Bhutan is a small, land-locked Buddhist kingdom in the Himalayas, bordered by China and India. Thimphu is the capital and largest city, with a population of under 115,000.
Bhutan is known for its dramatic mountain landscapes, monasteries and fortresses or dzongs. The most well-known is the iconic ‘Tiger’s Nest’ Monastery, perched on the side of a cliff, way above the Paro valley. It is a bit of a hike to get there but you’ll be glad you did!
The small kingdom only opened to tourism in the 1970s and the environmental impact of tourism is still strictly controlled by the government today.
A typical tour will combine fascinating visits to the various monasteries and dzongs with cultural sites such as the National Textile Museum where you will learn about the techniques of textile dyeing, weaving and stitching and view some beautiful examples of the vibrant designs.
As a high-altitude destination, some may be attracted by the Himalayan treks, which are physically demanding but hugely rewarding.
