Bhutan is a tourist's paradise owing to its unexplored mountains and forests, its little visited valleys and mysterious Buddhist temples and monasteries. Each region of Bhutan has different characteristics. The people are very religious, and the significance of religion in their lives can be gauged from the number of Bhutanese festivals celebrating religious themes.
Paro Valley lies in the central part of Bhutan. The city of Paro, the second largest in Bhutan (Thimpu is the largest), has the only airport in Bhutan. Paro is the ancient center of religion and governance in Bhutan. The Dzongs, or temple complexes, the monasteries and palaces of Paro seem as old as the surrounding Himalayas and pine forests. The serenity of the Valley, so shielded from the influences of the outside world, seems to have stopped time in its tracks.
The picturesque Bumthang Valley lies in the southeastern part of Bhutan. The Bumthang Valley, apart from its spectacular natural beauty, is noted for its many Dzongpas, or temple complexes, and palaces. Jakar is the main town in Bumthang Valley. It has narrow, small streets with shops selling everything from apple brandy to yak cheese and silver ornaments. Other places to visit in the mystical Bumthang Valley are the Kurjey Temple and the many monasteries dotting the place.
The Bhutanese people are devotedly religious, and this spirituality shines through in the major festivals of Bhutan. This does not mean that there are no occasions for people to be boisterous and enjoy themselves. The Tsechus Festival attracts many devotees and tourists. The less exuberant Dromcho festival is of great religious significance.
