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Bhutan

Bhutan

Bhutan is an independent kingdom in the eastern Himalayas. It borders India, to the south and the Tibetan Autonomous Region of China to the north. King Jigme Singe Wangchuck is the present monarch and the fourth ruler of the dynasty founded by his great-grandfather in December 1907. Bhutan is a Buddhist kingdom and practice Mahayana Buddhism of the Drukpa Kagyupa sect. Because of its strict regulations and monitoring system, it was always difficult for outsiders to enter this Himalayan Kingdom. Centuries of isolation have kept the Bhutanese religion and culture to its original state. It is the most isolated country in the Himalayas, which opened up to tourism only in 1974. Two and a half decades have not brought much of a Western or industrialized influence into the Bhutanese society. Most of its natural resources have not been exploited for commercial development as yet. Ancient Dzong fortresses and monasteries, unspoiled landscape, lush green hills and valleys, turcoise blue mountain lakes, clean rivers, and sharp snow-capped mountains are among the attraction here. The highest mountain in Bhutan is Mount Chomolhari 7,200 meters.

The attraction of Bhutan includes not only the beautiful mountains but also its clean environment, sparsely populated countryside with attractive scenery, friendly people, great hospitality, and well preserved tradition and culture. Tsechu festivals are held in honor of Padma Sambhava, the Buddhist saint who introduced Buddhism to Bhutan in the 11th century. The festivals consist of 3 to 5 days of spectacular mask dances performed by monks. These festivals are held in the months of February, March, April, June, September, October, November and December, usually between the second and the fourth week of each month. The Bhutanese gather in their finest clothing and jewelry in the courtyards of Dzong fortresses to witness and celebrate the sacred teachings of the Buddha. Tsechu festivals are the best times to visit Bhutan. Formal dress is required for all festivals.

Blue sheep, numerous species of birds including Tibetan snow-cock and Langur monkeys, in the river valleys with heavy forest cover, are some of the wildlife commonly seen along the Chomolhari and other highland trekking routes. We also encounter many nomadic Yak herders and villages in the valleys of the mountains

Bhutan is a small landlocked country in South Asia, located in the eastern Himalayas. It is bordered by China to the north and India to the south, east, and west. Here are some key points about Bhutan:

Geography:

Bhutan is known for its rugged mountains, deep valleys, and forests. The country's landscape ranges from subtropical plains to towering peaks, including some of the highest mountains in the world. The famous Paro Taktsang (Tiger's Nest Monastery) is a significant cultural landmark and is perched on a cliffside above the Paro Valley.

Capital:

The capital of Bhutan is Thimphu, located in the western part of the country. It is the largest city and the center of political, economic, and cultural life.

Government:

Bhutan is a constitutional monarchy. The King of Bhutan, also known as the Druk Gyalpo (Dragon King), is the head of state, while the government is headed by a prime minister.The current King, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, ascended the throne in 2006, and his father, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, introduced the concept of Gross National Happiness (GNH) as a guiding principle for development.

Gross National Happiness (GNH):

Bhutan is famous for adopting Gross National Happiness as a measure of progress, rather than just focusing on economic growth. This philosophy emphasizes well-being, environmental sustainability, cultural preservation, and good governance.

Language:

The official language is Dzongkha, a Sino-Tibetan language. English is widely spoken, particularly in urban areas, and is used for education and business.

Religion:

Buddhism is the predominant religion in Bhutan, specifically Tibetan Buddhism. The majority of Bhutanese follow the Drukpa Kagyu school of Buddhism. There are also small communities of Hindus, particularly in the southern regions of the country.

Economy:

Bhutan's economy is largely based on agriculture, forestry, tourism, and hydropower. The country is known for its sustainable approach to development, maintaining a balance between economic growth and environmental protection. Bhutan has been able to preserve its natural environment through policies that limit deforestation and protect wildlife, including the famous snow leopard and tiger populations.

Tourism:

Bhutan has a high-value, low-impact tourism policy. The government restricts the number of tourists visiting the country annually to preserve its culture and environment. Tourists are required to pay a daily fee, which includes accommodation, meals, and a guide, and this money supports the country's development.

Culture:

Bhutan has a rich cultural heritage, with traditional festivals (such as Tshechu), music, dance, and architecture being integral to its way of life. Bhutanese architecture is characterized by Dzongs, which are fortress-like monasteries that also serve as administrative centers.  They are known for their intricate wooden architecture and religious significance.

Biodiversity:

Bhutan is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including the Bengal tiger, black bear, and red panda. The country is also recognized for its efforts in preserving biodiversity, with over 70% of its land area covered by forests.

National Symbol:

The Thunder Dragon (Druk) is a key symbol of Bhutan, appearing on the national flag, which features a dragon holding jewels in its claws.

Public Holidays:

Bhutan celebrates several public holidays, including Losar (the Bhutanese New Year), and national festivals that commemorate religious events and the King's birthday. Bhutan remains one of the world's most unique countries, with a blend of ancient traditions and modern development, always emphasizing the well-being of its people and the preservation of its natural environment.

Trips in Bhutan

Bhutan Bumthang cultural Trek
Bhutan Bumthang cultural Trek

Discover the Charm of Bumthang Cultural Trek: A Journey into Bhutan’s Heartland nestled in the cen

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15 Days

Bhutan Snowman Trek
Bhutan Snowman Trek

The Snowman Trek is one of the most challenging and scenic trekking routes in Bhutan, and it is ofte

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31 Days

Bhutan Thimphu Paro Tour
Bhutan Thimphu Paro Tour

Embark on an enchanting journey with our Bhutan Thimphu Paro Tour meticulously crafted by Himalayan

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7 Days

Bhutan Thimphu Tshechu (Festival) Tour
Bhutan Thimphu Tshechu (Festival) Tour

The Thimphu Tshechu is one of the most popular and significant festivals in Bhutan, held annually in

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9 Days

Dragon Heart Tour
Dragon Heart Tour

Embark on an extraordinary journey with our Dragon Heart Bhutan Tour, a 11-day odyssey that unveils

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11 Days

Druk Path Trek
Druk Path Trek

The Druk Path Trek is one of Bhutan's most popular and scenic trekking routes, known for its relativ

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7 Days

Jomolhari Trek
Jomolhari Trek

The Jomolhari Trek is one of Bhutan's most popular and breathtaking trekking routes, offering stunni

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14 Days

Laya Trek In Bhutan
Laya Trek In Bhutan

HMT could organizing special for Laya Bhutan Tour 21 nights 22 days Compare to the other treks this

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20 Days