Land of the Thunder Dragon

The Kingdom of Bhutan is a landlocked nation in the Himalaya Mountains, sandwiched between the People's Republic of China in South Asia and India. The local name for the country is Druk Yul.

For centuries, the country was made up of feuding regions until it was unified under King Ugyen Wangchuck in 1907. It is know as the Land of the Thunder Dragon.

The Royal Bhutan Army is Bhutan's military service. It includes the Royal Bodyguard and the Royal Bhutan Police.

Thimpu is the capital of the country, yet the place is not modern. The city retains its old-world charm. Being the capital of Bhutan it is the home to the revered Bhutanese Royal Family, Judiciary of Bhutan and the Royal government. Paro is the most developed city of Bhutan. The valley had close relations with Tibet.

Overlooking Paro town is Rinpung Dzong, an elegant and harmonious structure. Rinpung Dzong provides fascinating view over the valley.

The country is comprised of a mosaic of different peoples who continue to live in valleys isolated from one another and the outside world by mountain passes.

The food of Bhutan is simple chillies are used in preparing almost all the dishes and Bhutanese consume rice with their meat and vegetables.

The national sport is Archery, which is played here with unique Bhutanese rules and equipment.

One of the main attractions of the tourists in Bhutan is its tradition and culture.

Independent travel are not permitted in Bhutan. Visitors must book to travel through a registered tour operator in Bhutan.

Religious festivals Tsechu are important events and celebrated throughout the kingdom. The Teschu is a festive time for Bhutanese. The tsechus are the most colourful of all Bhutanese gatherings and celebrated at every Dzong.

Monasteries here have a central chapel with statues and separate sleeping quarters for the monks. There are prayer wheels around the outside and a round gold coloured ornament on the roof. Temples are not very different from monasteries.

Bumthang is the spiritual heartland of Bhutan and home to its most ancient and precious Buddhist sites. The encompasses four major valleys are the main one, Choskhor, is home to the most important dzongs, temples and palaces. Jakar, at the foot of the Choskhor valley, is likely to be your base. Jakar Dzong, was founded in 1549, is the largest in Bhutan. Further along Choskhor valley, the temple of Jampa Lhakhang was built in 659 and hosts one of the kingdom's most spectacular festivals.