Explore Bhutan: The Land of Monasteries and Mountains
Perched high in the eastern Himalayas, shining between India and China, Bhutan is a small dreamlike paradise. It is a country where development is measured by Gross National Happiness (and not by Gross National Product), where chillies are considered as a vegetable and where the rice is red. Come take a tour of this magical land with us:
Known as the Last Shangri-La, Bhutan is blessed with far-reaching valleys, splendid Himalayas, and a plethora of rare fauna and flora.
1) Rinpung Dzong, Paro
Rinpung Dzong is popular as the Fortress on a Heap of Jewels and is a classic example of Bhutanese deep-rooted traditions and architecture.
What will attract you: Five storied central tower (Utse), open courtyard guarded by high rising walls.
Must know: Travellers are requested to wear long sleeve shirts (including men) to all Dzongs.
2) Buddha Dordenma Statue, Thimpu
The massive 51m-tall statue of Buddha Dordenma is an exemplary gold and bronze figurine visible from almost anywhere in Thimphu.
What will attract you: Kuensel Phodrang nature park, meditation hall seated below the giant Buddha statue.
Shhhh..Secret: Buddha Dordenma statue encapsulates 125,000 smaller statues of Buddha. Wow! That’s exquisite!
3) Tiger’s Nest, Paro- Unofficial Symbol of Bhutan
Hanging on a cliff, the Tiger’s Nest Monastery stands 900 meters above an alluring forest of blue pines and rhododendrons. That’s a majestic view!
What will attract you: Sacred monastery of Guru Rinpoche, scenic views of the Paro valleys, cave temple.
Please note: Camera, phone or any other gadget is prohibited inside the monastery.
4) Punakha Dzong- The Palace of Happiness
Impressively spectacular and distinguished, Punakha Dzong is the second oldest and the second largest dzong in Bhutan.
What will attract you: Intricate paintings and the architecture of the fort, ‘one hundred pillar hall’ which exhibits ornate murals.
A Visual Treat: This Dzong is strategically placed between two rivers that showcase a noticeable colour difference, leading to a magnificent sight.
Bhutanese call their home “Druk Yul,” which means “the Land of the Thunder Dragons.”
1) Snowman Trek
Starting at Paro, Snowman trek will lead you to the remote corner of the Lunana Valley through Lingshi and Laya.
Best Time: Mid-June to Mid-October
2) Mountain Biking in Paro and Punakha
For exploring further ruins and monasteries, mountain biking trails are an excellent choice.
Quick Tip: Ditch your car and take a bike to experience rugged terrains, swirling dives and gorgeous rice fields.
3) Rafting and Kayaking
River Mo Chhu is perfect for beginners, while the lower Paro Chhu River will attract a more adventurous crowd with its many small boulder rapids.
Highlight: Opt for a rafting tour that will cover various places across Bhutan through the white waters.
Unlike any other food you’ll ever eat, Bhutanese food is delectable. When in Bhutan, try out the following dishes:
Phrases to help you converse in Bhutanese:
Weather breakdown to help you choose the right travelling time:
Bhutan with its untouched beauty, stunning landscapes and legendary ancient temples, truly deserve your visit. So, wait no more! Plan a trip and explore the ‘Land of the Thunder Dragon’.
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