Kingdom & Religion
Nestled in the Himalayas is the idyllic Kingdom of Bhutan. Bhutan cautiously emerged from isolation in the 1970’s and has since embraced a policy of strictly controlled tourism and development.
Bhutan is a rare gem. Due to air seat & hotel capacity restrictions Bhutan limits its tourist visitor numbers to an exceptionally low level on global standards. In 2011 approximately only 35,000 foreign tourists (excluding Indian nationals) obtained visas to enter and taste the delights of Bhutan’s wonderful Buddhist culture, marvel at her magnificent scenery, trek through a stunning array of mountains and valleys and occasionally view some of the world’s rarest flora and fauna in a largely unspoiled environment.
Bhutan offers sensational rewards for eco-friendly visitors and will continue to refrain from indulging in mass-market tourism, although an increase in visitor numbers has been approved largely by the procurement of extra aircraft due in service mid 2012.
Bhutan continues to resist rampant globalization and therefore has protected its strong Buddhist culture and way of life. There is little crime, a stable government and exceptionally friendly people.
Whether you are a:
- culture seeker
- trekker,
- scenery lover
- weaver
- nature lover … Bhutan is a must see destination, like no other.
Geography
The Kingdom of Bhutan, almost exactly the same size as Switzerland, lies east of the Indian state of Sikkim and west of the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh. It is south of Tibetan region of China and north of the Indian states of Assam and West Bengal.
Located in the heart of the high Himalayan mountain range, Bhutan is a land-locked country surrounded by mountains in the north and west. However its deep valleys running south from the Himalayas offer a remarkably temperate climate, even in winter when compared to northern Europe or northern USA, and a visit can be made any time of the year.
Altitudes in the south range from 300 to 1370 metres and in the more populated central region range from 120 metres in the east around Trashigang to a high of 5190 metres over the highest pass. The altitude at Paro is approx 2133 metres and in the capital Thimphu 2347 metres.
Religion in Bhutan
The Buddhist faith plays a fundamental role in the cultural, ethical and sociological development of Bhutan and its people. It permeates all strands of secular
life, bringing with it a reverence for the land and its well being. Annual festivals are held in each district, which are important spiritual occasions.
Bhutan is perhaps the only country in the world to retain the Tantric form of Mahayana Buddhism as its official religion. To ensure the perpetuation of Buddhism in the Kingdom, one son from each family normally attends monastic school, although this has become less popular over the last 5 years.
The Dzongs are both centers of administrative and government activities for an entire valley and they are also predominantly the homes and temples of the monastic community.
Larger Festivals Are Very Popular
The larger festivals, known as Tshechus and Dromchoes, are a major attraction in Bhutan and it is over these periods that air seats and hotel accommodation become very difficult to obtain unless you book well over 9 months in advance. Please refer click here for Festival dates. These larger festivals are generally held in March, April and September to November.
Note: Many travellers prefer to avoid the major festivals as this is when Bhutan is hosting the most overseas tourists at any one time and place.
