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The Land of Happiness
We have traveled to Bhutan for the past 10 years to see what adventure looks like on this tiny Himalayan Kingdom, making our way from the urban city of Paro to the sparsely populated, adventure-rich Trashigang
The Kingdom of Bhutan is a small, landlocked country nestled in the eastern Himalayas, bordered by China to the north and India to the south, east, and west. Known for its breathtaking mountainous landscapes and rich cultural heritage, Bhutan is often referred to as "The Last Shangri-La."
It is unique for its policy of Gross National Happiness (GNH), which measures the well-being of its citizens, rather than economic wealth alone.
Key Facts:
Capital: Thimphu
Official Language: Dzongkha
Religion: Buddhism is the state religion, with most Bhutanese practicing Vajrayana Buddhism
Government: Bhutan is a constitutional monarchy, with King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck as the current monarch
Currency: Ngultrum (BTN)
Bhutan places great emphasis on environmental conservation, maintaining strict controls on tourism to preserve its natural beauty and cultural integrity. The country boasts stunning dzongs (fortresses), monasteries, and annual religious festivals, such as the popular Tsechu, where visitors can witness colorful mask dances and traditional ceremonies.
Bhutan lies between the latitudes of 26° and 29°N and the longitudes of 88° and 93°E, nestled in the heart of the Eastern Himalayas. Its location between two of the world's most populous nations, China to the north and India to the south, makes it geographically significant, yet its remote and rugged terrain keeps it distinctly isolated. The country's topography consists of steep mountains, deep valleys, and dense forests, which contribute to its inaccessibility. Bhutan’s mountainous landscape, with peaks like Gangkhar Puensum, not only shapes the environment but also plays a crucial role in maintaining the country's natural defenses against external influences.
This isolation has allowed Bhutan to preserve its cultural heritage largely undisturbed by modernization and global trends. Unlike many other countries, Bhutan has successfully safeguarded its traditions, language, and religious practices, ensuring that its centuries-old customs continue to thrive. The combination of its challenging geography and a strong national identity has helped Bhutan resist external pressures, allowing it to remain one of the few nations in the world where cultural integrity has been preserved in an increasingly globalized world. This protection of heritage is further supported by government policies, including strict tourism regulations that promote cultural conservation while limiting external influences.
This is a common greeting in Bhutan, equivalent to saying 'Hello' or 'Good day' in English. It’s a friendly way to wish someone well and is used widely across the country. If you're engaging with people in Bhutan, especially in a formal or friendly context, 'Kuzuzangpola' is a great way to start a conversation
Bhutan's international route is primarily serviced through its national carrier, Drukair – Royal Bhutan Airlines, and a private airline, Bhutan Airlines. The main point of entry for international flights into Bhutan is Paro International Airport, located in a deep valley surrounded by mountains. Due to its challenging topography, Paro is one of the most difficult airports to land in, and only a limited number of pilots are qualified to fly into the airport.
Key Points about Bhutan’s International Route:
The only international airport in Bhutan is located in Paro, approximately 50 kilometers from the capital, Thimphu.
The airport is nestled between mountains that reach as high as 5,500 meters (18,000 feet), making the approach and landing highly technical.
Due to these geographical challenges, flights are scheduled to land and take off only during daylight hours and under suitable weather conditions.
Destinations Served: Bhutan’s international flights connect it with several major cities in the region, including:
India: Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati, Bagdogra, Mumbai
Thailand: Bangkok
Nepal: Kathmandu
Singapore
Bangladesh: Dhaka
Flights to these destinations are relatively short, considering Bhutan's central location in South Asia, and serve as crucial links for travelers from around the world.
A high volume of tourism may seem like a good thing for Bhutan’s economy, but for the Bhutanese, protecting their culture and environment is most important. Bhutan’s Royal Government used to limit the number of tourists entering the country. Officials believed that unrestricted access to the country would have a negative impact on the natural environment and ancient cultural traditions. This belief led to the notion of “High Value, Low Volume” tourism. Tourism, like all Bhutanese industries, must be sustainable and environmentally friendly.
The government wanted tourists to understand the deep-rooted culture and traditions, so they would have a higher appreciation for their surroundings.
Tourism has become the second highest economical contribution to the Bhutan economy, after the agricultural industry. Recently, the government decided to increase the tourism rate. The Tourism Council of Bhutan extended the tourism areas to include once protected communities, natural reserves, and ancient cultures.
To avoid the effects of mass tourism, the Government of Bhutan implements a Sustainable Development Fees (SDF) for all tourists entering the country. Find out more about the latest Sustainable Development Fees (SDF) for Bhutan.
There are many interesting festivals coming up for current year and for next year, view by clcking on the below options
Gross National Happiness (GNH) is a philosophy that originated in Bhutan, emphasizing the holistic well-being of people rather than just economic growth. It was introduced by Bhutan's fourth King, Jigme Singye Wangchuck, in the 1970s, as a unique alternative to the conventional Gross Domestic Product (GDP) measure. GNH is based on the belief that the true development of a country happens when material and spiritual development occur simultaneously.
Gross National Happiness (GNH) is important to tourists visiting Bhutan because it shapes a unique travel experience that emphasizes well-being, cultural immersion, and sustainability. As Bhutan’s guiding philosophy, GNH ensures that tourism development is closely aligned with the protection of the country’s natural environment and cultural heritage. Tourists can explore Bhutan’s stunning landscapes, ancient monasteries, and vibrant festivals, knowing that their visit supports sustainable practices that preserve these treasures for future generations. This focus on environmental and cultural preservation makes Bhutan a distinct destination for travelers seeking authenticity and responsible tourism
To avoid the effects of mass tourism, the Government of Bhutan implements a Sustainable Development Fees (SDF) for all tourists entering the country. Find out more about the latest
Sustainable Development Fees (SDF) for Bhutan.
Why is Bhutan known for the word Happiness?
Bhutan is known famously as the first country in the world to measure progress based on happiness. To do so, the 4th Druk Gyalpo coined the term Gross National Happiness (GNH). From then on, GNH was used to measure the country’s development instead of Gross National Product (GNP).
Bhutan currently has 4 zones and 20 Districts, with each district being unique by itself and providing our travellers with new experiences.
Learn more about each districts in Bhutan
Find out what Bhutan can offer you
There are many reasons to visit Bhutan. For those who want a relaxing vacation, you will be treated like royalty with traditional massages and hot stone baths. Others may want to travel along the mountain ranges and bask in the glorious landscapes. Some may seek spiritual fulfillment. Visiting monasteries and temples may offer an air of enlightenment.
His Majesty, the King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck was extremely popular even before he married a commoner, Jetsun Pema. His family line has welcomed the throne for the past 100 years. He is the fifth ruler in his family to take possession of the crown. Bhutanese admire and love the royal family.
The official language in Bhutan is Dzongkha. Bhutanese also speak Tshanglakha and the Lhotshamkha. Tshanglakha is spoken in the western region of the country and Lhotshamkha is used by the southern Bhutanese. There are at least 19 dialects of Dzongkha that are spoken all over Bhutan. Most of the people that are in the tourism industry speak English. English is the medium of instruction in Bhutanese schools.
Bhutan is filled with stunning architectural building, such as dzongs, goembas, and lhakhangs. Dzongs primary function, beginning in the 17th century, was as a fortress. Today the buildings are used as administrative offices for each of the 20 dzongkhas (districts) in Bhutan. Dzongs are made of stone or pounded mud and timber with wooden shingled roofs. Even though fires caused many of the dzongs to be rebuilt, reconstruction method are consistently traditional with the exception of iron roofs instead of wooden.
Founded in early 2000 B.C., Bhutan was known by many names. Some of the names included Lho Jong, Lho Mon Kha Shi, Lho Jong Men Jong, and more. During the 17th century, it became officially known as Druk Yul, the "Land of the Drukpas". Drukpas referred to the religion of Buddhism that the people began to practice, which is now the dominant religion of the country. Previously in the 7th century, Bonism was the religion in Bhutan until the Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo and Guru Rinpoche introduced and taught the people the details of Buddhism. Ngawang Namyel, the first Zhabdrung, established his power after he arrived in 1616 A.D. He defeated several Tibetan armies and unified battling Bhutan tribes. He started a governing system that was followed until his death. The system broke down and infighting began. A new system of government began with the establishment of a monarchy. The first Druk Gyalpo, or Dragon King provided rules for Bhutan citizen to have a better way of life. In 1971, Bhutan officially became a participating member of the United Nations.
Zhabdrung Rinpoche's influence extended beyond politics into Bhutanese culture and religion. He promoted the Drukpa Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism in Bhutan, which became the state religion and continues to shape Bhutanese culture.
His leadership and unification efforts laid the foundation for modern Bhutan’s national identity and political structure. He is celebrated as a national hero and spiritual leader, and his legacy is honored through religious practices, annual festivals, and the preservation of dzongs.
The mask dance of Bhutan, known as Cham, is an integral part of Bhutanese culture and religious traditions. These sacred dances are performed during religious festivals called Tshechus, which are held in various dzongs (fortresses) and monasteries across Bhutan. The mask dances are deeply rooted in Vajrayana Buddhism and are believed to bring blessings, protect against evil, and teach moral lessons.
To avoid the effects of mass tourism, the Government of Bhutan implements a Sustainable Development Fees (SDF) for all tourists entering the country. Find out more about the latest
Sustainable Development Fees (SDF) for Bhutan.
As of September 2022, travellers are now able to travel independently to Bhutan without going through a tour operator. However, due to the transportation infrastructure of the country, it is still highly recommended for you to book your trip to Bhutan through a reputable and licensed tour operator.
The tour operator will be able to apply for a travel visa on your behalf, book accommodations and provide you with the necessary guidance and assistance. A tour package typically includes 3 meals a day, standard 3-star hotel accommodation, a tour guide and driver.
If you travel with Druk Asia, our tours are mostly private tours that are highly customisable based on your needs and travel preferences. Simply talk to our travel specialists and they will be able to assist you with your requests.
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