Whilst technically of course not in India per se, we love this tiny, eclectic, kingdom so we thought we’d focus briefly on (and remind you about) a holiday to Bhutan.

Located just below Tibet and encircled by the towering Himalayas, Bhutan is mountainous with elevations ranging from an almost-tropical 100m to a chilly 7554m on the Tibetan border. Sparsely populated with just over 700,000 inhabitants, Bhutan has a sensitive, evocative soul as the only surviving Buddhist kingdom in the Himalayan region. Dzongs, or pretty fortress-like monasteries, dot the countryside while the people’s faith permeates all aspects of secular life.

Bhutan - Young Monk At Paro Dzong

The kingdom’s environment is pristine with a variety of habitats from jungles and rugged hills to rhododendron forests and sweeping valleys. 90% of the population are hill farmers who live in villages and, until the 1960’s, the fabled Land of the Thunder Dragon was unknown to tourists. In 1972, the King decided to open and modernise the country by developing industry and agriculture but the Government of Bhutan still measures its nation’s well being by not only Gross National Product but also by Gross National Happiness – an official policy passed by parliament!

Bhutanese Prayer Flags

There’s something for everyone on a holiday to Bhutan. One can simply relax and stroll around dzongs, stupas and museums or take more strenuous hikes with higher ascents and more demanding routes. The Bhutanese work hard to maintain their 13 traditional art and crafts which include weaving, wood carving, embroidery, painting, carpentry, masonry, leather working, sculpture, sand and wax casting, smithing (iron, gold and silver), bamboo/cane working and the art of making paper. Visits to the craftsmen and women are therefore a “must”. Then there’s mountain biking, visiting festivals, archery, rafting, kayaking, plenty of interesting flora including the superb rhododendron forests, birding, plenty of other cultural possibilities and so on.

Bhutanese In Traditional Dress

With the advent of Como Hotels and Aman one can stay at extraordinarily comfortable establishments with very good spa facilities and eating the most exquisite cuisine (and having the best guides) or stay at charming 2/3 star Bhutanese government lodges which are more basic. This is perfect to suit a range of requirements for individual clients.

Call us on 0844 504 3926 for more information and to chat about some ideas for an unforgettable and utterly tailor-made holiday to Bhutan.