Bhutan often revered as the Land of the Peaceful dragon is also regarded as one of the Last Shangri-La in the Himalayan region because of its remoteness, its spectacular mountain terrain, varied flora and fauna and its unique Buddhist monasteries. It is in the relatively unexplored pockets of Asia which allows only limited number of travelers to enter the country in order to protect its fragile environment and culture. Bhutan is a small landlocked country in the Eastern Himalayas bordered by China in the North and India on the other 3 sides. It has a total land area of 38,394 square kilometers and measures approximately 150 kilometers north to South and 300 kilometers East to West. The landscape is characterized by rugged terrain and steep mountain valleys ranging from 150 meters in the sub-tropical valleys in the southern foothills, through temperate zone to heights exceeding 7000 meters in the alpine regions of the mountains. Bhutan has over 72% of its land under forest cover, including 26% of its area designated as protected areas thereby maintaining its rich biodiversity. The national parks and the wildlife sanctuaries are home to some of the rarest and most significant animals in the world. Bhutan has one of the richest biodiversity in the world with about 3,281 plant species per 10,000 square kilometers and has been declared as one of the 10 global biodiversity ‘hot spots’. It has been identified as one of the 221 global endemic bird areas. The country’s forests of temperate and sub-tropical species are home to many rare species of flora and fauna.
An estimated 770 species of birds and over 50 species of rhododendron, along with an astonishing variety of medicinal plants (over 300 species) and orchids are endemic to this region. Rare animals like the golden langur, takin and snow leopard are found distributed widely in Bhutan. Bhutan is also one of the wintering grounds for the rare and endangered black-necked cranes. Bhutan is also endowed with a river system that has an estimated potential to generate 30,000 MW of hydroelectricity. The steep and unstable terrain and the relatively young mountain system, however, render the country to be ecologically very fragile. Agricultural production is also severely constrained, as only around 16% of the land area is cultivable.The steep and unstable terrain and the relatively young mountain system, however, render the country to be ecologically very fragile. Agricultural production is also severely constrained, as only around 16% of the land area is cultivable. Bhutan, the land of the thunder dragon is commonly regarded as the last paradise on earth. Long centuries of isolation from the outside world has forged this countries unique and mysterious culture.
The dramatic geography of the country and its exotic vibrant culture and mystic aura makes Bhutan one of the most magical and appealing countries in the world as a travel destination. It is a land of majestic mountains, varied flora and fauna, ancient Buddhist monasteries, mesmerizing religion and traditional culture all unscathed by the modern world. Bhutan exerts a sense of the ancient way of life.Bhutan is a Land locked Mountain Kingdom, bordered by Tibet, China, and India and has very close cultural ties with Nepal and Bangladesh. Though it is small in size, the kingdom’s topography is one of dramatic contrasts. The capital city is Thimpu which is unlike any other capital in the world. The traditional architecture of its houses and buildings is particularly striking. The country has a strong sense of traditionalism and this is reflected in the dress and architecture of Bhutan.
The country as a whole is like a folk heritage museum displaying typical Bhutanese way of life that has remained unchanged over the years while the rest of the world has dramatically progressed. It is an exotic country bursting with life and a deep sense of religion, traditional ancient sculptures and thanka painting. You can spend many hours wonder around the markets, monasteries, lose yourself in the natural landscape or be enthralled by the kind and friendly nature of its inhabitants. As a travel destination, Bhutan is a striking place with the elegant Himalayas, peaceful and warm hearted people, eye catching lush valleys and impenetrable evergreen forests. It offers itself as a paradise for any traveler to explore, a place where you can lose yourself in the countries beauty and mystic. Find out about Bhutan and visit soon. Adventure Travelers' Club tailors gratifying and thrilling trips which take you to the most amazing and mind blowing places not only in Bhutan, but on earth. A trip to Bhutan for trekking, sightseeing or just for pleasure is truly a rewarding experience.
