Bhutan - The Dragon Kingdom
Bhutan is a small kingdom nestled in the eastern Himalayas surrounded on all sides by Mountains. The people of Bhutan treasure their environment and with the teaching of Bhuddhism – “that all forms of sentient life, not just human life are precious” it is not surprising that Bhutan remains unspoiled and complete to this day. It is a bourgeoning country and not surprisingly very strict with tourist numbers, policies and development to protect its strong Buddhist culture and way of life. It is for this reason that Bhutan is a must see destination.
Bhutan offers the visitor a glimpse of the most rare and beautiful images from the jungle filled valleys to the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas to the friendly people who make up Bhutan.
Whether it is their culture, nature, scenery or trekking that calls you to Bhutan you will be captivated by it all and on arrival home the memories evoked will have you planning a return trip for more. PARO – It is said that Guru Rinpoche, the father of Bhutanese Buddhism arrived at Paro on a legendry flying tigress. For three months he meditated at what is now the site of the Takshang Lhakhang, or Tiger’s Nest Monastery, located high above the town on a rocky ledge with a stunning 800 foot sheer drop. Paro is also home to the National Museum and nearby are the ruins of Drugyal Dzong, a fortress of great historical importance.
PUNAKHA – Travelling over the 3000 metre Dochu La, or Pass, will bring you to Punakha and the extraordinarily beautiful Punaka Dzong. This imposing structure was first built by Shabrung Ngawang Namgyel in 1637; since then it has burnt down four times and been destroyed by earthquakes and flood waters running off the northern glaciers. It has been fully restored to its original splendour and is a perfect example of Bhutanese architecture.
THIMPU – In the heart of the Thimpu Valley nestles Bhutan’s capital city. Be sure to catch the weekend market where men and women in traditional dress sell hand-woven textiles, carved wood and jewellery from all over Bhutan. Tashi Cchoe Dzong is the impressive home of the National Assembly and nearby, Simtokha Dzong is the country’s oldest dzong and is now a monastic school. BUMTHANG – Bumthang or “the plain of ghosts”, covers the central Bhutan Valley of Chumey, Choekhar, tang and Ura. This is a magical landscape of rhododendron forests, blue pines, temples and monasteries, where Guru Padmasambhava performed feats and miracles and where the first king of Bhutan built the Lama Gompa for his two sisters who were nuns. This is a wonderful area for trekking with valleys, lakes and spectacular passes.