Xtreme Geography: Bhutan “Land Of The Thunder Dragon”

Bhutan is one of those countries that you don’t hear that often about.  Bhutan lies between India and China, which may factor in to why this nation is often overlooked on people’s vacation planners.  That may be why Bhutan could also be one of the world’s best kept secrets.

Bhutan is situated near Nepal and lies smack-dab in the middle of the Himalayan mountains.  It’s seclusion from nearby neighbors has forced the nation into a state of poverty.  Most Bhutan’s live on less than $1,000 per year.  This majestic Buddhist nation didn’t even have a paved road till the 1960’s, something else that may attest to it’s seclusion.

The “Land of the Thunder Dragon” name comes from the turbulent weather brought on by being in the Himalaya region.  Often violent storms will sweep down on the nation from the upper altitudes and bury it in high winds and snow.  Bhutan’s weather isn’t always turbulent though.  Especially if you arrive before the monsoon season that begins near the start of June.

In the distant past, western foreigners were not even allowed to enter this nation.  In 1974 that all changed.  That does not mean that foreigners can come and go as the please–Bhutan still limits the number of tourists allowed in the country during any given year.  it is best to contact someone close to their government, or book a vacation get-a-way through a travel agent.  They should be able to take care of the details.

Things to do in Bhutan include mountain climbing and hiking, or just walking around and enjoying the sights, sounds, and scenery of a country that has less than 21,000 tourists a year.  If your trip right, you may be able to witness and partake in one of their public holiday festivals:

Bhutan has numerous public holidays, most of which center around traditional seasonal, secular and religious festivals. They include the winter solstice (around January 1, depending on the lunar calendar), the lunar New Year (February or March), the King’s birthday and the anniversary of his coronation, the official start of monsoon season (September 22), National Day (December 17), and various Buddhist and Hindu celebrations.

These holidays are often highlighted by festivals of food and dance that encourage participation from those on hand.  You may even be able to participate in Bhutan’s national sport:  Archery.

Bhutan’s national sport is archery, and competitions are held regularly in most villages. It differs from Olympic standards not only in technical details such as the placement of the targets and atmosphere. There are two targets placed over 100 meters apart and teams shoot from one end of the field to the other. Each member of the team shoots two arrows per round. Traditional Bhutanese archery is a social event and competitions are organized between villages, towns, and amateur teams. There are usually plenty of food and drink complete with singing and dancing. Attempts to distract an opponent include standing around the target and making fun of the shooter’s ability.

Bhutan is definitely one of the world’s most intriguing destinations.   Tourists don’t often have the chance to visit, or just forget that it is out there.  With little media (the first television station in Bhutan was launched in 1999) and a reclusive Buddhist population, Bhutan exists pretty much like it has for thousands of years. From secluded monasteries to mountains, raging Himalayan waterfalls to small secluded farms, Bhutan offers a little something for everyone–but not everyone has that chance.

For your next vacation, why not give this remote country a second look.  Best bring your checkbook and traveler’s checks though.  On average, Bhutan costs tourists $200 a day.  One of the more expensive, desolate, tightly controlled tourists destinations in the world.

Sources:  National Geographic,  Wikipedia, Lonely Planet

Photos:  Map–National Geographic, Taktshang Monestary “The Tiger’s Nest”–Wikipedia

More Information:  CIA World Fact Book:  Bhutan, Bhutan Government, PBS:  Bhutan

Travel:  Bhutan Visit, Kingdom of Bhutan, Bhutan Tours and Treks

Notice: If you have taken a trip to Bhutan recently, I would love to hear your coments and trip reports.  Post them in the comments below and they may show up on a later update on this site