Bhutan is known as ‘the land of Gross Domestic Happiness. GDH is the basic measure of the country’s economic performance. It is measured as per peoples’ happiness. In the lap of the Himalayas, Bhutan is the smallest country that is bounded by Tibet and India. The land boasts of its stunning natural scenery. Bhutan has a strong culture and tradition that binds the kingdom. The country is only one Vijrayana Buddhist nation in the world.
Bhutan’s early history is steeped in mythology that still remains obscure. Whatever its history could be explored, the land never have been under any other nations. When Buddhism came to the land in 747, Bhutan has no central ruling power. Local monasteries ruled the different parts of the-then Bhutan. The land had witnessed many wars during its medieval period of History. During the modern period of its history, Bhutan has been developed more and more. In the 1972 and afterwards Bhutan has entered the outside world for taking part into the international business and politics. The country is gradually establishing diplomatic relations with other nations and joined many international organizations.
Major attractions of the country are Jigme Dorji National Park, Jigme Sinmye Wangchuck National Park, Royal Manas National Park, Thrumsingla National Park, Bomdeling Wildlife Sanctuary, Khaling Wildlife Sanctuary, Phibsoo Wildlife Sanctuary, Sakteng Wildlife Sanctuary, Toorsa Strict Nature Reserve etc. A few interesting thins of Bhutan are: one can find red rice as the main food of Bhutanese. Chilly is not just a seasoning, but also the entire dish. Buying cigarettes is completely prohibited in Bhutan. In this Buddhist land travelers can find men wearing tunics. These things make one’s tour unique, although it is one of the world’s expensive lands.
Bhutan boasts of its colourful festivals throughout the year. The main festival of the country is Paro Tshechu in the last week of the March or first week of April. They also enjoy Chorten Kora, Ura Tshechu, Wangdu Tshechu, Tamshing Phala Seopha, Thimpu Tshechu, Tangbi Mani, Jambay Lakhang Drup etc.
Red rice is the staple food of Bhutanese. It has a nutty taste and it grows in the high altitude of the land. Zow Shangoo is also most popular rice dish, which is mixed with leftover vegetables. Emma Datshi is made spicy with cheese and chillies. Butter tea and rice wine are most popular beverages among Bhutanese. Cardamom, garlic, ginger, chilies, turmeric, and caraway are mostly used in any dish in Bhutan culinary.
The climate varies with altitude in Bhutan. The temperature drops dramatically with increases in altitude. The days are pleasant with sunshine in the land while night gets cold hour by hour. April to middle of June is the best time to visit Bhutan when travelers can get minimum rainfall and pleasant temperature.
Bhutan has a wide range of hotel accommodation that suits all kind of budget and luxury. There are many hotels where you can get last minute booking facility. Online booking is also reliable in all the leading hotels in Bhutan.
Paro is the international airport of Bhutan. It is well connected to Nepal, Delhi, Kolkata, Dhaka (Bangladesh). Reaching Bhutan by road is not an issue for any traveler. Jaigon of Bhutan is the boarder entry point that is 150 km away from Siliguri (West Bengal). Cars are also available in between Jaigon and Siliguri. |