Why visit Bhutan.
Step out of the so called modern world, into the heart of the Himalayas, to experience all of the wonders the Kingdom of the Thunder Dragon has to offer you. Bhutan beats steadily with the drums and chants of Buddhism - elsewhere more scarce. It is tucked into the folds of the highest mountains in the world that have been and are its protection. Like the unchanging, isolated flora and fauna in the Galapagos, Bhutan retains an ancient heritage and remains true to its old culture.
It is with good reason that thousands of people around the world want to visit Bhutan. There is also a good reason for Bhutan’s reluctance to throw its doors wide open to the world. It is no accident that this small Kingdom remains one of the last unspoilt places on earth with so much to see and so much to protect.
Through wise leadership, Bhutan has selectively reached outside of its isolation for new ideas that preserve its precious qualities – culture, eco-systems and religion. Bhutan is succeeding where many countries have failed; its unique inheritance of history and location is used for the benefit of the people.
Many people view Bhutan as an experiment in sustainable change. This is conveyed by its tourism policy of “High Value, Low Volume”. Even as Bhutan accepts the realities of globalization, the world appreciates the need for humanity to preserve its socio-cultural, environmental, and spiritual heritage. As Bhutan transforms from a medieval land into a modern state, the Kingdom is calling on centuries of wisdom to find the right blend of tradition and modernity.
For those who know Bhutan, it is both a nostalgic effort to preserve the past and an exciting attempt to step into the future. Given the exoticism that our country represents, and the deeply spiritual atmosphere that prevails in the kingdom, this evolution is mythology coming alive.
The Country is expressed in the unique development philosophy of Gross National Happiness (GNH), which rejects Gross Domestic Product (GDP) as the way to measure progress. Prosperity is measured through the spiritual, physical, social and environmental health of our people and natural environment.
The national policy of High Value, Low Volume tourism asks every visitor to be sensitive to a social, cultural, and environmental system that is trying to preserve the best of its traditions in a rapidly changing world. The government is determined to safeguard its priceless heritage to ensure that the people maintain their dignity against the onslaught of globalization and modernization. Money cannot buy what we have to offer. If you are seeking five star comforts, a shopping paradise or plenty of nightlife, maybe Bhutan is not the destination for you.
But, on the other hand, if you are looking for a destination where you can experience something of centuries long past, as well as something of the present 21st century, well, Bhutan is surely the place to experience.
Today's Bhutan is able to offer what others have lost. It is a priceless and very unique destination. Bhutan abounds with adventure experiences, trekking upon unspoilt trails, white water rafting and photo opportunities. Be astonished by unparalleled scenery, from the splendour of the snow capped Himalayas to densely forested hills rich in flora and fauna, to the jungle lowlands. Bhutan is a bird watchers paradise with many types of birds including the Black Necked Crane. Immerse yourself in our incomparable architecture and Buddhist culture. Visit ancient monasteries and see monks and nuns practicing Buddhism unchanged for centuries. Witness a vibrant Tsechus (religious festival) and be amazed by the dancing monks, their skills, stamina and costumes. Immerse yourself in our unique Bhutanese hospitality with truly charming people.