Hidden deep in the Himalayan Mountains and isolated from the rest of the world, Bhutan developed its own civilization based on the Buddhist way of life. This nation kingdom of 600,000 inhabitants lives in close harmony with nature and adheres strongly to the purest form of Mahayana Buddhism. Since 1974 Bhutan has permitted a limited number of tourists per year to visit this mythical land of Shangri-La. Visitors can immerse themselves in a unique and untouched culture and enjoy Bhutan's unparalleled scenic beauty of majestic mountains and lush valleys, its pristine ecology and forests which is home to rare and endangered fauna and flora. Bhutan is a unique blend of old and new. Never colonized, its ancient history chronicled in both the oral tradition and classical literature, speaks proudly of a largely self-sufficient people. The deeply spiritual and mystical beliefs of the Bhutanese is commemorated annually by the Tschus - Colorful Festivals- celebrated throughout the kingdom to honor the saint that brought Buddhism to Bhutan - the land of the Thunder Dragon.

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Bumthang View Map The deeply spiritual region of Bumthang is shrouded in religious legend. It is the traditional home to the great Buddhist teacher Pema Linga to whose descendants the present dynasty traces its origin. Gangtey / Phobjikha Village View Map Gangtey valley is one of the most beautiful places in Bhutan with the village of Phobjikha lying a short distance beyond the Gangtey Monastery. It is the winter home of black necked cranes that migrate from the arid plains in the north to pass winter in milder and lower climate. Paro View Map The valley of Paro contains a wealth of attractions and requires a few days to be explored and also make adjustments to the high altitude. Casting a shadow across the town of Paro is the elegant and perfectly symmetrical Rinpung Dzong located 11 miles from the town of Paro. On the south side of the valley are the burnt ruins of Drugyel Dzong (victorious fortress) and it was from this monastery that the Bhutanese repelled several invading Tibetan armies during the 17th century. Punakha View Map Punakha was the capital of Bhutan and is still the winter seat of the chief abbot. Blessed with temperate climate due to itsnatural drainage from two rivers, the Punakha valley produces abundant crops and fruits and provides splendid views of the distant Himalayas at Dochula pas. Thimphu View Map Thimphu is the capital city of Bhutan with a population of approximatly 50,000. It is located at an altitude of 7000 ft in west Bhutan on the shores of the Wong Chu river. Thimphu is only modern in age - new structures are built on traditional designs. The Tashicho Dzong a 350 year old structure houses government departments and the kings throne room. It was refurbished in 1961. As the nations largest monastery it is the summer quarters of 2000 monks and next to this Dzong is Thimphus only golf course. The weekend market is the biggest in Bhutan and is worth a visit. Tongsa View Map Tongsa is in the centre of Bhutan, four hours by road from Wangduephodrang, Tongsa offers a welcome rest to travellers.The approach to the town involves a 9 miles trip around Tongsa Valley. A vantage point from the opposite side of the valley, provides a spectacular view of Dzong and the town. Like almost all towns in Bhutan, the secular and the religious centre, the Dzong, dominates the horizon, dwarfing the surrounding buildings. Tongsa is the Royal Family’s ancestral home. Protected from invaders by an impenetrable valley, Tongsa Dzong is an impregnable fortress. The Dzong itself is a labyrinth of temples corridors and offices holding court over the local community. It is built on many levels into the side of the hill and can be seen from every approach to Tongsa heralding its strength as a defensive stronghold. Trashigang View Map Trashigang is a town in eastern Bhutan and the district capital of the Trashigang Dzongkhag. It lies on the east side of the valley above the Drangme-chu River just south of where it is joined by the Gamri River.  The town is also home to the country’s only university. Trashiyangtse View Map Situated in a small river valley, Trashiyangtse is a rapidly growing town and administrative center of the district and is famous for its wooden containers and bowls, gom Kora temple and the dazzling white stupa in Chorten Kora, which is similar to the Bodhnath stupa in Nepal. Wangdiphodrang View Map Located in the south of Punakha, this is the last town on the central highway, Wangdi Dzong, with a few well-provided shops. The higher reaches of the valley provide rich pastureland for cattle. This district is also famous for its fine bamboo products, slate and stone carvings.