Bhutan, an exclusive and fascinating tourist destination lies wedged between Indian Ladhak and the Tibetian Plateau. The tiny country, one of the most culturally and ecologically intact and least explored tract on earth, is described as the last Himalayan Buddhist Kingdom. The people of Bhutan are devoted to the Vajrayana Buddhist school of thought, and their lifestyle shows a strong sense of contentment based on spiritual values unseen elsewhere.

Bhutan’s unspoilt mountain landscapes are dotted with ‘ chortens’ (stupas) and ‘dzongs’ (monastic castles); the most fabled monastic site being the Taktshang (Tiger Nest) perched high on a cliff 1000m above the Paro Valley, the home of Tantric Buddhism.

The architecturally unique ‘dzongs’ are the setting for regular sacred masked dancing and festivals, where you encounter a myriad of costumed mythical beings and deities. The temples’ interiors are vibrant and display awesome murals, fashioned on sacred geometry and abound with spiritual symbolism.

Over 60 per cent of the Kingdom still remains forested. This explains why over 350 varieties of orchid, rare animals such as the snow leopard and the red panda, and 650 species of bird (including the rare black-necked crane) continue to thrive here.

The Bhutanese cherish and still use their rich arts and crafts, painting, textile weaving and wood carvings, as evident in their attire and monuments. This reclusive Kingdom, that exuberates unbelievable serenity and beauty, has been described as the ‘last Shangri- La’ on earth.

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