Bhutan: An Introduction

Bhutan is a landlocked country in South Asia, bordered by China and India. The Bhutanese call their country Druk Yul, which means "Land of the Thunder Dragon." Bhutan is a constitutional monarchy with the fourth king, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, on the throne. Gross National Happiness (GNH) is more important to Bhutans than gross national product (GNP).

The kingdom of Bhutan was founded in 1907 by Ugyen Wangchuck, who was elected as the first hereditary ruler. He unified the country and established friendly relations with British India. In 1949, after India gained independence from Britain, the new Indian government recognized Bhutan's sovereignty.

Bhutan remained isolated from the rest of the world for many years. Tourism was restricted and foreigners were not allowed to own property or live permanently in Bhutan. In 1998, King Jigme Singye Wangchuck announced that foreigners would be allowed to visit Bhutan on guided tours and that slowly but surely, tourism would be increased.

Nowadays, tourism is an important part of Bhutan's economy. However, the government has placed strict controls on visitors in order to maintain the country's unique culture and environment. All visitors must travel on pre-planned itineraries with a licensed tour company and guide: Offbeatracks in Bhutan.

Phuentsholing

Phuentsholing is the gateway town to Bhutan and its commercial hub. The town is bustling with people and traffic and has a distinctly Indian feel to it. There are many shops and restaurants, as well as a lively nightlife scene.

Despite its commercialism, Phuentsholing is still very much a Bhutanese town. It is home to the country's only golf course, and there are several temples and monasteries worth visiting. The town also has a large market, where you can find everything from fresh produce to traditional handicrafts.

If you're looking to get off the beaten track in Bhutan, Phuentsholing is the perfect place to start your journey.

Haa Valley

The Haa Valley is one of the most beautiful and hidden valleys in Bhutan. It is located in the western part of the country and is bordered by Tibet. The valley is home to a number of villages, each with its own unique culture and traditions. Visitors to the valley can explore the quaint villages, meet the friendly locals, and learn about their way of life. The Haa Valley is also a great place for hiking and trekking, as there are plenty of scenic trails to follow. With its stunning scenery and friendly people, the Haa Valley is definitely a hidden gem worth exploring in Bhutan.

Bumthang

Bumthang is a beautiful valley located in central Bhutan. It is known for its stunning scenery, traditional villages, and great hiking. The valley is home to some of Bhutan’s most important historical sites and temples.

Bumthang is a great place to hike and explore the villages and landscapes. There are many easy trails that wind through the valley. You can also find more challenging hikes that lead up into the mountains.

The valley is also home to several important historical sites. The Jambay Lhakhang temple is one of the oldest in Bhutan. It was built in the 7th century by Tibetan king Songtsen Gampo. The temple has three main shrines, each with its own unique statue of a Buddha.

The Kurjey Lhakhang temple is another important site in Bumthang. It was built in 1652 by Ngawang Namgyal, the first Shabdrung of Bhutan. The temple complex has three main temples, each with a different style of architecture.

The Tamshing Lhakhang temple is a must-see for any history lover. It was built in 1501 by Pema Lingpa, a famous Bhutanese saint and prophet. The temple is known for its beautiful murals and paintings.

Dochula Pass

If you're looking for breathtaking views and a serene experience while in Bhutan, look no further than the Dochula Pass. This pass is located on the road between Thimphu and Punakha and offers stunning panoramas of the Himalayan mountains, as well as a calming atmosphere that is perfect for introspection and reflection.

At an elevation of 3,100 metres (10,170 feet), the Dochula Pass is often snow-capped and blanketed in mist, which only adds to its ethereal beauty. On a clear day, you can see up to 24 different peaks from the pass, including Mount Everest. If you're lucky enough to be at the pass during one of the many festivals that are held throughout the year, you'll also be treated to traditional Bhutanese dance performances and music.

Whether you're looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life or simply want to soak up some of Bhutan's natural beauty, the Dochula Pass is definitely worth a visit.

Wangdue Phodrang

Wangdue Phodrang is one of the hidden gems in Bhutan. It is located in the central part of the country and offers beautiful views of the Himalayas. The town is also home to a number of temples and monasteries, making it a perfect place to explore Bhutanese culture and religion. Wangdue Phodrang is a great place to start your exploration of Bhutan, as it is easy to reach from major cities like Thimphu and Paro.

Dagana

Dagana is a hidden gem in Bhutan, located in the northwest of the country. This remote district is home to some of Bhutan’s most beautiful landscapes, including snow-capped mountains, green valleys, and rushing rivers. Dagana is also home to several traditional villages, where you can experience the daily life of Bhutanese people.

If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path travel destination, Dagana is the perfect place for you. Here are some of the best things to see and do in this hidden corner of Bhutan:

Visit Tamshing Monastery: Tamshing Monastery is one of the oldest monasteries in Bhutan, founded in 1501. The monastery is known for its unique murals and thangkas (traditional Tibetan paintings).

Explore Rigsum Gonpa Village: Rigsum Gonpa is a traditional Bhutanese village located near Tamshing Monastery. Visitors can tour the village and learn about the daily life of its residents.

Hike to Tsachhu Lake: Tsachhu Lake is a beautiful high-altitude lake located in Dagana District. The hike to reach the lake takes approximately four hours round-trip, but it’s well worth it for the stunning views.

Whether you’re looking for adventure or simply want to experience Bhutan’s traditional culture, Dagana District is sure

Punakha

Tucked away in the Himalayan mountains, the Kingdom of Bhutan is a land of stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Though often overshadowed by its more popular neighbor, Nepal, Bhutan is slowly gaining recognition as a top travel destination. And for good reason – this hidden gem has something for everyone, from majestic mountains and verdant valleys to Buddhist temples and charming villages.

One of the best places to experience all that Bhutan has to offer is Punakha. This picturesque town is located in central Bhutan and is home to some of the country’s most important historical sites. It’s also surrounded by beautiful landscapes, making it the perfect base for exploring the surrounding area. Here are just a few of the many reasons why you should add Punakha to your travel list:

1. The Punakha Dzong – This massive fortress-monastery is one of Bhutan’s most iconic landmarks. Built in 1637, it served as the country’s capital until 1955 and now houses the administrative offices of Punakha District. The dzong is open to visitors year-round and offers stunning views of the valley below.

2. Chimi Lhakhang – This small temple, situated on a hilltop near Punakha, is known as the “Temple of Fertility”. It’s said that couples who visit the temple will be blessed with children

Conclusion

Exploring the offbeat routes of Bhutan provided us with a unique opportunity to experience its rich culture and natural beauty. Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline rush by biking along the winding roads or want to take in the picturesque views from high peaks, there is something for everyone in this small kingdom tucked away in the Himalayas. There are many hidden gems just waiting to be discovered! So if you’re seeking adventure and new experiences, Bhutan should definitely be your next destination.