Bhutan, often called the "Land of the Thunder Dragon," offers travellers a unique blend of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Nestled quietly in the eastern Himalayas, this small yet remarkable kingdom is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, which range from lush valleys teeming with flora to towering snow-covered peaks. Visitors can explore ancient monasteries, referred to as dzongs, and engage with the vibrant local customs prioritizing Gross National Happiness over mere economic growth and material wealth. Adventure seekers will find ample opportunities for trekking in the rugged terrain. At the same time, those interested in spirituality can attend traditional festivals that showcase colourful dances and rituals deeply rooted in Bhutanese culture. With its steadfast commitment to sustainability and the preservation of its rich cultural traditions, Bhutan remains a captivating destination for those eager to seek out a truly off-the-beaten-path experience.
My wife and I visited Bhutan in April 2024 on a ten-night cultural safari that took in all five Amankora lodges – Paro, Thimphu, Punakha, Gangtey and Bumthang – providing an odyssey of discovery that revealed not only the Kingdom’s most beautiful scenes and iconic sites but also the spirit of its people and their enviable culture. Following the rising sun, we explored east over mountain passes, discovering the wonders of the capital, Thimphu, practicing archery on the banks of the Mo Chhu River, and pausing in awe at the majestic Gangtey Goemba. We hiked through pine forests and tasted the delights of fertile Bumthang Valley before flying back west to Paro, where we claimed to visit the clifftop Tiger’s Nest.
"Nothing could be more striking than the pristine, haunting beauty of the landscape of Bhutan, or the atmosphere of peace and sacredness, which pervades the land from end to end. Bhutan is a place blessed with an almost magical power to transform the mind, whenever I am there I feel as if transported into a pure realm. For the Kingdom of Bhutan is truly unique: it is the only independent MahaYANA Buddhist country in the world. It has a great Buddhist heritage, stretching back uninterrupted over 1,300 years, and a legacy of more than 2, 000 temples, monasteries, dzongs and sacred sites. Many of the greatest Buddhist saints, like Guru Padmasambhava and the omniscient Gyalwa Longchenpa, have blessed this land, and holy places such as Paro Kyichu Lhakhang, Bumthang Jambay Lhakhang still retain their original form, dating back to the 7th century."
— His Eminence Sogyal Rinpoche, Buddhist spiritual master, philosopher and writer
