This small mountainous land of Thunder Dragon often referred as the Last Shangri –La lies between the two giant nations India and China. With 72.5 % of the land under the coverage of forest, Bhutan is a rich land of rare and endangered flora and fauna.
Buddhism first came to Bhutan in the 8th century with the visit of Guru Rimpoche. In the later period of 14th to 17th century lot of spiritual Gurus and teachers visited Bhutan which influenced and spread the teachings of Buddhism in Bhutan and to the other parts of nearby places. The people of Bhutan today practice the Mahayana Buddhism.
In 1616 Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal fled Tibet and came to Bhutan where he taught about Buddhism and established himself as the ruler of Bhutan. Bhutan enjoyed peace and unity during his entire reign as a spiritual leader. After his death, wars and fights for a strong leadership prevailed across the country. This instability lasted until 1907 when Gongsar Ugyen Wangchuck was elected and crowned the First hereditary King of Bhutan.
Bhutan was accessible by road only in the later sixties. The first tourist arrived Bhutan with the coronation of the Forth King, Jigme Singye Wangchuck. Since then tourism in Bhutan remained open. Every year the flow of tourist into Bhutan has increased dramatically. With the policy of low volume high quality, Bhutan has preserved its traditions and cultures despites modern development and western influences. The monastic body and the political system run simultaneously in Bhutan where the Buddhism, cultures and traditions are kept alive with the changing in the system of government.
The monasteries, temples, fortresses, prayer flags and traditional buildings that are prominent all over Bhutan provide a deep insight into the religious and cultural aspects of the country.
Quick Facts:
Total Area: 38,394 sq km
Population: 672,425
Capital: Thimphu
Local Time: 6 hours ahead of GMT and 1/2 hour ahead of Indian Standard
Time.
State Religion: Mahayana Buddhism
National Tree: Cypress
National Bird: Blue Poppy
National Animal: Takin
National Sport: Archery
Official Language: Dzongkha
Currency: Ngultrum (at par with Indian Rupee)
Life Expectancy: 66 years
Bhutan has adopted the concept of Gross National Happiness where the happiness of people is given more concern than the Gross Domestic Product. This concept was introduced by our forth king. With coronation of Fifth King Jigme Khesar Namgyal Wangchuck, GNH continues to be a top priority for the good and the well being of people. Bhutan is still moving ahead in terms of development, economic progress, tourism, education, social and polictical aspects.
Bhutan is a paradise for trekkers. Trekking in Bhutan is a unique experience and one of the few opportunities to see the beautiful Himalayan ranges that includes the flora and fauna. The trekking route passes through one of the most beautiful places in the world. Equally Tour in Bhutan provides insight into the most natural and beautiful landscapes.
Bhutan is the last hidden destination for the visitors. The landscapes and the natural environment which the people of Bhutan has protected and preserved for ages will provide you with contemplation all the time you stay in Bhutan and fill you with a want to come back again. The people here are friendly and quite, the countryside so majestic and natural. The arts, crafts and the paintings of Bhutan are known for its beauty and work of extravagant talents.
Come, Travel to Bhutan and experience the lifetime opportunity in this Hidden Land of the Thunder Dragon.
