Bhutan at Glance
Thimphu is the capital city of Bhutan positioned in
the western region of the country at the altitude of 2,248 meters from sea
level. It is the fourth highest capital in the world by altitude. In the year
1961 Thimpu was declared the capital city replacing from Punakha the ancient
capital of the nation. Thimphu might be the only capital to not have its own
airport. It depends on the Paro airport located at the distance of 54Km from
the capital city.
Paro is a small district in Bhutan with beautiful
valley and small town. It is the only place with international airport, Paro
Airport. Historically speaking Paro has been a significant place. It has seen
some good trades as well as invasion from Tibetans. It has closest cultural
connection with Tibet and holds various important monasteries.
Punakha is a small town with beautiful scenery that
will mesmerize you. It was once the capital of Bhutan. It is 3 hours drive from
Thimphu but comparatively it is blessed with temperate climate. Two rivers that
flow, feeds the valley with abundant crops and fruits. There are many
recreational activities that you can enjoy along the river and also some famous
temple that you can enjoy.
Phuntsholing is a border town in southern Bhutan
which shares its border with Indian town of Jaigon. Phuntsholing is the
commercial hub of the nation. This is the place from where most of the things
get imported into Bhutan. Tourist from India, Bangladesh and Maldives do not
need visa to enter this part of the Bhutan but to travel any further you will
need to make a travel permit.
Trongsa is one of the districts located in the
central Bhutan. Hotels and Guesthouse of Trongsa offers beautiful view to the
guest. One can easily see the majestic Dzong from anywhere in the town. It
stands on the steep ridge and gives visitors a sight to capture. Historically
Trongsa holds a very important place as it was here the Wanchuck dynasty came
to power. Your visit can be very insightful about the kingdom of Bhutan.
Wangdue Phodrang is one of the largest Dzongkhag in
the country covering over 4308 sq,km. Most of the District is environmentally
protected. Wangchuck Centennial Park, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck Park and Jigme
Singye Wangchuck national Park are all in this district. Biological corridors
connecting the important reserves also pass through this district. This
district is for nature lover’s paradise.
Haa is one of the smallest districts in the country.
This tiny region is one of the most beautiful and isolated areas in the kingdom
covered by pristine alpine forest. This area is least visited by the guest and
retains unspoiled environment. It is home to nomadic herders and beautiful
valley. If your interest is hiking then we suggest you to list it down in your
bucket list.
The Kingdom of Bhutan is a small landlocked country located in the foothills of the Himalayan range. Bhutan is bordered by Peoples’ Republic of China and Republic of India in the north and south, respectively. It is just over 38, 394 sq. km of land area and 700,000 in terms of population. People speak “Dzongkha” and “Ema Datshi” is a delicacy among the Bhutanese.
Bhutan is popularly known for Gross National Happiness and her people claimed to be one of the happiest in the world. People in the country principally practice Mahayana Buddhism as religion. However, the constitution allows all religion in the country.While the country is small, the country has a diverse culture and the state of richness in it is profound. For this matter, people don indigenous dress called “Gho” for men and “Kira” for women. Festivals are a key aspect of Bhutanese culture and fun fair a part of them.
Bhutan is also among the 10 biological hotspots in the world with over 70% of her land under forest cover. This is ensured through the constitution mandating 60% of forest cover for all times. These forests are home to 300 species of medicinal plants, 46 rhododendrons, and 670 birds. Endangered animals such as Bengal Tigers and Red Panda in the north, Rhinoceros, Asian Elephants, and Golden langur in the South.
This is Bhutan for you, as called by many “The Shang-ri-la”