Bhutan is the last Shangri La of the modern world. The tiny Himalayan monarchy is fiercely protective of its own cultural values and independence. This south Asian kingdom sandwiched between India and China (Tibet), is an unexplored territory just beginning to open up.
Access points over land and by air are limited. This landlocked country can be reached by land or air. Paro International Airport lies 2 hours' drive from the capital Thimphu. Regular flights operate between Paro and Kathmandu in Nepal, or Delhi and Kolkata in India, operated by Druk Air, Bhutan's national carrier. Bhutan has a system of well-maintained roads for travel within the country. The country has no railways, and the mountainous roads are sometimes difficult to negotiate. But the arduous journey is worth the effort, since the visitor is greeted with the sight of the majestic Himalayan peaks and mist covered valleys. All roads and mountain paths will have a Buddhist temple or shrine, since religion plays a major role in the life of the people. So if you do visit this country, remember, time runs slowly here. The pleasure of the journey lies in slowly hiking through the mountain paths, or frequently stopping your jeep to take in the sight of the many shrines and pagodas.
Those desirous of traveling to Bhutan need to book with a travel agency registered with the government. Independent travel is not permitted in Bhutan.
