About Bhutan
Why Bhutan
- Bhutan, a small landlocked country nestled in the eastern Himalayas, is renowned for its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and commitment to environmental conservation and
sustainable development. - Bhutan is known for its unique development philosophy of Gross National Happiness (GNH),
which prioritizes the well-being and happiness of its citizens over mere economic growth. This holistic approach to development considers spiritual, cultural, social, and environmental dimensions alongside economic factors. - Bhutan practices a policy of “high-value, low-volume” tourism, which seeks to minimize the negative impact of tourism on the environment and culture while maximizing the economic
benefits. Tourists must book their trip through licensed Bhutanese tour operators and pay a minimum daily package. - Bhutan’s commitment to preserving its unique culture, environment, and values while embracing modernization makes it a fascinating and sought-after destination for travelers interested in exploring a truly distinct and harmonious way of life.
- The teachings of Buddhism emphasize harmony with nature, a principle that resonates strongly in Bhutan’s approach to conservation and sustainable development
Why you should choose Bhutan as your travel destination?
01
The land of Happiness
Happiness holds a special place in Bhutan's national identity and governance philosophy. The concept of Gross National Happiness (GNH) was coined by the fourth King of Bhutan, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, in the 1970s as an alternative to purely economic measures of development like Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Overall, happiness in Bhutan is not just a personal or individual pursuit but a collective goal that is deeply embedded in the country's governance framework and societal values. The GNH approach reflects Bhutan's aspiration to create a society where the well-being and happiness of its citizens are prioritized above all else.
02
Nature and landscape
Bhutan, known as the " Last shangri-La," is a country of extraordinary natural beauty, nestled in Eastern Himalayas. our landscape features rugged mountains, deep valleys, dense forests, pristine rivers, and serene lakes. The country is dominated by the eastern Himalayas, with scared peaks revered in Buddhism. Bhutan's valleys experience distinct seasonal changes, enhancing the landscape's beauty throughout the year. Over 70%of the country is forested, supporting rich biodiversity, including rare species like tigers and snow leopards. Bhutan's commitment to environmental preservation, guided by its Gross National Happiness philosophy, has made it a Carbon- Negative country, where nature and culture are deeply intertwined, creating a landscape that is both visually stunning and spiritually significant.
03
Buddhism and spiritual retreats
Buddhism plays a central role in Bhutanese culture, with the majority of the population adhering to the Drukpa Kagyu and Nyingma schools of Tibetan Buddhism. Monasteries, temples, and stupas are scattered throughout the country, and Buddhist rituals and festivals are integral to Bhutanese life. Bhutan offers various spiritual retreats and meditation programs that cater to those seeking deeper insights into Buddhism and personal growth. The country's serene environment and deeply ingrained Buddhist culture make it an ideal destination for those seeking spiritual rejuvenation.
04
Traditional Dress
The national dress for men is the "Gho," a knee-length robe tied at the waist with a belt called a "Kera." Women wear a similar garment called the "Kira," which is a long, ankle- length dress accompanied by a colorful, handwoven jacket called a "Tego." The national dress of Bhutan is an essential symbol of country's identity, reflecting its history and traditions. The attire is mandatory for Bhutanese citizens in public and government offices , schools, and on formal occasions, making it a visible expression of national pride and unity. The attire's unique design, vibrant colors, and intricate patterns are also the testament to Bhutan's rich textile tradition and craftsmanship.
05
Architecture
Bhutanese architecture is characterized by its distinctive dzongs (fortresses), monasteries, and traditional homes. Dzongs serve as administrative centers, religious institutions, and fortresses and are often located at strategic points overlooking valleys and rivers and traditional farm house are typically of two to three storied building built up of wood, stone, mud and sometimes mud blocks serving adequate space for farm products and livestocks. Traditional Bhutanese architecture is living tradition that embodies the country's cultural heritage, religious beliefs, and harmonious relationships with nature. It's characterized by its use of local materials , intricate decorative details, and spiritual symbolism. Whether in the form of majestic Dzongs, serene temples, or humble farmhouses, Bhutanese architecture stands as a testament of the country's enduring commitment to preserving its unique identity and way of life in a rapidly changing world.
06
Festivals
Bhutan celebrates numerous religious and cultural festivals throughout the year, known as "Tsechus." These festivals feature masked dances, music, and religious ceremonies performed by monks and laypeople. The most famous Tsechu is the Paro Tsechu, held annually at Paro's Rinpung Dzong. Tsechu has also become a major attraction for tourists. The vibrant atmosphere, intricate dances, and deep cultural significance offer visitors a unique insight into Bhutanese culture and spirituality.
07
Traditional Arts and Crafts
The traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan, collectively known as Zorig Chusum, form the bedrock of Bhutanese cultural identity and spiritual expression. These thirteen arts and crafts have been preserved and passed down through generations, and they continue to play an essential role in both the everyday life and religious practices of Bhutanese people. Each of these thirteen arts is not only craft but also form of meditation and devotion, reflecting the deep intertwining of art, culture and spirituality in Bhutan. The Zorig Chusum not only preserve the ancient skills and knowledge of Bhutanese artisans but also ensures that the country's rich cultural heritage continues to thrive in a rapidly changing world. These crafts are a source of pride and symbol of Bhutan's enduring culture legacy.
08
Cuisine
Bhutanese cuisine is characterized by its use of spicy chili peppers and cheese, particularly in dishes like "Ema Datshi" (chilies and cheese) and "Datshi" (cheese stew). Other staple foods include red rice, buckwheat, and various types of meat, including pork, beef and chicken.