Reasons To Visit Bhutan
Buddhism is ingrained into Bhutan's landscape and daily life, with prayer flags, prayer wheels and white chortens. A basic understanding of Buddhism really does add to the experience of travelling through Bhutan, and helps one to really appreciate the complex visual tapestries that are found throughout the country.
Bhutan's dzongs are the most striking architectural feature of the country; large white washed forts with battered walls (inward sloping to appear larger than they actually are). They are the administrative and religious centres of authority in each region. Two of Bhutan's best known dzongs can be found at Punakha and Trongsa.
Festivals or 'tsechus' are a major part of Bhutanese life and offer a unique cultural insight into this Himalayan Kingdom. They are colourful affairs with lots of masked dancing and bright costumes offering wonderful photo opportunities. During the larger festivals Bhutan is very popular with tourists and some of its charm can be lost, so visiting the smaller festivals is advisable.
Gross National Happiness is a truly unique and very Bhutanese idea. It is a more holistic approach to development and is drawn from the Buddhist belief that the ultimate purpose of life is inner happiness. It has been used to measure Bhutan's development since 1972 when the fourth king proposed the idea.
Bhutan only has a fraction of visitors compared to most countries, with only a limited number of flights in and out of one airport. Visiting Bhutan you are able to experience a way of life that in the rural areas has largely remained unchanged for centuries. You may wish to visit a local farm or even stay in a simple traditional Bhutanese home.
Travelling through Bhutan it is easy to take the picturesque valleys for granted, but as soon as you leave you realise just how unspoilt Bhutan is. Although Thimpu, the capital, has expanded, the towns are very small - over each pass you descend into another beautiful and unspoilt landscape.
One of the best ways to explore Bhutan is by foot. There are numerous day walks that can be arranged and for those who want to trek we specialise in offering short two or three night treks.
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Paro is a picturesque town with an impressive dzong and interesting national museum. Nearby is Bhutan's most famous site, Taktshang, or Tiger's Nest Monastery.
Only 10 minutes from the centre of Paro, Gangtey Palace is a traditional Bhutanese style building with striking views over Paro. Facilities are simple but the relaxed and friendly ambience enhances any stay and the property is a particularly good option outside of festival times.
The Janka Resort is located about 10 minutes by road from the main town of Paro, set amid paddy fields with expansive views of the mountains in the distance and Paro valley and Dzong in the other direction.
This beautiful resort is located 20 minutes from Paro airport and the town itself, close to the ruined Drukgyel Dzong and surrounded by pine forests. The suites are stylish and comfortable and promote peace and tranquility. The spa offers a series of treatments to allow guests to unwind.
Situated on a 38-acre hilltop site and surrounded by pine trees, Uma Paro has spectacular views of the Paro valley, mountains and river below, all begging to be explored on foot. To complete the tranquility the indoor pool overlooks the countryside and there are healing therapies, massages and yoga.
17 days from £4,550pp
11 days from £3,350pp
13 days from £3,625pp
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Further reading:BhutanWhen to GoHighlightsItinerary IdeasPlaces to GoThings to DoAccommodationAbout BhutanCountry Guides
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