A small kingdom in the Himalayas, Bhutan has been largely isolated from the rest of the world until recently. While the country is now open to foreigners, the majority need to arrange travel through a tour operator. The tourist fee of $250 US dollars per day includes a guide, driver and food for the entirety of the trip.

Paro to Thimphu

We were greeted by our guide Dawa and driver Jigme at Paro International Airport, one of the world’s most challenging airports. Our first destination was Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan.

There are no traffic lights in Bhutan. Instead there are traffic officers at a few major intersections in Thimphu to direct traffic.

Stay

Zhiwa Ling Ascent

The national sport in Bhutan is archery. Darts, or Khuru, is another popular game in the country.

Bhutan is primarily a Buddhist country and this is reflected in the culture and everyday life of the people.