Bhutan

Bhutan is a small Himalayan kingdom bordered by India and China, known for its measured approach to tourism, Buddhist heritage and dramatic mountain scenery. Its high valleys, traditional dzongs and quiet capital offer a travel experience quite different from busier parts of South Asia.

Thimphu is the capital and administrative centre, while Paro is the main gateway and home to the iconic cliffside Tiger's Nest Monastery. Punakha, with its riverside dzong, and the central valleys around Bumthang and Phobjikha add temples, farmlands and mountain landscapes to the visitor's route.

The country is defined by steep forested slopes, glacial valleys, high passes and a chain of protected areas. Fortress monasteries known as dzongs, painted wooden farmhouses, prayer flags and seasonal tshechu festivals remain central to daily life and give Bhutan its strong sense of cultural continuity.

Bhutan welcomes visitors on a controlled basis and is closely associated with the philosophy of Gross National Happiness. International arrivals are concentrated at Paro International Airport, while tourism is organised around guided journeys, cultural festivals and treks through the Himalayan foothills.

Road travel is the main way to move between Bhutan's valleys, with the airport at Paro connected to Thimphu and onward districts by a network of mountain highways. Private transfers, chauffeur services and hired vehicles make it practical to travel between the airport, hotels, monasteries, event venues and tourist destinations.