Discover Bhutan
Frazzled and paced out with a hectic lifestyle? Arrive in the Himalayan
Kingdom of Bhutan to its pure, pure air and unblemished habitat fiercely
protected by its people. Monasteries with ancient sanctum sanctorum alive
with legends of the past; unfrequented trekking trails that take you deep
into the valleys; people who are happy walking the path of their ancestors -
these are just wee glimpses into your rejuvenation experience. The country
isn't promoting tourism on a big scale and you will not be particularly
seduced by its amenities. If you can visualize your visit as a privilege
peek at pristine and protected land, you've got the essence!
Bhutan is best known to the world today as the last Shangrila. The few
visitors who make the rare journey into this extraordinary kingdom will
discover that there is no other destination like this land of pure and
exotic mysticism. In this country known as Druk Yul, or the 'Land of the
Peaceful Dragon', the fortunate visitor will find a rare combination of
harmony and accord, amidst a landscape of incredible natural beauty.
Bhutan lies west of the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh and east of
Nepal. Thimpu, the capital, is at an altitude of 7700 feet, a small charming
city in the heart of the Himalayas. Modernisation is strictly monitored and
buildings must be made in the traditional Bhutanese style and cannot exceed
a specified height. In fact, the first and the only traffic light was
installed near a chorten (a small Buddhist temple) but was later removed
upon the order of the king as not suitable to the environs of Thimpu.
Getting There
There are only two entry points to Bhutan. While most travelers arrive by
air at Paro, some arrive by road at Phuntsholing, which lies on the southern
border with India. In either case, tourists have to fly in as well as out by
the national carrier, Druk Air. Druk Air has no interline agreements with
other carriers. Hence, tourists need to arrange for their own tickets to and
from wherever they connect with Druk Air, as that is the only airline that
flies into Bhutan. The flight from Kathmandu to Paro provides the most
spectacular view of Himalayan vistas of any scheduled flight. Druk Air does
not issue tickets until they have received the visa clearance. Paro airport
is less than two hours from Thimphu. The best way to journey by road is to
start at Kathmandu.
Within the City
The bus from Paro airport to Thimpu is a comfortable minibus. All other
public transport services are BAD! Dilapidated, crowded buses take you
almost anywhere in Bhutan, but be there early if you want to sit. The plus
side is that the buses are inexpensive. Always check the schedule, and try
taking a cab if you can afford one. Cabs are very expensive (e.g. bus ride
Paro-Thimpu by airline minibus Rs. 25, by public bus Rs. 5, by cab Rs. 300).
Cabs to most of the tourist sights tend to be more expensive.
