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The Highlights
Little is known about this
small but charming country in the Himalayas. Bhutan still limits the
number of tourists that are allowed into the country each year and the
high government royalties that each visitor has to pay make a trip to
Bhutan fairly expensive. Independent traveling is prohibited. This
aside, a trip to Bhutan is a life-changing experience. To experience how
the local people live in harmony with nature and learn about their
unique way of life is absolutely eye-opening. A journey to Bhutan is
foremost a spiritual journey; don't expect any tourist attractions or
great shopping. But do expect to return home a different human being.
A bit of History
In 1865, the United Kingdom
and Bhutan signed a treaty under which Bhutan would lease some
territory to British India. In 1907, still
under British influence, a monarchy was set up that has lasted until
today. India later assumed the responsibilities for
defense and foreign relations of Bhutan. King Jigme Singye Wangchuck
unveiled the government's draft constitution - which introduced major
democratic reforms. In December 2006, the King abdicated the throne to
his son, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, in order for him to get
experience as a head of state before the imminent democratic transition. In
early 2007, India and Bhutan renegotiated their treaty to allow Bhutan
greater autonomy in its foreign policy, although Thimphu still
coordinates policy decisions in this area with New Delhi. In July 2008,
the king ratified the country's first constitution.
How to Get There
Druk Air
is the only airline offering scheduled flights into Bhutan. There are
currently daily flights from Bangkok to Paro, usually with a short
stopover in Kolkata or Dacca. Flights tend to be fairly expensive
because there is no competition on this route. Also, please be aware
that you need to show a "Visa Approval Letter" upon check-in in Bangkok
in order to be allowed to board the flight to Bhutan.
The Highlights
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Get a window seat
on your flight to Bhutan and see Mt Everest |
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Learn how the
country tries to improve "Gross National Happiness" |
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Climb up to the
famous Tigernest Temple |
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Wait at the
country's only traffic lights in Thimpu |
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Make many relaxing
walks in the beautiful valleys of Bhutan |
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Country Profile
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Country Name |
Bhutan |
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Capital City |
Thimphu |
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Major Gateways |
Paro (PBH)
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Population |
690,000 |
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Languages |
Dzongkha |
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Main Religions |
Buddhism,
Hinduism |
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Currency
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Ngultrum (BTN) |
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Time Difference with Thailand |
-1h |
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Calling Code |
+975 |
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Best Time to Visit |
March - October |
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Visa Requirement for Thai Citizens |
Visa required |
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Travel Time from
Bangkok |
4-5h (one stop) |
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More info |
www.tourism.gov.bt
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Map |
Click here
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National Flag |
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