Bhutan

Unified in the 1600s, Bhutan is the only existing Vajrayana Buddhist kingdom in the world. It is also one of the few countries in Asia that was never colonized. The Vajrayana branch of Buddhism dates. Back at least to the 700s in Bhutan, when its isotonic teaching were propagated by the great saint Padmasambhava, known in Bhutan as Guru Rinpoche. Bhutan is famous today for the preservation of its traditional culture, its pristine environment, and its official policy of Gross National Happiness (GNH) – in contrast to other countries ‘focus on Gross National Product (GNP).

valid passport with a minimum of 6 month validity (Indian nationals may also use their Voters Identity Card (VIC).

All other tourists must obtain a visa clearance prior to travel to Bhutan. Visas are processed through an online system by your licensed Bhutanese tour operator, directly or through a foreign travel agent.

For more details visit — http://www.mfa.gov.bt/visa

the Bhutan National Bank, the Druk PNB and the Tashi Bank. Traveller’s cheque can be easily withdrawn and exchanged for local currency. Many of these banks provide internet banking facilities.

Banks are closed on Saturday afternoon and Sunday.

Local time: GMT + 6

There are several festivals taking place during these months as well. Winter in Bhutan is from mid-November to mid-March when the climate is dry and sunny with temperatures at 15c in the daytime and falling below zero at night.

The monsoon usually arrives in mid-June with light rain falling mainly in the afternoons and evenings.

arrival at the Paro Airport.

Visitors are advised to be cautions while purchasing old and used items, especially of religious or cultural significance as customs authorities will not allow any old/used items to be taken out of the country unless certified as non-antique.

It is divided into 100 smaller units called chhertum.

It is at par with the Indian rupee which is accepted as legal tender in the country.

INR (Indian Rupees) denominations of 500 and 1000 are not accepted in Bhutan.

ATMs are located within all main towns throughout Bhutan, where money can be withdrawn using a Visa or MasterCard.

A yellow fever vaccination certificate is only required for travelers coming from – or in transit through – a country with risk of yellow fever transmission.

one most widely spoken. English is also spoken by the majority of Bhutanese, Making communication very easy.

various animals, woven baskets of cane and bamboo, wooden bowls known as Dapas, handmade paper products or finely crafted goods of silver. Other items that can be bought are exquisite Buddhist Thangkha paintings or Bhutan’s wide array of colourful and creative postage stamps. You can come across these items in the many handicraft shops in and around Thimphu and in other major towns. Buying and selling of antiques is strictly forbidden in Bhutan.

nearly every dish in Bhutan.

Rice forms the main body of most Bhutanese meals. It is accompanied by one or two side dishes consisting of meat or vegetables. Pork, beef and chicken are the meats that are eaten most often, Vegetables commonly eaten includes Spinach, pumpkins, turnips, radishes, tomatoes, river weed, onions and green beans. Grains such as rice, buckwheat and barley are also cultivated in various regions of the country depending on the local climate.

Some of the most popular Bhutanese dishes are:

Ema Datshi: This is the National Dish of Bhutan. A spicy mix of chillis and local cheese known as Datshi, This dish is a staple of nearly every meal and can be found throughout the country.

Momos : These Tibetan-Style dumplings are stuffed with pork, beef or cabbages and cheese and are cooked during special occasions. Phaksha Paa : Pork cooked with spicy red chillis.

Jasha Maru : Spicy minced chicken, tomatoes and other ingredients that is usually served with rice.

Red Rice : The rice is similar to brown rice and is extremely nutritious and filling. When cooked it is pale pink, soft and slightly sticky.