Why Bhutan?
Did you know that Bhutan is considered one of the happiest countries in the world?
Rather than focusing on GDP, they measure GNH - Gross National Happiness - which focuses on well-being, cultural preservation, and environmental conservation.
Who wouldn’t want to visit one of the happiest places on earth?
Tucked away in the Himalaya Mountains, Bhutan is about the size of Indiana with a population the size of Alaska. It’s a landlocked country surrounded by some of the most majestic peaks you’ll find anywhere, including Mount Everest and K2. But what makes Bhutan truly special is how the country has preserved its culture and way of life for so many centuries.
Bhutan has remained rather isolated from the rest of the world, limiting tourists on an annual basis and charging a daily tourist fee (currently $100/day) to deter more tourists from trying to visit and to support sustainability efforts. Those who do visit are able to witness a country virtually unchanged over the past few hundred years.
Bhutan has been on my must-visit list for a few years now, and there’s a good chance it may be on yours too!
What you can expect
Exclusive Experiences and Unparalleled Beauty: Nestled in the eastern Himalayas, Bhutan offers a blend of majestic mountains, lush valleys, and rich cultural heritage. Its commitment to preserving the environment and traditional culture means that every visit is an exclusive experience. Explore the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, perched on the edge of a cliff, or take a serene walk through the lush Phobjikha Valley, home to the endangered black-necked cranes.
Authentic Cultural Immersion: Bhutan’s unique approach to life, embodied in its philosophy of Gross National Happiness, offers a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Engage with the local communities, participate in traditional festivals like Tsechu, and witness the vibrant masked dances and spiritual ceremonies that have remained unchanged for centuries.
Luxurious Accommodations: Bhutan’s luxury hotels and resorts provide the perfect blend of opulence and authenticity. From the stunning Amankora lodges spread across the country to the eco-luxury retreats of Six Senses Bhutan, each accommodation is designed to immerse you in the local culture while offering world-class amenities and personalized services.
Sustainable and Responsible Travel: Bhutan is a pioneer in sustainable tourism, ensuring that your travel has a positive impact on the environment and local communities. The country’s policy of “High Value, Low Impact” tourism guarantees that every visitor contributes to the preservation of Bhutan’s natural and cultural heritage.
Getting to Bhutan
If you're interested in visiting Bhutan, start by contacting your travel advisor (that’s us)!. We have preferred partners that specialize in custom itineraries in the destination and can best support your trip from start to finish. These partners also have access to unique experiences and accommodations that we can add to your itinerary.
Only five countries, including India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Singapore, and Thailand, have direct flight connections to Paro International Airport, Bhutan by Druk Air, and Bhutan Airlines (Bhutanese-owned airlines). You must arrange a connecting flight through one of these countries. You can also travel overland from India.