What is the Thondrol and why is it significant in Bhutan?

Tashichho Dzong in Thimphu with bhutanese flag (Bhutan)
Dochula pass is located on the way to Punakha from Thimphu, forming a majestic backdrop to the tranquility of the 108 chortens gracing the mountain pass.
Atop a hill in Thimphu has a massive golden Buddha sitting atop a gilded meditation hall. Inside the 169 foot Buddha Dordenma statue, there are 125,000 miniature Buddhas encapsulated inside of its enlightened bronze chest, ranging from 8 to 12 inches tall.
This massive statue of Shakyamuni measures in at a height of 51.5 m, making it one of the largest statues of Buddha in the world. The statue is made of bronze and is gilded in gold
Buddhism is the official and most prominent religion of Bhutan gives this country its cultural and religious heritage.
The Old Bhutanese Women with A Prayer Wheel
Elderly Citizen of Bhutan
Bhutanese girls ramming mud during a house construction
The Tibetan-style stupa was built in 1974 as a memorial to the third king, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck (1928–72).
Phallus Art made of wood in Bhutan
Phallus Art in Bhutan
Dochula Pass – Decorated with small chortens on the lush green hillside, this place tells an interesting story of spirituality, bravery, and Bhutanese culture.
The Punakha Dzong, also known as the Pungtang Dechen Photrang Dzong, literally translates to the ‘palace of great happiness or bliss.
The Druk Wangyal Lhakhang was built as a memorial to celebrate 100 years of monarchy in Bhutan
Chorten or Stupa is an important religious monument in Buddhism, symbolizing Buddha’s presence.

A Tshechu is a Buddhist festival in honor of Guru Rinpoche, the saint who brought Buddhism to Bhutan.
Paro Tshechu is one of the most popular events in the country and the best attended by the tourists and local people because of its hospitality and connectivity.
All the mask dances on the first day are held inside the courtyard of the Dzong and rest days held at the courtyard outside the Dzong. Festivals featuring dances performed by trained monks and laymen dress up in vibrant multicolored brocade costumes are one of the best ways to experience the ancient living culture of Bhutan. The highlight of the Paro Tshechu is the unfurling of the silk Thangka- so large it covers the face of an entire building and is considered one of the most sacred blessing in the whole of Bhutan. The ‘Thangkha’ known as a ‘Thongdroel’ is only exhibited for a few hours at daybreak on the final day of the festival enabling the people to obtain its blessing.

Thimphu Festival Tsechu : Be A Part Of The Festive Spirit Of Bhutan
Tsechu is undoubtedly the most celebrated festival in the country of Bhutan. It is a religious festival which is held annually in all the districts or dzongkhags of Bhutan on the tenth day of a month according to the lunar calender. The time of Tsechu varies from district to district. The Tsechu is a social gathering of sorts that strengthen the bond between people staying remote and far off places in Bhutan.
The central highlight of the tsechus are the cham dances. These dances are performed by a dancers wearing costumes and masks dances and are typically moral vignettes. These dances are also based on the life incidents of the 9th century Nyingma teacher Padmasambhava and other saints.
It is common for most tshechus to unfurl a thongdrel which is a large appliqu� thangka. The thangka usually depicts a seated Padmasambhava encircled by holy beings.It is believed that if a person merely catches a view of the thangka, he or she is cleansed of sin. According to traditions the thongdrel is raised before dawn and rolled down by morning.
The festival of tsechu mainly depends on the availability of dancers since the ritual dance is the main highlight of the festival. Therefore registered dancers are fined if they refuse to perform during the festival.
Tsechus are not mere entertainment events which are held as attractions for tourists. They are the authentic manifestations of religious traditions dating back to hundreds of years before. It is a privilege that today people from outside are given a chance to witness these sacred rituals and rites. The people of Bhutan sincerely hope that by offering the privilege to the outsiders to get an insight into their culture, they would refrain from infringing on the sanctity or exquisiteness of the ritual.
Our trip is based on the Thimphu Tashichhodzong where we let our clients witness and be a part of the Annual Thimphu Tshechu. The Thimphu Tashichhodzong is a four day festival which was initiated by Tenzin Rabgye who was the fourth Desi or temporal Ruler of Bhutan in the year 1687.

So blessed is the huge banner (called a Thondrol) that it is believed one achieves liberation simply by viewing it. So there I stood in the cool light of dawn, staring up at the massive image of Rimpoche seated upon his lotus throne. Bhutanese people had come from all over, many walking for days to see the Thondrol. It remains up for only a few hours, on this one day a year, as the monks do not let the 300 year old work of devotional art be touched by direct rays of the sun, least it fade.
I then made my way to the booth of Mangala Paper, who make the paper we import, and introduced myself to Kezang Udon. Her Eco Friendly hand made paper was doing a brisk business, with many western tourists checking out the beautiful sheets, as well as handsome photo albums and journals crafted from Bhutan paper. I told Kezang how proud I was to be part of the introduction of Bhutan paper to the United States and she graced me with the warm smile that is so typical of the Bhutanese people.
I promised to stop by her factory on my way back from my journey to the remote central valley, and began an arduous day and a half drive on the only paved road in the country.
I traveled over passes towering above the clouds, through dense forests punctuated by flaming red rhodendrums. I visited the cave where Guru Rimpoche first meditated when he arrived in Bhutan from Tibet. A temple has been built around the cave and a huge cypress tree stands beside it, supposedly having sprung up from Rimpoche's walking stick. I touched the tree with deep respect for the man who is believed to be the second incarnation of Buddha.
On the return journey it began to snow. We were heading for a monastery at the top of a pass, and arrived to the sound of deep guttural chanting of monks, accompanied by the plaintive cry of conch shell horns and thudding bass of drums. A healing ceremony for the Lama (Teacher) was in progress and we were allowed to observe.
The interior of the monastery was a treasure trove of wall paintings depicting various spiritual heroes battling demons. Bhutan is a Tantric Buddhist nation, thus visualizations of inner states of mind are constantly on view, serving as signposts on the path towards enlightenment.

A dzong is used for religious as well as for secular purposes. Bhutan’s official language “Dzong-kha” originated from the languages spoken in the Dzong in the olden days. ‘Kha’ is the Bhutanese word for language.
Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel, who came to Bhutan from Tibet in 1616, built most of these historic structures. The first dzong he built was the Simtokha Dzong in Thimphu in 1627. He was also the one who unified Bhutan during a time of chaos and disorder, and served as the administrative as well as spiritual leader of Bhutan. Known as the historical king of Bhutan, he is one of the most revered figures in the country even today.
Arts & Crafts
All Bhutanese art, dance, drama and music have its roots in the Buddhist religion. And almost all representation in art, music and dance is a dramatization of the struggle between good and evil.
The thirteen aspects of Bhutanese arts and crafts called Zorig Chusum includes Shinzo (woodwork), Dozo (stone work) Jinzo (clay crafts), Shazo (wood turning), Parzo (wood, slate and stone carving), Lazo (painting), Lugzo (bronze casting), Garzo (blacksmithing), Troeko (silver and goldsmithing), Tsharzo (bamboo and cane crafts), Dhezo (papermaking), Thagzo (weaving) and Tshemzo (tailoring).
The skills of the local craftsmen are manifested in the statues of the deities, doors and windows of traditional houses, and in religious artifacts like bells, trumpets and drums. The country also has rich and diverse range of carpets and traditional textile designs whose colors, weaves and textures have evolved over centuries.
Tshechus are very special events and celebrated throughout Bhutan by every Bhutanese. The term ‘Tshechu’ literally translates to the 10th day of the Bhutanese calendar, which is considered auspicious. During tshechus, chhams (religious masked dances) are performed by monks and lay men alike. Besides the religious songs and dances, there are Atsaras (clowns) who usually wear masks with big red noses. To most, Atsaras are the soul of the tshechus.

The Dzong was damaged six times by fire, once by floods and once by earthquake. The coronation of Ugyen Wangchuk, the first king of Bhutan, took place at Punakha Dzong on 17th December 1907.
Wangdue Phodrang, means ‘the palace where the four directions are gathered under the power of the Shabdrung'. However the popular story has it that the Shabdrung arrived at the river and happened to see a boy building a sand castle. He asked for the boy's name, which was Wangdue, and thereupon decided to name the Dzong Wangdue Phodrang or 'Wangdue's Palace.' Wangdue Phodrang Dzong is perched on a spur at the confluence of two rivers. Its position is remarkable as it completely covers the spur and commands an impressive view over both the north-south and east-west roads. The main road climbs the length of the spur and on the left, across the river, comes the first glimpse of the picturesque village of Rinchengang whose inhabitants are celebrated stonemasons.
This small modern town in the south is the gateway of Bhutan for overland travellers. Like all other border towns, it is also a prelude. Phuntsholing is also a fascinating mixture of Bhutanese and Indian, a lively center for the mingling people, languages, customs and goods. On top of a low hill at nearby Kharbandi, a small Gompa situated in a garden of tropical plants and flowers overlooks the town and surrounding plains.
The Amo Chu, commonly known as the Torsa river flows alongside this town and it is favorite spot for fisherman and the picnickers. From Phuntsholing, the road winds north over the southern foothills, through lush forested valleys and around the rugged north-south ridges of the inner Himalayas to the central valleys of Thimphu and Paro. It is a scenic journey; forests festooned with orchids cover the mountains on the other side and exciting hairpin curves greet travellers with colourful sculptures of Tashi Tagye (the eight auspicious signs of Buddhism).
Trongsa means 'the new village' and the founding of Trongsa first dates from the 16th century, which is indeed relatively recent for Bhutan.

One of the most distinct features of the Chorten is its outwards flaring rounded part that makes the Chorten look more like a vase rather than the classical dome. The interior of the Chorten has a large number of paintings of Tantric deities, in explicit sexual poses that sometime can be a little disconcerting to visitors.
Overnight hotel in Thimphu
Day 4: Thimphu sightseeing.
Early breakfast and visit the following:
The TashichhoDzong is a Buddhist monastery cum fortress at the northern edge of Thimphu the capital city of Bhutan. The Dzong was built on the western bank of the river Wangchuk, and has historically served at the seat of the Druk Desi or the Dharma Raja of Bhutan; government. After the king assumed power in 1907 this post was combined with that of the King and Thimphu severed as the summer capital of the kingdom before becoming the full time capital Thimphu.
The original Thimphu Dzong (the Doe-NgyeDzong) is said to have been constructed in 216 by Lama GyalawLhanangpa. And was later taken over by Lama PhajoDrrukgomShigpo before the Dzong was conquered by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, who found the Dzong to be too small and expanded it to what is now Known as the TashichhoDzong is called the ‘’fortress of glorious religion’’. It was erected in 1641 and was subsequently rebuilt by King Dorji Wangchuck in the 1960s.
The Dzong has been seat of the Royal government since 1952 and presently houses the Throne room and the Kings secretariat. The TashichhoDzong is also home to several ministries of the Bhutanese government and the Central Monk Body which is the apex organization of the country’s main spiritual order. The monument welcomes visitor during the Thimphu Tshechu festival which is held in autumn each year. The Dzongs mains structure is a two striped quadrangle with 3 storied tower on each of its four corners.
-Folk Heritage Museum:
The Folk heritage museum was open to the general public in 2001 upon completion.

Places & Attractions
Located at 2230 meters above sea level, Thimphu is the capital city of Bhutan, it combines a natural small-town feel with a new commercial exuberance that constantly challenges the country's natural conservatism and Shangri La image. Thimphu contains most of the important political buildings in Bhutan, including the National Assembly of the newly formed parliamentary democracy, the official residence of the King and Dechencholing Palace of the former king located to the north of the city.
The stupa was built in 1974 in memory of the third monarch Jigme Dorji Wangchuck who passed away in 1972. The tantric images and paintings inside the monument provide a very rare insight into Buddhist philosophy.
Originally the dzong was built in 1661 by Je Sherab Wangchuk and renovated in 1960s by third King Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. The fortress houses the main secretariat building with throne room for the King, offices for ministers and the residence for the central Monk Body. Thimphu Dromche and Tsechu festivals are held once a year in the dzong in autumn. The dzong can be visited before and after the official hours.
Kuensel Phodrang-Buddha Point
The Buddha Dordenma, located on hilltop overlooking Thimphu City, is one of the Largest Buddha Statues in the world. The statue is made of Bronze and Gilded in gold, and can be seen from different parts of the city. The statue houses over one hundred thousand smaller Buddha statues. With a height of 51.5 meters, visitors get a good overview of the Thimphu valley from the Buddha point (Kuensel Phodrang).
A single clock tower rests in the heart of Thimphu city with long dragons facing towards the clock and colorful Bhutanese designs carved onto the surface of the tower. It is located in the center of Thimphu, taking only really 10 minutes to explore however the shops itself merit another hour as there is much to purchase as memoirs of Bhutan.
The oldest and first dzong built by Zhabdrung in 1629, stands on a lofty ridge overlooking the Thimphu valley. At present the dzong is established for higher monastic studies.

Kuensel Phodrang (Buddha Point) - You can pay your obeisance and offer prayers to the Buddha, the Largest Statue in the country and then walk around and take a glimpse of the valley, Changangkha Lhakhang (Monastery) (All tourists visiting Dzongs and temples must be dressed appropriately. No half pant, sleeve less shirts, floaters, etc are allowed) - This popular fortress-like temple perched on a ridge above central Thimphu regularly hums with pilgrim activity. It was established in the 12th century on a site chosen by Lama Phajo Drukgom Shigpo, who came from Ralung in Tibet. Parents traditionally come here to get auspicious names for their newborns or blessings for their young children from the protector deity Tamdrin (to the left in the grilled inner sanctum, next to Chenresig). Don't leave without taking in the excellent view from the back Kora (Pilgrim path), with its lovely Black and Gold prayer wheels. Motithang Takin Preservation centre to see the rare"Takin" Which was declared by Royal Government of Bhutan as National Animal on 25th November 1985. Why Bhutan selected Takin as National Animal is associated with Bhutan Religious and Mythology, it was during the time Lama Drukpa Kuenley (1455 – 1529) the Divine Madman and Bhutan Favorite Saints known for his outrageous antic. One day his devotees were gathered to witness his magical power and they asked him to perform a miracle. However, the saint, in his usual unorthodox and outrageous way, demanded that he first be served a whole cow and a goat for lunch. Having devoured both and leaving only the bones, he stuck the Goat head on the bones of the Cow. To everyone amazement, upon a commanded uttered by Lama Drukpa Kuenley, the animal came to life, arose and ran to the meadow and then began to graze. The animal came to be known as “Dong Gyem Tsey” and can still be seen grazing in the mountain meadows of the Kingdom. In these centre you can see Takin, Barking Deer & Sambar Deer. Something just to see takin one needs to walk around the enclosure.

The dzong or fortresses seen across the country with their large courtyards and beautiful galleries are among the finest examples of Bhutanese architecture. Housing large monasteries inside and sitting on hilltops or at the confluence of rivers, these fortresses are also the administrative centers of their districts. However, the most common architectural sights in Bhutan are the chortens or small shrines built to house sacred relics.
Bhutan being an agrarian society, agriculture and livestock rearing have traditionally been the mainstay of the Kingdom’s economy, contributing about 45% to the GNP. 70% of the Bhutanese populace lives on subsistence farming – growing rice, barley, millet, buckwheat, potatoes, mustard, chilies and vegetables. While hydropower contributes a major amount to the GNP, forestry adds another 15%.
In commemoration of the accession of Gongsar Ugyen Wangchuck (the first King of Bhutan) to the throne in Punakha Dzong, December 17 is celebrated as the National Day.
Since 1974, Bhutan has followed a policy of cautious growth, a “high value, low impact” tourism policy; our government has actively managed visitors in keeping with the policy. Tourists have been required to travel with licensed Bhutanese tour operators accompanied by licensed guides. We have consistently sought to ensure that the number of tourists admitted to Bhutan has been within the capacity of our socio-cultural and natural environment to absorb visitors without negative impact.
Under Bhutanese law, 60% of the kingdom must remain covered by forest for all time(s) to come. His Majesty the Fourth King and the people of Bhutan received the “Champions of the Earth” Award for 2005. The Champions of the Earth Award was established by the United Nation Environment Program (UNEP) in 2004 to recognize outstanding achievements of individuals and organizations in protecting and improving the environment. The current forest coverage is 72.5% of the total landmass.
Bhutanese dzongs have played a significant role historically and continue to do so even today. Bhutan’s extraordinary architecture is best represented by the immense dzongs that stand tall throughout the country. Dzongs are large castle-like structures either perched on hilltops overlooking broad river valleys or built alongside river banks for protection from marauding Tibetan armies back in the day.

She added another new structure to the temple called the Guru Lhakhang. As one of the oldest Lhakhang, it houses many important relics. One of the most important relics of the temple is a 7th century status of JowoSakyamuni which is believed to have cast at the same time as it famous counterpart in Lhasa Tibet.
There are 2 orange trees located in the courtyard of the temple; there is a belief amongst the locals that these orange trees bear fruit all year long. This site is one of the most sacred holy sites is all of Bhutan, and our companies travel consultants recommend every traveler to visit this sacred temple.
Day 02: ParoTshechu (Festival)
After an early breakfast attend the first day of the Tshechu which is held in the courtyard of Paro RinpungDzong. This is the main Secretariat Building, where the government offices and living quarters of the monk body and its Chief Abbot are housed. Witness the festival entire day
Festival includes Dance of Black Hats (Shana / Ngachamp), Dance of the Noble man and Ladies (phole Mole), Dance of the drum beaters, from Dramitse (DramitseNgachamp), Dance of the Stag and the hounds (shawaShachi) Evening Thimphu Exploration, Visit memorial chorten, National Memorial chorten.
Day 03:Paro to Thimphu: After 50 minutes drive check into Hotel and after tea visit The National Memorial was built by Bhutan’s third kind, H.M.JigmeWangchuck who is also known as the ‘’Father of Modern Bhutan’’. He wanted to erect a monument carrying the message of world peace and prosperity. However, he was unable to give shape to his idea in his lifetime due to pressure of state and other regal responsibilities. After his untimely demise in 1972, the Royal Family and Cabinet resolved to fulfill his wishes and erect a memorial that would perpetuate his memory and also serve as a monument to eternal peace, harmony and tranquility. The National Memorial Chorten is located in the centre of the capital city, Thimphu and is designed like a Tibetan style Chorten. The chorten is patterned of the classical Stupa design with a pyramidal pillar crowned by a crescent moon and sun.

Bhutan is a Buddhist kingdom on the Himalayas’ eastern edge. The only country in the world that practices the tantric form of Buddhism, it is a land of monasteries, fortresses (dzongs) and dramatic topography ranging from subtropical plains to steep mountains and valleys. In the high Himalayas, peaks such as the 7,326m high Jumolhari are a destination for serious trekkers. The landlocked nation abounds in sacred sites like the Taktsang Monastery or the Tiger’s Nest, and is bountiful in flora and fauna making it one of the world’s top hotspots for visitors.
The Bhutanese, a homogeneous group, are friendly and hospitable and fall linguistically into three sub-groups comprising of the Sharchops, Ngalongs and Lotshampas. There are also a number of smaller groups in the country with their own distinctive language. These groups form about one percent of the population. Some of these groups are the Tsanghos in the east, Layapas in the north-west, Brokpas in the north-east and Doyas in the south-west.
Longish robes called ghos tied around the waist by a cloth belt, known as kera are worn by Bhutanese men. The women wear ankle-length dresses known as kira. Both ghos and kiras are made of bright colored fine woven fabrics with traditional patterns and designs.
Archery is the national sport of Bhutan. Other traditional sports popular in the Kingdom include various kinds of shot-put, darts and wrestling. International sports such as soccer, basketball, volleyball, taekwondo, cricket, tennis, badminton and table tennis are also extremely popular.
The currency of Bhutan is called Ngultrum. The G is silent when you pronounce it. Introduced in 1974, the Ngultrum is pegged with the Indian Rupee.
The rectangular Bhutanese flag is divided into two parts with a white dragon in the middle. The dragon symbolizes the name Druk Yul – meaning land of the thunder dragon and its white color is a representation of purity and loyalty. The yellow upper half signifies the country’s secular authority of the King in the affairs of religion and state. The lower saffron orange half signifies the religious practice and spirituality of Buddhism as manifested in the Drukpa Kagyu and Nyingma traditions.

By Maxmilian Wechsler
HE Kesang Wangdi, the ambassador of Bhutan to Thailand, is a fitting emissary for a nation which marks its country’s progress not on GDP, but on GNH (Gross National Happiness).
The first time I came in contact with him was on December 12, 2012, at a reception at the Swissotel Nai Lert hosted by the Royal Bhutan Embassy to mark the Kingdom’s 105th National Day. The reception was attended by about 500 distinguished guests including Thai cabinet ministers, senior government officials, diplomats and business people.
The event was a collaborative effort from the embassy, the Tourism Council of Bhutan, Druk Air (Royal Bhutan Airlines) and various travel agencies to showcase the country’s culture, cuisine and textiles. In his welcoming speech Mr Wangdi eloquently underscored his country’s rapid socioeconomic development and expressed his own happiness at the existing good relations between Bhutan and Thailand.
From farm boy to diplomat
Not long after the event, the ambassador gladly accepted an invitation for an interview, which took place under the portraits of two monarchs, HM Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and HM King Bhumibol Adulyadej, at the tastefully appointed hall of the Bhutanese embassy chancery at the mission compound in Bangkok’s Huay Kwang district.
As is his custom, the ambassador was wearing the traditional national dress for men called gho, and also traditional handmade boots embroidered with beautiful coloured designs.
“I came from a small, modest and ordinary farming family in Bhutan,” the ambassador told me, when asked about his background. “I am one of the products of a government which holds education to be very important. In Bhutan it is up to you if and how you succeed, because the government creates enabling conditions for people to reach their aspirations and to achieve whatever they want. There are no limitations.
“I went through the education system and got selected for government service. I was educated in Bhutan, India and elsewhere. I entered government service in the early 1980s. When I started I worked in the capital of Bhutan, Thimphu. My first posting abroad was to India, and from there I went to the United States, Nepal and now to Thailand.

|100 ngultrum - front|
|100 ngultrum - back|
Thimphu is the capital city of Bhutan, situated in the western part of the country.
With more or less 80,000 habitants, it is also the largest city in Bhutan.
|the buddhist temple Tashichho Dzong - city of Thimphu|
In 1641 Zhabdrung built the Tashicho Dzong (Fortress of the auspicious religion) in place of the Dho Ngon (Blue stone) Dzong built by Lama Gyalwa Lhanangpa.
In 1698, the dzong caught fire and was restored. The dzong caught fire for a second time during the reign of the 16th Desi and 13th Je Khenpo. In 1869, the dzong once again caught fire. His Majesty the Second King initiated the renovation of the Dzong in 1962. Today, Trashichho dzong houses the secretariat, throne room, and offices of the King of Bhutan. The northern section is the Je Khenpo and Central Monk Body’s residence.
|500 ngultrum - front|
King Ugyen Wangchuk reigned from December 17, 1907 till August 21, 1926.
|500 ngultrum - back|
Constructed by Zhabdrung (Shabdrung) Ngawang Namgyal in 1637–38, it is the second oldest and second largest dzong in Bhutan and one of its most majestic structures. The Dzong houses the sacred relics of the southern Drukpa Kagyu school including the Rangjung Kasarpani, and the sacred remains of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal and Terton Padma Lingpa. Punakha Dzong was the administrative centre and the seat of the Government of Bhutan until 1955, when the capital was moved to Thimphu.
|Punkha dzong - city of Punakha|
... to be continued ...

Bhutan is one of the most religious countries in the Tibetan Buddhist world. And like in all Buddhist nations, festivals have a special place in the hearts of its residents. Most of the Bhutanese festivals commemorate the deeds of the Buddha, or those of the great masters of the past associated with one Buddhist tradition or another.
Bhutanese culture is characterized by religious celebrations. Its people love socializing, attending festivals, joking, playing, and doing all the things that help them to be in the spirit of celebration. Religion and social life are so intrinsically linked in the culture that some festival appears to be taking place somewhere in Bhutan throughout the year. Among these festivals, one of the most recognized and attended by the masses is the Tsechu festival ('Tse' means 'date' and 'Chu' means 'ten'; i.e. '10th day'). This festival is celebrated to commemorate the great deeds of the 8th century Tantric Master Guru Padmasambhava.
'Guru Rimpoche' or simply 'Guru' as he is referred to, introduced the Nyingma school of Buddhism into Tibet and Bhutan. Each 10th day of the lunar calendar is said to commemorate a special event in the life of Padmasambhava and some of these are dramatized in the context of a religious festival. Most of the festivals last from three to five days - of which one day usually falls on the 10th day of the lunar calendar. It is not just the time for people to get together, dress up and enjoy a convivial light hearted atmosphere, but also a time to renew one's faith, receive blessings by watching the sacred dances, or receive 'empowerment' from a lama or Buddhist monk.
An auspicious event of many of the Tshechus is the unfurling of the Thongdrol from the main building overlooking the dance area. This is done before sunrise and most people rush to witness the moment. Thongdrols are large Thangkas or religious pictures that are usually embroidered rather than painted. The word itself means 'liberation on sight.' It is believed that bad karmas are expiated simply by viewing it. Spring is one of the best times to visit Bhutan; it is also at this time that the local inhabitants of Paro celebrate the spring festival, one of the most popular festivals.

The city has been undergoing massive development lately with tree-lined streets being laid down and a park-cum-open theatre being constructed in the heart of the city that used to be a clock tower area, to create a platform for live cultural performances.2008 saw the completion of the national stadium along with a new river-side park. The national stadium is also where the coronation of the King was held, coinciding with the centenary of the Wangchuk dynasty’s establishment.
Tourists are welcome here and there’s a lot to be explored and discovered, with the Bhutanese amalgamating modernity with indigenous culture very cleverly, fully conscious of the value of their ancient heritage. The culture of Bhutan is reflected very eloquently in many aspects of Thimphu, whether it be the architecture, the religious customs, the monastic practices or references in the media.One important festival celebrated in Thimphu is the four-dayTsechu festival, when mask dances, or Cham dances, are performed in the courtyards of the Tashichhoe Dzong in Thimphu. The Bhutanese just love to celebrate and bask in their rich culture!
A bustling farmers’ market takes place on weekends on the banks of the Wang Chu River that one must visit for fresh, organic produce as well as Buddhist religious paraphernalia like prayer flags and horns that is not to be missed.
Bhutan’s capital and headquarters of the government works towards the national objective of ‘GNH’ or Gross National Happiness in correspondence with the growth of Gross National Product (GNP).

Chuzom means confluence of two rivers Paro and Thimphu Chu Rivers which we believe this place inauspicious, thus there is a presence of 3 very unique chorten (Stupa) to ward off this inauspiciousness.
Before reaching Chuzom you can see TachogangLhakhang
It is private temple founded by ThangthongGyalpo, located few Kilometers before Chhuzom, the confluence of the Paro and Thimphu River.
ThangthongGyelpo had a vision when he meditated here of an excellent horse Balaha, an emanation of Avalokiteshvara, thus as a good omen, he built this temple.
Below this temple he built Iron Bridge who is said to have been built 108 iron bridges throughout Bhutan and Tibet by iron man called ThangthongGyelpo.
After 30 minutes’ drive from this place you will reach Thimphu city which is capital city of Bhutan.
Day 04: Sightseeing at Thimphu
Thimphu is located at an altitude of 2320m. Capital of the Kingdom, the population of Thimphu is about 100,000. The population is increasing each year due to rural-urban migration.
Thimphu became capital during 3rd King’s time in early 19s.
This place has a special magical atmosphere with its prayer flags fluterring in the wind and its feeling of riding above the bustle of the city.
Changgangkhalhakhang is one of the oldest lhakhang in Thimphu valley.
It was built in the 12th century by Nyima, the son of PahjoDrugomZhigpo, the founder of the Drukpa School in Bhutan.
Located on the way to the BBS tower, there in an unlimited trail leading to large fenced area.
Used to serve as a zoo with various wild animals, which were later, released in the wild as per the order from the present King.
The King decided that such facility was not in keeping with the Bhutan’s environment and religious convictions.
The Zoo has different kind of deer including barking dear, black dear and most importantly national animal Takin.
Visit Kuensel Phodrang to see the 8th largest sitting Buddha statue on the world.
Afternoon stroll around the Thimphu city by your own.

The state language is Dzongkha which in the olden days was spoken by people who worked in the Dzongs that was the seat of temporal and spiritual power. Later, Dzongkha was introduced as national language of Bhutan.
The national anthem was first composed in 1953 and became official in 1966. It is known as Druk Tshenden Kepay Gyalkhab Na (In the land of the Dragon Kingdom, where cypress grows).
17th December is celebrated as National Day of the country that coincides with crowning ceremony of Gongsa Ugyen Wangchuck as the first hereditary king of Bhutan in Punakha Dzong on 17 December 1907. It is a national holiday, every Bhutanese celebrate the day with pomp and festivity throughout the country.
Bhutan is a multi-lingual society. There are 19 different languages and dialects spoken in the country. Dzongkha, meaning the language of the fort, is the national language of Bhutan. It is widely spoken in the western region.
Ema Datshi, a chili and cheese stew, is Bhutan’s national dish. Bhutanese either use dried red chilies or green chilies to make this dish. It is very simple and fast to cook.
Changlimithang Stadium in Thimphu serves as the National Stadium. It is mostly used to celebrate national events, football and archery games. It was built in 1974 and refurbished in 2007. It can accommodate up to 25,000 people.
The Ta-dzong in Paro which was established in 1968 is the National Museum of Bhutan. It houses extensive collections of over 3,000 works of Bhutanese art covering more than 1,500 years of Bhutan’s cultural heritage.
National development philosophy
Bhutan believes in the philosophy of Gross National Happiness. Sustainable development and happiness are emphasized more than Gross Domestic Product. Each and every policy of Bhutan first has to go through a checklist that qualifies it to be passed as a Gross National Happiness policy.

Thimpu :- Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital, occupies a valley in the country’s western interior. In addition to being the government seat, the city is known for its Buddhist sites. The massive Tashichho Dzong is a fortified monastery and government palace with gold-leaf roofs. The Memorial Chorten, a whitewashed structure with a gold spire, is a revered Buddhist shrine dedicated to Bhutan’s third king, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck.
Paro :- Paro is a valley town in Bhutan, west of the capital, Thimphu. It is the site of the country’s only international airport and is also known for the many sacred sites in the area. North of town, the Taktsang Palphug (Tiger’s Nest) monastery clings to cliffs above the forested Paro Valley. Northwest of here are the remains of a defensive fortress, Drukgyel Dzong, dating from the 17th century.

It is a very inspiring project, teaching how you market and package produce, and so on. We need to know all of this. For us it is not only a curiosity. We are very happy because the priorities are similar to our own, to assist our poor people. In Bhutan, agriculture is a very important priority to promote sustainable development based on GNH.”
Relationship between Bhutan and Thailand
Formal diplomatic relations between Bhutan and Thailand were established in November 1989, although contacts between the royal families of the two countries were established much earlier.
A resident embassy was established in Bangkok in the Sukhumvit area in July 1997. “We moved to this location about ten years ago. We bought this large – by Bhutanese standards – property because we believed that our bilateral relations will go from strength to strength, that collaboration on trade and commerce will flourish and there will be many functions to attend. We also bought ten good houses not far from the embassy where our staff live. I live outside the embassy as well, but we are going to construct an ambassadorial residence here in the future. There are about two dozen people working at the embassy, nine Bhutanese and the rest Thais. In fact, this is Bhutan’s largest embassy.
“At this time there is no Thai embassy in Bhutan. This is the responsibility of the Thai ambassador to Bangladesh. There is an honorary Thai consul in Bhutan, Mr Dasho Ugen Tsechup Dorji, a Bhutanese businessman who is the Vice Chairman of the Singye Group of Companies. We collaborate with him closely. We used to have honorary consul in Thailand but he finished his duty. We are planning to appoint one or two in the future.
“The foundations of the relationship between Bhutan and Thailand are very strong, largely because there are some striking similarities between our two countries. One is that we have a common spiritual heritage. The second is the deep reverence for the institution of the monarchy. Thirdly, in both countries tradition and culture are very important. Finally, both countries have never surrendered sovereignty to another country. Because of that historical basis of always being independent, our peoples are peace loving, forward looking, confident and very friendly. These four similarities underpin our relations.
“Moreover, our respective royal families have always held very high esteem, affection and good will for each other.

Bhutan, the last bastion of Tantric Buddhism, is synonymous with ‘happiness’ to most foreigners who have been to and know about the country.
This small Himalayan kingdom aspires to become a role model to the rest of the world, and it does so by believing that the ultimate quest of all humans is to find happiness. That’s why Bhutan rejects the conventional belief that economic gains alone result in happiness.
However, the country does not undermine the importance of economic growth. What it seeks is a fine balance between material wealth and spiritual well-being. Thus, Bhutan firmly believes that Gross National Happiness is more important than Gross National Product. And the ideals of Gross National Happiness are very much part of the country’s development programs and policies.
Bhutan’s untainted culture and traditions have been the hallmark of its uniqueness in the world.
The country therefore consciously strives to preserve its unique cultural identity.
One of the recent developments the country witnessed was its transition from monarchy to parliamentary constitutional democracy. Amid resistance from the people, the fourth King, His Majesty Jigme Singye Wangchuck, voluntarily abdicated the Golden Throne a year before the historic elections.
Known as the Father of Democracy, the fourth King told his people that a king is chosen by birth not by merit and the future of the Bhutanese people hinges on a healthy democratic system. The country is for the people, not for the king, he said. The country thus embraced a multi-party democracy following its first ever parliamentary elections in March 2008.
A tiny nation squeezed between the two rising Asian giants – China in the north and India in the south – Bhutan has always taken cautious steps to determine its own future. The country does not believe in economic emulation.
Bhutan’s less than 700,000 people are highly scattered. And its largest city, Thimphu, is home to about 100,000 people. Most of them are government and corporate employees and business players. The rest of the population lives in far-flung towns and villages, some in extremely remote and inaccessible pockets.
More than 72% of the country’s total area is under forest cover, and its rich flora and fauna have earned the country a place among the world¹s top 10 biodiversity hotspots. And scattered settlements remain adorned with aesthetic temples, monasteries, and fluttering prayer flags.

"If ever there was a place where nature and man conjured to create their dearest image, it must be the Paro Valley. To the north Mount Chomolhari (mountain of the Goddess) reigns in white glory and the glacier waters from its five sister peaks plunge torrentially through deep gorges finally converging to form the Paro River that nourishes the rice fields and fruit orchards of Paro valley.
Takshang, literally meaning Tiger's Nest, built around a cave in which Guru Rimpoche (Padmasambava ) meditated, clings seemingly impossible to a cliff of rock at 3,000 feet (800m.) above the valley floor. For local people it is a place of pilgrimage, but for a tourist, a hike to the viewpoint opposite the monastery in exhausting, thrilling and mystical. "
Thimpu, the capital of Bhutan lies at an elevation of 7,600 feet in a valley transversed by the Thimpu River. Tashichho Dzong, the main secretariat building houses the Throne Room of the King of Bhutan, the summer residence of the Central Monk Body and the National Assembly Hall. The city of Thimpu is nothing like what a capital city is imagined to be. Nevertheless, for Bhutan it is a fitting and lively place. The shops vie with each other, stocked with varieties of commodities ranging form cooking oil to fabrics. Old wooden houses stand side by side with newly constructed concrete buildings, all painted and constructed in traditional Bhutanese architectural style.
Blessed with a temperate climate and drained by the Phochu (male) and Mochu (female) rivers, the fertile valley of Punakha served as the capital of Bhutan and even today, it is the winter seat of the Je Khenpo (Chief Abbot) and the Central Monk Body. In 1667, Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal built Punakha Dzong at the junction of Phochu and Mochu rivers to serve as both the religious and administrative center of Bhutan. Punakha Dzong houses many sacred temples including the Machen where the embalmed body of Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal lies in state.

And then there are the atsaras - clowns sporting fiendish masks, making lewd gestures and cracking salacious jokes - who mingle on the periphery of the performance, are entitled to mock both spiritual and temporal subjects, and through their distractions infuse a lighter side to otherwise serious matters. The whole gathering begins to resemble a country fair, as the jolly and convivial assembly - many turning out in their vibrant finery - further entertains itself in lively conversation, the playing of an assortment of games and the imbibing of copious amounts of food and alcohol. Tshechus may end with the bestowing of powerful blessings, delivered orally by a high lama or visually with the unfurling of a huge appliqué thangka representing Guru Rinpoche and his Eight Manifestations. The commanding backdrop of a monastic fortress, the visual extravagance of the dances, the cacophony of musical accompaniments, the solemnity of chanting mantras, the artistic splendor, the unfamiliar smells and the overall exuberance of the diverse crowd lend the scene an extremely exotic air.
Bhutan is the only country to maintain Mahayana Buddhism in its Tantric Vajrayana form as the official religion. The main practicing schools are the state sponsored Drukpa Kagyupa and the Nyingmapa. Buddhism transects all strata of society, underpinning multiple aspects of the culture. Indeed, religion is the focal point for the arts, festivals and a considerably above average number of individuals. The presence of so many monasteries, temples and stupas, monks and tulkus (reincarnations of high lamas) is indicative of the overarching role religion plays throughout the nation.
Although Buddhism and the monarchy are critical elements, it is the general extensive perpetuation of tradition that is possibly the most striking aspect of Bhutan's culture. This is most overtly reflected in the nature of dress and architecture. All Bhutanese continue to wear the traditional dress: for men and boys the gho, a long gown hitched up to the knee so that its lower half resembles a skirt, for women and girls the kira, an ankle-length robe somewhat resembling a kimono. Generally colorful apparel, the fabrics used range from simple cotton checks and stripes to the most intricate designs in woven silk.

Bhutan is known in Bhutanese as Druk Yul, or Thunder Dragon. The population of around 800,000 is made up of several ethnic groups, including the Ngalop and the Sharchop. Ngalop means ‘the first risen’ and this group is the largest in the country.
Bhutan - the land of the Thunder Dragon
Bhutan’s government is known for measuring prosperity in terms of Gross National Happiness instead of Gross National Product, to focus on the overall happiness and well-being of the Bhutanese population, rather than only their material wealth.

Bhutan, a jewel between India and China, is about the size of Switzerland with a population of around 750,000. Within its small boundaries the ecological diversity is amazing. Tropical jungles in the south with elephants, rhinoceros, and tigers, coniferous forest in the mid region with leopards, mountain goats, bears, and variety of bird life, and blue sheep and snow leopards in the high temperature zones. Through centuries of self-imposed isolation Bhutan has been able to preserve its spectacular environment and nurture its unique culture. Drawing inspiration from its neighbour, Tibet, Tantric Buddhism has flourished and influenced art, crafts, architecture for hundreds of years, and has shaped the Bhutanese way of life. The early 1960s saw Bhutan's first cautious opening to the outside world. Tourism began for the first time on June 2nd 1974, the coronation day of the nineteen year old King Jigme Singye Wangchuck, the fourth monarch.
The idea of happiness and wellbeing as the goal of development has always been a part of Bhutanese political psyche. While this has influenced Bhutan's development endeavors during the early part of the modernization process, it was not pursed as a deliberate policy goal until His Majesty the Fourth King of Bhutan introduced Gross National Happiness (GNH) to define the official development paradigm for Bhutan.
Religious festivals are perfect occasions to glimpse what might be termed Bhutanese culture. Celebrated throughout the country, they occur in a host of differing forms, depending upon the scale, the nature of the ceremonies performed or the particular deity being revered. The best known are the Tshechus, festivals which honor Guru Rinpoche and celebrate one of his remarkable actions, and the most popular of these take place annually in or around the great dzongs, attracting both tourists and large numbers from the surrounding districts. Lasting several days, the central focuses are the series of prayers and religion inspired dances. These dances, made especially striking by the spectacular costumes of the dancers - bright silks and rich brocade, ornate hats or extraordinary masks - may either depict morality tales, invoke protection from demonic spirits or proclaim Buddhist victories and the glory of remarkable saints.

It was in 1222 that the place again got its recognition when Phajo Drugom Zhipo, the profounder of Drukpa Kagyu School of Buddhism, witnessed the cliff in the form of God Tandin (horse head) or Hayagriva. Tango is the highest center of Buddhist learning in the country; almost every Je Khenpo (religious head of Bhutan) completed the 9-year program there.
Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal established the monastery in 1620 with the first monk body. His father's ashes were interred in a richly decorated silver chorten inside the upper goemba after the body was smuggled here from Tibet. Cheri is still an important place for meditation retreats, with 30 or so monks here for the standard three years, three months and three days.
Literally means The Palace of Great Bliss. Since 1971 it has housed the state monastic school, and a long procession of monks often travels between here and the dzong. A team of 15 teachers provides an eight-year course to more than 450 students. The 12th-century paintings in the goemba's Guru Lhakhang are being restored by a United Nations Educational, Scientific, Cultural Organization (UNESCO) project. The upper floor features a large figure of Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal as well as the goenkhang (chapel devoted to protective and terrifying deities). The central figure in the downstairs chapel is the Buddha Sakyamuni.
Located at 3100 meters above sea level, Dochula Pass is one of the most scenic locations in the entire kingdom, offering a stunning panoramic view of the Himalayan mountain range and some of the highest mountains in the world. Many colorful prayer flags of good fortune and the marvelous sight of the 108 stupas all together adds to the exotic scenery of the pass.
The Druk Wangyal Lhakhang
This temple was built over a period of four years (2004-2008) under the vision and patronage of Her Majesty the Queen Mother Ashi Dorji Wangmo. The Lhakhang honors the courageous service of the Fourth King, who personally led the troops against the insurgents, as well as the regular Armed Forces of the country.
Dochula Meditation Caves
Discover the meditation caves tucked into the hills just above the pass.

The story goes that a giant demoness lay across Tibet and the Himalayas, which was preventing the spread of Buddhism. To overcome her, King Songtsen Gampo decided to build 108 temples in a single day to pin the ogress to the earth forever in 659AD. Of these 108 temples, 12 were built in accordance with precise plans at key points. The temple of Jokhang in Lhasa was built over the very heart of the demoness and Kichu is said to have been built on the left foot.
Dungtshe Lhakhang: Dungtse Lhakhang was constructed by the great bridge-builder Thangtong Gyelpo in 1433. It is said to have been built on the head of demoness, who was causing illness to the inhabitants. The building was restored in 1841 and is a unique repository of Kagyu lineage arts. You may or may not be permitted inside but can walk around this three-storey Chorten-type building.
Ta Dzong (Sun, Mon Govt holiday closed): once a watchtower, built to defend Rinpung Dzong during inter-valley wars of the 17th century, Ta Dzong was inaugurated as Bhutan’s National Museum in 1968. It holds fascinating collection of art, relics, religious thangkha paintings and Bhutan’s exquisite postage stamps. The museum circular shape augments its varied collection displayed over several floors.
Overnight at hotel
Paro-Thimp (55 Kms/ 01 Hr)
Drive to Thimphu(55 Kms/ 01 Hr.). En route visit Simtokha Dzong, the oldest fortress of the Kingdom which now houses the School for religious and cultural studies.
There are a good many things to see in the capital which has a very relaxed, laid-back feel about it. Thimphu is relatively small having a population of approximately 90,000 people and the streets are wide and tree lined.
Visit the indigenous hospital specializing in herbal medicine, handmade paper factory, and the nunnery at Zilukha.

Although the interiors of some temples, monasteries and Dzongs [fortress] are forbidden to foreign travelers at present, the tourists can still get a good insight into the unique cultural heritage of the Kingdom. The closure of religious institutions is to ensure that monastic life can continue unhindered.
One of the best agricultural regions of the country, Paro is also one of the most affluent. Fields cover most of the valley floor, while hamlets and isolated farms dot the countryside. The houses of Paro valley are considered to be among the most beautiful in the country. Paro is also the site of one of Bhutan's most impressive buildings – Paro Dzong. The famous monastery of Traktang and the ruins of Drukyul Dzong are nearby.
Thimphu lies in a wooded valley, sprawling up a hillside on the West Bank of the Thimphu Chhu [Chhu means River]. Thimphu is unlike any other world capital. Small and secluded the city is quiet and there are never the traffic jams familiar in other Asian Capitals. It is often said that Thimphu is the only world capital without traffic lights. Thimphu's main shopping street is a delight not so much for what you can buy there, but for the picturesqueness of the architecture and national costume. Beautiful weaves in wool, silk and cotton, basketwork, silver jewellery, thangkas and other traditional crafts of the Kingdom are available in various Handicraft Emporiums.
Punakha plays a primordial role in the history of Bhutan; it was the country's winter capital for 300 years. Punakha Dzong, or Punthang Dechen Phodrang, was built in 1637. The Dzong resembles a gigantic ship exactly covering a split of land at the confluence of two rivers. The history of Punakha Dzong dates back to the year 1328 when a saint named Ngagi Rinchen built a temple there which can still be seen today opposite to the great Dzong. Shabdrung Nawang Namgyel a key figure in the history of Bhutan built Punakha Dzong and his body is preserved in one of the Dzongs temples, Machen Lhakhang.

The largest cities are the capital Thimphu and the trading town of Phuntsholing on the border with India.
Until the 1980s, Bhutan had very high infant mortality rates, and residents had little access to health care compared to neighboring countries. Life expectancy was also very low. From the 1980s, health services were improved, which among other things led to a sharp reduction in the spread of the infectious disease.
Women and men are relatively equal in Bhutan. They have legally the same rights, and the inheritance law has traditionally favored women. The main obstacle to women’s economic and social development is the lack of access to health services, education and work.
The Bhutanese follow the Tibetan form of Buddhism (see Tibet, religion). Bhutan is today the only country in Asia where Mahayana Buddhism is state religion.
According to Bhutan tradition, Buddhism was introduced in the 7th century AD. by the Tantric Master Padmasambhava, but we have safe surrender of Buddhism in Bhutan from the first century AD.
The head of the Drukpa school, Ngawang Namgyal (1594–1661), united the country and became both worldly and spiritual head. He divided the country into provinces governed by fortified monasteries (dzong). His successors, who ruled until 1907, were regarded as rebirths by Ngawang Namgyal (in the same way that the Dalai Lamas succeeded one another in Tibet). In the southern part of the country lives a Nepali, Hindu minority.
Official language is dzongkha, a dialect of Tibetan. Tibetan is otherwise spoken in a number of partly incomprehensible dialects. Nepali is used in southern and southwestern parts of the country.

Imports by Bhutan range from basic items like processed foods and garments to electronic and aircraft parts. Bhutan’s export sector is still at a nascent stage.
“The two kingdoms have collaborated in the health sector since 1987, and there is significant cooperation in agriculture between the two countries. Bhutan participated in the International Horticultural Exposition in Chiang Mai from November 2006 to January 2007. His Majesty the King of Bhutan visited the exposition site during his visit to Thailand as the Crown Prince in November 2006. Bhutan also participated in the Royal Flora Ratchaphruek 2011, Chiang Mai, from December 2011 to March 2012.
THE Kingdom of Bhutan is a small country with a total area of 38,394 square kilometers (about the size of Switzerland), squeezed between China and India. It is located in the heart of the high Himalayas. The country is divided into 20 districts and 205 counties. The altitude varies from about 100 meters above sea level in the south to over 7,500 meters in the north. Gangkhar Puensum, at around 7,570 meters, is the Bhutan’s highest mountain and the world’s highest unclimbed mountain since the Bhutanese declared it off limits for climbers in 1994. The northern part of the country is under snow for the whole year.
The population of Bhutan is over 700,000 people, with about 79 percent living in rural areas. Thimphu is the capital and largest city. The official language is Dzongkha, and English is widely spoken.
Bhutan has a democratic constitutional monarchy. With a development philosophy based on Gross National Happiness (GNH), the Kingdom is becoming increasingly known for its dynamic leadership. It is an extraordinary country with architecture and fortresses the likes of which can not be seen anywhere else. The people are hospitable, most of them devoted Buddhists, and the unique cultural heritage has been kept intact.
Modernization has had a relatively late start in Bhutan, but there have been some striking achievements. Bhutan is now connected with roads, electricity is much more available and communications systems span most of the country and connect it to the outside world.
“Tourism is another important sector for cooperation. Thailand is one of the top countries visited by Bhutanese people.

The Buddha Dordenma is an iconic monument sitting atop a forest hill overlooking Bhutan’s capital city of Thimphu. Viewable from any part of the city, the massive statue of Shakyamuni is sited amidst Kuensel Phodrang where the palace of Sherab Wangchuck (the thirteenth Desi Druk who ruled the country from 1744 to 1763) once stood. It is one of the largest Buddha Rupas (or statues) in the world measuring at a height of 51.5 metres. Made of bronze and gilded in gold, the statue alone cost USD$47 million. Manufactured in China, the statue was cut into pieces and then transported to site through Phuentsholing (imagine the awe of wide-eyed Bhutanese villagers seeing the gigantic head of Buddha at the back of a moving lorry, priceless).
This is part of a greater whole, which includes the Kuensel Phodrang Nature Park, a 943-acre nature park inaugurated in 2011 to preserve the forests surrounding the statue. The entire project, which took about 10 years to complete on 25 September 2015, cost over USD$100 million. Locals and tourists alike embrace the park, which is popular for weekend family outings and its biking, hiking and nature trails. The park also hosted the Peling Tsechu, a three-day festival held in May 2016 to commemorate the birth of His Royal Highness Gyalsey Jigme Namgyel Wangchuck.The three-storey base houses a large chapel, while the body itself is filled with 125,000 gold statues of Buddha. The statue is expected to be a major pilgrimage centre and a focal point for Buddhists all over the world to converge, practice, meditate, and retreat.Apart from commemorating the 60th birth anniversary of Bhutan’s fourth king Jigme Singye Wangchuck, it fulfills two prophecies. In the twentieth century, the renowned yogi Sonam Zangpo prophesied that a large statue of either Padmasambhava, Buddha or of a phurba would be built in the region to bestow blessings, peace and happiness to the entire world.

Monks as well as laymen dressed in brilliant costumes and wearing masks of both wrathful as well as peaceful deities, re-enact the legends and history of Buddhism in the Dragon Kingdom. The festival culminates in the spectacular showing of the four storey high, 350 years old Thangkha (Buddhist religious scroll), - celebrating the deeds of Padmasambava, who is credited with introducing Buddhism to Bhutan.
The Wandgue and Thimphu Tsechus are in the fall and they too are most impressive. These festivals are very popular with western tourists. The festivals in Bumthang and East Bhutan attract fewer tourists and those who want to get a more authentic flavor of Bhutan's cultural and religious extravaganza will be well rewarded.
Apart from its religious implications, the Tshechu is also an annual social gathering where people dress in their finest clothing and jewellery. A small fair may be organized outside the Dzong for those looking for variety entertainment. Locals attending the festival enjoy a picnic lunch with an abundance of locally brewed alcohol. After the festival they traverse west to east along Bhutan's lateral highway enjoying the great biodiversity, ranging from conifer forests to banana trees and cactus plants. Along the route one catches glimpses of various birds and wild animals, and experiences the ancient tradition and culture of the Bhutanese way of life.
The dances that are performed at this event honoring the 'Guru', known as Cham, are performed to bless onlookers and to teach them the Buddhist dharma in order to protect them from misfortune and to exorcise all evil. The dancers take on the aspects of wrathful and compassionate deities, heroes, demons, and animals. Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal and Pema Lingpa were the main composers of many of the dances. It is believed that merit is gained by attending this religious festival. The dances invoke the deities to wipe out misfortunes, increase luck and grant personal wishes. Onlookers rarely fail to notice the Atsaras or clowns who move through the crowds mimicking the dancers and performing comic routines in their masks with long red noses. A group of ladies perform traditional Bhutanese dances during the intervals between mask dances.
No one should visit Bhutan without going to a Tsechu.

The National Emblem of Bhutan is a circle that projects double diamond thunderbolt, placed above the lotus. There is a jewel on all sides with two dragons on vertical sides. The thunderbolt represents harmony between secular and religious power while the lotus symbolizes purity. The jewel signifies sovereign power while the dragons (male and female) stands for name of the country Druk yul or the Land of the Dragon.
The National flag is rectangle in shape that is divided into two parts diagonally. The upper yellow half signifies secular power and authority of the king, while the lower saffron-orange symbolizes the practice of religion and power of Buddhism, manifested in the tradition of Drukpa Kagyu. The dragon signifies name and purity of the country, while jewels in its claws stand for the wealth and perfection of the country.
The national flower is Blue Poppy (Meconopsis Grandis). It is a delicate blue or purple tinged blossom with a white filament. It grows to a height of 1 meter on the rocky mountain terrain found above the tree line of 3500-4500 meters. It was discovered in 1933 by a British Botanist, George Sherriff in a remote part of Sakteng in eastern Bhutan.
The national tree is cypress (Cupressus torolusa). Cypresses are found in abundance and one may notice big cypresses near temples and monasteries. Cypress is found in the temperate climate zone, between 1800 and 3500 meters. Its capacity to survive on rugged harsh terrain is compared to bravery and simplicity.
The national bird is raven. It ornaments the royal crown. Raven represents deity Gonpo Jarodongchen (raven headed Mahakala) one of the chief guardian deities of Bhutan.
The national animal is the Takin (burdorcas taxicolor) that is associated with religious history and mythology. It is a very rare mammal with a thick neck and short muscular legs. It lives in groups and is found in places above 4000 meters altitude, on the north-western and far north eastern parts of the country. They feed on bamboos. The adult takin can weigh over 200 kgs.
Bhutan is a multi-lingual society. Today about 18 languages and dialects are spoken all over the country.

Thimpu, with a population of a little over 100,000 inhabitants including the Bhutanese Royal Family, is the largest and most cosmopolitan city in the country. Sprawling over the western slopes of the Wang Chu river valley, it affords residents and visitors immensely picturesque views from an altitude of 2,348m.
A centre for religion, commerce and government, it houses several important political buildings within its city limits like the Dechencholing Palace, the official residence of the King, and the National Assembly of the newly formed parliamentary democracy.
In terms of amenities, it is quite a modern city but it comes with some quirks. It is one of the few cities in Bhutan with ATM machines, so here’s your chance to stock up on some currency! It’s also the perfect place to give you a glimpse into contemporary Bhutanese culture as it is teeming with shopping malls, internet cafés and restaurants.
However, quite strangely, for a capital city, it does not have an airport within the city boundaries, instead using the airport in Paro, about 54km away. Another quirk of Thimphu is that there are no traffic signals here! That’s right, just the main intersections will have policemen standing in small pavilions that are intricately decorated, gesticulating exaggeratedly to keep the traffic flowing smoothly. This is quite a sight to foreigners unaccustomed to this unique sort of traffic control.
Thimphu’s journey of development only really began in 1961, though, after being declared the capital of the country by the third King Jigme Dorje Wangchuk, replacing the ancient capital of Punakha. The Thimphu valley has nursed several settlements over the centuries and a dzong has existed here right from 1216, but Thimphu being named capital turned a new chapter in the region’s life. Vehicles took to the roads in the next year and the small town slipped into the role of being the country’s capital quite seamlessly after that, with rapid expansion and mushrooming suburban development following quickly thereafter.Thimphu is now a city where apartment blocks, small family homes and family-owned stores mingle with government buildings, all establishments adorned with traditional Buddhist motifs and paintings.

Legend has it he subdued the demoness of the Dochu La with his 'Magic Thunderbolt of Wisdom.' A wood effigy of the lama's thunderbolt is preserved in the lhakhang, and childless women go to the temple to receive a wang (blessing) from the saint. (B, L, D) Hotel Zangthopelri or Punastangchu
DAY 6: BUMTHANG
We drive to central Bhutan via Pele La (11,152' )for views of snow-clad peaks, including Chomolhari (24,000'), Bhutan's 'sacred mountain.' Descending the pass, we'll visit the Chendebje chorten, then We cross another pass, the Yotong La (11,234') and possibly do a little shopping with the weavers of the Chummi Valley before arriving in Bumthang (9,000'). Padma Sambhava (known as Guru Rinpoche, 'precious master') introduced Buddhism to Bhutan here in 746, and the area continues to thrive as a spiritual center.
(B, L, D) Wangdicholing or Jakar Village Lodge
DAY 7: BUMTHANG
This is the cultural heart of Bhutan and the most beautiful valley in Bhutan. Many monasteries and pilgrimage sites are located here, making it the cultural and historic center of Bhutan. One could spend weeks exploring this fascinating valley. We can see a lot from 8th century. The Treasure-Finder, Terton Pema Lingpa, found the sacred Ters of Buddhist texts after diving into Membartsho Lake, which we can visit on an optional hike. We will visit the Jakar Dzong, and the Jambey and Tamshing Lhakhangs, two of the oldest temples, dating as far back as the 8th century, and Kurje Lhakhang. (B, L, D) Wangdicholing or Jakar Village Lodge
DAY 8: TRONGSA
After breakfast we drive to Trongsa through a valley where we will see numerous waterfalls. Trongsa is dominated by the large Trongsa Dzong, built in 1644 by Chhogyel Minjur Tenpa, the official who was sent by the Shabdrung to unify eastern Bhutan.

Thimphu the capital of Bhutan is a city like no other. One of the first thing to strike you will be the fact that there are no traffic signals and a human cop stands at all junctions manning the traffic in perfect order.
Lined with monasteries, dzongs and dzongs, all set in the beautiful valley of the Raidak river, there are quite a lot of things to do in Thimphu.
Photo: A traffic cop at his Kiosk / CCo
Thimphu Travel Guide
The capital city has a lot to take in. The splendid Trashi Chhoe Dzong gives a monastic view to the place and it is also a place which is a host of many colorful Tsechu festivals.
You can even take a stroll by the weekend markets which allow you to taste some of the finest dried fishes along with pork and other seafood items too.
Photo: Streets of Thimphu/CCo
Things To Do In Thimphu
Tashichho Dzong is a remarkable architectural structure which currently is the house of the throne room and seat of the government. More commonly known as the Thimphu Dzong, it is also called the ‘fortress of glorious religion’.
The impressive structure with whitewashed walls, golden, red and black wood and lush gardens on a backdrop of blue sky and flourishing green valleys, emanates a look of splendor.
Photo: Tashichho Dzong /The Art of Travel Partners
One of the largest Buddha statues in the world, Buddha Dordenma is a masterpiece of architectural wonder. The massive bronze statue is more than 50 meters in height and covered in gold. Apart from this it also houses 125,000 other Buddha statues that are placed surrounding the Buddha Dordenma statue.
Sitting royally atop a great meditation hall, this Buddha statue exudes peace and tranquillity. It is considered as one of the best places to visit in Bhutan.
Photo: The statue of Buddha sitting royally on top of the peak/CCo
National Folk Heritage Museum
If you want to see a glimpse of Bhutanese traditional lifestyle, their values, and heritage, the Folk Heritage Museum is the ideal place for you. The museum was established in 2001 and is set in a 3 storied timber and rammed earth building which still holds its authenticity.
The museum artifacts transform seasonally.

- Thimphu; 35,000
- 46,500 square kilometers (17,954 square miles)
- Dzonkha, Tibetan and Nepali dialects
- Lamaistic Buddhist, Hindu
- Ngultrum, Indian rupee
- Life Expectancy:
- GDP per Capita:
- U.S. $1,300
- Literacy Percent:
Bhutan Facts Flag
Bhutan is a tiny, remote, and impoverished country between two powerful neighbors, India and China. Violent storms coming off the Himalaya gave the country its name, meaning "Land of the Thunder Dragon." This conservative Buddhist kingdom high in the Himalaya had no paved roads until the 1960s, was off-limits to foreigners until 1974, and launched television service only in 1999. Fertile valleys (less than 10 percent of the land) feed all the Bhutanese. Bhutan's ancient Buddhist culture and mountain scenery make it attractive for tourists, whose numbers are limited by the government.
- Industry: Cement, wood products, processed fruits, alcoholic beverages
- Agriculture: Rice, corn, root crops, citrus; dairy products
- Exports: Electricity (to India), cardamom, gypsum, timber, handicrafts
—Text From National Geographic Atlas of the World, Eighth Edition
Boyd Matson investigates Bhutan's policy of Gross National Happiness.
Guided by a novel idea, the tiny Buddhist kingdom tries to join the modern world without losing its soul.
Two visions of the future compete for the soul of China's western frontier.
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The National Symbols of Bhutan
The National Flag is divided diagonally into two equal halves. The upper yellow half signifies the secular power and authority of the King while the lower saffron-orange symbolizes the practice of religion and the power of Buddhism manifested in the tradition of Drukpa Kagyu. The dragon signifies the name of the country, and its white colour signifies purity. The jewels in its jeweled claws stand for the wealth and perfection of the country.
The National Emblem of Bhutan is a circle that projects a double diamond thunderbolt placed above a lotus. The thunderbolt represents the harmony between secular and religious power while the lotus symbolizes purity. The jewel signifies the sovereign power while the dragon (male and female) represents the name of the country Druk Yul or the Land of the Thunder Dragon.
The national anthem was first composed in 1953. The National Anthem became official in 1966. The first stanza can be translated: In the kingdom of the dragon, the southern land of sandalwood, long live the king, who directs the affairs of both state and religion.
Celebrated on 17 December, the National Day commemorates the ascension to the throne of Gongsar Ugyen Wangchuck, the first king of Bhutan at Punakha Dzong on 17 December 1907.
The national language is Dzongkha. The name literally means language of the Dzong (the fortresses that now serve as the religious and administrative centres of the districts).
The national bird is the Raven. It adorns the royal crown. The raven represents the deity Gonpo Jarodongchen (raven headed Mahakala), one of the chief guardian deities of Bhutan.
The national animal is the Takin (Burdorastaxicolor) that is associated with religious history and mythology. It is a rare mammal with a thick neck and short muscular legs. It lives in groups and is found above 4000 meters on the northern-western and far north-eastern parts of the country. The adult Takin can weigh over 200 kgs.
The national animal is the Blue Poppy (Meconopsis Grandis). It is a delicate blue or purple tinged blosson with a white filament. It grows to a height of 1 meter, and can be found above the tree line (3500-4500 meters).

These pillars embody national and local values and aesthetics, as well as spiritual traditions. The philosophy of GNH is now being taken up by the United Nations and some other countries.
“We are coming out [of relative isolation] slowly and we are learning from everybody. They say, ‘if you copy from one it is plagiarizing; if, you copy from ten, it is research.’ So, we are doing a lot of research and taking good points from many countries. So, things in Bhutan are going very well,” the ambassador said.
Mr Wangdi did not formally request a posting in Thailand but he is delighted to be here. “In our system, ambassadors are nominated by the government, and confirmed and approved by the King. Even before the constitution was in place, this has always been the procedure. The ambassadorial term is usually three years, but it could be longer − four or even five years.
“Basically, I do what every ambassador does, and this consists of three basic functions. One is to promote friendship, cooperation and good will between our two countries − that is perhaps my main mandate, and it brings me to my second function, which is to deepen and broaden cooperation in the fields of commerce, trade, tourism, people-to-people contact, culture exchange and so on. My third, also very important, function is to look after the interest of the Bhutanese people in Thailand, whether they are residents, students or just passing through.
“Of course, as I am here among the diplomatic community in the metropolis of Bangkok, my purpose is also to build awareness about Bhutan, our culture and our GNH development philosophy − not only in this great nation but also with everyone in the diplomatic and expat communities here, as well as the other countries that I am assigned to.
“All of this keeps me very busy from morning to evening, and after the official workday I normally go out to interact and mingle – which is always a pleasure. In the evenings, I attend to social obligations like national day receptions,” the ambassador said.
Mr Wangdi said he wears the goh instead of a suit most of the time because it is part of the Bhutanese culture and tradition. “Every country has a culture which is unique, but Bhutan is a country where the culture is not only unique but living. It is practical and relevant in the modern context. Therefore, in Bhutan a great number of people wear the goh.

10-11 (b,l,d) Thimphu (altitude: 7,700 feet)
After breakfast, the short drive to Thimphu takes us past traditional farmhouses, small villages and terraced field. We have one and half days to explore Thimphu, Bhutan’s exotic capital city—a fascinating combination of traditional and contemporary life. We’ll attend a special prayer ceremony with red-robed monks and a Lama (Buddhist Teacher). Together with the monks we’ll participate in a butter lamp and rice Mandala offering. We may also receive an introductory talk on Buddhism and an empowerment or initiation of one of the important Buddhist prayer mantras from the Lama.
During the rest of our time in Thimphu, we’ll hope to visit some of the following key sights (there will be no time for all):
A visit to Mothithang Takin Preserve for a chance to see the takin, Bhutan’s national animal. Takin resembles a cross between a gnu and a musk deer. It has an immense face and a tremendously thick neck.
The Farmers vegetable market (open Friday through Sunday) where Thimphu residents mingle with villagers in an interesting urban and rural blend. People come from outlying rural villages to this market to sell vegetables and exotic fruits, & other items including dried fish, chili peppers, spices, tea (in bricks), butter (wrapped in leaves), hats, jewelry, and masks. You will also find all kinds of items that the local people use at home, including ritual and religious objects, and wonderful textiles.
A walk to the Memorial Chorten, a sacred shrine built in honor of the current King’s grandfather. The Chorten is an impressive three-story monument with Tantric statues and wall paintings of three different cycles of Nyingma teachings of Mahayana Buddhism. You will find many elderly people making the Kora (pilgrimage circuit).
A beautiful hike to Cheri Gompa Meditation Center. Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyel, the man who unified Bhutan, built this gompa (monastery) in 1619 and established the first monk body in Bhutan at this monastery. A silver chorten (stupa) inside the gompa holds the ashes of the Shabdrung’s father.

After a brief walk down from the museum you will have reached Rinpung Dzong (‘fortress of a heap of jewels’). It serves as seat of the Paro district administration and residence for the monastic school. Rinpung dzong like all other dzongs in Bhutan is adorned with wall murals that symbolize the lives of the Bodhisattvas and other prominent saints, drawings from Buddhist parables within which the country’s culture and traditional life is intricately represented and holy symbols that signify their own individual religious meanings.
Drukgyel Dzong or the fortress of the victorious Drukpas will be the next stop. History recalls the dzong as being built to celebrate the victories over several Tibetan invasions which were successfully countered from this defence point. The fort was gutted by a fire disaster in the 1950s but has been left in the form of historical ruins to this day to pay homage to what it stands for. You can also see the white dome of Mount Jomolhari (mountain of goddess) from the location.
Day 3 – Paro to Thimphu, Thimphu sightseeing
Breakfast and proceed to Thimphu, the capital city. The journey will be for about two hours and on the way you will be able to visit the Semtokha Dzong, which is the oldest dzong in the kingdom built by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel. The dzong has been serving as a school for Buddhist studies for a long time now and continues to do so. As you warm up to the core regions of Thimphu, you can visit the Memorial Chorten called Gongzo Chorten or Gyaldren Chorten. The chorten was built in memory of the Third Druk Gyalpo Jigme Dorji Wangchuck. Later in the list of places to visit are the Handicrafts Emporium, the Textile Museum and the local market. You shall also have the opportunity to visit Trashichhodzong (fortress of glorious heritage), which houses the office of His Majesty the King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck. It is the seat of the government while it also houses the monks of the central monastic body.

Overnight at your hotel in Thimphu.Overnight at your hotel in Thimphu.DAY 02: THIMPHU After breakfast, a short drive to Kuenselphodrang, a popular vantage point, with the biggest Buddha statues in the world. This site offers a panoramic view of the capital below and also has several walking trails, which ranges from leisurely to moderate. Then visit the National Memorial Chorten, built in the memory of the Third King and for world peace. Continue on to the picturesque 12th century Changangkha Temple and Nunnery at Zilukha.Visit the Folk Heritage Museum featuring an exhibition of items and artifacts of Bhutanese villages and rural households. After visiting the museum we will walk to School for Arts & Crafts, which is located close to the museum. This is one of the interesting schools where young boys & girls learn 13 different skills of arts & crafts in BhutanStroll around T-town in the evening.Overnight at your hotel in Thimphu.DAY 03: THIMPHU – PUNAKHA Drive over the Dochu-La pass (3,100 meters), which on a clear day offers an incredible view of Himalayan peaks before descending into balmy Punakha valley (about 3 hrs total driving time). The drive through the countryside affords a glimpse of everyday life in this most remote of Himalayan kingdoms. In the Dochu-La area there are vast Rhododendron forests that grow to tree size and bloom in late April/early May covering the mountains in a riot of glorious spring colour.Punakha was the ancient capital of Bhutan. On arrival, visit Punakha Dzong, the “Palace of Great Happiness” built in 1637 by the Shabdrung, the ‘Unifier of Bhutan’. It is situated at the confluence of the Mo Chu and Pho Chu (Mother and Father Rivers) and is the winter headquarters of the Je Khenpo and hundreds of monks who move en masse from Thimphu to this warmer location. The three story main temple of the Punakha Dzong is a breathtaking example of traditional architecture with four intricately embossed entrance pillars crafted from cypress and decorated in gold and silver.

16 (b,l,d) Tongsa Festival
We will spend a full day at the Tongsa Tsechu, the annual religious dance festival that takes place in Tongsa Dzong. Built in 1647, it is the largest dzong in the country. It is also the ancestral home of the Royal Family, and both the first and second kings ruled the country from Tongsa. The Dzong sits on a narrow spur that sticks out into the gorge of the Mangde-Chu River and overlooks the routes east, west and south. It was built in such a way that in the olden days, it had complete control over all east-west traffic. This helped to augment the strategic importance of the Dzong which eventually placed its Penlop (regional ruler) at the helm of a united country when His Majesty Ugyen Wangchuck became the first king of Bhutan. To this day, the Crown Prince of Bhutan becomes the Penlop of Tongsa before ascending the throne, signifying its historical importance.
Elaborate, spellbinding masked dances at the festival are performed by specially trained monks. From the roof of the temple, monks blow on a pair of long horns, and the sound of cymbals, drums and trumpets fill the air. These dance festivals revive the people spiritually and in many ways refine them culturally because the dances communicate moral lessons, and both the performer and the observer benefit from the exchange. The Bardo dances, the main event of the festival, serve as a reminder to people of their future destiny depending on their past and present deeds. The dance of Noblemen and Ladies tells the story of flirting princesses who are punished for their indiscretions. The dance of the Stag enacts the tale of a hunter who was converted to Buddhism and gave up hunting.
This festival is also an occasion for seeing people and for being seen. In olden times it provided the most important opportunity for unmarried men and women to find their life partners. People dress in their finest clothes and wear their most precious jewels. Men and women joke and flirt.
Day 11 Dec. 17 (b,l,d) Tongsa to Wangdi (altitude: 4,500 feet)
After breakfast, we’ll drive back westward to Wangdi Valley, crossing once more the Pelela Pass and spend the night in a small resort by the beautiful river.

Black-Necked Crane – The crane is a wildlife creature that comes to the Phobjikha Valley every winter. It is an endangered species and is celebrated by the Bhutanese annually with the Black-Necked Crane Festival. This 9-day event is intended to bring awareness to the bird’s importance. The Crane Festival is held on the King’s birthday, November 11th.
- 9. Traditional Textiles – Traditional textiles are generally created by Bhutanese women. The material is handwoven and dyed with intricate patterns making each garment unique. The National Textile Museum is in Thimphu.
- 10. Gom Kora – The Gom Kora or Gomphu Kora is a beautifully erected temple that is covered with Buddhist carvings. This is the site where the Guru Rinpoche meditated. He left his impressions on a rock. It is said that Rinpoche was meditating in a cave and was so startled by an approaching demon that he left his imprint on a rock. Once he turned into a garuda, he left an imprint of his wings on nearby rocks. Guru Rinpoche struck a deal with the demon to allow him to finish his meditations. The deal was sealed with two fingerprints left on the rocks that can still be seen.

A visit to Bhutan is something one must 'Must Do' in one's lifetime. Besides the scenic beauty and people, there are little things in Bhutan that make the place even more beautiful and also curious in a way. For instance:
*All buildings look similar in Bhutan. That is because a Royal Decree issued by the King in 1998, has made it mandatory for all buildings to be constructed with multi-coloured wood frontages, small arched windows, and sloping roofs. In Bhutan, during construction, (usually) no architectural plans are drawn, neither are nails or iron bars allowed in the construction.
*There are no traffic lights in most parts of Bhutan, especially Thimpu, its capital. Traffic cops man the traffic from a cozy and traditional structure right in the centre of a crossroad. There are approximately 50,000-60,000 cars in Bhutan.
*You will almost never hear a vehicle honk in Bhutan unless absolutely necessary.
*There are more than 50,000 stray dogs in Bhutan and the number rises every year. A few years ago, there was an uproar within society as a decision was taken to sterilise the dogs to curb their growth in numbers. Locals and stray dogs get along fine.
*Bhutan's national dish is Emma-datchi - made of chillies. Most Bhutanese eat it everyday and often twice a day. Naturally ulcers is what many Bhutanese suffer from.
*There is one major zoo in Bhutan in Thimpu and it houses only one animal species - the national animal Takin (a goat-antelope). While the zoo, which is more of a natural reserve spreads into hundreds of acres, there are only a handful of Takin inside and very few visitors. A visit to the zoo is not always part of a tourist's itinerary.
*Quite a few tourist hotels in Bhutan are run by women only. Not only are the women 'bell-girls' who carry luggage to the room and back, they are also the ones in charge of Room Service.
*It is a common sight to see the phalluses painted outside Bhutanese homes. It is believed it brings good luck and is a symbol of fertility. Also phallus in the form of key chains, or wooden toys is a common sight in the markets.

Best things to do in Thimphu and sightseeing in Thimphu
Dochula - Thimphu
A mountain pass with a wow factor any time one visits it!! During the winter one can experience snowfall or else in my case during the summer one can witness superb views of the valleys around!
The weather was cool in Thimphu but it became colder as one go on ascent to Dochula Pass. At an elevation of 3,100m after a 12-km drive, you are in the lap of nature with snowy Himalayan ranges looming in the background. Even at noon it gets foggy, and chilly weather can deprive you of a clear view. But then its amazing feeling to stand in a valley filled with hills, cypress trees and thousands of fluttering flags all across you. The Buddhist belief that inscribed mantras in prayer flags will be transmitted across the land by the wind and spread goodness so even at the highest of the mountains , you can see colourful flags at every pass, valley, bridges and houses. Predominantly in five colours, they represent the five colours of the elements — blue (sky), white (clouds), red (fire), green (water) and yellow (earth). Isn't it amazing?
Breathtakingly beautiful sight with 108 chortens in the backdrop of snow-capped mountains.
Kuenselphodrang - Thimphu
Tashichhodzong - Thimphu
This Dzong is part monastery and part administrative block - the King's Offices are here.
Standing on the right side of the Wangchu River, Tashichho Dzong, or popularly known as Thimphu Dzong, is an impressive structure that houses the Bhutanese government. The Dzong originated with the building of Dho-Ngon (Blue Stone) Dzong on a hill above Thimphu River where Dechenphodrang stands by Lama Gyalwa Lhanangpa. On the 17th century, the followers of Lama Gyalwa Lhanangpa were completely crush by Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyal and the the Dho Ngon Dzong fell into the hands of Zhbdrung.Zhabdrung rebuilt the fortress in 1641 and renamed it Tashichho Dzong. Better when served with a guide.

Kuensal Phodrang overlooking the pictorial Thimpu Valley is one of the iconic landscapes of Thimpu, Bhutan. Also known as Buddha Point, Kuensal Phodrang is famous for housing the famous Great Buddha Dordenma. The gigantic golden figurine of Sakyamuni Buddha has made Kuensal Phodrang a must visit place of Bhutan and a favoured sightseeing place in Thimpu Valley.
Perched at an altitude of 8711ft Kuensal Phodrang is the most visible tourist destination seen from the Thimpu City. Surrounded by the alpine forest the road leading to Kuensal Phodrang is known to be one of the most pictorial routes in Thimpu.
According to Bhutanese Legend the site to lay the foundation of Great Buddha Dordenma of Kuensal Phodrang was foretold during the 8th century in an ancient terma of Guru Padma Sambhaba. Later after 800 years the terma prophesying the making of Great Buddha Dordenma of Kuensal Phodrang was discovered by the Terton Pema Lingpa.
Consisting of thousand of identical figurine of Sakyamuni Buddha, the Great Buddha Dordenma of Kuensal Phodrang was inaugurated while celebrating the 60th anniversary of the Fourth King Jigme Singye Wangchuck on 25th September 2015.
The statue of Sakyamuni Buddha located in Kuensal Phodrang with the height of 169 ft is one of the world’s largest statue.
Kuensal Phodrang is located in the outskirts of Thimpu Valley. Visitors can reach Kuensal Phodrang by hiring a car from Thimpu Valley. It is an approx 10 minutes drive from Thimpu to Kuensal Phodrang. The distance between Thimpu to Kuensal Phodrang is 5 km.
To visit Kuensal Phodrang Bhutan Holidays offers tailor made package tour to stay at Thimpu at affordable price.
There are various hotels and resorts available in Thimpu from budget to deluxe level. Bhutan Holidays is happy to offer Hotel booking assistance to tourists, travellers and visitors.

Bhutan’s Tsechu Festivals
If you have heard about Bhutan, surely you have heard about Bhutan’s Tsechu festivals. Tsechu, which literally means ‘day ten’ in Dzongkha language, are annual celebrations held in the Dzong fortresses and prominent temples on the 10th day of Tibetan-Bhutanese calendar.
Cham dances are the major attractions of Tsechu and are performed by monks and common people who wear traditional costumes and masks and portray the incidents from the life of 8th century Buddhist teacher Padmasambhava-who is also known as Guru Rinpoche in Bhutan and Tibet. The tradition of the tsechu goes back to 8th or 9th century when Guru visited Bhutan to cure the ailing king and performed rituals and rites involving series of dances.
The other attraction of Tsechu is thondrel display. A thongdrel is a giant silk embroidered painting of Guru Rinpoche, Zhabdrung and Buddha. Thongdrel display ceremony usually takes place on the last day, before dawn and stays out for public audiences for two or three hours and then it’s folded back and concealed inside for a year until the next Tsechu. As the thongdrel is raised, people cheer, hum the Buddhist prayers and offer Khada scarves to the sacred painting. People feel blessed by joining the thongdrel display and expect good fortune for the year.
Bhutanese people join the celebration with their friends and families and witness religious mask dances, receive blessings and socialize. Everyone wears national costume made up of finest hand oven textile. You may also request your guide to arrange a dress for you so that you don’t look odd in the crowd.
Besides formal mask dances, there will be folklore singing and dancing by locals and people enjoy outdoor picnic with their friends and families. It’s okay to crash into a group, if you wish. People are friendly and welcoming. Share your lunch with them and try theirs! For sure, you will love their home-cooked meals, while you will find them curious about the food you bring from your hotel or restaurant.
It’s okay to crash into the picnic of one of the groups, if you wish. People are friendly and welcoming. Share your lunch with them and try theirs!

The museum exhibits live weaving with major weaving techniques, styles and
textiles made by different regions of Bhutan.
Jungshing Handmade Paper Factory: Traditional handmade papers made from the bark of daphe species are used to this day to print and handwrite Buddhist scripts. The process of making desho paper is on display with various products for sale.
Farmer’s Market: Sitting on the banks of the Wangchu (river), the Centennial Farmer’s market is the hub of farmers from 20 districts. From local organic vegetables, fruits and rice to dried meat, local honey, homemade food and incense of all kinds are available for the
residents of Thimphu. Across a cantilever bridge on the other side of the river, a variety of handicrafts from Bhutan and the South Asian region are on display.
Craft Bazaar: This line of temporary sheds is specially dedicated to authentic Bhutanese arts and crafts from all over Bhutan.
Buddha Dordenma: The 51 meter tall statue of Buddha Dordenma sits physically and metaphorically overlooking the Thimphu valley.
DAY 3 - THIMPHU TO PUNAKHA (1,300 MASL)
Punakha valley is the ancient capital of Bhutan and the seat of the first secular and religious head of Bhutan, the Zhabdrung. It now serves as the winter residence of the religious head of the state, the Je Khenpo.
Dochula: A very dramatic drive over the mountain pass of Dochu La (3050 masl) with its 108 Druk Wangyal Chortens (stupa) and meditation caves. Weather permitting, the view of the Himalayan ranges is spectacular from this point. With a café and meditation caves around the area, spend some time and start hike down toward the Botanical Park for a picnic lunch.
Chime Lhakhang: The legendary Chime Lhakhang is a sacred temple built in honour of the Divine Mad Man, Drukpa Kuenley and legend of the phallus that conquered all evils obstructing the spread of Buddhism in Tibet and Bhutan. On a more profound level, the temple and its legendary icon exposes mediocrity and hypocrisies of the mind often cloaked in religious sanctity.

Living Museum – Simply Bhutan – Dedicated to connecting people to the Bhutanese rural past though exhibition of artefacts used in rural households.
Thimphu Dzong – The largest Dzong, is also the seat of the office of the King of Bhutan.
National Memorial Chorten – Which was built in honor of the late King Jigme Dorji Wangchuk.
Dochula Pass – The 108 chortens was built by the present Queen Mother of Bhutan Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck to commemorate Bhutan’s victory over Indian militants and to liberate of the souls lost.
Punakha Dzong – Built in 1637, the dzong continues to be the winter home for the clergy, headed by the Chief Abbott, the Je Khenpo. It is a stunning example of Bhutanese architecture, sitting at the fork of two rivers, portraying the image of a medieval city from a distance. The dzong was destroyed by fire and glacial floods over the years but has been carefully restored and is, today, a fine example of Bhutanese craftsmanship.
Chhimi Lhakhang – A 20 minutes walk across terraced fields through the village of Sopsokha from the roadside to the small temple located on a hillock in the centre of the valley below Metshina. Ngawang Chogyel built the temple in 15th century after the ’divine Madman’ Drukpa Kuenlay built a small chorten there. It is a pilgrim site for barren women.
Passing Wangdue Phodrang, one of the major towns and district capital of Western Bhutan. Located south of Punakha, Wangdue is the last town before central Bhutan. The district is famous for its fine bamboo work and its slate and stone carving. We will pause to view the Wangdue Phodrang Dzong. Built in 1638, Wangdue Dzong is dramatically perched on the spur of a hill and overlooks the confluence of the Tsang Chu and Dang Chu rivers.
In the morning, we will hike to the Tamshing Goemba, built in 1501 by the Buddhist saint Pema Lingpa. We will also visit Kurjey Lhakhang (left-bottom), one of the most sacred monasteries in Bhutan.

It was the Drukpa lama, Ngagi Wangchuk (1517-54), the great grandfather of Shabdrung Nawang Namgyel, who founded the first temple at Trongsa in 1543. The landscape around Trongsa is spectacular, and for miles on the end the Dzong seems to tease you so that you wonder if you will ever arrive. The view extends for many kilometers and in the former times, nothing could escape the vigilance of its watchmen.
The Bumthang region encompasses four major valleys: Choskhor, Tang, Ura and Chhume. The Dzongs and the most important temples are in the large Choskhor valley, commonly referred to as Bumthang valley. There are two versions of the origin of the name Bumthang. The valley is supposed to be shaped like a Bumpa, a vessel that contains holy water, and Thang meaning flat place. The religious connotation of the name aptly applies to the sacred character of the region. It would be difficult to find so many important temples and monasteries in such a small area anywhere else in Bhutan.
The Mongar district is the northern portion of the ancient region of Kheng. Hardly more than a stopping place surrounded by fields of maize, it was also the first town built on a mountain side instead of in a valley, a characteristic of eastern Bhutan where the valleys are usually little more than riverbeds and mountain slopes which rise abruptly from the rivers, flatten out as they approach their summits. Shongar Dzong, Mongar's original Dzong, is in ruins and the new dzong in Mongar town is not as architecturally spectacular as others in the region. Dramtse Goemba, in the eastern part of the district, is an important Nyingmapa Monastery.
Lhuentse is an isolated district although there are many sizeable villages in the hills throughout the region. It is very rural and there are fewer than five vehicles, including an ambulance, and not a single petrol station, in the whole district.
Formerly known as Kurtoe, the region is the ancestral home of Bhutan's Royal Family. Though geographically in the east, it was culturally identified with central Bhutan, and the route over the Rodung-la was a major trade route until the road to Mongar was completed.

Bhutan – A Kingdom Of Clouds and Thunderous Sound.
Bhutan is known as the destination of clouds because of its breathtaking location; it is situated on the eastern slopes of the ever growing mountain of the world and hence the tallest, i.e. The Himalayas. The city touches the bed of clouds since its lowest valley is 2,200 feet above sea level and one of its road often gets merged with the clouds at near about 14,000 feet and sometimes even more which makes traveling to this country even more interesting.
Some ancient Buddhist monks refers to this picturesque destination as Bhotanta which means the realm which occurs at the frontiers of Tibet. Followers belonging to one of the tradition of the Buddhist Sect, known as Drukpa named it as Druk Yul or the land of the peaceful Thunder Dragon. This name was given as a result of a very strong belief. Since, in the mountains, The thunderstorms were very frequent and this sound of the thunder was considered as the voice of the dragon, So, they named this place in the name of the dragon.
These days, Bhutan is the last independent Himalayan Buddhist Kingdom. Sikkim was taken over by India and Mustang went under the wale of Nepal. When Tibet was taken over by China, the grandfather of the present king, Jigme Dorgi, decided that this country will no longer suck under the isolation and it allied with India who was under the spell of their English Peers, but Bhutan took a step to stay away from this policy of imperialism and maintained safe distance from China.
In 1960, there was a stake upliftment in the economic and social policy of Bhutan. As a result the construction of the very first road in Bhutan was laid down just an year after and soon it became the favorite halt for the tourist from all over the world and now Bhutan welcome more than 12,000 tourists every year. Traveling to this region dies not lead to any diversity.
This up gradation reminds us of the condition of Bhutan that existed in the 8th Century and this destination was under the charms of the mountains. No one knew of such a destination and it thus its doors always remained closed for the tourists and the ones who used to visit them were the monks who wanted to escape from the over imposition of the so called Civilized countries.

Masked, barefoot dancers were leaping and whirling, brandishing knives, and beating tambourines to subdue evil spirits and celebrate the teachings of Buddha. Clowns cavorted and cracked ribald jokes, brass cymbals clanged, bells rang, bald monks in burgundy robes chanted, horns trumpeted, bronze-skinned children with pink cheeks frolicked, and everyone showed off their best national costumes and jewelry.
We admired the beautiful women in their brilliant, tubular kiras of heavy silk brocade. Dorje whispered, Some of these dresses cost over $20 thousand.
Among the crafts scattered on the ground for sale were wooden phalluses. Dorje explained, We hang these inside our houses for fertility and good luck.
A foreign tourist picked up a large carved penis shape and quipped, I already have one of these.
The salesgirl smiled, Yes, but do you have two?
Right from the beginning, we saw no discrimination against women. In fact, women are more equal than men! Traditionally, daughters inherit their parents property. Where there are several husbands the offspring equally inherit because they dont know who is the father.
Several sisters may take one husband, said Dorje. I know one woman who had four husbands. They all worked in her restaurant. He added, But this isnt so common anymore. Here in town there are only about 10 women having more than one husband.
And the King?
King Jigme Singye Wangchuck was crowned in 1972 when he was 16. He is married to four beautiful sisters. Each has her own house. He lives very simply in a log cabin. Hes a good king. When he visits schools, he eats lunch with the children. He encourages them to study, telling them that theyre Bhutans future.
Dorje leaned forward earnestly, You see, we started our development process so late weve had a chance to observe other countries and see the mistakes theyve made. We emulate those who we think have gone in the right direction. Instead of a Gross National Product, we measure Gross National Happinessthe Kings idea.
The 65-mile drive from Paro to the capital, Thimpu, takes more than two hours on steep winding roads through eerie forests of grey-bearded trees interspersed with rhododendron, magnolia, pines, and larch.

Through the British East India Company, the British entered Bhutan in the 18th century as part of its colonial expansion into India, China and the region as a whole. The British remained involved in the country's affairs for the ensuing two hundred-plus years. After centuries of internal struggles, civil wars and conflicts with neighboring peoples, during which the British backed certain leaders and factions, Bhutan chose a king in 1907. The nation settled into an agreement that gave the British control of Bhutan's foreign affairs.
In 1953, the king established the 130-member National Assembly in order to promote a more democratic form of governance, and the country eventually changed from an absolute to a constitutional monarchy.
It was only in 1999 that the country lifted its ban on television and the Internet and began to open up more to the outside world. In 2005, Bhutan began to implement a new constitution, and in 2007 and 2008, it held its first national parliamentary elections. After opening its country to commercial tourism in 1974, Bhutan welcomed 287 tourists that year. Every year, as the draw of this vibrant, unspoiled country increased, more and more people made the journey. Today, over a quarter-million people visit Bhutan annually.
Due to its relative isolation from the rest of the world and strong adherence to its traditions and religion, Bhutan has maintained its customs over the last several centuries. Experiencing the nation’s unique culture is one of the strongest draws for Western visitors.
Bhutan is officially the only Buddhist kingdom still in existence, and the large majority of the country adheres to the state religion of Vajrayana Buddhism. (By and large, Hindus make up the remaining people.) The religious leaders have always had a strong say in Bhutan’s political affairs and have been political leaders in the past as well. The lifestyle of the people, therefore, largely conforms to these religious beliefs. The country controls the influence of foreign culture, which is also why the local traditions have remained so strong. However, this is slowly changing with the continued presence of tourism, as well as the curiosity of much of Bhutan's younger population. The juxtaposition of young Bhutanese tapping their smartphones while traditionally dressed Buddhist monks walk by is becoming a more common sight in Thimpu, the capital city.
No rigid clan systems exist in the nation, and men and women share equal rights.

It was here in 1907 that Bhutan’s first king was crowned.After lunch, enjoy a walk to Chimi Lhakhang, temple of the Drukpa Kuenly who is also known as the Divine Madman. He inherited the Divine Madman title since he revolted against the orthodox Buddhism in his time. He taught the people that religion is an inner feeling and it’s not necessary that one should be an ordained monk. He is also considered a symbol of fertility and most childless couples go to his temple for blessing.Overnight at your hotel in Punakha.DAY 04: PUNAKHA – THIMPHU – HAA In the morning drive to Yabesa village and hike to through ricefields and up to Khamsum Yueley Namgyal Chorten, built by her majesty the queen Ashi Tshering Yangdon Wangchuk. Perched high on a hill on the bank of the river, the Chorten houses paintings belonging to Nyingmapa Traditions.Drive back to Thimphu where you will visit The National Library housing the collection of Bhutanese scriptures dating back to the 8th century and a fascinating replica of a medieval farmhouse at the Folk Heritage Museum. You will also have an opportunity to visit handicraft and souvenir stores. If your visit to Thimphu coincides with the weekend, you can walk through the Thimphu Market to see the variety of food of Bhutan, including basket upon basket of fiery chillies, fresh cheese and a variety of fresh greens. In addition, many stalls contain Bhutanese handicrafts and household items.Afterwards, we will depart for Haa, the westernmost valley in Bhutan. This is a beautiful drive that is relatively free of traffic. The road takes us back to Chuzom (river confluence) where we catch a glimpse of the three shrines in Nepali, Tibetan and Bhutanese style which were built to ward off evil spirits, and then traverses left past Dobje Dzong, an ancient prison which now houses a monastery.

Description - Itinerary
FIX Departure Tour
02 Nights - Thimpu
01 Night - Punakha
02 Nights - Paro
DAY 01 ARRIVAL AT PARO AIRPORT – THIMPHU
On arrival at Paro Airport and after completing your Visa / Permit formalities you will be received by our Bhutan representative who will assist you in boarding your vehicle for transfer to Thimphu (2320Mts / 7656Fts, 65 Kms / 01½ to 02 Hrs), Thimphu is the capital town of Bhutan and the centre of government, religion and commerce, Thimphu is a unique city with unusual mixture of modern development alongside ancient traditions. Although not what one expects from a capital city, Thimphu is still a fitting and lively place. Home to civil servants, expatriates and monk body, Thimphu maintains a strong national character in its architectural style. On arrival in Thimphu, Check in to the hotel. Evening free at leisure. Overnight at Hotel.
DAY 02 THIMPHU
After breakfasts go for Thimphu sightseeing covering – Memorial Chorten - The Chorten was built in 1974 to honor the 3rd King of Bhutan, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck (1928–1972), is a prominent landmark in the city with its Golden Spires and Bells. In 2008, it underwent extensive renovation. It is popularly known as "the most visible religious landmark in Bhutan". Tashichho Dzong (All tourists visiting Dzongs and temples must be dressed appropriately. No half pant, sleeve less shirts, floaters, etc are allowed) – Also known as "Fortress of the Glorious Religion", Trachichho Dzong, Thimphu was initially built in 1641 and later rebuilt in its present form by King Jigme Dorji Wangchuk in 1965. The Dzong houses, Main Secretariat Building which houses the Throne room of His Majesty, the King of Bhutan. The National Assembly Hall is housed in a modern building on the other side of the river from the Dzong. During the warmer summer months, the monk body headed by His Holiness, the Je Khenpo, makes its home in the Dzong.

Built by the Guru Rinpoche in 1652, it houses a rock with his body imprint. Legend has it that Guru Rimpoche manifested as a Garuda to defeat the demon Shelging Karpo who had taken the form of a white lion.
We will also visit Jambay Lhakhang, built in 659 by Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo to pin down a demoness who was obstructing the spread of Buddhism. Come October, the Jambay Lhakhang Drup is one of the most colourful festivals in Bhutan.
The Matsutake Festival gives the cheerful Uraps a reason for celebration and to have some fun. After an exciting day of picking mushrooms with the people of Ura, sampling some truly delicious meals, learning about their art and crafts, their traditional lifestyle, folk songs and dances, regional food and drink. Participate in the song and dance, glitter and gaiety as the villagers gather in the festival arena, in full costume to cultivate a deeper insight into the rhythms of Bhutanese village life. Sample freshly gathered mushrooms; try some wild honey or high altitude medicinal herbs and potions, along with other local dishes of wheat and barley. Shop for textiles, cane, bamboo and other regional products.
The Valley of Phobjikha is well known as the winter home of the Black Necked Crane (Grus Nigricollis). Bhutan is home to around six hundred black-necked cranes with Phobjikha being one of the popular places that the birds migrate to in the winter months from the Tibetan plateau. The elegant and shy birds can be observed from early November to end of March. Overlooking the Phobjikha valley is the Gangtey Goempa. This is an old monastery that dates back to 17th century.
Gangtey Monastery is one of the main seats of the religious tradition based on Pema Lingpa’s revelations and one of the two main centres of the Nyingmapa school of Buddhism in the country. The well-known Terton Pema Lingpa makes the Monastery in the late 15th century.
Thimphu the modern capital of Bhutan is made up of just three main streets. It is only one of 2 capitals in the world without traffic lights. As the capital of Bhutan, Thimphu offers a rich cultural heritage with places of interest as listed below.

The statue itself is mentioned in an ancient terma of Guru Padmasambhava himself, said to date from approximately the 8th century, and recovered some 800 years ago by Terton Pema Lingpa (Religious Treasure Discoverer).For me, I am just happy to be blessed with such an amazing view.The Buddha Dordenma overlooks the Southern entrance to Thimphu Valley, and visitors can enjoy a vantage view of Thimphu nestled in the valley below.Thimphu being the capital city is the most developed and densely populated area in Bhutan, so this sight of closely-packed buildings is not the norm in other parts of the country which are mostly mountains, forests and farmlands. With urbanization, Bhutanese youths are increasingly migrating to Thimphu in search of white-collar jobs and a better life. I wonder how many dreams these buildings hold?One thing I know for sure, Bhutan is not ready to give up their unique cultural identity for modernization, and the little kingdom is gingerly treading the waters of urbanization, step by step, without compromising on the values which they have held closely for centuries. If there is a country left in the world who can find a delicate balance between culture and economic progress, it would be Bhutan.
Opening Hours: 9:00AM to 5:00PM daily
More of my travel adventures in Bhutan
One of the most interesting things that you can do in Bhutan, is to get your own personalised stamps at the National Post Office in Thimphu. Costing about USD4 for 12 stamps (including the value of the stamp), imagine your friends’ and family’s pleasant surprise when you send home a postcard with your face on the stamp :) Thimphu’s Post Office is right in the city centre.
Source: Wikicommons (cos’ I was too excited, I forgot to take a photo, bleah)
You can have your photo taken on the spot by the friendly post office staff, or bring your own (glamour) photos in a thumbdrive. It takes less than ten minutes to make your very own stamps. Now that’s what I call exclusive edition.While you are there, visit the Bhutan Postal Museum that was recently opened in November 2015 celebrate the 60th Birth Anniversary of Fourth Druk Gyalpo His Majesty King Jigme Singye Wangchuck.

This has resulted in the exchange of many royal visits. HRH Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn, HRH Princes Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, HRH Princess Chulabhorn Walailak and late HRH Princess Galyani Vadhana have all visited Bhutan. From Bhutan, among others, Thailand was visited by our King when he was Crown Prince, with his wife Queen Jetsun Pema and the Queen Mother, Ashi Tsehering Pem Wangchuk.
“We also have a very good relationship on the government level, with many top officials from both sides making visits. Bhutan and Thailand have an agreement called the Comprehensive Framework Agreement for Cooperation and it covers many areas, mainly trade, commerce, investment, human resources development, culture, religion, health, agriculture, tourism, civil aviation and consular matters. We just had a very successful annual meeting in March under this framework. Bilateral cooperation is also managed through a diverse array of consultations at the ministerial level.
“Assistance from Thailand has mainly been in the field of human resource development. Thailand’s assistance began in the 1980s under the ‘Thai International Development Cooperation Agency’ (TICA) in the areas of rural development, agriculture extension, health, education and private sector development. Thailand ranks third, after India and Australia, in assisting Bhutanese students,” Mr Wangdi said.
“The Royal Civil Service in Bhutan and the TICA signed an agreement to provide scholarships to Bhutanese students for short and long-term training and study in Thailand at institutions like Naresuan University, which offers 10 scholarships annually for Bhutanese students. The School Agriculture Programme is a collaborative project for youth development between Thailand and Bhutan, under the patronage of HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn. Another project, launched in 2007 by the Ministry of Education and World Food Program, assists school food projects in Bhutan.
“There is also an exchange of volunteers between the two countries. Thai volunteers have been fielded in remote corners of Bhutan and have worked in vocational institutes, and Bhutan has also sent vocational teachers to Thailand.
“Thailand is the third largest trading partner for Bhutan. A trade agreement currently under negotiation is expected to boost bilateral trade, which has increased since Druk Air started flights between Bangkok and Paro in 1988.

BHUTAN 'The enchanted kingdom where happiness is more than a dream' is a small Himalayan landlocked country situated in the eastern slopes of the Himalayan range with China in the north and Indian states of Bengal and Assam in the south, Sikkim in the west and Arunachal Pradesh in the east. It is the world's youngest democratic country offered to the citizens of Bhutan by 4th King with the vision "GROSS NATIONAL HAPPINESS " as the country's progress and growth is measured through happiness index rather than monetary.
The state religion of the country is Drukpa Kagyud a branch of Mahayana Buddhism. The holy monasteries located on sheer cliffs, the fluttering prayer flags lined on the high ridges, the red robed monks chant religious script throughout day and night, old people circumambulating chortens chanting "Om Mane Padme Hung" gives this kingdom an atmosphere of happiness and peace.
Bhutan is known to the world as a most rough and mountainous terrain with most diverse flora and fauna, natural landscape, architecture, wonderful biodiversity and well preserved of its unique culture. It is divided into three physical zones "greater Himalayas in the north, the inner Himalayas in the centers and the southern foothills in the south".
The greater Himalayas include Laya, Lingshi, Lunana, Gogona and Merak Sakten. Theses area is covered with snow, glaciers, glacial lakes and barren rocks. The mountains of these region rise to 7000 meters above sea level. Tall trees and sherbs cannot grow.. It is the grazing place for yaks and sheep. Short Junipers, Primulas, rodhodendrons, Himalayan Blue poppy and many more medicinal plants and flowers are grown here. The animals found are Takin, musk deer, Himalayan bear, blue sheep and snow leopard. The birds like black necked crane, ravens and magpies are found here.
The inner Himalaya lies in the south of greater Himalayan zone. It rises to a height of 3000 meters. The mountains are of steep slope on both sides. The main valley are Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Wangduephodrang, Trongsa, Bumthang, Zhemgang, Lhuntse, Trashigang and Dagana. All the major river flow through these valley.

On the driven to the statue the steep winding hill road offers an unparalleled view of the City of Thimphu and is an excellent place to capture a view of the City especially after dark. A journalist once described them as ‘’seeing an oasis of light in the desert of darkness’ ‘as the City light of Thimphu shin very bright in an otherwise dark Thimphu valley. After breakfast drive to Punakha with a short stop at Dochula pass (3,050m) that heralds the most enchanting views of Bhutan. Night halt at hotel Taj in Thimphu.
Day 05: Thimphu to Punakha (77km, 3hrs).
Early breakfast and visit Simtokha Dzong. This is one of the oldest fortresses in Bhutan. It was built in 1629 A.D. Drive to Punakha via Dochula Pass at 3150mts. The drive would take about 3hours. On arrival, drive to Punakha Dzong, the “Palace of Great Happiness” Built in 1637 by the Shabdrung, the ‘Unifier of Bhutan’, Punakha Dzong is situated at the confluence of the Mo Chu and Pho Chu (Mother and Father Rivers). It is the winter headquarters of the Je Khenpo and hundreds of monks who move en masse from Thimphu to this warmer location. The three story main temple of the Punakha Dzong is a breathtaking example of traditional architecture with four intricately embossed entrance pillars crafted from cypress and decorated in gold and silver. It was here in 1907 that Bhutan’s first king was crowned. Overnight hotel in Punakha.
Day 6:Punakha – Bumthang
Early breakfast and then you can drive into the beautiful valley of Bumthang. Bumthang is the valley which is the religious heart land of Bhutan. It is also the first valley to receive the Buddhism in Bhutan. Many important and religious figures in Buddhism have visited this valley and blessed by them.First visit to Jakar Dzong built in 17th century, it had defended lots of enemies from outside and from within the country. The name Jakar originated from this place.

Immediately we could tell the difference between Bhutan and Nepal. Bhutan is clean, uncrowded, and very peaceful. No more honking horns and crowded city streets, at least not until we get to India. We met our guide, Kinga, and our driver, Sonam. Kinga and Sonam would be our friends and teachers for the week as we saw the best sights of Bhutan.
We first toured the capital city of Thimpu. We visited a zoo where we saw the Takin, Bhutan’s national animal, as well as a school where students were learning crafts such as woodworking, painting, weaving, and embroidery.
One of the highlights for us was touring the Trashi Chhoe Dzong. A dzong is a fortress with both religious and political purposes. These are large, impressive buildings built over 400 years ago and still in use today. We loved seeing the architecture and the buddhist monks walking through the courtyards. That’s not something you see everyday in the US!
Our timing was right to be able to see the famous weekend market. Produce from Bhutan and India were on sale, as well as meat, cheese, and incense by the bag full.
Food in Bhutan
We ate a lot of traditional food, more than Tyler or Kara really wanted. Lunch and dinner would consist of red rice (it really is red), noodles, chicken or beef, cabbage, vegetables, and green chillies cooked with yak cheese. The food here can be spicy, and the people eat chillies here as a dish, not as a seasoning.
Also, there are no stoplights here. Traffic police direct traffic in more congested areas of Thimpu from a gazebo-type structure like this one.
National Memorial Chorten
Another highlight of Thimpu was visiting the National Memorial Chorten. Throughout the day many people come here to spin the giant prayer wheels and circumambulate around the chorten. In Buddhism it is believed that the more you spin the prayer wheels the more good karma you accumulate, which is extremely important for a favorable rebirth during the next life.
From atop the chorten, this is another view of Thimpu.
Another highlight near Thimpu was a visit to the Cheri Monastery (Cheri Goemba).

Regarded as the “crown jewel of the Himalayas,” the Kingdom of Bhutan is the last remaining independent country to support Buddhism as the official state religion. Photographed over the course of three years, Bhutan: Land of the Thunder Dragon transports us to colorful festivals and religious traditions, continuing to the remote communities along the roof of the world. This book encompasses a wide range of landscape, portrait, and editorial photographs sure to impress and please any reader interested in travel, photography, and/or Himalayan culture.
“A glorious large-format coffee-table book par excellence! Next best thing to actually going to Bhutan. Berthold has captured this vast and stunning land and its people with the piercing eye of an artist-photographer. His spare, coherent text tells a fascinating tale that adds to your pictorial journey.”—Mandala

He taught the people that religion is an inner feeling and it’s not necessary that one should be an ordained monk. He is also considered a symbol of fertility and most childless couples go to his temple for blessing.
Overnight at your hotel in Punakha
DAY 04: (15 DEC) PUNAKHA – PARO
In the morning drive to Yabesa village and hike to through ricefields and up to Khamsum Yueley Namgyal Chorten, built by her majesty the queen Ashi Tshering Yangdon Wangchuk. Perched high on a hill on the bank of the river, the Chorten houses paintings belonging to Nyingmapa Traditions. Take a picnic lunch on a picturesque riverside before exploring the Wangduephodrang Dzong. Built in 1639 the strategically located Dzong is perched on a spur at the confluence of two rivers.
Drive back to Thimphu where you will have an opportunity to visit handicraft and souvenir stores. Afterwards proceed to Paro, visiting Semtokha Dzong en route. The Dzong, built in 1627, is the oldest in Bhutan. It now houses the Institute for Language and Culture studies. On arrival in Paro, check into the hotel.
Overnight at Hotel in Paro.
DAY 05: (16 DEC) PARO (TAKTSANG MONASTERY HIKE)
After breakfast we hike to Taktsang Monastery. The trail is broad and the walk of approximately 2 hours uphill takes us to Taktsang Monastery. Built on a sheer cliff face 900 metres above the valley floor, the monastery is a spectacular sight. It is also an important pilgrim site for the Buddhists. Legend has it that the great Guru Rimpoche flew here on the back of a tigress when he brought the teachings of the Buddhist Dharma to Bhutan in the 8th Century. He then mediated in a cave there for three months where the monastery was later built. Nearby there is a teahouse where you can stop for refreshments.
In the afternoon, we drive to the ruins of the 17th Century Drukgyel Dzong, an historic monument built by the Shabdrung to commemorate his victory against marauding Tibetans in 1644.

The lofty barriers had wrapped the country with a cloak of mysticism. For centuries, the country did not have a name for the outside world. Some Tibetan chronicles referred to it with exotic names such as the ‘Southern Valley of Medicinal Herbs’ or the ‘Lotus Garden of the Gods.’ To the Bhutanese, the country was always ‘Druk Yu’ literally meaning ‘The Kingdom of the Thunder Dragon.’
The name Bhutan appears to have derived from the ancient Indian term ‘Bhotanta’ which means the end of the land of the Bhots. Bhot was the Sanskrit term for Tibetans. Bhutan’s distant past is surrounded by mystery, as books and documents were lost in a series of fires and earthquakes which destroyed important Dzongs where the historical records had been stored. The prominent event in what little exists of Bhutanese history is the legendary flight of Guru Padmasambhava from Tibet in 747 AD. Guru Rimpoche, as he is today popularly referred to, is considered the second Buddha. Guru Rimpoche arrived in Paro valley at the Taktshang (Tiger’s Nest.) Today a monastery exists perched precariously on the cliff’s face as an indelible mark of the Guru’s visit. Guru Rimpoche is the founder of the tantric strain of Mahayana Buddhism practiced in Bhutan. He is also worshipped as the father of the Nyingmapa School of religion.

The temple, precariously perched on a hair-raising ravine about 1,000 metres above the valley floor, is considered sacrosanct as it was in a cave within this temple that the eight century tantric saint, Padmasambhava, subdued the evils who obstructed the teachings of the Buddha. The saint is believed to have come to Taktshang in a fiery wrathful form riding a tigress. Over the years, many Buddhist saints have meditated in and around the temple and discovered numerous hidden treasure teachings.
Visit the ruins of DrugyelDzongenroute. The fortress known as the “Castle of the Victorious Drukpa”, is a symbol of Bhutan’s victory over the Tibetan invasions in the 17th and 18th centuries. We can also get a view of the sacred mountain, Jumolhari, along the way. On the way back to our hotel, we will visit the 7th century Kyichu Temple, believed to have been built on a place that resembled a knee of a giant ogress. Overnight at hotel.
Day 03: A Sojourn in Thimphu
Highlights: The power centre and the capital city of the Happy Kingdom. Also the hub of commerce and culture.
The drive from Paro to Thimphu is just under an hour. There are great many places to see in Bhutan’s capital. In the morning we will drive to Buddha Point which provides a spectacular 360 degree close-quarter view of entire Thimphu and the adjoining areas. This is the site of the world’s tallest statue of Shakyamuni Buddha. Our next destination is the 12th century Changangkha Temple, Takin Zoo and the viewpoint at Sangaygang. On our way back, we stopover at a nunnery, the Folk Heritage Museum and the Textile Museum.
After lunch, we will proceed to TashichhoDzong, a 17th century castle-fortress which today houses the offices of the King, Chief Abbot and government ministries. We will also take the opportunity to see the nearby parliament complex, the School of Arts and Crafts, vegetable market, and then spend the rest of the day watching an archery match and strolling around the town.

Especially significant was the unfurling of the Throngdrel, a three-story-tall tapestry displayed only on important occasions. So revered is the tapestry that simply viewing it is believed to absolve a person's sins. A huge line of people processed around the tower from which it was hung - clockwise, as is the custom - to see the Throngdrel and gain karma.
Of course, my account of the experience would be incomplete without mentioning one other aspect of the celebration. Among the Buddhist practitioners attending the celebration was His Majesty, King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck. As monks played horns and drums, he and Her Majesty the Queen walked into the temple, and we stood maybe thirty feet away from them!
Coming from a Western, Christian background, I was fascinated by this Buddhist holiday. This is because on the surface, there is little in common between the two religions, but beneath all the differences, common threads such as community, celebration, and ceremony connect the two traditions to each other. For me, this was the most important part of the celebration of the Parinirvana.

#4- Thimpu Tsechu Festival: Date: 11th– 13th October 2016
The meaning of Tsechu is ten days. This festival is held throughout Bhutan every year to pay homage to Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava). Guru Rinpoche introduced tantric form of Buddhism to the country in 8th century. In Thimpu, Tsechu is celebrated with great aplomb over the course of 3 days, during which thousands of people across Bhutan and all over the world flock to the capital for witnessing this amazing festival. This festival takes place in the courtyard of the Tashichho Dzong. The Tsechu festival involves religious activities and symbolic dances.
Remember this festival is considered to be the most anticipated and important festival in Bhutanese calendar, so do not forget to include it while planning a festival tour package from Bhutan Buddha Travellers. We will make sure in planning an exceptional and well guided festival tour as per your requirement and budget that will make your Bhutan trip a memorable one.

Bhutan is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world. Bhutan is often referred to as the last Shangri-La on earth, nestled deep in the valleys of the Himalayan mountains in southern Tibet. Travelers, the country is known as Bhutan, but the population calls itself proud Druk Pa and her country Druk or Druk Yul – the land of the thunder dragon. The number of tourists visiting Bhutan each year is deliberately kept low to protect the country from excessive influence and make the trip a unique experience for every visitor.
A Rich Culture
The people of Bhutan are a rich mosaic of lifestyles and languages. However they are also united by their friendliness and unique cultural heritage rooted in Mahayana Buddhism that has remained isolated from western influence. They also treasure their environment, and live in harmony with its elements. The population is mainly concentrated in small towns and villages, and it is in these fascinating places that you can really discover the true spirit of the Bhutanese people.
Bhutan is a place where the mountains, rivers and valleys are abodes of the gods. The constant scenes of hills dotted with ancient temples, monasteries and prayer flags are testament to this, whilst in streams prayer wheels powered by the natural water flow turn day and night. Some sites are amongst the most sacred in the Himalayas such as Taktsang Monastery in Paro, and the many ancient Buddhist sites in Bumthang, Bhutan’s spiritual heartland.
The Bhutan monarchy was formed in 1907 under the leadership of the First King Gongsar Ugyen Wangchuk. The King of Bhutan is formally known as the Druk Gyalpo, the Dragon King. Bhutan’s current King, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck was crowned in 2008. The legacy of the Wangchuck dynasty is one of peace and progress. This includes initiating the drafting of Bhutan’s first Constitution.
The stunning Bhutan Himalayan peaks are permanently capped with snow, mostly unclimbed, and tower over its dense forests, alpine meadows, lush valleys and rushing streams. Bhutan hosts peaks that reach between 5,000-7,000m (16,000-23,000ft) in height, and are neighbors to Mount Everest. The best way to really experience these landscapes is to incorporate a trek into your itinerary.

Many people have never heard of Bhutan, the country that values Gross National Happiness over Gross National Product! Bhutan is a landlocked little country roughly the size of Switzerland. It is bounded on the north and northwest by Tibet, with India touching its remaining borders and Nepal a bit to the west. Virtually the entire country is mountainous, peaking at 24,777ft. North to south it features three geographic regions; the high Himalaya of the north, the hills and valleys of the centre, and the foothills and plains of the south.
For centuries Bhutan has remained isolated from the rest of the world. Since its doors were opened in 1974, visitors have been mesmerized by the beautiful and pristine country and the hospitable and charming people. The best time to visit is October and November and during major festivals. The climate is best in autumn, from late September to late November, when skies are clear and the high mountain peaks are visible. It’s not unusual to experience rain no matter what the season, but I recommend avoiding the monsoon season, June-August, when buckets of rain come down.
Buddhism was probably introduced in Bhutan around the 2nd century although, traditionally, its introduction is credited to the first visit of Guru Rinpoche in the 8th century. Before that the people followed a shamanistic tradition called Bon that still exists today, merged with their Buddhist traditions.
Guru Rinpoche is the most important figure in Bhutan’s history, regarded as the second Buddha. His miraculous powers included the ability to subdue demons and evil spirits, and he preserved his teachings and wisdom by concealing them in the form of terma (hidden treasures) to be found later by enlightened treasure discoverers known as tertons. One of the best known of these tertons was Pema Lingpa; the texts and artifacts he found, the religious dances he composed, and the art he produced, are vital parts of Bhutan’s living heritage.
The largest and most colorful festivals (tsechus) take place at Bhutan’s dzongs and monasteries once a year, in honor of Guru Rinpoche. Tsechus consist of up to five days of spectacular pageantry, masked dances and religious allegorical plays. These festivals play a large part in the Buddhist teachings and are also social gatherings.

Top 10 Best Places to Visit in Bhutan
Bhutan - OfficiallyTheKingdom of Bhutan or (འབྲུག་རྒྱལ་ཁབ་, Druk Gyal Khap ) is one of the exciting and adventurous tourist destinations in South Asia and is also known as the land of the Thunder Dragon. This Buddhist Thunder Kingdom is a small but happy and unique country in South Asia with the tag ‘most go’. Sheltered amazing aka best places to visit in Bhutan makes the country more stimulating. Bhutan is anticipated to be derived from the Sanskrit word ‘Bhoṭa-anta’ which means 'end of Tibet'. Bhutan is a landlocked country with about 0.7 million population.
The official languages of Bhutan is Dzongkha or Bhutanese which is a Sino-Tibetan Language Spoken by over half a million people in Bhutan. Bhutan is encircled by Tibet in the north and India in the south. School education and healthcare are absolutely free in Bhutan. It is a marvelous spiritual place. Politically, Bhutan is a democratic and constitutional monarchy. Buddhism is the foremost religion with Hinduism the second prevalent faith. Most of the people involved in agricultural occupation with rice, fruit and dairy industry.
Bhutan having the world’s highest unclimbed peak, Gangkhar Puensum, It has many fascinating things the world should know about. Bhutan is an isolated country renowned for its culture, beauty, happiness, peacefulness, and society. National dress is obligatory in Bhutan. Being the only nation where citizens have constitutional compulsion to preserve the environment, 60% of Bhutan is covered with forest. “Takin” is Bhutan’s national animal which looks like exactly a cow or a goat. One of the interesting things about Bhutan is that It is the only nation where tobacco is banned.
There are many places explored and unexplored in Bhutan. From which explored top 10 tourist destinations are mentioned below:
Table of Contents
1. Tiger’s Nest (Paro Taktsang)
Taktsang Monastery is also known as Tiger’s Nest Monastery, is located in Paro, Bhutan.

History of Simtokha Dzong
The name Simtokha signifies “on a Demon” and the legend related with the Dzong’s development discloses to us that it was worked keeping in mind the end goal to stifle a malevolent soul that was hassling explorers in the locale.
The Simtokha dzong houses incalculable statues and works of art of different Buddhas, gods and religious figures. Another fascinating part of the dzong is that it contains the bed assemblies of both Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel and Jigme Namgyel two of the most imperative figures in Bhutanese history.
Zhabdrung was the pioneer that initially joined Bhutan as a country and Jigme Namgyel was the father of the principal King of Bhutan Ugyen Wangchuck.
The Simtokha dzong was designed according to the Gyal Gyad Tshel Institute of Ralung (Tibet) and is very unmistakable as its Utse or focal tower has 12 sides.
An extensive statue of Yeshay Gonpo (Mahakala) the boss defensive divinity of Bhutan is housed inside the Utse. Another fascinating part of the dzong is that it contains the bed councils of both Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel and Jigme Namgyel two of the most essential figures in Bhutanese history.
The Simtokha dzong houses incalculable statues and works of art of different Buddhas, divinities and religious figures including The Eight Manifestations of Guru Rimpoche, Jampelyang the Bodhisattava of Wisdom, Shakya Gyalpo the Buddha of Compassion and some more, all cut and painted in stunning subtle element.
Recommendate Bhutan Tours:

There are several dzongs in the country and these structures were historically used both as a military fortress and administrative centres. All the dzongs are still vibrant with the presence of monks and government offices. Punakha dzong is one of Bhutan's most impressive displays of intricate architecture. Since Punakha has a much warmer climate than Thimphu, it is still considered the winter home of the Je Khenpo (Bhutan's Chief Abbot) and Bhutan's Central Monastic Body. Built at the confluence of two glacial rivers, mo-chu (female river) and pho-chu (male river) the dzong has frequently been damaged by floods but has always been restored. The most recent restoration was completed in 2004 and the results are spectacular.
Part 2 Trekking, Shana to Thathangkha
Drive from hotel towards north of Paro to trek starting point Shana. You will pass through the Army camp. This is a fairly long day with an undulating trail. You will be walking along parts of trail used as an ancient route to Tibet. The trail continues its gradual climb alongside the Paro chu (river) through forest of blue pine, oak, rhododendrons, ferns, maple and larch. Campt at Thathangkha.
Thathangkha - Jongothang
This is not a long day but you make significant gain in the elevation. You will pass another army post and a few village houses, crossing the tree line and entering yak country. Camp in open meadows at Jongothang with spectacular views of sacred mountain Jhomolhari (meaning Goddess of the mountain pass) standing at 7314m.
Jongothang to Tshophu Lakes
Today's trek to the twin lakes is not long so the opportunity to further engage in the festival is an option before resuming trekking. We pass through a few village houses and enjoy literally breathtaking views of Jhomolhari, Jitchu Draky (6989m) and Tshering Gang Mountains. Catch a glimpse of the elusive blue sheep along the route above the lakes.
Tshophu Lakes to Soe Yaksa Village
Cross Bonte la pass at 4890m which is the highest pass of the trek. Enjoy the beautiful scenery from the pass.

Punakha Dzong is arguably the most beautiful dzong in the country, especially in spring when the lilac-coloured jacaranda trees bring a lush sensuality to the dzong's characteristically towering whitewashed walls. This dzong was the second to be built in Bhutan and it served as the capital and seat of government until the mid-1950s. All of Bhutan's kings have been crowned here. The dzong is still the winter residence of the dratshang (official monrved woods here add to the artistic lightness of touch, despite the massive scale of the dzong.
Bhutan's most treasured possession is the Rangjung ('Self-Created') Kharsapani, an image of Chenresig that is kept in the Tse Lhakhang in the utse of the Punakha Dzong. It was brought to Bhutan from Tibet by the Zhabdrung and features heavily in Punakha's famous dromchoe festival. It is closed to the public.
After you exit the dzong from the north you can visit the dzong chung and get a blessing from a wish-fulfilling statue of Sakyamuni. The building marks the site of the original dzong. North of the dzong is a cremation ground, marked by a large chorten, and to the east is a royal palace.

Would you believe me, if I told you that yetis exist in Bhutan and tigers did fly to sacred places? Or maybe if I told you mermaids inhabited the lakes around Bhutan for many years? Well, I would understand your doubts too but legends claim they all did exist. A nation so mystifying, full of myths and legacies about great saints and fearless warriors, I am sure is enough to entice any wanderers to visit this mysterious land of the Thunder Dragon. Yes, Bhutan is also known as the land of the Thunder Dragon and even the national flag has a Dragon across it symbolizing the purity and fierceness of the country. This was so because of the ferocious storms that rolled in from the mighty Himalayas into the mountains of Bhutan which made it seem like a dragon roaring in the sky flying through dark and downy clouds. Anyhow this article is not about these mystical features about Bhutan but instead, it’s about the facts and specifics. So here are 10 things that you probably didn’t know about Bhutan.
1. Chilies are Vegetables
You might already know about Bhutan’s love for fiery chilies. That can be validated by the endless lines of stringed chilies that are hung from every Bhutanese house’s windows or from the fact that every house has a huge pile of chilies on the roofs kept for drying. So yes, Bhutanese eat a lot of chilies and not in the way other cultures do, as in people around the world treat chilies as a spice but Bhutanese consume chilies as a vegetable. Don’t be surprised, it is the most consumed “vegetable” compared to other food groups. This fact is quite humorous and very accurate too.
2. No Traffic Lights
Another amazing fact about Bhutan is that it does not have a single traffic light in the entire country and no, not even in the capital city of Thimphu. Instead of a robotic light that signals traffic, Bhutanese feel that a human traffic cop managing the traffic feels more personal and closer than a machine. Rightfully so, vehicular traffic is much simpler and pedestrian friendly in Bhutan.
3. Smoking in Public Places and Sale of Tobacco is banned
Now, this is an absolute delight for the non-smokers as Bhutan has banned the sale on tobacco since 2004.

The Jambay Lhakhang is one of the oldest temples in Bhutan and it was founded by Songtsen Gampo, a Tibetan King in the 7th century A.D. The king was reputed to have built 108 temples known as Thadhul – Yangdhul (temples on and across the border) in a day to subdue the demoness who was residing in the Himalayas. The Jambay Lhakhang is located in the Bumthang valley in central Bhutan on the way to the Kurje Lhakhang. It’s a ten minutes drive to the temple from Chamkhar town.
Legend has it that Guru Rinpoche visited the site several times and deemed it exceptionally sacred. Chakhar Gyalpo, the king of the Iron Castle of Bumthang renovated the temple in the 8th century AD.
The first king of Bhutan, Gongsa Ugyen Wangchuck constructed the Dus Kyi Khorlo (Kala Chakra – Wheel of Time) inside the temple to commemorate his victory over his rivals Phuntsho Dorji of Punakha and Alu Dorji of Thimphu after the battle of Changlingmithang in 1885. Later, Ashi Wangmo, the younger sister of the second king of Bhutan, built the Chorten lhakhang.
The main relics include the future Buddha, Jowo Jampa (Maitreya) from whose name the present name of the temple is derived. The lhakhang also houses more than one hundred statues of the gods of Kalachakra built by the first king, in 1887.

Map Courtesy CIA World Factbook
The Kingdom of Bhutan is a small, landlocked nation of South Asia, located in the Himalaya Mountains, sandwiched between India and the People's Republic of China. The local name for the country, Druk Yul , means "land of the dragon". It is also called Druk Tsendhen, "land of the thunder dragon", as the thunder there is said to be the sound of roaring dragons.
A Buddhist theocracy was established in Bhutan in the early 17th century. In 1865, Britain and Bhutan signed the Treaty of Sinchulu, under which Bhutan would receive an annual subsidy in exchange for ceding some border land. Under British influence, a monarchy was set up in 1907; three years later, a treaty was signed whereby the British agreed not to interfere in Bhutanese internal affairs and Bhutan allowed Britain to direct its foreign affairs. This role was assumed by independent India after 1947. Two years later, a formal Indo-Bhutanese accord returned the areas of Bhutan annexed by the British, formalized the annual subsidies the country received, and defined India's responsibilities in defense and foreign relations.
A refugee issue of (reportedly) some 100,000 Bhutanese in Nepal remains unresolved; 90% of the refugees are housed in seven UNHCR camps.
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The drive takes around 1½ hours / Thimphu has a population of around 98,000 / the town is made up of just three lines of shops and is the only capital in the world without traffic lights / in the evening visit the Handicrafts Emporium / all types of Bhutanese handicrafts for sale / overnight at hotel.
Day 04 : Thimphu valley sightseeing
After breakfast drive at Sangaygang / a field of Bhutanese prayer flags, perched high above the city / coloured flags send prayers to the heavens and white flags honor the dead / visit the Motithang Mini Zoo and visit the National Animal Takin Research Centre where these odd animals graze peacefully in a small protected park / walk to the Zilukha Nunnery and then drive to the Tango Monastery for a picnic lunch / the hike to the monastery takes about 45 minutes / it is a 13th Century structure and today is home to about 150 monks studying Buddhist Philosophy and meditation / Thimphu sightseeing continues with the Folk Heritage Museum (a beautifully restored Bhutanse farmhouse from the last century) and the National Painting School / in the evening visit the National Memorial Chorten built in honor of our 3rd king Jigme Dorji Wangchuck (a wonderful opportunity to mix with the local population) / all the buildings in Bhutan conform to national building principals and are beautifully carved and decorated. Dinner at The Royal Golf Club / overnight at hotel.
Day 05 : Thimphu – Punakha
After breakfast drive over the Docchu-La pass (3050 m)and into the beautiful valley of Punakha / the teahouse at the pass offers beautiful views of the Himalayan range in the distance / this is a 3 hour drive with stops en route / afternoon visit the magnificent Dzong spanning the MoChu and Po Chu rivers / the winter residence of the monastic body and the Je Khenpo (chief Abbott). If time permits a hike to Khamsum Yule Chorten is worthwhile / dinner and overnight at hotel.

Bhutan: Hopscotching an unsullied land among the Himalayas
Wedged between the world's most populous countries, China and India, the Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan is famous for measuring its Gross National Happiness instead of Gross National Product. This, in light of the global economic meltdown, seems particularly auspicious.
Settled by Tibetans, the Land of the Thunder Dragon is the size of Switzerland and has a population of about 600,000. Called the best preserved Asian society, Bhutan has safeguarded its identity and traditions against Western influence. It’s never been colonized. The first road wasn’t built until 1960; today, there is just one stoplight in the country. TV didn’t arrive until 1999. There are no chain stores. Males and females both sport the handsome national costume, the kira for women and the gho for men. The houses are gingerbread-like, made of wood and stone.
Yet there is a palpable tension between the old and new, brilliantly captured in the film Travelers & Magicians. Both English and Dzongkha, the native language, are taught in school. There are no billboards and cigarettes are illegal, yet promiscuity is widespread and practiced without judgment. Coronated in November 2008, the handsome new king is the continuation in a beloved 100-year dynasty. He has slicked-back black hair and sideburns — he looks like cross between Bruce Lee and Elvis.
Perhaps the most effective hedge against the kind of cultural corrosion that has occurred in Nepal and Tibet is the provision that tourists must spend a minimum of $200 a day and hire a local guide. The government has a virtual velvet rope around the country, issuing only a limited number of visas annually.
Only the well-heeled visit Bhutan; you won’t find any backpackers here. As a result, it can be difficult to penetrate the protective veil. Visiting Bhutan is equal parts captivating and maddening. Still, it is a singular experiences in a rapidly homogenized world.
Paro in Western BhutanIt’s Sunday Market Day in Paro, Western Bhutan. Flies buzz around a severed cow’s head and vendors squat in the open air, selling apples and turnips and spices from burlap bags. Juniper incense wafts through the air.

Dorji’s office sits in a gigantic monastery in Thimphu known as Tashichho Dzong. Buddhism unites and brings people together, Dorji said, explaining that the social life of a village revolves around its dzong (monastery).
Dorji said India’s multi-religious society had led to tensions and bloodshed.
“India can survive riots and unrest,” he said, “but Bhutan may not, because it is a small country between two giants [India and China].”
With leaders who have been proud that they have not allowed it to be colonized, Bhutan historically has been keenly concerned about its survival. Bhutan’s people see their distinct culture, rather than the military, as having protected the country’s sovereignty. And it is no coincidence that Dorji’s portfolio includes both internal security and preservation of culture.
The constitution, adopted in July 2008, also requires the state to protect Bhutan’s cultural heritage and declares that Buddhism is the spiritual heritage of Bhutan.
A government official who requested anonymity said that, as Tibet went to China and Sikkim became a state in India, “now which of the two countries will get Bhutan?”
This concern is prevalent among the Bhutanese, he added.
Sikkim, now a state in India’s northeast, was a Buddhist kingdom with indigenous Bhotia and Lepcha people groups as its subjects. But Hindus from Nepal migrated to Sikkim for work and gradually outnumbered the local Buddhists. In 1975, a referendum was held to decide if Sikkim, then India’s protectorate, should become an official state of the country. Since over 75 percent of the people in Sikkim were Nepalese – who knew that democracy would mean majority-rule – they voted for its incorporation
Bhutan and India’s other smaller neighbors saw it as brazen annexation. And it is believed that Sikkim’s “annexation” made Bhutan wary of the influence of India.
In the 1980s, Bhutan’s king began a one-nation-one-people campaign to protect its sovereignty and cultural integrity, which was discriminatory to the ethnic Nepalese, who protested.

On a clear day, the pass offers spectacular views over the greater eastern Himalayas including the highest peak of Bhutan. Dochula pass is about one hour drive from Thimphu city, and then stop here for one hour near the spectacular 108 Chortens at the top of the pass. On the way to Punakha you will stop for a short hike of about an hour to the temple of the Divine Madman, also well known as the "temple of fertility". This temple was built by Lama Drukpa Kuenlay the "Divine Madman" who was fond of woman and adopted unorthodox way of teaching Buddhism. He is also the saint who advocated the use of Phallus symbol. Legend has it that couple wishing to have baby have to make wish here in this temple. There are many couple from Bhutan and overseas who were blessed with child after visiting the temple. The visitors can also get blessings from replica of iron bow and arrow of Lama Drukpa Kinley, his scripture and Phallus which is the symbolic representation of fertility.
After breakfast start the drive to ancestral home of our royals, Trongsa. En-route we will take wonderful breaks at Pelela pass at 3300m and Chendipji before crossing Trongsa. On arrival in Trongsa, we will visit Trongsa Dzong. Overnight in Trongsa, altitude 2200m.
After breakfast, check out from the hotel and visit Ta-dzong (watch tower) recently converted into Trongsa Museum. En-route we will stop at Chumey Yathra Shop, which is famous in the region. Evening we will explore the tiny chamkhar town. Overnight in Bumthang, altitude 2650m
Bumthang is a very lush green valley with the highest concentration of the most sacred temples in Bhutan. Morning: - visit Kurjey Lhakhang, where Guru Rinpoche meditated during 7th century; Jambey Lhakhang built in 7th century by Tibetan King Songtsen Gempo. Tamshing Lhakhang founded in 15th century by Pema Lingpa, the treasure revealer and will also make a visit to Kenchosum Lhakhang.

Paro was only a transitory stop, and the next morning we moved on to Thimpu, the capital of this 700,000-strong kingdom. Bhutan means 'Dragon Kingdom', 'Land of the Fire Dragon' and 'Land of High Mountains'. The latter is certainly true. The altitude means that, until you acclimatise, even a flight of stairs leaves you breathless.
Another feature of the country is that some of the big population centres have hoards of stray dogs, which sleep all day and bark all night, so earplugs are essential. There is surely a gap in the market for a day time dog waking service to reverse this behaviour.
Our first morning in Thimpu included a visit to the National Memorial Stupa, a monument to the third king, who died at just 49, leaving the kingdom to his then 16 year old son, who proved a successful leader, introduced democracy to the country, and then abdicated in favour of a new king for a new-style kingdom.
It's said that making three circuits around the stupa brings good luck; needless to say, I put it to the test and trust it will rub off on my books.
The afternoon saw the first of two visits to the annual Tschechu Festival, with huge crowds in their finery turning the main square into a stadium to watch a series of dances, each with its own religious significance and all performed exclusively by monks. We saw the Dance of the Stags and the Hounds (Shawo Schachi); dancers in knee length skirts and dog and stag masks represent the conversion of a hunter to Buddhism by the saint Jetsun Milarepa.
The next day kicked off with a visit to a 169 foot tall golden Buddha, still in construction and due to be closed to the public for two years the next day. It's beautiful and awesome and you can walk around inside, seeing the ornate pillars, other representations of Buddha and the necessities of religious celebration. There is a peaceful atmosphere you don't want to drag yourself away from.
We then returned to the festival, to see more dances from another vantage point. Most of our group expected it to be too much of a good thing, but we really got caught up in the carnival atmosphere, the noise, the colour and the spectacle.

I have been very fortunate, as have all those of my generation, because of a very fair system where people are given the opportunity to receive an education and pursue their dreams.
“I am married with two children; one is studying medicine in the United States and the other is a financial analyst for the investment arm of the Bhutanese government. My family also includes a small dog. I like reading, music and physical activities such as running, cycling, soccer and golf − but I am not the greatest golfer,” said the ambassador, smiling.
Coming to Thailand
Mr Wangdi arrived in Thailand for the first time when he assumed the position of ambassador in June 2011. He is also acting ambassador to Australia and Singapore. Asked how he can manage to represent his country in Australia all the way from Thailand, Mr Wangdi said: “I travel there as often as I can because we have a lot of work to do. Cooperation between our countries is growing. Australia is one of our earliest development partners. We have had technical cooperation with Australia for a long time and they have offered assistance and human resources in agriculture and other areas. There are also a lot of Bhutanese students studying in Australia.
“Bhutan recently established diplomatic relations with other Asian countries, including Indonesia, Myanmar and Vietnam. The government will soon nominate an ambassador to these nations. This embassy will perhaps look after them as well but this is still under discussion.
“My last assignment before coming here was as Director General of the Tourism Council of Bhutan. We give a lot of importance to tourism in Bhutan, and this position is directly under the prime minister. The tourism council consists of many cabinet ministers and also members of the private sector. We have many development options in tourism as well as in hydropower, but we are very careful in selecting which ones go forward. Our development philosophy hinges on the concept of gross national happiness, which we believe is more important than gross domestic product.”
This fascinating and enlightened perspective is officially pursued only in Bhutan, and it is reflected in all areas of government, business and society. It is a development model that measures the mental as well as material well-being of citizens. The objective is balanced development with the ultimate goal being the happiness of the people. The concept consists of four pillars: Socioeconomic Development, Promotion and Conservation of Culture, Environmental Protection and Good Governance.

The Punakha Dzong, often referred to as the ‘Palace of Happiness’, is the second oldest and second largest dzong in Bhutan. This spectacular emblem of Bhutanese religious architecture sits right at the confluence of the Mo Chhu and Pho Chhu rivers and is perhaps the obvious key to unlocking Punakha’s secrets. PUNAKHA DOMCHOE is an annual festival held at the Dzong, which is largely attended by people from all villages and far places of the district.
The Theranghung “self-created” image of Avalokitesvara enshrined in the utse of the dzong (brought by the Zhabdrung from Tibet) is displayed during the festival.
Distance – 2km from Khuruthang
Opening Time – 6am
Closing time -5pm

(Note, advance notice of at least a week is required)
Colourful Farmers Market, probably the largest domestic markets in the country. (Open on Friday, Saturday and Sunday). Followed by Changlimithang Archery Stadium. On certain occasions and holidays or weekends most Bhutanese men plays archery amongst their friends and colleagues as leisure or even tournaments are held. Buddha View Point that has a gigantic statues of Buddha Dodenma. Buddha Point, a 51.5m/165ft tall giant statue is located on a hilltop overlooking Thimphu valley is made from bronze and gilded in gold. The throne that the Buddha sits upon is a large meditation hall. Some believes it is the largest of its kind ever to be built in the world. Takin Preserve (closed on Monday), Takin is the national animal of Bhutan. Memorial Chorten which was dedicated to the third king of Bhutan. This is an impressive shrine, with shining gold spires, tinkling bells, and an endless procession of devotees around it. Enjoy the rich Bhutanese arts and crafts at the Painting School a.k.a Zorig Choesum (closed on government holidays and Sunday). Authentic Craft Bazaar, the first ever of its kind aims to promote Bhutan’s craft industry by creating a viable market, which in turn acts to preserve and promote Bhutan’s unique culture. The initiative is also expected to bring about equitable socio-economic development in the country. Visitors will find an interesting assortment of genuine Bhutanese handicrafts and textiles available for sale here.
(Optional) Thimphu Post Office. During the 2011, following the Royal Wedding, a senior Japanese aide to Bhutan Post Office invented an idea enabling anyone to print their own postal stamp literally with your picture on it. You can then use it to send postcards/letters and etc back home to your family and friends with your own official stamp anywhere in the world with just 30cents worth the stamp. It costs about $7 for 10 stamps.

Tang Valley and family life in Bumthang, Bhutan
Tang Valley is located only a short distance from Jakar Valley, but the unpaved rocky road made the drive there much longer.
The narrow road is not well maintained, since the Tang Valley has only a few remote monasteries and tiny villages.
The landscape is heavily forested, with clear patches of land that are planted with corn, potatoes and cabbages.
There were herds of cattle in the fields, looking healthy and lazily grazing in the sun.
The villages were built half a century ago, and I could see many houses with a thunder-bolt-penis hanging from each corner of the house.
The thunder-bolt-penis is made of wood.
It is sharpened like a pencil on one end, and on the other end it is shaped like a penis.
They always have a wooden wing attached at the top.
It is believed to protect the house from all directions.
We passed by a wide clean river with beautiful boulders in it.
On one side of the river was a sacred temple built into the rocks.
It is called Kunzang Drak and it was the retreat center of the treasure discoverer Pema Lingpa.
On the front of the monastery opposite the river, there is an indentation in the rocks in which Pema Lingpa is said to have taken baths.
We took a leisurely hike up the hills to a large family estate that has been converted into a museum, showing the way life was conducted in rural Bhutan in Feudal times, up until the 1950’s.
The Ogyemchoeling Palace was built by the Dorje Lingpa family in the 1400’s.
We were lucky to arrive on the one day of the year when an annual festival was being celebrated.
The whole village had gathered in the courtyard of the Palace.
We saw kids and families sitting on the ground, watching the annual festival with joy.
The monks were chanting prayers while warriors with swords and flags performed a traditional dance and rituals.
At the end of the rituals, we followed the whole congregation in circumventing the temple three times.
The daughter of the current family who owns the Palace, came to attend the annual festival.
She is a writer who has published a few books about Bhutanese culture.
She was delighted to take the time to show us her museum, and with warmth and patience answered our many questions.

The museum's collections include displays of spectacular thangkas, bronze statues, Bhutan's beautiful stamps, and the Tshogshing Lhakhang (Temple of the Tree of Wisdom), with its carvings depicting the history of Buddhism. (B, L ,D) Tenzinling Resort
DAY 3: THIMPHU
After breakfast, we will drive above Bondey to a trailhead where we can walk about 50 minutes to Dzongdrakha, a small monastery overlooking the Paro Valley built in the 16th century by the first local king, Chogay Dragpa. This monastery is one of five in the area. There is also a large stupa similar to that of Bodhnath in Kathmandu, Nepal. After lunch, we drive to Thimphu. The rest of the day is free to rest and relax. (B, L, D) Hotel KISA
DAY 4: THIMPHU
After breakfast we drive towards the north road and hike 2 hours up a steep hill to visit Cheri Monastery which was built in 1620 by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. More than 80 monks are undergoing their three-year, three-month retreat here. Inside is a silver chorten holding the ashes of the Shabdrung's father. On our return we'll visit Tango Goemba, founded in the 12th century. The present building was constructed in the 15th century. It is now a Buddhist institute for higher learning. (B, L, D) Hotel Kisa
DAY 5: PUNAKHA
We drive across the Dochu La 'pass' where we might see the snow-covered peaks of the eastern Himalaya if the weather permits. The pass is marked by hundreds of colourful fluttering prayer flags and is an awesome sight of one hundred and eight stupa. We continue to Punakha, winter seat of the highest lama in Bhutan until the 1950s. We will visit the ancient Punakha Dzong dating back to the 17th century, which is spectacularly situated at the confluence of the Mo and Phu Rivers.
We will also have an optional short hike across the rice paddies to visit nearby Chimi Lhakhang, built by Lama Drukpa Kunley.

Then visit the new Drupthob Goemba / Zilukha Nunnery - Perched on a promontory, overlooking picturesque Trashichho Dzong and Golf course, it is the only nunnery in capital known as Zilukha Anim Dratsang, once belonged to the Drubthob (Realized one) Thang Thong Gyalpo often referred to as The King of the open field (In the early 15th century with his multiple talents he popularly became the Leonardo da Vinci of the Great Himalayas). You may interact here with some of the nuns who have devoted their life to spirituality and Buddhism. National library (Closed on Saturday, Sunday & National Holidays) – is a major scriptural repository and research facility dedicated to the preservation and promotion of the rich literary, cultural and religious heritage of Bhutan. The scripture and document collection held in our library and archives is a national treasure and a fundamental source for Bhutanese History, Religion, Medicine, Arts and Culture. Back to the hotel. Overnight at Hotel.
DAY 03 THIMPHU – PUNAKHA / WANGDI
After breakfast drive to Punakha (1200Mts / 3936Fts, 77 Kms / 03 to 3½ Hrs) / Wangdi (Wangdiphodrang) (1350Mts / 4430Fts, 70 Kms / 03 to 3½ Hrs). Punakha / Wangdi is the last town on the highway before entering Central Bhutan. The drive is over Dochu La pass(3080Mts / 10102Fts) which is very scenic with fascinating view of mountains of Bhutan. Stopping briefly here to take in the view and admire the Chorten, Mani wall, and Prayer flags which decorate the highest point on the road. If skies are clear, the following peaks can be seen from this Pass (Left to Right): Mt. Masagang (7,158Mts / 23478Fts), Mt. Tsendagang (6,960Mts / 22829Fts), Mt. Terigang (7,060Mts / 23157Fts), Mt. Jejegangphugang (7,158Mts / 23478Fts), Mt.

Chod refers to visualizing one’s own dismemberment in the act of ego annihilation. Chod aims to free the mind from all fear and to arouse realization of its true nature, primordially clear bliss and emptiness.
A tiny but charming retreat centre perched on the limestone cliff face. Take the unpaved side road past the Lhakhang Nagpo, by Domcho village, and continue up the hillside towards the recently renovated ridge-top Takchu Goemba (8km). From the small private lhakhang and white chorten of Lungsukha village, a 15-minute walk leads to the small and charming chapel attended by one lama and one monk.
Blessed with temperate climate and fed by Pho-chu (Male River) and Mo-chu (Female River), Punakha is one of the most fertile valleys in the country. Until 1955, Punakha served as the capital of the country. It still serves as the winter seat of Je Khenpo (Chief Abbot) and central Monk Body.
Lampelri Royal Botanical Park
The park has a rich biodiversity of fauna and flora. One can find many species of plants and flowers. The annual Rhododendron festival is held here at the park.
The temple was built in 1499 by the cousin of Lama Drukpa Kunley, the divine mad man in his honor after the lama subdued the demoness of the nearby Dochu La with his 'magic thunderbolt of wisdom'. A wooden effigy of the lama's thunderbolt is preserved in the lhakhang, and childless women go to the temple to receive a wang (blessing or empowerment) from the saint.
This little town is located in the juncture of roads from Wangdi and Punakha. The farmers from nearby places come to this little town to sell their farm products and to buy their necessities at home.
The Fortress of Great Happiness is the most beautiful dzong in the country, especially in spring when the lilac-colored jacaranda trees bring a lush sensuality to the dzong's characteristically towering whitewashed walls. This dzong is the second oldest built by Zhabdrung at the confluence of male and Female River in 1638. Most of the important ceremonies like the King’s coronation, royal weddings and etc are conducted here at this dzong.

Bhutan is well-known for its brilliant, colourful celebrations.
Bhutan is well-known for hosting some of the world's most brilliant and colourful festivals. In fact, many visitors plan their journey to Bhutan around the famous Paro and Thimphu Festivals. Bhutan's tsechu celebrations are historic representations of its Buddhist culture. The majority of these celebrations are devoted to Guru Rimpoche, the saint who introduced Buddhism to Bhutan in the early eighth century. They celebrate with mystical dances, captivating performances, daring fire events, intriguing naked dances, and informative re-enactments. Behind the scenes, the monks prepare for the coming weeks via intense prayer and meditation. The monks execute specific masked dances that are inspired by historical enlighte

DAY 3: THIMPHU - HIKE TO TANGO AND DRIVE TO PUNAKHA.
After breakfast, we will checkout of the hotel. You will then proceed towards Tango monastery which is about 45-minute drive from the capital city. From the mountain base, you will hike for about 30-45 minutes to the Tango Monastery. It is located at a mountain top and today houses a monastic school. The word Tango literally means “Horse head”.
Tango Monastery is built in the Dzong(fortress) style and has semi-circular shape outside and prominent main tower with recesses. It covers the caves where originally meditation and miracles were performed by saints from the 12th century onwards. Behind the series of prayer wheels are engraved slates. Inside the courtyard is a gallery, illustrating the leaders of the Drukpa Kagyupa lineage.
The monastery was founded by Lama Gyalwa Lhanampa in the 13th century and built in its present form by Tenzin Rabgye, the 4th Temporal Ruler in 1688. In 1616, the Tibetan, Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, meditated in its cave. The Monastery belongs to the Drukpa Kagyu School of Buddhism in Bhutan. According to local legend of Bhutan the location of this monastery is the holy place where Avalokiteshvara revealed himself as “the self-emanated form of the Wrathful Hayagriva”.
Late afternoon, we will proceed towards Punakha. On the way, we’ll pass by Dochula pass from where a beautiful panoramic view of the Himalayas can be seen on a clear day. There are 108 stupas built by the eldest queen Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck to benefit all sentient beings..
Overnight at the hotel in Punakha.
DAY 4: PUNAKHA TOUR
Punakha is at an altitude of 4420 feet and it served as the capital of Bhutan till 1955. It is the winter seat of the Je Khenpo (Chief abbot) and the monk body. It has a temperate climate and its rich fertile valley is fed by the Phochu (male) and Mochu (female) rivers.

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Oct 5, – Explore WDT’s board “Bhutan”, followed by people on Pinterest. of the oldest temples in Bhutan, Kyichu Lhakhang dating back to the 7th century. Tiger’s Nest Monastery, a Mahayana Buddhist sacred site and temple.
A place that measures the success of the country, not on outputs or financials, but on the Gross National Happiness of the people who live there. Here, in the land of the Thunder Dragon, culture and spirituality are at the core of everyday life. People wear traditional dress, colourful prayer flags adorn the hills, monasteries perch precariously on cliff faces, and monks in crimson coloured robes wander the streets.
This forward-thinking little country has already banned plastic bags and tobacco. In some ways Bhutan is a country lost in time, in other ways it is so far ahead. A trip to Bhutan is an eye-opening, life changing experience.

The bustling frontier trading town of Phuentsholing in the south is the gateway to Bhutan for overland travellers from India and Sikkim. It is Bhutan’s second largest town, and is located next to the Indian town of Jaigon. Karbandi Monastery is a popular temple for those wishing to have children after an Indian pilgrim became pregnant after praying at there. It also provides wonderful views over Phuentsholing and the Bengal Plain. From Phuentsholing, the road winds north over the southern foothills, through lush forested valleys and around the rugged north-south ridges of the inner Himalayas to the western valleys of Thimphu and Paro. Hairpin corners on this breathtaking six hour drive are, to reassure the traveler, marked with tall, colourful sculptures of the Tashi Tagye, the eight auspicious signs of Buddhism.

Bhutanese royals pay respects to King
published : 16 Oct 2016 at 12:52
writer: Online Reporters
King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Queen Jetsun Pema of Bhutan on Sunday morning paid respects to the royal urn of His Majesty the King at the Grand Palace.
They arrived with their son at about 9.48am and entered the Grand Palace via the Wiset Chaisri Gate. They were greeted on arrival by a large number of people.
The Bhutanese king and queen left at 10.17am.
"To the Incomparable, Visionary and Most Precious Jewel King, the King of Thailand, who attained Parinirvana, I would like to offer my deepest respect, and my heartfelt prayers. May Your Majesty always be born as Dharma Raja, to the benefit of all sentient beings," he wrote on his Facebook account on Sunday.
The king and queen of Bhutan arrived on Saturday evening.
King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck is at the Kuenra of the Tashichhodzong in Thimpu lighting candles next to a portrait of His Majesty the King on Thursday. (AFP/Royal Office for Media Bhutan photo)
The relationship between the royal families of the two countries has been warm, especially after the Bhutanese king, then the crown prince, joined the celebrations in Bangkok marking the 60th anniversary celebrations of His Majesty's accession to the throne in 2006, along with royals from 25 countries.
The Bhutanese king and the royal family led a group of clergy, senior government officials and the Thai community in the southern Asian country in offering a thousand butter lamps and prayers in memory of the Thai King at the Kuenra of the Tashichhodzong in Thimpu on Thursday.
King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck also ordered the Bhutan flags to fly at half-mast for three days in honour of the late King.

Bhutan cultural tours are designed to bring clients into close contact with an unspoiled land that is home to a vibrant Buddhist way of life, and as close in spirit to Shambala – or paradise – as an earth bound kingdom can be.
Bhutan is known for its unique culture and traditions. Bhutan Cultural tours offer a unique insight into the culture and tradition of the nation. It provides an opportunity to interact with the native people. Cultural tours highlights are Tshechu (annual festivals) where Buddhist teaching are dramatized and shown through mask dances. It also takes you to visit Dzongs (Fortress), Monastery and other religious monument that were built 300 years ago

A tsechu is a Buddhist festival in celebration of the Guru Rinpoche. Each district in Bhutan has its own tsechu, but the Thimphu Tsechu is the largest of these and takes place each fall, usually in September or October. An outdoor festival ground was built in 2008 at Thimphu's Traaho Chhoe Dzong, which allows for the comfortable seating of 25,000 people. Although tourists do visit the Tsechu, the attendees are overwhelmingly Bhutanese. The festival lasts for four days and features dances depicting different stages in the life of the Guru Rinpoche.

Every time you visit, you will get to see something unique and new.
Jungshi Handmade Paper Factory
Called Deh-sho, Bhutanese paper is made from the local trees of Daphne and dhekap trees. The Jungshi factory is reputably the best place that manufactures this type of paper, made using an age-old method instead of the modern way.
Visitors to the paper factory are given a demonstration of the papermaking process, and they are also invited to try their hand at some of the unique instruments.
Photo: Different types of paper at the Factory/CCo
Royal Textile Academy
Weaving is one of the oldest Bhutanese crafts, and the Academy, housed in a beautiful contemporary building, attempts to preserve this heritage and also work for the empowerment of Bhutanese women by training them in this much-valued craftsmanship.
The exhibitions here show the various elaborate clothes made for the royal family by workers here. The place is another hidden gem and one of the top things to do in Thimphu.
Photo: Display at the Textile Museum/CCo
The National Library of Bhutan, known as NLB, was established back in 1967 and is one of the largest collection of literature on Tibetan Buddhism anywhere in the world.
It has as many as 6100 books and manuscripts in Tibetan and Bhutanese and holds over 9000 printing blocks used to create religious texts. The pretty two-story building is definitely a must visit for the bookworms.
Clock Tower Square
The clock tower, located in the heart of the city of Thimphu, features four different clocks on the four sides of the rectangular column. The walls are carved with beautiful hand carved dragons and some beautiful floral designs, all relating to Bhutan’s reputation as the Land of the Thunder Dragon and its many floral valleys.
Most open-air concerts in the city are held here at the Clock Tower Square so try attending one if you happen to be there at the right time.
Photo: A concert taking place at the clock tower/CCo
Perched on top of a ridge above Thimphu, Changangkha Lhakhang is the oldest temple in Thimphu. The temple was built in the 12th century and houses the central statue of Chenrizig, a manifestation of Avolokitesawara with eleven heads and thousand arms.
It offers a stunning view of the surrounding Thimphu valley from the top.

This extra-ordinarily standing monastery convinces every visitor that it has the caliber to be called one of the best places to visit in Bhutan. To visit Tiger’s Nest you must register at the security gate and place your baggage and cameras. Taktsang has become one of the utmost consequential monuments in the Himalayan Buddhist world. At Taktsang, the guru revealed the Mandala of Pelchen Dorje Phurpa and gave inspirational knowledge to his devotees. Taktsang Lhakhang is Bhutan's most famous milestone and religious site. The name Taktsang means "The Tiger's Nest". This sanctuary is a standout amongst the most blessed locales in the kingdom and sticks inconceivably to a sheer bluff face 900 meters over the Paro Valley.
2. Dochula Pass (Thimphu)
Dochula Pass is situated at 3100 m high. It is one of the most stayed and best places to visit in Bhutan (if you have not stopped at), located on the way to Punakha from Thimphu. Between Septembers to February is considered as the best time to capture the panoramic views of the snow-laden Himalayas. Dochula Pass is also known as the Druk Wangyal Chortens. There are 108 chortens which were customized by the Her Majesty Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuk. Dochula Pass—an excellent mountain pass, which is around 20 km from Thimphu is a grouping of 108 dedication stupas known as "Druk Wangyal Chortens". It's not only a position of chronicled and religious significance yet, in addition, a well-known vacation spot that any voyager would need to the observer on their adventure through Bhutan.
3. Buddha Dordenma (Thimphu)
Buddha Dordenma is the tallest Buddha bronze statue in the world. The 169ft tall bronze sculpture was prepared in Nanjing, China and accumulated in Bhutan. This statue is also one of the best places to visit in Bhutan to enhance spiritual experience. The statue is made of bronze with gold plated which symbolizes indestructibility. The Buddha Dordenma is situated on a slope in Kuenselphodrang Nature Park and disregards the Southern access to Thimphu Valley.

Next is the "takin reserve" to see the national animal. The takin is an odd-looking beast that might result from the union of a goat and an antelope. The takin is revered for its resilience in harsh conditions (even though it is endangered) and is also a part of Bhutanese mythology.
You will also make quick visits to several other places, including the National Library (which houses ancient manuscripts), and the School of Arts and Crafts, which teaches thirteen different crafts and from weaving and embroidery to carpentry and blacksmithing. We will also squeeze in a stop at the main post office for Bhutan's collectable stamps, which make great souvenirs and gifts.
Day Two: Wanguephodrang, a Tea Break and a Panorama of the Himalayas
Depart Thimpu this morning on a three-hour drive to Wangduephodrang. We take a tea break along the way at Dochu La (3,100 meters), where on a clear day you can get spectacular views of the Himalayas. This is a strategic pass that connects the eastern and western halves of the country. The remarkable natural beauty and many prayer flags makes this seem a very serene place.
After lunch there is a short detour to Punakha, the former capital of Bhutan. Here you will visit the Punakha Dzong, which dates to 1637 and is considered one of the most beautiful in Bhutan.
On the way back from Punakha, you will stop at Metshina Village and take a 20-minute walk through the rice fields to Chimi Lakhang, a fertility temple, where you may receive a special fertility blessing if you think you need one. This temple is dedicated to a saint who is popularly known as "the Divine Madman." Although he was not a monk, he taught a revolutionary alternative to orthodox Buddhism and is remembered for his sexual prowess. Many homes and temples in this region are decorated with flying phalluses as a symbol of fertility and as a gesture of respect for the Divine Madman.
Overnight in Wangduephodrang or neighboring Punakha.
Day Day Three: Phobjikha, an 8th Century Monastery, and its Legendary Cranes
Today's excursion is to Gantey, which takes you through dense forests of oak trees and rhododendrons.