BHUTAN

General Information of the Bhutan

Land of the Peaceful Bhutan, Nestling in the heart of the great himalaya, and called Druk Yul (Land of the Thunder Dragon) by its people, the Buddhist Kingdom of Bhutan is one of the world's most beautiful tourist destinations. Bhutan is a small country in the Himalayas between the Tibet Autonomous Region of China and India.

Besides the stunning natural scenery, the enduring image of the country for most visitors is the strong sense of culture and tradition that binds the kingdom and clearly distinguishes it from its larger neighbors. Bhutan is the only Vajrayana Buddhist nation in the world, and the profound teachings of this tradition remain well preserved and exert a strong influence in all aspects of life. Due to its pristine environment and harmonious society, the tiny Kingdom of Bhutan has been called "The Last Shangrila."

In terms of average wage, Bhutan is a poor country, however the land is fertile and the population small, so the people are well fed, and beggars and homeless are nonexistent. In addition, the current generation receives free education, and all citizens have access to free medical care. If a patient's ailment cannot be treated in the country, then the government refers the patients to reputable hospitals abroad.The sale of tobacco products is banned (foreign tourists and NGOs are exempt, though it is illegal for them to sell tobacco to locals), and smoking in public areas is a fineable offense.

Still, while Bhutan is often painted as a modern-day Shangri-La in the Western press, the country remains poor, with average life expectancy around 66 and a 7.2 per mil infant mortality rate. The kingdom became a parliamentary democracy in March 2008 upon the command of the Fourth King.

Culturally, Bhutan is predominantly Buddhist with a national language (although there are regional variations - such as Sharchopkha, the predominant language in Eastern Bhutan), and a common dress code and architectural style. Bhutanese people primarily consist of the Ngalops and Sharchops, called the Western Bhutanese and Eastern Bhutanese respectively. The Ngalops primarily consist of Bhutanese living in the western part of the country. Their culture is closely related to that of their neighbor to the north, Tibet.

The official name for the country is Druk Yul - Land of the Thunder Dragon - but due to the harmonious nature of the society, it has acquired the additional nickname of Deki Druk (Yul) - (Land of) the Peaceful Thunder Dragon.

THIMPU

Lying in a valley (elevation 2350) Thimpu is unlike any other capital in the world. The traditional architecture of its houses and buldings is particularly striking. The places to visit are the Memorial Chorten, dedicated to the late King Jigme the goverment of Bhutan and the summer residence of the central monk body. the Tradional Medicene Hospital where herbal medicines are prepared; the National Libray, a treasure trove of ancient texts; the National Institute for Zorig Chosum for thanks painting, sculpture, wood and slate carving, gold works, embroidery and traditional boot making; Changangkha Lakhang which contans anceint scriptures and thanka paintings; and Simtokha Dzong, Bhutan's oldest forttress which now houses a school for Buddhist studies. YOu can als visit the smithy on the other side of the Thimpu River to see traditional gold and silver smiths at work. the folk Heritage Museum, which showcases a typical Bhutanese farmhouse, and the Takin Santuary (The takin is the national animal of Bhutan ) above the Motithang area.

Getting there and away
Air is the best way to enter Bhutan is by Druk Air, the national air carrier. Following stations are connected with Druk Air flight .

Paro Airport , Bhutan
All tourists arrive at Paro who want to visit Bhutan and walk on the ground of fire dragon, among the holy picks of Himalayas. But not even assaulting any highest picks of the planet, travelers risk their lives before visiting the kingdom. It’s the only airport in the kingdom which is surrounded by the picks of Himalayas, with 4.880 meters up. Only a skillful pilot being aware of local circumstances well enough, can take out the engine among slopes surrounded by high trees, without touching the picks and get onto the most dangerous runway of the world.

Visa & Transport

Foreign travellers must prossess a visa for Bhutan which is granted initially for 14 days. While the actual visa is tamped on arrival in Bhutan upon payment of Us $20, visittors need to obtain visa clearance from the Tourism Authority of Bhutan (TAB) in advance. The visa can be extented in Thimpu for up to six months. The operator making your travel arrangements will handle the official formalities.
Transport is provided by tour operators who have their own fleet fo luxury buses. All major places of interest are connected by paved road.

BHUTAN PACKAGE TOUR PROGRAMMES