Bhutan

History Of Bhutan
It is believed that the name Bhutan is derived from the Sanskrit 'Bhotant', meaning 'the end of Tibet', or from 'Bhu-uttan', meaning 'high land'. Historically the Bhutanese have refered to their country as Druk Yul, 'land of the thunder dragon'. Bhutanese refer to themselves as Drukpa people. Bhutan is an ancient kingdom which is secluded high in the himalayas with unique customs and people who possess deeply held beliefs.

Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit is October and November and during major festivals. The climate is best in autumn, from late September to late November, when skies are clear and the high mountain peaks are visible. This is the ideal time for trekking and for travelling throughout the country.

Places Of Interest

Paro Valley
This beautiful valley, has rich terraced farmland, is home to some of Bhutan's oldest Temples & Monasteries as well as Bhutan's only Airport. To the north of the valley Mount. Jhomolhari (7300 mt) reigns in white glory and the glacier water from its peak plunge, through deep gorges finally forming pa - chu (Paro river).

Drukgyal Dzong
The Dzong with a delightful village nestling at its foot, was built in 1647 by Shabdrung Nawang Namgyel to commemorate his victory over the Tibetan invaders led by Mongolian warlord, Gushri khan 1644. Historically & strategically this Dzong withstood all its glory and had captured western eyes in 1914 vide National geographic magazine. On a clear day one can see the commanding view of Mount. Jhomolhari from the village.

Taksang Monastery
Taksang Monastery, literally meaning Tiger's nest; built around the cave in which Guru Padmasambava meditated in the eight century, clings seemingly impossible to a cliff of rock at 800 mt above Paro valley. It is believed that Guru Rimpoche landed on this spot in a miraculous manner, flying on the back of a tigress.

Ringpung Dzong
Built during the time of Shabdrung Nawang Namgyel in 1646, it literally means fortress on the heap of jewel's. The Dzong now houses the paro Monastic body and the office civil administration for Paro Valley. It is also the venue of Paro Tsechu (Festival), held once a year during spring time.

Ta - Dzong
Located behind Ringpung Dzong on the hillside, is the castle shaped Ta - Dzong, one time used as watch tower to defend the Dzong below was built in 1651. Since 1967 the Dzong was re - established as the only national Museum and it has fascinating collections of Art, relics and religious Thankha painting.

Thimphu Valley
Thimphu, the modern capital of Bhutan lies at an elevation of 2300 mt in a valley transversed by the Wang - Chu (Thimphu river). Thimphu is a lively place. Unlike many modern cities, Thimphu has kept a strong national character in its architectural style.