Bhutan, the last Shangri La is the sole surviving Himalayan Buddhist Kingdom.
Well not exactly in India but still it could be reached by road only from India and the fact that Indian National do not need to pay $250 daily tourism fee or get the visa, we couldn’t resist but add this as one of the best places for summer holidays in India. Even if you are a foreign national, you would love to read on!
Wedged between India and China, Bhutan is remote and pristine destination where the ancient Buddhist tradition is still preserved. Held separate by the formidable mountains, this Himalayan Kingdom also referred to as the ‘last Shangri La’ is perhaps the only country where developed is measured not by GDP but Gross Domestic Happiness.
| Tourism in Bhutan is unique and the Bhutanese pride themselves on a sustainable, ecofriendly approach. |
Druk Yul, ‘the land of thunder dragon’ as it is locally referred to, the essence of Bhutan lies in its traditions, Buddhist culture, unspoiled landscapes and absence of ‘crowd’ tourism. It is also one of few last places in the world where Tantric Tibetan Buddhism, with temples of florid and lamas in maroon robes chanting to ancient instruments still survives intact.
Tourism in Bhutan is strictly regulated with government’s emphasis on “High Value, Low Impact Tourism.” There’s a hefty daily package for tourist (except from India, Bangladesh and Maldives) and the tourist visas must be initialized by a government authorized tour operator in Bhutan.
Things to do in Bhutan –
Taktsang Palphug Monastery in Paro, also known as the Tiger’s Nest is a prominent prominent Himalayan Buddhist sacred site and temple complex.
Combining the sanskrit word for peace (Aman) with the Dzongkha word for circumambulation (Kora), Amankora is was the first foreign brand allowed to build hotels in Bhutan. The group has chains of luxury lodges across this Himalayan kingdom.
