Bhutan

The Land of the Thunder Dragon

Bhutan is a country that is full of surprises and delights. It is a place where ancient traditions and modern values coexist and where the pursuit of happiness is taken seriously. Visiting the heritage travel hub, Bhutan is an experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who has the opportunity to visit this magical country.

History

Bhutan is a small Himalayan country located between the  China and India. The land of happiness is often shrouded in mystery and mystique, with its unique culture, beautiful landscape and distinct way of life that has remained largely untouched by modernization. Drukyul is the name given to the country by its indigenous people. It is a land of slow travel.

Bhutan's yore is carried down from generation to generation through its folklore and sustainable tourism. Though modernity has been welcomed by the Bhutanese, they have preserved their culture and tradition in its rawest form. The unexplored places of Bhutan are proof of the same.

Geography & Connectivity ­

Bhutan experiences the spring season from March to mid-April. Summers in Bhutan usually begin in mid-April and extend till mid-September. The rainy days can be experienced from the later days of June and the winter season lasts from November to March. Overall, the weather remains sunny but the temperature drops below zero during the winter months. 

The best time to visit Bhutan is between October and December to enjoy the fresh air and clear skies. Visit during late spring to witness the Bhutan valley bejeweled with blooming rhododendrons. 

Located at a distance of 7 km from the city, Paro International Airport is the only international airport in Bhutan. There are connecting flights from various cities in India, Kathmandu, and Singapore. There is no direct train connectivity to Bhutan. However, you can reach the bordering towns in India such as Jaigaon or New Alipurduar and then take a taxi to Phuentsholing, the border town in Bhutan. If you prefer traveling to Bhutan by road from India, the official entry points are Phuentsholing, Samtse, Gelephu, and SamdrupJongkhar.

Nature & Wildlife

The JigmeDorji National Park is a world-famous point of attraction and a conservation travel hotspot. It is home to over 300 species of birds and 37 animal species. One interesting fact is that it is the only place that has Bhutan's national tree Cypress, national bird Raven, national animal Takin and national flower Blue Poppy co-existing together. Along with bird watching, multiple wildlife safari tours will give you an insight into Bhutan's wildlife. 

People & Community

The Dukpa community is a significant ethnic group in Bhutan, contributing to the diverse cultural landscape of the country. The term "Dukpa" translates to "People of the Dragon" and holds historical and cultural significance in Bhutan. The Drukpas are considered one of the major ethnic groups in the country, and their traditions and customs play a crucial role in Bhutanese society.The Dukpa people are of Tibetan origin and are part of the larger Tibetan-Mongoloid ethnic group. They primarily speak Dzongkha, the official language of Bhutan, and also use various regional dialects.They follows Tibetan Buddhism, particularly the Drukpa Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism. This school was established by Tsangpa Gyare Yeshe Dorje, and its monastic order has a significant presence in Bhutan. Monasteries and religious institutions associated with the Drukpa Kagyu school are prevalent in the country.They have unique cultural practices, including traditional festivals, music, dance, and rituals. Their cultural heritage is intertwined with Bhutanese customs, art, and lifestyle.

Bhutanese owe their cultural richness to years of seclusion. Witnessing the performance of Archery or da, the national sport of Bhutan must be at the top of your 'must-visit' list. The offbeat destination has over thirteen protected arts and crafts, and it is termed the ZorigChusum. A few of them are paper making, blacksmithing, ceramics and carpentry, just to name a few! It is an important aspect of village tourism of the land.

Food & Culture

Bhutanese cuisine offers a unique and flavorful culinary experience. Known for its love of spicy flavors, Bhutanese dishes often feature red and green chilies as key ingredients. From the famous national dish, emadatshi (chili and cheese stew), to momo (steamed dumplings) and red rice, Bhutanese food tantalizes the taste buds with its distinct flavors and cultural richness.

Rituals & Festivals

Jomolhari is a sacred land of Tibetan Buddhists. Historical folklore says that it is the abode of Goddess Jomo, the protector of the land. The famous crane festival is organized at the grounds of Gangteng Monastery. Those who are into photography tours, attend the Bhutanese festival!

The sacred places and museums of Paro are an eye-pleaser. Some of them are Tiger’s Nest Monastery, UgyenPelri Palace and PelriGoemba. Attending the  PunakhaTshechu festival and visiting the archaic PunakhaDzong is the best way to enjoy, if you are on a one-day trip to this majestic country. 

Travel attraction

Tourists can enjoy activities like white-water rafting, rock climbing, archery and mountain biking in Bhutan. Those who are planning a relaxed vacation can enjoy sound healing and meditation. Hot Spring Therapy ‘GasaTshachus’ is a must-do! In simple terms, the ecotourism hub is a hotspot for both fun and relaxation!

Paro Chu is famous for kayaking and rafting. The Tiger’s Nest Monastery Trek and Mt. Jomolhari are famous spots for trekking. 

The offbeat destination, Bhumthang is a picturesque hamlet adorned with beautiful fields. The four valleys of the land, namely Chumey, Tang, Ura and Choekhor offer a sight to behold, especially the glaciers. Phuentsholing, the gateway of Bhutan, is the second-largest town famous for its responsible tourism. This is the only place in Bhutan where Indians can travel without any permit. It offers its viewers some majestic sites like Karbandi Monastery, AmoChuu, ZangthopelriLhakhang and Bhutan Gate. 

Bordering the JigmeSingyeWangchuck National Park is a beautiful U-shaped valley of Phobjikha. Wangmo Hand-Woven Carpet Factory and GangteGoemba are other beautiful places to visit in this area.

Located in Central Bhutan, WangduePhodrang is famous for its slate and bamboo products along with stone carvings. Places that are a must-visit in this area are Eight Chortens, Archery Ground, Vegetable Market, Dzong Gate and RadakNeykhang.

Jakar in the Choekhor Valley is famous for its age-old Cheese Factory. Wangdicholing Palace and Bumthang Brewery are other magnificent attractions of Jakar. Trongsa nestles one of the most beautiful monasteries in Bhutan, the TrongsaDzong. The capital city, Thimphu is an attraction in itself with the Buddha Dordenma, Dechencholing Palace, Memorial Chorten and MotithangTakin Preserve multiplying the beauty manifold.

Gross National Happiness (GNH): Bhutan is famous for prioritizing Gross National Happiness, a holistic approach to development that focuses on the well-being and happiness of its people rather than solely on economic growth. GNH encompasses various aspects, including good governance, sustainable socio-economic development, environmental conservation, and cultural preservation.