Bhutan

Nestled in the eastern Himalayas, Bhutan is a kingdom where spirituality, tradition, and landscapes combine in a uniquely refreshing experience for any traveler. It is also referred to as the Land of the Thunder Dragon – the only country in the world that lets Gross National Happiness take precedence over material success. Very few countries in the world emerge with unspoiled natural beauty, ancient monasteries, and deep-rooted Buddhist culture, hence mystical-a place that feels as though one is entering another era.

Wedged between Tibet to the north and India to the south, this is a kingdom of spectacular jolts, where snow-peaked towering ranges merge with undulating lush valleys and a display of color-drenched festivals illustrating centuries-old customs and rituals. From the amazing monastery on top of a seemingly impossible cliff-Tiger’s Nest Monastery of Paro Taktsang-to serene Punakha and Bumthang, Bhutan offers an outstanding journey of serenity, thrilling adventure, and self-discovery.

Whether you are looking for a spiritual getaway, a trekking tour along the virgin trails, or an engrossing plunge into a culture that time forgot, Bhutan is a unique destination that will make for a lifetime of memories.

General Information About Bhutan

• Area: 38,394 square kilometers
• Geography: A mountainous kingdom in the eastern Himalayas, bordered by China to the north and India to the south, east, and west.
• Capital: Thimphu
• Language: Dzongkha (official), with English widely spoken
• People: Bhutanese, mainly of Tibetan origin; very friendly people with a rich culture in Buddhist traditions. 
• Currency: Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN) 1 USD ≈ 83 BTN. 
• Time Zone: Bhutan Standard Time (UTC +6:00). 

Amazing Facts About Bhutan 

• The World’s Only Carbon-Negative Country – Absorbing more carbon dioxide than it can emit, Bhutan has become a haven for nature lovers and conservationists.
• No Traffic Lights in the Capital – Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan, is one of few cities in the world not to have traffic lights—and yet, its streets are wonderfully organized.
• Home to the World’s Happiest People – Bhutan has an alternative development philosophy: Gross National Happiness. This ensures the happiness of the people.
• Tiger’s Nest Monastery: Probably the most iconic landmark of Bhutan, precariously perched on a cliff, is a place of spiritual pilgrimage.
• A Land of Festivals-Tshechu: Colorful masked dances and religious rites reveal glimpses into Bhutan’s enduring cultural heritage. 
• Controlled Tourism for Authentic Experiences: Bhutan controls the number of visitors via a system of “high-value, low-impact” tourism policy to keep the travel experience intimate and pristine.
• It holds the world’s highest unclimbed mountain, Gangkhar Puensum, the tallest unclimbed peak in the world at 7,570m because it has been banned due to respect for spiritual beliefs in Bhutanese law.