Bhutan is the underrated gem of Asian tourism that has long stayed hidden within the majestic peaks of the Eastern Himalayas. And, that has a lot to do with the fact that Bhutan travel was not open until the 1960s. Dotted with sacred monasteries, elaborate dzongs, sprawling green valleys and snow-covered crests, the Buddhist kingdom is a dream destination for travelers. The unique thing about Bhutan is that by the decision of the State, the country has not been transformed into a modern hub of tourism with all the typical contemporary draws. Bhutan tourism has somewhere held on to the cultures, customs, and traditions that have sustained the country and they did not exchange it for cheap attractions typical of the contemporary tourism. The beauty and the appeal of Bhutan take time and observation to appreciate, as it is rooted in the history of thousands of years. And, if one can afford both, the Land of the Thunder Dragon will not be a disappointment at all.  

History of Bhutan:

Oddly enough, in spite of being right in between two colossal empires – British India and the Chinese Empire, Bhutan has never been colonized in its history. Buddhist theocracy is what gave Bhutan its primary identity, which was reunited by the Wangchuck dynasty following the civil war of the 19th century. They are still the monarchs of Bhutan and known as the Dragon King. However, the monarchy itself has been constitutionalized, and Bhutan is now run by a parliamentary democracy.

Their age-old heritage is still Bhutan’s number one source of pride, and that is what makes this small landlocked country so gracefully unique.

Sightseeing in Bhutan:

Taking a step back from fun and frolic, if you look around the country, the impact of Buddhism will be only too evident. There is a dzong – a fortress-monastery complex, or a simple monastery shrine or just a chorten in almost every nook and corner of Bhutan. Although the cities like Thimphu or Paro are much more urbanized now, if you dig deep and explore into the roots, you will stumble upon the religion propagated by Guru Rinpoche thousands of years ago.

The popular destinations are Taktsang Monastery or Tiger’s Nest Monastery in Paro, Punakha Dzong, Tashicho Dzong, Gangteng Monastery and many more such Buddhist spiritual institutions scattered around the country.

Trekking in Bhutan:

A Bhutan trip will be as spiritually rewarding as it would be adventurous and exciting. Replete with many glacial rivers flowing down from the Himalayan peaks, there are lots of adrenaline-filled activities, including whitewater rafting and kayaking, waiting in the Land of Dragons. However, water activities are not your thing, but you still love to be outdoors, trekking is the best thing to go for. Bhutan trip is sure to include numerous trekking trails, of which Jomolhari Trek is the most famous one. Dochula Pass, the Druk Path, Snowman trek routes I and II and Dagala Thousand Lakes, there are many such trails all around the country with exciting paths and scenic beauties.

Festivals in Bhutan:

Being one of the most spectacular destinations on earth, Bhutan is famed for its religious festivals, like: Paro Tshechu, Thimphu Tshechu, Jambay Lhakhang Drup, Wangduephodrang Tshechu, Black-Necked Crane Festival and more.

Nightlife in Bhutan:

Besides sightseeing, adventure and festivities to savour in the Land of the Thunder Dragon, one will never be deprived of nightlife, here. Crammed with some of the best nightclubs, visitors can enjoy the best of nightlife in Bhutan. The list of some recommended nightclubs include: Vivacity, Club Ace, Mojo Park, Space 34, Om Bar, Khuju Luyang, Benez Bar and more.