fresh air, rich historical structure, and magnificent art and architecture. No wonder Bhutan has made it to the top list chart of travelers due to its Soaring Mountains in every direction, photogenic citizens wearing traditional clothes, deep-rooted Bhutanese culture, abundant flora and fauna, eye-catching architectural buildings from large monasteries to the small hut, followed by the same design and warm hospitality of people living peacefully close to one another.
Paro Airport is the only International Airport in Bhutan. Every Bhutan tour starts with the adrenaline-filled landing at Paro, at 2,280 meters. The top must-visit attractions in Bhutan are Taktshang monastery (Tiger's Nest) and Kyichu Lhakhang, built by the Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo, and Paro Dzong, National Museum in Paro. You will be amazed by the magnificent Punakha Dzong, which is said to be the most beautiful fortress in Bhutan; likewise, Tashichho Dzong, the seat of the Bhutan government, and Buddha Dordenma, an incredible statue of Shakyamuni overlooking Thimphu Valley, are key highlights of Bhutan. National Textile Museum, Changangkha Lhakhang, National Memorial Chorten, and the most popular trek to Jhomolhari are enough to visit this mindful and calm Bhutan.
Location: Between India and China
Area: 38,394 km
Capital: Thimpu
Population: 741,700
People: The Bhutanese refer to themselves as the Drukpa people.
Nationality: Bhutanese
Official language: Dzongkha
Currency: Ngultrum (BTN)
Climate: Alpine to temperate to subtropical with monsoon season from June to September.
Natural resources: Hydroelectric power, timber, gypsum, and calcium carbide.
Industries: Cement, wood products, processed fruits, alcoholic beverages, and calcium carbide.
National animal: Takin
Travel Notes: Independent travel is not available in Bhutan. Travelers have to book Bhutan tours with authorized Bhutanese tour operators. You must apply for your Bhutan visa beforehand. Travelers need to provide a scanned copy of their passport (valid for up to 6 months, photo page) and 2 photos, fill out the clearance letter by email, and later pay for the visa fee to apply for it. Indian citizens won’t need a visa to enter Bhutan. While nationals of Bangladesh and the Maldives need only a valid passport with six-month validity from the date of entry in Bhutan.
