A deep-rooted belief in Buddhism andadherence to the traditional way of life lie at the very heart of Bhutanese society. Its people are proud to wear national dressin public and the country's development ismeasured not in economic terms, but by'Gross National Happiness'. 'The land of theThunder Dragon' is biologically diverse anda leader in environmental conservation.Larger settlements like Thimphu feel almostcosmopolitan in contrast with the smallsleepy villages of central and easternBhutan, but the memorable image that most visitors leave with is one of pristinemountain valleys and serene temples. A tripto Bhutan is a rewarding and humblingexperience of a country that is resistingmodern life's drive for change.The remote kingdom of Bhutan is one of the few remaining places in theworld still shrouded in mysticism. As visitornumbers are restricted, few people arefortunate enough to experience this remoteHimalayan kingdom. Fiercely independent,it has managed to remain largely untouchedby the influences of the modern world andits powerful neighbours, India and China.112Bhutan

Audley in BhutanFew people get the opportunity to visit thisremarkable country and while this makes atrip to Bhutan a unique and rewardingexperience, the lack of a developed visitorinfrastructure can present issues. We havedetailed, first hand knowledge of both thewell-known sites in west and central Bhutanand also the less-visited eastern regions. Paro is usually the entry and exit point andflights operate from Delhi, Kathmandu,Bangkok and Calcutta. There are also twoland borders with India, making Bhutan aperfect destination in its own right or as partof a longer trip. In Bhutan you are requiredby law to have a guide and driver accompanyyou, our guides are both experienced andknowledgeable, ensuring that you get thevery best out of your trip.AccommodationYou will find a limited range of places to stay in Bhutan as the majority ofaccommodation falls into either the basic or luxury category with little inbetween, butour local knowledge will help you find theaccommodation options most suitable foryou. The luxury properties, which are onlyfound in western and central Bhutan, offerexcellent facilities and levels of service. Unlikemany other destinations, hotels in Bhutan willtypically not confirm a room until 60 daysbefore your arrival and it is fair to say thatlast-minute changes are not uncommon. Weare experienced in dealing with these issues.Find out more For suggested itineraries and practicalinformation about travel in Bhutan, pleasesee page 119.www.audleytravel.comInteractive maps and features, further suggested itineraries,accommodation, climate informationand articles written by our specialists.Discuss your plans with our Bhutanspecialists 01993 838 320?Tiger's Nest MonasteryClinging to a sheer cliff at aheight of 2,950 metres, thisiconic and revered monastery is well worth the climb.Punakha DzongThis is a striking fortress,traditionally an administrativecentre, surrounded by templeswhich provide accommodationfor monks.Black-necked cranesThese elegant cranes migratefrom the Tibetan plateau to the temperate Phobjikha Valley during the winter months, they are hugelysignificant to the Bhutanese and deeply revered.321TsechusFestivals are engrained inBhutanese culture and thechance to experience oneshould not be missed. ThimphuTsechu is by far the biggest,although smaller festivals can be just as fascinating.Farmhouse visitFor an insight into thetraditional Bhutanese way of life,visit a farmhouse for a cup ofbutter tea or an overnight stay.WildflowersFrom the end of March, you can see the spectacularrhododendrons and magnoliasflooding the valleys with colour.MonksThe bright claret robes of themonks are in stark contrast tothe white washed dzong walls.54ArcheryBhutan's national sport is fiercelycompetitive and you are morethan likely to witness it duringyour visit.Trekking and walkingHead away from the crowdsand explore deserted valleys.Staying in tents, you can trulyappreciate the stunninglandscapes that the 'Land of theThunder Dragon' has to offer.Bhutan11312345Bhutanese woman in traditional dressPunakha DzongPrayer flagsYoung girls, Paro