Imagine a mountain kingdom where most of the land is covered by forest and happiness is used as a measure of wealth. Hidden away in the Himalayas between China and India, the Buddhist nation of Bhutan has only been open to tourists for 50 years.
Away from stresses and chaos in the western world, much of the tiny nation’s unique qualities remain perfectly preserved: traditional dress is worn, festivals are celebrated, and ancient rituals are carried out as they have been for hundreds of years.
Environmental conservation and cultural preservation are key priorities for the government, leading to an extraordinarily peaceful and harmonious way of life - for everyone.
The kingdom's ancient traditions and colourful present-day culture are deeply rooted everywhere you look - in its architecture, festivals, and vibrant displays of traditional dance and music – a feast for culture lovers.
Bhutan’s landscape varies from towering white-capped mountains to green valleys adorned with prayer flags, creating an overwhelmingly scenic backdrop for hiking trails. Trek part of the Trans Bhutan Trail, a restored network of ancient trading routes, or hike through pine forest to the vertiginous Tiger’s Nest Monastery.
And don’t be fooled into believing this is a nation of pious, retiring devouts. The Bhutanese have a wicked sense of humour and are always ready to share legends, bawdy tales and offbeat traditions. This is, after all, a country with naked festivals, polyandrous tribes and a reverence for phallic symbols.
Three great ways to see it
We’ve crafted three great itineraries for you – focussed on the several different ways to see and experience the best of this wonderful country.
The first is predominantly a cultural tour of Bhutan’s most interesting towns and cities. It allows more time to delve deeper into the country’s history and heritage, to experience its fascinating culture, and to meet and converse with the ever-happy locals:
CLICK HERE to see the itinerary
The second - hiking the Trans Bhutan Trail – offers a mix of world-class hiking on breathtaking Himalayan trails and visits to Bhutan’s sights and cultural highlights:
CLICK HERE to see the itinerary
The third - Bhutan's Thimphu Tshechu & Gangtey Tshechu Festivals – offers the opportunity to experience two of the most important festival in the country.
CLICK HERE to see the itinerary
