Explore the nature-kissed beauty of Bhutan
Replete with sandy beaches, serene sunsets, whitewashed forts, colonial architecture, majestic churches and colorful ceremonies, the tropical paradise, called Goa is a perfect blend of modern and traditional offerings. Take a customized and well-planned package for Goa tourism, and enjoy a visit to all the popular points of interest, including the best beaches of this exotic destination.
The consolidation of Bhutan occurred in the year 1616 when Ngawang Namgyal, a lama from western Tibet defeated three Tibetan invasions and arrived at Bhutan. Also, the history of Bhutan reveals, Drukpa sect of Buddhism was the dominant religion in the region, so Bhutan came to be known as Druk Yul or The Land of Drukpas in the 17th century.
The cultural diversity of Bhutan dating back to the mid-17th century has been strongly preserved due to its geographical isolation. It is believed that nurturing the living culture of Bhutan will help guard the sovereignty of the country. The rich culture of Bhutan is strongly depicted by the national dress, festivals, music, dance, sports, art, cuisines and more.
The people of Bhutan are categorised in three ethnic groups namely the Sharchops from the east, the Ngalops from the west and the Lhotshampas from the south. Besides, there are other minority groups including the Bumthaps, Khengpas, Kurtoeps, Brokpas, Bramis, Sakteng. The main occupation of these people for livelihood is agriculture and weaving.
Established by law and tradition, the national symbols of Bhutan comprising the national flag anthem and emblem have the mythical Druk Yal in all three of them. Besides, the national animal is Takin; the bird is Raven; the flower is Himalayan Blue Poppy; the dress is Gho and Kira; the tree is Cyprus, and the game is Archery.
The thirteen arts and crafts of Bhutan represents the absolute spirit and identity of the Himalayan kingdom. These arts and crafts are being practiced from time immemorial which includes weaving, paper making, carpentry, painting, blacksmithery, sculpting, stonework, woodwork, cane and bamboo work and many other interesting things.
Rice and chillis form the main body of the Bhutanese cuisine accompanied by both meat and vegetables. Pork, beef and chicken are the most preferred meat in the country. Besides, the other popular food of Bhutan includes Ema Datshi, Paksha Paa, Jasha Maru, Goep and Red Rice. The must-try snacks include momos, shakam eezay, khabzey, shabalay and more.
Shopping in Bhutan gives a wonderful experience as tourists get the opportunity to shop from a variety of handicraft items; hand-woven textiles; gold and silver jewellery; Himalayan or Dzi beads; Wooden products; cane and bamboo items; Buddhist Paintings and sculptures; Thangkas; Yethras and a lot more. Tourists can take back them as souvenirs or gifts for the loved ones from Bhutan.
Being an integral part of the culture of Bhutan, folk music and dance plays a key role in transmitting social values. Of all the music genre, Rigsar is one such modern popular music genre of Bhutan. The other Bhutanese folk music includes Zhungdra, Boedra, Zhey and Zhem, Tsangmo and Lozey. Moving to the traditional and popular dance form of Bhutan, it includes the unique and interesting mask or cham dance.
For tourists who love spicy food, Bhutan is a place to be. The restaurants of hotels, roadside and cafes offer both mouth-scorching staple food along with the specialities. With many places to eat in Bhutan, the must-visit includes Sonam Throphel Restuarant and Campaca Cafe in Paro, Folk Heritage Museum Restuarant and Babesa Village Restuarant in Thimphu.
Travellers from across the world except India, Bangladesh and Maldives should obtain a visa clearance prior to travel to Bhutan with the assistance of a tour operator. The visa is processed by the Tourism Council of Bhutan within 72 working hours. Also, the Online Permit System has been launched to facilitate smooth visitation by tourists from India, Bangladesh and Maldives.
Right from luxury hotels to cozy mid-range hotels, from traditional homestay to guesthouses, the accommodation options in Bhutan offers warmth and comfort. No matter where tourists choose to stay, they can be assured of the best facilities and unparalleled Bhutanese hospitality. Also, choosing to stay in a traditional farmhouse will give an insight into the daily tasks of the Bhutanese people.
Travel Tips act as a guide when planning a trip to Bhutan. It not only lets one have an impeccable holiday but also reduce the efforts of planning. These tips are related to visa, travel permit, travel/medical insurance, the best time to visit, where to stay, shopping places, precautions to be taken, things to carry and a lot more.
Health in Bhutan is one of the government’s topmost priority and for this reason, there are more than 30 hospitals across the country. Every dzongkhag have medical facilities that are affordable and accessible and Thimphu has an indigenous hospital facility available. Also, there is a telephonic Health Help Centre which dispenses medical advice.
With a dramatic landscape, Bhutan is not just known for its unspoilt beauty but also the magnificent Buddhist monasteries. From the gorgeous Tiger Nest Monastery in Paro to Punakha Dzong Monastery, Bhutan will not just take you on a peaceful journey amidst serene surroundings but will also give you an insight into the impressive architecture.
The museums in Bhutan showcases the rich culture, tradition and heritage and folk forms of the Bhutanese people. Most museums are found in Paro, Thimphu and Trongsa. Of all, the must-visit museums in Bhutan include Folk Heritage Museum, National Museum of Bhutan, Bhutan Textile Museum, Ta Dzong Museum and more.
There are total of 20 districts in the Kingdom of Bhutan. Dzongkhags are the primary subdivisions of the country possessing the powers and rights under the Constitution of Bhutan. The popular districts include Punakha, Thimphu, Gasa, Paro, Zhemgang, Wangdue Phodrang, Haa, and more.
Following are the quick important links to access all the essential information of Bhutan.
