Bhutan kingdom of the clouds
The last Shangri La is a tiny Himalayan country landlocked by India in three sides and China another. Bhutan's capital and largest city is Thimphu. Besides the stunning natural scenery, the enduring image of the country for most visitors is the strong sense of culture and tradition that binds the kingdom and clearly distinguishes it from its larger neighbors.
Bhutan is the only Vajrayana Buddhist nation in the world, and the profound teachings of this tradition remain well preserved and exert a strong influence in all aspects of life. Perched high in the Himalayas, it is the world’s last remaining Buddhist Kingdom. It has developed the philosophy of Gross National Happiness; where development is measured using a holistic approach of well-being, not just based on gross domestic product.
Tourist Locations in Bhutan
- Thimphu :
Thimphu is the capital of Bhutan. The town is the largest city in Bhutan and It is situated in the western central part of Bhutan. The city is spread out longitudinally in a north-south direction on the west bank of the valley formed by the Wang Chuu, also known as the Thimphu Chu River. Thimphu does not have a vibrant night life but the number of nightclubs and pool rooms for young people is growing quickly. The main street, Norzim Lam, contains a number of shops and small hotels and restaurants. This is one of the popular tourist destination for tourists visiting Bhutan.
- Paro :
Paro is the gateway of Bhutan as the only airport serving Bhutan is in Paro. Paro is a popular tourist destination. Numerous sightseeing destinations are in Paro. Famous monastery of Bhutan 'Ttaksang' monastery or Tigers nest is approachable from Paro. Paro is also the shopping destination for tourists vising Bhutan. All major shopping centers or malls are present in Paro.
- Punakha :
Punakha is the administrative centre of Punakha dzongkhag, one of the 20 districts of Bhutan. Punakha was the capital of Bhutan and the seat of government until 1955, when the capital was moved to Thimphu. It is about 72 km away from Thimphu towards west direction and it takes about 3 hours by car from the capital Thimphu. Unlike Thimphu it is quite warm in winter and hot in summer.
- Bumthang :
It is the most historic dzongkhag (district) if the number of ancient temples and sacred sites is counted. Bumthang consists of the four mountain valleys of Ura, Chumey, Tang and Choekhor ("Bumthang"), although occasionally the entire district is referred to as Bumthang valley. Bumthang, which literally means "beautiful field", is considered the spiritual heartland of Bhutan.
- Phunsholing :
​Phuntsholing is the most prominent land entry point of Bhutan from India. Phuntsholing is the administrative headquarter of Chukha district. Phuentsholing lies opposite the Indian town of Jaigaon, and cross-border trade has resulted in a thriving local economy. The architecture is modern, and there is no dzong, famous monastery or in fact anything of particular interest to tourists. However, like all of Bhutan, it does offer a clean, pleasant and safe environment in which to go about your business.