Imagine a place nestled away in the shadow of majestic mountains, an escape from the chaos and bustle of the modern world, where tradition and custom govern a harmonious and balanced culture. Shangri-La? No, Bhutan! This tiny and scenic country – the world’s only Vajrayana Buddhist nation – has captured the imaginations of generations of travelers.
Bhutan, also known as Druk Yul – the Land of The Thunder Dragon, can seem like two steps away from paradise. While the country is relatively poor, the truly destitute are almost nonexistent, and all citizens of Bhutan are entitled to free education and medical care. The Buddhist principles of harmony and order permeate all aspects of life – from the banning of environmentally-unsafe plastic backs to the institution of the "Gross National Happiness, designed to increase economic growth while honoring and preserving the country’s rich cultural heritage. This very care can make entering Bhutan difficult – the government is wary of "over-touristing" its sites – but ultimately render this idyllic country one of the world’s few truly untouched tourist destinations.
Go trekking
Snowman Trek by steynard
If you’re an adventurous traveler, consider seeing Bhutan the way it was meant to be seen – by foot. Experience the dramatic "Snowman Trek" in the remote area of Lunana, a must-do for the truly energetic, or visit the slightly more low-key Jigme Dorji National Park, whose many attractions include the red panda, barking dead, and – be careful! – the Himalayan black bear. Trekking requires a great deal of time and commitment – and the relative dearth of guesthouses outside the cities means that much of your room and board will consist of whatever you can fit in your backpack – but ultimately it is one of the best ways to experience the beauty and grandeur of Bhutan.
Get Culture
Taktsang Monastery by hockadilly
If you prefer museums to mountains, head to the Cultural Affairs Office in Thimphu to get permits to visit one or mor of the numerous cultural sites that make Bhutan one of Asia’s most fascinating nations. Head to a dzong, one of the ancient fortresses that have ben converted into each region’s civil headquarters. While the dzongs’ main attraction is their distinctive traditional architecture, many dzongs also double as store-houses for the nation’s artistic treasures. Be sure not to miss the Taktsang Monastery, one of the world’ most important Buddhist sites, a temple built into a steep 1200m cliff. Also worthwhile is the cave temple Jurje Lhakhang, locate at Jakar.
Go Dining
Ema-Datsi by juank.madrigal
Be sure to participate in some lower-key cultural activities as well. Be sure to try some of Bhutan’s flavorful, fragrant cuisine while you’re in the country, but be warned! The Bhutanese cuisine is based on one main ingredient: chili. If you dare, try the ema-datsi chili-cheese, or stick with the cooler "cheese momo," a steamed bun filled with cheese, cabbage, and onions. Don’t forget to participate in the key Bhutanese ritual of teatime, sipping a steaming cup filled with leaves from the nearby Assam and Darjeeling regions of India. Leave your hotel behind to try eating where the locals eat – try Bhukari restaurant in Uma Paro, Paro, with views of Paro Valley. Indulge in the nut-flavored pink rice, a Bhutanese specialty.
Celebrate
Tshechu by Andy Lederer
If you can, head to Bhutan around the time of Tshechu, the country’s largest religious festival, celebrated in late summer and Early Fall. Attracting over 30,000 people, the monks’ dances during Tshechu are deemed to be a sacred experience – even watching the dancers is enough to imbue you with a powerful energy. But while the mood is religious, it is certainly not solemn! Tshechu is a time of celebration and merriment, and one of the highlights of any traveler’s trip to Bhutan.
Excursions
Dzong of Punakha by Marina & Enrique
If you’re spending most of your time in cities, consider taking a cultural or nature excursion. Consider arranging a package walking tour heading to such worthwhile destinations as Punakha Dzong the ruins of Drukgyel Dzong or the Takshang monastery. Excursions may also put you in touch with the Bhutanese people, giving you an opportunity to engage in cross-cultural contact and experience some classic Bhutanese hospitality.
Photography
Paro Valley by jmhullot
Budding photographers can find much to see, do, and shoot in the scenic mountain expanses of Bhutan. Particularly worth capturing on film is the Paro Valley, a verdant expanse of land and river dotted by simple sacred buildings. Hire a taxi in the rather less charming main bazaar, and take a guided tour around the valley’s nooks and crannies. Also worth seeing is Bumthang, often known as the spiritual heart of the court, where four valleys – Chokor, Chhumey, Tang, and Ura all provide a stunning background to your photographic adventures.
Getting There:
Due to Bhutan’s wariness of diluting the country’s great cultural heritage, tourism is closely limited. You’ll need to get a visa through a licensed tour agency, which will provide you with accommodation, food, transportation, and a guide in addition to your visa. While a visa only costs around $20, you can expect to pay at least $200 per person for the tour.
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