Bhutan Tourism

When Gross National Happiness was developed by Bhutan’s former king, Jigme Singe Wangchuk, tourism was introduced also in 1974. Before, Bhutan had no currency, no phones and no tourists but the modern world opens the beautiful Himalayan kingdom to the world where it maintains its culture and environment along with its modernization.

Here are 5 facts about Bhutan as a tourist destination:

IACE’s Director Aries Balanay in Bhutan’s Immigration

Travellers are required to get visa and book their trips through official Bhutanese tour operators. Adventure starts as travellers need to fly to India, Nepal or Thailand for flight directly to Paro, Bhutan’s only international airport.

IACE’s Director Aries Balanay pictures in one of Bhutan’s Heritage site Takstang (Tiger’s Nest, Paro)

The country is mostly forest and mountains. Indeed, a refreshing place because of a whole lot of nature. There is fresh air to breathe. Hiking in the Himalayans is going to be a good idea for additional adventure.

IACE’s Director Aries Balanay in Paro Airport, Bhutan

Usual trip in Bhutan – as a Buddhist country, there are monasteries where monks stay, pilgrimage sites and ancient Tibetan-style temples to visit.  Visitors can join the celebration of monthly religious festivals. One is called “Tshechu” where participants witness religious mask dances and receive blessings.

IACE’s Director Aries Balanay wearing “Gho (Bhutan’s National Costume) in the heart of Thimpu

In Thimpu, there is colorful market lined with local delicacies to antique prayer wheels. Truly, Bhutan is a paradise-like view with its miles-high mountains. The fully paint wood-beamed houses decorated with fanciful designs adds more sense to this special place.

View on top, summit of Mt Everest

Of the many good things in Bhutan, traveling or even a peek on pictures might convince you. Not only can you view the natural beauty of Himalayas, but also a view of the majestic Mount Everest.

Traveling to Bhutan is one of the world’s most expensive trips. However, you can be pretty sure this is going to be a one-of-a-kind experience.