Bhutan

This country manages to retain all the charm of the old world. You will encounter the wonder of the ancient land through its humble fortresses known as Dzongs, numerous ancient temple, monasteries and stupas which dot the countryside, prayer flags which flap along the high ridges, wild animals which thrive in dense forests, and foamy white waterfalls.

One of the most prominent features of Bhutan is its architecture. The characteristic style and colour of every building and house in the Kingdom is distinct. The Dzongs - themselves, imposing 17th century structures built on a grand scale without the help of any drawing and nail - are outstanding examples of the best in Bhutanese architecture.

Like its architecture, its art and painting are important facet of Bhutanese culture and they depict the spiritual history of Bhutanese life.

Understanding the Geography

The Buddhist Kingdom of Bhutan lies along the lofty ridges of the eastern Himalayas, bordered by China (Tibet) to the north and northwest, and by the Indian states of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, West Bengal and Sikkim on the east, south and west respectively. With an area of 46,500 square kms Bhutan is comparable to Switzerland both in its size and topography. The Drukpa Kagyupa school of Mahayana Buddhism provided the essence of a rich culture and a fascinating history. The Bhutanese people protected this sacred heritage and unique identity for centuries by choosing to remain shrouded in a jealously guarded isolation.

City’s in Bhutan

• Thimphu - the capital city
• Jakar - an administrative town in the north and the place where Buddhism entered Bhutan.
• Mongar - one of the largest towns in east Bhutan.
• Paro - the location of the international airport and Taktsang Monastery.
• Punakha - a former capital of Bhutan.
• Phuentsholing - a town on the Indian border, the point of entry for travellers arriving by bus from Calcutta.
• Samdrup Jongkhar - an administrative town in the southeast, near the Indian border.
• Trashigang - a picturesque administrative town in the east.
• Trongsa - a small administrative town famous for its Dzong.
• Wangdue Phodrang - a small administrative town located between Punaka and Trongsa

Understanding the Culture

The King and royal family are accorded much deserved respect in Bhutan. It is wise to bear this in mind when conversing with local people.

Always pass mani stones, stupas and other religious objects to the right, and turn prayer wheels in a clockwise direction.

Never sit on mani stones or stupas.

When visiting temples, remove shoes and hats, and wear clothing that expresses respect for the sacred nature of the site.

At monasteries, it is custom to make a small donation to the monks as a sign of respect, and also to the Buddhist statues as a means of developing a generous and spacious mind. However, this is not mandatory.

No Smoking at monasteries and public places. That was the general rule, and now it's the law.

What To See and Do

Permits are required to visit all monasteries, dzongs and sacred sites deemed of special significance. These permits are issued by the Cultural Affairs Office in Thimphu.

Kurjey Lhakhang

Is a temple built around a cave with a body print of Guru Rinpoche imbedded in the wall.

Taktsang Monastery

Is one of the most important Buddhist sites in the country, and Guru Rinpoche visited here on his second visit to Bhutan. The temple is built on a 1,200 meter cliff in the Paro valley and is Bhutan's most well known sacred site.

Bhutan is a popular place for trekking. However, the walks here are quite tough. There are generally no places to stay or eat in the higher regions, and so all food and camping equipment must be carried in.