Bhutan !

Bhutan, best known to the world as the last Shangril-la has a rare combination of harmony and accord amidst a landscape of incredible beauty. Protected by mighty Himalayas from the rest of the world and enriched by the essence of Drukpa Kagyu School of Buddhism, Bhutan has managed to remain shrouded deeply in a jealously guarded isolation. A basic understanding of Bhutan's Buddhism is essential to understanding the Bhutanese.Her rich Himalayan flora and fauna, dazzling white peaks and lush valleys provide Bhutan’s stunning beauty and aesthetic grandeur. Bhutan has gently opened its doors to the visitors who respect the delicate sensitivities of this pristine land and shares the sacred values of its people. Bhutanese architectures in Dzongs, buildings and houses are very strikingBhutan is not an ordinary place and has many surprises; a visit to the country is a splendid adventure.

Climate
The southern part of Bhutan is tropical, and in general the east of Bhutan is warmer than the west of the country. The central valley of Punakha, Wangdiphodrang, Mongar, Tashigang and Lhuntshi enjoy a semi tropical climate with very cool winters, while Thimphu, Tongsa and Bumthang have a temperate climate, with monsoon rains in the summer and snow-fall in winter. Winter in Bhutan is from mid-November until mid-March, and at this time of year the climate is dry, with daytime temperature of 16-19 degree centigrade (with sunshine and clear skies) and nighttime temperature falling below zero. The monsoon usually arrives mid-June, with the rain falling mainly in the afternoons and evenings. At the end of September, after the last of the big rains, autumn suddenly arrives, and is a magnificent season for trekking-lasting until mid-November.

Getting there and away
Air
The best way to enter Bhutan is by Druk Air, the national air carrier. Following stations are connected with Druk Air flight

India - Delhi & Calcutta
Nepal - Kathmandu
Bangladesh - Dacca
Myanmar - Yangoon (Rangoon)
Thailand - Bangkok

By Surface
Entry or exit is also possible through Phuntsoling, the southern Bhutanese border town. From here the nearest airport is Bagdogra in West Bengal (India). For travelers wishing to visit Indian states of Sikkim, West Bengal along with Bhutan, Phuntsoling serves as the convenient point.Exit from Bhutan can be also made through Samdrup Jongkhar, an important link for visiting further Northeastern states of India. However,Government rule of Bhutan has made it mandatory to use at least one way by air.

Thimpu
Lying in a valley (elevation 2350) Thimpu is unlike any other capital in the world. The traditional architecture of its houses and buldings is particularly striking. The places to visit are the Memorial Chorten, dedicated to the late King Jigme the goverment of Bhutan and the summer residence of the central monk body. the Tradional Medicene Hospital where herbal medicines are prepared; the National Libray, a treasure trove of ancient texts; the National Institute for Zorig Chosum for thanks painting, sculpture, wood and slate carving, gold works, embroidery and traditional boot making; Changangkha Lakhang which contans anceint scriptures and thanka paintings; and Simtokha Dzong, Bhutan's oldest forttress which now houses a school for Buddhist studies. YOu can als visit the smithy on the other side of the Thimpu River to see traditional gold and silver smiths at work. the folk Heritage Museum, which showcases a typical Bhutanese farmhouse, and the Takin Santuary (The takin is the national animal of Bhutan ) above the Motithang area.

Visa & Transport
Foreign travellers mus possess a visa for Bhutan which is granted initially for 14 days. While the actual visa is tamped on arrival in Bhutan upon payment of Us $20, visittors need to obtain visa clearance from the Tourism Authority of Bhutan (TAB) in advance. The visa can be extended in Thimpu for up to six months. The operator making your travel arrangements will handle the official formalities. Transport is provided by tour operators who have their own fleet fo luxury buses. All major places of interest are connected by paved roads.