About Bhutan

The Land of the Thunder Dragon

To the west of Nepal, is the tiny Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan. The archaeological
evidence shows Bhutan to have been inhabited by nomadic herders as early as 2000
BC. Only in recent years has this immensely beautiful region been open to visitors for trekking. The landscape and animal populations have remained intact. Bhutan's sweeping valleys, pristine mountains, cascading rivers, forests, and more than 165 species of mammals create a beautiful portrait within a diverse landscape.

The Land - Bhutan has three distinct temperate zones; tropical, temperate, and
alpine. In the forest of the tropical and subtropical zones, can be found animals from elephant to deer. The temperate forests contain oak, birch, maple, willow, 46 species of rhododendrons, and wild azaleas.

People & Politics - The indigenous people of Bhutan are the Druk Gyalpo. The Bhutanese people can be divided into three ethnic groups, the Sharacops, Ngalop, and Lhotshampas (of Nepalese origin). The government of the kingdom of Bhutan is a monarchy ruled by the benevolent king Jigme Sigye Wangchuk. At the age of 17, Jigme Sigye Wangchuk, became the youngest reigning monarch in the world. He unified the kingdom, creating educational, health, and communication systems; emphasizing traditional values, and a religious identity, He unified his people within the concept of nation. There are 700,000 people living in the 20 districts that make up Bhutan. The traditional dress for men is the gho, and for women is the kira. The national sport is archery. Traditionally, Bhutanese homes are built of mud and wood, and painted with religious symbols.

Religion - The religion of Bhutan is Mahayana Buddhism. There are many beautifully ornate monasteries throughout the kingdom of Bhutan. Monks are housed in Dzongsor fortresses. Along with ancient tradition, they are formed into a spiritual hierarchy headed by the je-khompo (head monk). The Bhutanese people have numerous festivals throughout the year. The Tshechu festival is one of the most important. Lamas and local people perform different types of religious dance such as the Charm Black Hat Dance.

Central Bhutan Tour

Chilila Nature Trek

Gangtey/Gogona/Khotokha Winter Trek

Mountain Peak Expediation - Tshendegang

West Bhutan Tour

Other Treks & Tours