Bhutan
The Kingdom of Bhutan, hidden in the heart of the high Himalayas between India and Tibet, is an exotic land of snow-clad peaks, lush valleys, dense forests and clear running springs – a pristine ecology with an incredible wealth of wildlife. For centuries it has been a nation shrouded in mystery, a land-locked sparsely-populated country of just 600,000 people that is the last surviving Mahayana Buddhist State in the world today. It is a land that offers travellers a discovery of the richness of nature and the simplicity of life, amongst warm-hearted and friendly people.
Bhutan’s King came to the throne when his father died whilst he was still a teenager studying in England. He is a much-loved King and has done a lot of good for his country. Whilst keeping his country isolated from the outside world for many years he built schools and hospitals and uplifted his people. He protected the land and still has over 70% covered with indigenous forests which are highly prized and well managed. Tourism has been strictly controlled and limited to reduce any negative impact and one must admire the Bhutanese effort to integrate the process of modernisation while maintaining the traditional lifestyle.
Paro, a place where the Bhutanese claim nature and man conjured to create their dearest image, is where the airport is. Many claim, with a smile, that the airstrip is the only straight road in this mountain kingdom. On arrival and taking the first breath of Bhutanese air, one is struck by the silence, purity and peace of Paro's valley. This beautiful terraced valley where the medieval town of Paro nestles is home to many of Bhutan's oldest temples and Dzongs. Thimphu is the capital town situated a few hours drive from Paro and is well laid out with many points of interest.
Bhutan is a country with a long history and culture uniquely its own. Beautiful architecture aligns with superb scenery as the villages blend into the countryside. Archery is the national sport and great enjoyment is had during it. Nature has been protected here and the endangered cranes which come from Tibet winter over in a protected valley in Bhutan where everything is kept for their safety – no electricity is allowed in this valley and they are welcomed as sacred visitors. Bhutan is also known for its spiritual dances and isolated monasteries.
The towering forests are filled with wonderful magnolias and rhododendrons, and great bird and animal life. Visiting Bhutan is a little like journeying through a time warp and one senses the major changes that are beginning to happen to this gem of a country. A visit here should be made as soon as possible before the country becomes too well known by tourists.