Bhutan is the best little secret of Asia. Overshadowed and nestled between China and India, it is a relatively new travel spot, with many undiscovered secrets in its natural scenery and quiet townships. The land is dotted with red-clothed monks, ancient Buddhist temples and friendly smiles. It is one calm country, where gross national happiness is more important than money, where chillies are used as a vegetable rather than for spice, and the thunder dragon, Druk, is emblazoned on the national flag, symbolising the people of Bhutan: loyal, patriotic and living with a total sense of belonging within the kingdom.Highlights
A magical kingdom in the Himalayas nestled between two spiritual hubs, Tibet and India, it would be hard not to feel closer to enlightenment in this hidden paradise.
Bhutan is quite possibly the most environmentally friendly country in the world; by law 60% of the country must remain protected national forest and the country actually absorbs more carbon than it uses.
Journey to Taktsang, commonly know as the Tiger's Nest, the small monastery clinging to a rocky cliff 900 metres above the valley floor and soak in its magnificence.
While it’s legal to consume imported meat, the slaughtering animals for consumption within Bhutan is outright banned therefore delicious veggie dishes are varied and bountiful at every meal.
Experience an optional Dotsho, a traditional Bhutanese medicinal bath where river water is heated solely by using fire-roasted river stones in a wooden bathtub. Fresh artemisia leaves are added and the stones crack to release minerals into the water while the herbs release their essential oils.
Hike to the top of Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten for gorgeous views of the valley and rice terraces surrounding you.
Here's just some of what our past travellers have learned from their travels to Bhutan: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/adventures/bhutan-tour-learnings/
- You will visit the following places:
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Thimphu
Thimphu also spelt Thimpu, is the capital and largest city of Bhutan. The city became the capital of Bhutan in 1961. The culture of Bhutan is fully reflected in Thimphu in respect of literature, religion, customs, and national dress code, the monastic practices of the monasteries, music, dance, literature and in the media. Norzin Lam is the city's main thoroughfare and is lined with hotels, shopping complexes and hotels. Tshechu is an important festival when mask dances, popularly known as Cham dances, are performed in the courtyards of the Tashichho Dzong in Thimphu.
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Punakha
Punakha is the administrative centre of Punakha dzongkhag, one of the 20 districts of Bhutan. Punakha was the capital of Bhutan and the seat of government until 1955, when the capital was moved to Thimphu. The dzong is the main attraction, but there are also other sites of interest in and around this pleasant little town. Along with Paro and Jakar, Punakha completes the triangle of most popular tourist destinations.
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Paro Airport