Consistently voted the happiest country in the world, the little nation of Bhutan is set at the far eastern end of the Himalayas, between India and China. Bhutan only began to open its doors to outsiders in the 1970s and still has a strict sustainability policy regarding tourism. As a result, it has retained a deep cultural authenticity and has preserved its environment admirably, making it one of Asia’s most beguiling and unforgettable destinations. Highlights include incredible forts and temples perched on sheer mountain cliffs, a rich (predominantly Buddhist) culture, and spectacular scenery – ranging from temperate sub-tropical plains and valleys cloaked with dense forest to lofty sub-Alpine mountains capped with snow.
Wangdue Phodrang is named after the dzong (fortress) which dominated the district in central Bhutan. Built in 1638 by the nation's founder, Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, the architectural wonder served as a temple and administrative centre. In 2012, the dzong burnt down, supposedly due to an electrical fault and plans are on track to rebuild it. The town has a charming and picturesque atmosphere. Tourist shops line the main street and there’s a colourful weekly farmers market. In autumn, Wangdue Phodrang Tshechu is observed for three days; a traditional festival known for the Raksha Mangcham (the dance of the Ox).
Resting in a lush green valley of hills and rice paddies, Bhutan’s capital city of Thimphu is the country’s commercial and religious hub, and is known for its interesting fusion of ancient and modern elements. Historical architecture and ancient traditional elements juxtapose with contemporary buildings and sensibilities. The imposing, stately 350-year-old Tashicho Dzong Fortress is currently used as the administrative centre of the county, and is also the king’s office. Visitors can explore the gold-spired Memorial Chorten, a revered Buddhist shrine; see the intricate frescoes and slate carvings at Simtokha Dzong; and discover the Bhutanese way of live through exhibits and folk dances at the fascinating National Folk Heritage Museum. The city bustles with cafes, clubs and restaurants, thereby offering the best of old- and new-world charms.
The little village of Gangtey is located in the beautiful Phobjikha Valley, within the Wangdue Phodrang District in Central Bhutan. Set at an altitude of 3000 metres, and tucked away in an ancient glacial valley of lush greenery and cultivated farmlands, it serves as the perfect base from which to explore the spectacular surrounding wilderness. The village is home to several fascinating sites, namely the 17th-century Gangtey Monastery, the only Nyingmapa monastery on the western slopes of the Black Mountains. In winter, visitors can spot endangered black-necked cranes, which migrate from the Tibetan Plateau and the vast plains of Central Asia to this warmer corner of the world. The lucky few can enjoy the famous Tshechu Festival, a lively and colourful annual celebration featuring a vibrant mix of games, costumes, dancing and drumming.
The scenic hilltop town of Trongsa rests on a steep ridge overlooking overlooks deep valleys blanketed by lush greenery and surrounded by sweeping vistas in the heart of Bhutan. Dating back to the 16th century - the nation's beginnings - this historic town is the royal family's ancestral home, and each crown prince first has to serve as a penlop (governor) of Trongsa. Piercing the mountainous skyline is Trongsa Dzong, a majestic monastery shrouded by cloud and mist from its lofty height high above the Mangde Chhu river. The interior reveals an impressive maze of courtyards, corridors, temples and towers adorned with mandalas and Buddhist statues. Other highlights include the stately Thrupang Palace, an isolated hideaway set on stunning landscaped gardens, and the densely forested Jigme Singye Wangchuck National Park, one of the country's largest national parks.
Dubbed the mini Switzerland of Bhutan, Bumthang is a patchwork of rural farmlands that form a splendid tapestry in the valleys of Bumthang. Forested hills meet the valley floor, offering a lush landscape for exploring the surrounding natural environment. Look out for Burning Lake, a quiet riverside spot offering an ideal opportunity to sit and meditate. Bumthang is made up of four valleys: Ura, Chumey, Tang and Choekhor, each with its own dialect. Ancient temples and monasteries abound in this beautiful environment. Visit Jambay Lhakhang, one of the 108 monasteries built by Tibetan King Gampo to subdue evil spirits in the Himalayan region. Other sights include the Kurje Lhakhang monastery and the local brewery.
As previously described
