What to see in Bhutan: attractions and interesting places. Cuisine and traditions

Bhutan is a mysterious country that has recently become open to tourists. It lies in the heart of the Eastern Himalayas, between India and China, and is almost completely isolated from the world. The Bhutanese call their kingdom "Druk Yul" or "Druk Tsenden"- “land of the thunder dragon.” There are several versions of the origin of the name Bhutan. Either it came from "bhu-uttan"(Bhu-Uttan), which translated from Sanskrit means "highlands" or "mountain country". Or the name goes back to "bhot-ant"(Bhots-ant), with meaning "edge (end) of Tibet" or "South of Tibet".

Bhutan is a wonderful country that knows no hunger, where there is no crime, where people have not heard the word "war". The world discovered it only in 1974, and since then, Bhutan has been dreaming of being visited by a huge number of tourists. Until today, the kingdom has been almost unexplored.

Bhutan is 100% self-sufficient in clothing and food; it is interesting that almost all residents wear “kho” - national clothes. The population lives in magnificent and large two- and three-story houses. There are few cities in Bhutan, the largest of which is the capital Thimphu. The residence of the king is located here.

Climate and weather

The climate in the kingdom depends on the altitude of the area, as well as great influence it is affected by the monsoons.

In the south, where the plains and foothills are located, the climate is subtropical, humid and hot. Year-round temperatures here +15…+30 °C. In the valleys it can reach +40 °C.

In the central and partly southern parts, where the Himalayan valleys are located, the climate is temperate and cool.

It is cold in the north of Bhutan; there is snow on the peaks of the Himalayas all year round.

Winter in the kingdom is quite long - from November to mid-March. At this time the air is dry, the temperature +16…+19 °C, and at night - minus.

Spring, on the contrary, is short, only a month and a half. And already from mid-April summer begins. From July the monsoon season begins, which lasts about three months. After their end, autumn quickly comes - a great time for trekking (hiking).

Nature

Most of the territory in the central and southern parts (16,396,43 km2) is occupied by nature reserves with an unusually rich flora and fauna, which was preserved due to the fact that hunting is prohibited in Bhutan. In addition, almost no forests are cut down in the kingdom.

The nature of the kingdom can be divided into three zones: subtropical (150-2000 m) with predominantly tropical vegetation; moderate (2000-4000 m) with broad-leaved and coniferous forests and alpine (more than 4000 m), where there is almost no forest cover.

The forests are very diverse: mixed, pine, tropical floodplain, mountainous and flat hard-leaved, coniferous broad-leaved, fir. There are more than 300 species here medicinal herbs and plants, orchids, magnolias, edelweiss, and juniper grow everywhere. The national flower of the Kingdom of Bhutan is the blue poppy.

The fauna is also rich. At an altitude of 3000-4000 meters there are snow leopards, Bengal tigers, pandas, gorals, and langurs. There are also black Himalayan bears, musk deers, leopards and many other animals.

Bhutan is a wonderful country for bird watchers. There are more than 670 bird species in the country, including those on the verge of extinction.

Attractions

The Kingdom of Bhutan, which is hidden in the mountains, has magnificent landscapes and mountain rivers with clear water.

The ancient Tibetan culture still exists here without any changes. Many centuries ago, Buddhist monks came here, and the country grew a large number "dzongs". Dzongs- these are huge fortress monasteries, of which there are about 200 in the kingdom, with 5,000 monks and nuns living there.

The first place that tourists see when coming to Bhutan is the Paro Valley, as the airport is located here. Also located here:

• National Museum Ta Dzong, which houses historical and natural exhibits;
• Druk-yul Dzong fortress;
• the largest monasteries are Paro Dzong, Taksang Laghang Dzong, Zari Dzong and others.

In the valley are the ruins of Druk-yul Dzong. The largest trade routes between Bhutan and Tibet also pass here.

One of the main Buddhist shrines is the Taksang Laghang Dzong (Tiger's Lair) monastery, founded in the 8th century. On its territory there is a cave from which a breathtaking view of Mount Jomolhari opens, where, according to legend, the thunder dragon, the symbol of Bhutan, lives.

Bumthang is a province of Bhutan and is the cultural capital of the kingdom. Here are the oldest temples shrouded in many legends, such as Jampa Lakhang (659) and the Kurjei Monastery.

Nutrition

Bhutanese cuisine, like any Asian cuisine, is quite spicy, as chili peppers, garlic, ginger and other hot spices are widely used here. Bhutanese food mainly consists of meat, poultry, vegetables and cheese.

Tourists are mainly offered Chinese, Indian and continental cuisine. The national one, as a rule, is tried by those who want to experiment.

The Bhutanese's favorite dish is "ema datshi"- a very spicy mixture of cheese and chili peppers.

The dishes are served with a large portion of rice, which is boiled or steamed. It happens to be white - "I'm chum"(ja chum) - and pink. The latter is a unique variety of Bhutanese rice called eue chum. It is a little heavier and has an unusual nutty flavor.

Bhutanese people add many ingredients to their dishes, from beans to orchids and fern leaves, which have different taste characteristics.

Among the popular soft drinks should remember butter tea "cheringma". For those who like something stronger, they offer rice beer and “aru” - homemade liqueurs that resemble whiskey or rice vodka.

Accommodation

The Kingdom of Bhutan has enough large selection hotels. One of the most luxurious and expensive is Taj Tashi(Thai Tashi) in the capital of the country - Thimphu. A night's stay here will cost from 450 €. It features a spa, fitness center, 4 restaurants, ticket service and currency exchange. The rooms are stylish with wooden decor. There is a minibar, luxury bathroom, walk-in closets and more. Guests will certainly be pleased with the excellent service and friendly staff.

All over the country large number and so-called mini-hotels. An example could be Metta Resort & Spa(Metta Resort & Spa) in Paro. It is located 20 minutes drive from the center. The rooms have bathtubs, high-speed Internet, and a minibar. Pets allowed. This mini-hotel has a small restaurant, but some can offer a buffet.

Entertainment and relaxation

Bhutan is a wonderful country for active recreation and walks. This is facilitated by high mountains, magnificent valleys, wild rivers, clear lakes, and mighty forests. One of the most the best ways get to know the Bhutanese culture and visit beautiful and wild places- These are horseback and foot travel. They can be quite easy, lasting three days, or they can turn into real expeditions and last more than three weeks. A number of routes have been developed in the Kingdom. The most popular and interesting are the route from Drugyel Dzong to Lingshi Dzong along the Chinese border; "Zhomolgari-Track» — a route along the foot of the mountain of the same name; "Dochu-La"— a route through the pass of the same name and many others. The most favorable periods for trekking are spring and autumn.

It is very pleasant to go rafting on mountain rivers, although it is little developed here.

Purchases

When traveling around Bhutan, be sure to stop by the capital market. Here you can see a large number of beautiful jewelry from noble metals with precious stones.

The kingdom is also famous for its weapon traditions, so unique daggers and sabers with rare ornaments and inlays on the handles will become very valuable and unusual souvenirs.

There are a large number of villages in the Mata region that are famous for fine woolen fabrics and products made from them. All this can be easily purchased, as needlewomen hang them directly from the windows of their own houses. The richest woolen gift will be a carpet self made. They amaze with their bright colors, original patterns and excellent quality.

While visiting monasteries, you can buy ritual masks. It is believed that they endow a person with divine virtues.

In addition to all this, a large number of small souvenirs with the symbols of the Kingdom are always sold near the monasteries. They won’t take up much space in your suitcase, but they will always remind you of a beautiful country.

Transport

Paro is the only international airport located in the city of the same name. Takeoff and landing here are the most difficult in the world. Small airports are being built in Bhutan.

There are no railways in Bhutan. However, there is a construction plan developed jointly with India.

The kingdom has 4007 km of roads and 426 bridges. The width of the main road is 2.5 m and connects the largest dzongs in the country. Traffic movement is on the left.

Tourists who come to Bhutan on a tourist visa can only travel using transport provided by the tour operator.

Connection

Bhutan's own Internet service appeared only five years ago. Before this, especially resourceful Bhutanese dialed the number of American Internet agencies, and thus entered the Internet and paid for the time spent on the Internet as an international call. After the first Internet cafe was opened, this industry began to develop very quickly. The entire range of network services is provided by DrukNet. Today in all major cities there is an Internet cafe, many hotels have their own access point.

Bhutan's mobile network uses the format GSM-900. There is only one cellular provider in the Kingdom market - B-Mobile company. It provides coverage around the capital and major cities. In the mountains, communication appears in places.

The telephone system is very poorly developed. Pay phones can only be found in the capital and a few large cities. It is more convenient to call abroad from a special call center (usually open from 9:00 to 14:00 from Monday to Thursday, from 9:00 to 13:30 on Friday) or from a hotel. Recently, devices have begun to appear that have access to international communications. They are located in stores, large institutions, and in the halls of banks and are marked with the “IDD” sign.

Safety

The crime rate in Bhutan is very low. Small and administrative offenses sometimes occur, but violent ones are rare. There is a problem with alcohol in the country, and there are cases of drug trafficking. The biggest threat to the kingdom comes from separatist organizations from India, whose bases are located in the country.

Bhutan has banned the sale and use of tobacco products since 2004. In 18 out of 20 regions of the country, this ban existed earlier, from the middle of the 17th century. The import of cigarettes into the country is strictly prohibited. The fine for smoking is 175 €. In addition, the authorities introduced a 100% tax on tobacco products imported by citizens for personal use. All of the above prohibitions do not apply to diplomats, employees of non-governmental organizations and tourists. However, penalties have been introduced for selling tobacco to local residents.

Business climate

Bhutan is one of the poorest countries in the world. The population here is mainly engaged in forestry and agriculture. IN lately Tourism is developing more and more actively.

In the south they mine gypsum, limestone, coal, marble, and slate. Industry is poorly developed because there are few natural resources. These are mainly the logging and woodworking, cement and food industries (for example, Coca-Cola is produced here under license). Indian labor is used almost everywhere.

Rice, corn, mushrooms, and citrus fruits are grown in the Kingdom. In the valleys, the Bhutanese are engaged in gardening.

Ngultrum - monetary unit Bhutan, which is pegged to the Indian rupee. Income over 100,000 ngultrum per year is subject to taxation.

Real estate

Houses in Bhutan are usually one-story or two-story, with striking paintings. Only residents of the country can purchase real estate in the Kingdom, and obtaining a residence permit is an extremely complicated procedure.

Those who decide to apply for a residence permit and buy a house in this picturesque country should contact a reliable and qualified agency that has experience with such transactions. Specialists will take care of all the hassle of obtaining a visa and other documents, and select best option housing and will conduct the entire procedure from the beginning until the buyer receives the keys.

The trends are clearly visible that soon the purchase and rental of real estate in Bhutan will become available to foreign citizens.

Bhutan has strict rules that require tourists to travel along a pre-planned itinerary, mostly in a group.

You should take the necessary medications with you, as they may not be available in local pharmacies. It is recommended that you take out comprehensive health insurance to cover cycling and hiking.

Smoking and distribution of tobacco is prohibited. When importing cigarettes for personal use, you will have to pay a duty of 200%.

It is worth taking closed clothes with you if you plan to visit monasteries.

Currency can be exchanged at bank branches, of which there are two in Bhutan. You can pay by credit card only in hotels and large stores. There are no ATMs.

Visa information

Obtaining a visa to visit Bhutan is a fairly simple process. Three weeks in advance you must submit your passport details to travel agency. If the Bhutanese side confirms the visa, a visa number is sent to the airport and the tour operator. Without this number, tourists will not be allowed on board the plane. A visa is placed in your passport upon arrival at Paro airport, after which you need to pay $20 and provide two photographs and passport details. The visa is valid for 15 days.

Diplomatic relations between Bhutan and the Russian Federation have not been established; accordingly, there is no Bhutanese embassy in our country. Visas to Russians are issued only by accredited travel agencies.

ATTRACTIONS Bhutan is one of the most mysterious countries on the planet, which has only recently become accessible to tourism. A fantastic country lying in the heart of the Eastern Himalayas and barely touched by the passage of time, it was almost completely isolated from the outside world for many centuries. The very name of the country, Bhutan or Bhutan, can be translated from Sanskrit as “outskirts of Tibet.” Bhutan's doors were barely opened in 1974, and since then it has been a dream destination for many travelers. Located away from the noisy roads, this country, which locals call Druk-Yul or "Land of the Thunder Dragons", remained a quiet haven of the greatest associates of Buddhism. Some of the oldest forests on the planet and unique species of flora and fauna have been preserved here, and the completely wild landscape is broken only by the “dzongs” characteristic of Bhutan - huge fortified monasteries, famous for their architecture and traditions. The Bhutanese themselves, of whom, unlike other countries in the region, are quite small, are open, hospitable, completely uncorrupted by the modern world and carefully preserve their unique culture. Thimphu The capital of the country is located at an altitude of almost

2500 m above sea level, in a beautiful wooded valley stretching along the Thimphu Chhu (Vang Chu) River. Its population does not exceed 50 thousand people. Thimphu is perhaps the most unusual capital in the world and one of the most ancient capitals on the planet (although the modern city is no more than half a century old). This is the only capital of the planet without traffic lights, and one of the few in which there are absolutely no ultra-modern buildings made of glass and concrete. The entire architecture of Thimphu is built on the centuries-old traditions of local architects, filled with brightly decorated facades and spiers soaring into the sky, giving the city a charming medieval flavor. There is an unprecedented law that even newly constructed buildings must be created using the forms and motifs of traditional Bhutanese architecture. Dominating the skyline, on a hill above the city, stands the imposing Trashi Chho Dzong (Fortress of the Blessed Religion, 19th-20th centuries), the symbol and pride of the capital. This vast monastery, which previously played an important role in the defense and cultural life of the capital, now houses the palace of the Supreme Lama and the royal residence on its territory. In close proximity lie the National Chorten Memorial (1974, dedicated to the third king of Bhutan, Jigma Dorjee Wangchuck, father of the current ruler), the School of Traditional Painting or the Zorig-Chusum National Institute (1997), as well as the National Library with its extensive collection of ancient manuscripts, considered the best collection of religious and historical literature in the Himalayas. National Institute Traditional Medicine, lying south of Trashi Chho Dzong, is interesting as largest center traditional medicine in the Himalayas. Also in the capital you can find the Royal School of Art, the National Textile Museum, the Thangka Art School and many other cultural institutions. And the colorful streets of the city deserve attention in themselves - here you can spend hours wandering between low buildings, each of which is different from the neighboring one and most often carefully decorated using traditional motifs. And spread out between the houses small gardens and tiny parks. Thimphu is home to a factory that produces traditional paper from plant fibers, and the colorful stamps for which the kingdom is famous can be purchased at the Thimphu General Post Office. Throughout the town, which is generally quite small, you can find many shops selling local handicrafts and textiles. In the very center of Thimphu, on the banks of the Wang Chu River, a large and colorful market takes place every weekend. Most of the capital's population gathers here, and the market itself serves not so much as a place of trade, but as the main source of information, gossip and the center of public life. Near the market area is the Changlimithang National Stadium, the main venue for the national sport of archery. Moreover, each competition is accompanied by the mandatory participation of teams in folk clothes and interesting rituals. Thimphu is also home to the country's only golf course. Just 12 km from the capital is the majestic Phajoding Monastery (XIII century), from the observation deck of which you can see a beautiful view of the capital and the surrounding area, the small Sulukha Dzong monastery and the green forests of the foothills. Cheri Monastery, located almost on the outskirts of the capital, is famous for its colorful architecture, and a beautiful panorama also opens from the slopes of the nearby Sangay Ganga hill. 8 km south of Thimphu, on the crest of a mountain range, is the Simtokha Dzong monastery (1627 - the oldest fortress and the oldest dzong in the country), within the walls of which the Royal Theological Academy is located. Also around the capital you can find such interesting objects, like the Sangyangang Tower, the mini-zoo in Motithang (there is only one species of animal here - the takin), as well as the Tala Monastery (1864), located among beautiful pine forests at an altitude of 3050 m. Paro The city of Paro is the country's air gateway (Bhutan's only international airport is 7 km from the city) and the center of the vast and fertile Paro Valley, widely known for its landscapes, colorful villages and an abundance of historical buildings, from numerous monasteries to many intricately decorated carvings residential buildings. The Paro Valley is one of the most populated areas in the country, and is also the center of the western part of the country, inhabited by people of Nepalese origin. The main attraction of Paro is the unique monastery of Taksang Lakhang Dzong ("Tiger's Lair"), lying on the top of a cliff, 900 m above the valley floor. Founded by Guru Rimpoche (8th century) on the site of the cave in which Padmasambhava meditated, today it is one of the main Buddhist shrines of the country. There are 8 separate temples, a waterfall (Padmasambhava’s wives bathed in it while he meditated), several monastic huts, and above the monastery, on the slopes of the mountain, there are several more monasteries and a cult place - a children’s “cemetery” (the ritual of children’s burial here is so different from European norms that this place can be called a cemetery relatively). In April 1998, a fire almost completely destroyed the main building of the monastery, but it will be restored to its original form as soon as a “favorable date” is chosen. Also noteworthy in Paro are the Bhutanese Ta-Dzog National Museum, housed in an ancient tower (1651-1656), the dilapidated fortified monastery of Druk-Yul-Dzong (Drugyel-Dzong - “victory fortress”, 18th century), the palace of the Queen Mother, large monasteries Paro Dzong or Rinchen Pung Dzong (“Fortress on the Mountain of Jewels”), Zari Dzong and others. In the mountains above Paro there are many small monasteries and chortens - Satsam Chorten, Rinpung Dzong, Jele Dzong, Kuychu Lhakhang and Dungtse Lhakhang, as well as convent Chelila. And the majestic panorama of the mountain ranges above the city is crowned by the snow cap of the sacred Mount Zhomolgari (7400 m, climbing is prohibited). Laya The village of Laya, located in the very north-west of Bhutan, is one of the highest villages in the country - it lies at an altitude of 3700 m, on the slope of Mount Tsenda Ganges. Surrounded by high mountain pastures (the average altitude of these places is about 4600 m), cold intermountain valleys and snow-capped Himalayan peaks, with which the colorful conical bamboo hats of the Layyap shepherds contrast sharply. This ethnic group numbers only 800 people but has its own language, customs and costumes. Village women wear special bamboo hats with a bamboo spike on top, richly beaded black woolen jackets, long woolen skirts and adorn themselves with a large amount of silver jewelry, including even teaspoons. You can get here only by helicopter or along long caravan trails through the mountains and the Laya Gasa pass - one of the most difficult passes in the world. But if you succeed, you can take the most unusual routes on the planet, passing through untouched alpine meadows and picturesque mountain villages. Also, if you're lucky, you can see the elusive snow leopard or rare blue sheep here. Punakha Ancient capital Bhutan (until 1955) and the winter residence of Je-Kempo, Punakha lies in the eastern part of the country, in the valley of the same name formed by the Punakha River. The city itself is located at an altitude of 1300 m above sea level, which is almost a lowland for Bhutan, and has a mild subtropical climate, making the surrounding valley one of the most fertile places in the country. The main attraction of the city is the unique temple complex Pungthang Dechen Phodrang Dzong (Palace of Great Happiness) or Punakha Dzong (1637), located at the confluence of the Mo-Chu and Pho-Chu rivers. No less interesting are Chimi Lakhang (“Temple of Abundance” - a place of pilgrimage for childless couples, 19th century), the Wangdiphodrang Dzong monastery (1638) covering the entire mountain top and Dzong Chang (18th century). The road running north from the city to the Dochula pass (3150 m) is famous for its beautiful views of vast pine forests and small mountain villages. No less picturesque is the road from Wangdiphodrang to Trongsa, passing through the picturesque passes of the Black Mountains, past the beautiful Phobzhikha (Phobzhika) valley, the monasteries of Gantsi Gompa (17th century) and Nyingmapa, the resort village of Kyichu, and crossing numerous mountain rivers and streams. In the valley of Phobzhikha lies National Park Black Mountains, protecting endangered black-necked herons, Himalayan black bears, snow leopards and red foxes. The area surrounding Wangdiphodrang (Wangi) is widely known for its stone carvers and weavers. Trongsa The ancestral domain of Bhutan's ruling dynasty and home to the country's most impressive fortress, Trongsa is located in the heart of Bhutan. From here, a dynasty of local monarchs ruled the country for centuries, and the prince’s residence is still located here. The valley of the Mandge Chhu River, stretching for almost 30 km, is literally overflowing with numerous dzongs, forming a whole network around Trongsa. And the city itself is the largest secular and religious center of the country, whose labyrinth of temples, narrow streets and colorful wooden buildings decorated with carvings attract thousands of pilgrims. The center of the city is the impregnable Trongsa Dzong fortress (1648) - the ancestral home of the royal family. This is the most impressive dzong in the kingdom, representing a vast multi-tiered mini-city with its streets running stepwise down the hill, which is almost entirely occupied by dzong buildings. Trongsa Dzong is considered one of the most significant examples of traditional Bhutanese architecture, and one of the country's main holidays, the Trongsa Festival (December-January), is held annually within its walls. Also attractive are the defensive tower Ta Dzong (XVII century), the winter palace of the second king of Bhutan Kuenga Rabten (23 km from Trongsa Dzong, XVII century) with its luxurious library, as well as the beautiful Chendebzhi Chorten (XIX century), built by a Tibetan lama Shida at an altitude of 2430 m, at the site of victory over one of the evil spirits of the local pantheon. Bumthang The spiritual center of Bhutan and home to the country's oldest Buddhist monuments, Bumthang Province lies at an altitude of 2,600 meters above sea level in the eastern central region of the country, at the intersection of four mountain valleys - Choskhor (more often simply "Bumthang Valley"), Thang, Ura and Chhume . The capital of the province - Jakar (Byakar), is the main transport hub region and is widely known for its honey, cheese and fruits. Jakar Dzong (1549) is the largest and one of the oldest monasteries in Bhutan. It was originally built as a simple monastery, but after King Shabdrung came to power (1646) it was rebuilt, and now the length of its walls reaches 1.5 km. Currently, Jakar Dzong is used as the administrative center of the Choskhor Valley and a major religious center. Jampei Lagang Monastery (Jambi Lhakhang) was founded in 659 by the Tibetan king Songten Jempo as one of 108 monasteries surrounding the Southern Himalayas as a line of defense against evil spirits. Now the monastery complex is surrounded by four chortens, and in October-November the Hungry Ghost Festival or Jampey Lagang Drapa is held here, accompanied by nightly torch dancing. The Kurje-Lhakhang complex lies slightly above Jampei-Lagang and consists of three temples and several stupas (XIX-XX centuries, the first temples on this site appeared in 1652), built near a cave on the walls of which there is an imprint of the body of Guru Rinpoche. Tamshing Lhakhang Temple, located opposite Kurje Lhakhang, was founded by Bhutanese religious leader Terton Pema Lingpa in 1501. Internal walls temple restored in late XIX centuries, covered with ancient frescoes on religious themes. Not far from Jakar, in the valley of the Tang River, is the holy lake Mebartso ("Burning Lake"), at the bottom of which sacred texts and several statues of Buddha were allegedly found in the 15th century. Pilgrimages are organized to the shores of the lake, mass meditations are held here, and tablets with lit candles are floated along the Naring River, which forms the lake. The small monastery of Dorjebi, lying on the river bank a few kilometers from the Choskhor valley, is widely known for its elegant white stupa (16th century). Thangbi Temple, founded by Shamar Rinpoche in 1470, is located 17 km north of Kurje Lhakhang, among fields and gardens. And just a little further north lies the traditional village of Ura, famous for its colorful buildings, cobblestone streets and the Ura-Yaksho Festival. The rolling green valleys of Bumthang are known for the beauty of their landscapes as well as the numerous temples and palaces. Here you can find best conditions in the country for mountaineering and hiking, whose routes wind between the green slopes of the mountains, over the Jutola Pass (3450 m), pass through idyllic countryside and rise to hidden Alpine valleys. There are also many Buddhist schools and tiny temples that are so characteristic of the central part of the country. Bumthang is also well known for its artisans of yatra, a unique material that is specially woven from the coarse wool of local sheep, then dyed in all the colors of the rainbow and made into breathtaking woven panels. Mongar The town of Mongar, the second largest in the region, like many settlements east of the country is built on a hillside because the valleys in Eastern Bhutan are too narrow for cities to be built. The seven-hour drive from Bumthang to Mongar follows one of the most spectacular roads in the country, literally carved into the vertical mountain slopes. It runs past magnificent waterfalls, majestic cliffs and green valleys hiding between ridges and rocks. And at the end of the journey, in Mongar itself, you can see one of the youngest monasteries in the country - Mongar Dzong (1930), built in full compliance with ancient traditions, without a single drawing or nail. And 77 km from Mongar begins one of the most isolated regions in Bhutan - the Lhentse province, famous for its dense forests, weavers and the best fabrics in the country. Tashigang The pretty, lively city of Tashigang, located in the very east of the country, is the center of Bhutan's largest province. Situated on a small mountain, Tashigang is considered the religious and secular center of the eastern provinces, as well as a growing commercial center linking Tibet, Indian Assam and the local Merak and Sakteng hill tribes. The main attractions of the city are the Tashi Thongmoen Dzong Monastery (XVII century), located 24 km from the city, the Gom Kora Temple (XVII century, built in front of the mouth of the cave in which the imprints of Guru Rinpoche are located), as well as the Chorten Kora Temple in Nepal style near the city of Yangtse craftsmen. The isolated Sakten Valley lies in the very northeast of Bhutan. Civilization has clearly bypassed these beautiful places, and the inhabitants of the valley - the Sakten, Sharchop and Brokpas peoples - live the same way as they did centuries ago. All of them, and especially the Brokpas, consider themselves the indigenous population of Bhutan, and their language and culture are related to the tribes of Arunachal Pradesh (India) and Myanmar (Burma). They differ from other ethnic groups of Bhutan not only in language, but also in their distinctive clothing style, phenotype and way of life. Many scientists consider them descendants ancient population Asia, but it is absolutely known that this is one of the last ancient semi-nomadic mountain tribes of the continent, whose life is still completely dependent on yaks and sheep.

ATTRACTIONS Bhutan is one of the most mysterious countries on the planet, which has only recently become accessible to tourism. A fantastic country lying in the heart of the Eastern Himalayas and barely touched by the passage of time, it was almost completely isolated from the outside world for many centuries. The very name of the country, Bhutan or Bhutan, can be translated from Sanskrit as “outskirts of Tibet.” Bhutan's doors were barely opened in 1974, and since then it has been a dream destination for many travelers. Located away from the noisy roads, this country, which locals call Druk-Yul or "Land of the Thunder Dragons", remained a quiet haven of the greatest associates of Buddhism. Some of the oldest forests on the planet and unique species of flora and fauna have been preserved here, and the completely wild landscape is broken only by the “dzongs” characteristic of Bhutan - huge fortified monasteries, famous for their architecture and traditions. The Bhutanese themselves, of whom, unlike other countries in the region, are quite small, are open, hospitable, completely uncorrupted by the modern world and carefully preserve their unique culture. Thimphu The capital of the country is located at an altitude of almost

2500 m above sea level, in a beautiful wooded valley stretching along the Thimphu Chhu (Vang Chu) River. Its population does not exceed 50 thousand people. Thimphu is perhaps the most unusual capital in the world and one of the most ancient capitals on the planet (although the modern city is no more than half a century old). This is the only capital of the planet without traffic lights, and one of the few in which there are absolutely no ultra-modern buildings made of glass and concrete. The entire architecture of Thimphu is built on the centuries-old traditions of local architects, filled with brightly decorated facades and spiers soaring into the sky, giving the city a charming medieval flavor. There is an unprecedented law that even newly constructed buildings must be created using the forms and motifs of traditional Bhutanese architecture. Dominating the skyline, on a hill above the city, stands the imposing Trashi Chho Dzong (Fortress of the Blessed Religion, 19th-20th centuries), the symbol and pride of the capital. This vast monastery, which previously played an important role in the defense and cultural life of the capital, now houses the palace of the Supreme Lama and the royal residence on its territory. In close proximity lie the National Chorten Memorial (1974, dedicated to the third king of Bhutan, Jigma Dorjee Wangchuck, father of the current ruler), the School of Traditional Painting or the Zorig-Chusum National Institute (1997), as well as the National Library with its extensive collection of ancient manuscripts, considered the best collection of religious and historical literature in the Himalayas. The National Institute of Traditional Medicine, located south of Trashi Chho Dzong, is interesting as the largest center of traditional medicine in the Himalayas. Also in the capital you can find the Royal School of Art, the National Textile Museum, the Thangka Art School and many other cultural institutions. And the colorful streets of the city deserve attention in themselves - here you can spend hours wandering between low buildings, each of which is different from the neighboring one and most often carefully decorated using traditional motifs. And between the houses there are small gardens and tiny parks. Thimphu is home to a factory that produces traditional paper from plant fibers, and the colorful stamps for which the kingdom is famous can be purchased at the Thimphu General Post Office. Throughout the town, which is generally quite small, you can find many shops selling local handicrafts and textiles. In the very center of Thimphu, on the banks of the Wang Chu River, a large and colorful market takes place every weekend. Most of the capital's population gathers here, and the market itself serves not so much as a place of trade, but as the main source of information, gossip and the center of public life. Near the market area is the Changlimithang National Stadium, the main venue for the national sport of archery. Moreover, each competition is accompanied by the mandatory participation of teams in folk clothes and interesting rituals. Thimphu is also home to the country's only golf course. Just 12 km from the capital is the majestic Phajoding Monastery (XIII century), from the observation deck of which you can see a beautiful view of the capital and the surrounding area, the small Sulukha Dzong monastery and the green forests of the foothills. Cheri Monastery, located almost on the outskirts of the capital, is famous for its colorful architecture, and a beautiful panorama also opens from the slopes of the nearby Sangay Ganga hill. 8 km south of Thimphu, on the crest of a mountain range, is the Simtokha Dzong monastery (1627 - the oldest fortress and the oldest dzong in the country), within the walls of which the Royal Theological Academy is located. Also around the capital you can find such interesting objects as the Sangyagang Tower, a mini-zoo in Motithang (there is only one species of animal here - the takin), as well as the Tala Monastery (1864) located among beautiful pine forests at an altitude of 3050 m. Paro The city of Paro is the country's air gateway (Bhutan's only international airport is 7 km from the city) and the center of the vast and fertile Paro Valley, widely known for its landscapes, colorful villages and an abundance of historical buildings, from numerous monasteries to many intricately carved residential buildings. houses. The Paro Valley is one of the most populated areas in the country, and is also the center of the western part of the country, inhabited by people of Nepalese origin. The main attraction of Paro is the unique monastery of Taksang Lakhang Dzong ("Tiger's Lair"), lying on the top of a cliff, 900 m above the valley floor. Founded by Guru Rimpoche (8th century) on the site of the cave in which Padmasambhava meditated, today it is one of the main Buddhist shrines of the country. There are 8 separate temples, a waterfall (Padmasambhava’s wives bathed in it while he meditated), several monastic huts, and above the monastery, on the slopes of the mountain, there are several more monasteries and a cult place - a children’s “cemetery” (the ritual of children’s burial here is so different from European norms that this place can be called a cemetery relatively). In April 1998, a fire almost completely destroyed the main building of the monastery, but it will be restored to its original form as soon as a “favorable date” is chosen. Also noteworthy in Paro are the Bhutanese Ta-Dzog National Museum, housed in an ancient tower (1651-1656), the dilapidated fortified monastery of Druk-Yul-Dzong (Drugyel-Dzong - “victory fortress”, 18th century), the palace of the Queen Mother, large monasteries Paro Dzong or Rinchen Pung Dzong (“Fortress on the Mountain of Jewels”), Zari Dzong and others. In the mountains above Paro there are many small monasteries and chortens - Satsam Chorten, Rinpung Dzong, Jele Dzong, Kuychu Lhakhang and Dungtse Lhakhang, as well as the Chelila Nunnery. And the majestic panorama of the mountain ranges above the city is crowned by the snow cap of the sacred Mount Zhomolgari (7400 m, climbing is prohibited). Laya The village of Laya, located in the very north-west of Bhutan, is one of the highest villages in the country - it lies at an altitude of 3700 m, on the slope of Mount Tsenda Ganges. Surrounded by high mountain pastures (the average altitude of these places is about 4600 m), cold intermountain valleys and snow-capped Himalayan peaks, with which the colorful conical bamboo hats of the Layyap shepherds contrast sharply. This ethnic group numbers only 800 people but has its own language, customs and costumes. Village women wear special bamboo hats with a bamboo spike on top, richly beaded black woolen jackets, long woolen skirts and adorn themselves with a large amount of silver jewelry, including even teaspoons. You can get here only by helicopter or along long caravan trails through the mountains and the Laya Gasa pass - one of the most difficult passes in the world. But if you succeed, you can take the most unusual routes on the planet, passing through untouched alpine meadows and picturesque mountain villages. Also, if you're lucky, you can see the elusive snow leopard or rare blue sheep here. Punakha The ancient capital of Bhutan (until 1955) and the winter residence of Je-Kempo, Punakha lies in the eastern part of the country, in the valley of the same name formed by the Punakha River. The city itself is located at an altitude of 1300 m above sea level, which is almost a lowland for Bhutan, and has a mild subtropical climate, making the surrounding valley one of the most fertile places in the country. The main attraction of the city is the unique temple complex Pungthang Dechen Phodrang Dzong (Palace of Great Happiness) or Punakha Dzong (1637), located at the confluence of the Mo-Chu and Pho-Chu rivers. No less interesting are Chimi Lakhang (“Temple of Abundance” - a place of pilgrimage for childless couples, 19th century), the Wangdiphodrang Dzong monastery (1638) covering the entire mountain top and Dzong Chang (18th century). The road running north from the city to the Dochula pass (3150 m) is famous for its beautiful views of vast pine forests and small mountain villages. No less picturesque is the road from Wangdiphodrang to Trongsa, passing through the picturesque passes of the Black Mountains, past the beautiful Phobzhikha (Phobzhika) valley, the monasteries of Gantsi Gompa (17th century) and Nyingmapa, the resort village of Kyichu, and crossing numerous mountain rivers and streams. The Phobjikha Valley is home to the Black Mountains National Park, which protects the endangered black-necked herons, Himalayan black bears, snow leopards and red foxes. The area surrounding Wangdiphodrang (Wangi) is widely known for its stone carvers and weavers. Trongsa The ancestral domain of Bhutan's ruling dynasty and home to the country's most impressive fortress, Trongsa is located in the heart of Bhutan. From here, a dynasty of local monarchs ruled the country for centuries, and the prince’s residence is still located here. The valley of the Mandge Chhu River, stretching for almost 30 km, is literally overflowing with numerous dzongs, forming a whole network around Trongsa. And the city itself is the largest secular and religious center of the country, whose labyrinth of temples, narrow streets and colorful wooden buildings decorated with carvings attract thousands of pilgrims. The center of the city is the impregnable Trongsa Dzong fortress (1648) - the ancestral home of the royal family. This is the most impressive dzong in the kingdom, representing a vast multi-tiered mini-city with its streets running stepwise down the hill, which is almost entirely occupied by dzong buildings. Trongsa Dzong is considered one of the most significant examples of traditional Bhutanese architecture, and one of the country's main holidays, the Trongsa Festival (December-January), is held annually within its walls. Also attractive are the defensive tower Ta Dzong (XVII century), the winter palace of the second king of Bhutan Kuenga Rabten (23 km from Trongsa Dzong, XVII century) with its luxurious library, as well as the beautiful Chendebzhi Chorten (XIX century), built by a Tibetan lama Shida at an altitude of 2430 m, at the site of victory over one of the evil spirits of the local pantheon. Bumthang The spiritual center of Bhutan and home to the country's oldest Buddhist monuments, Bumthang Province lies at an altitude of 2,600 meters above sea level in the eastern central region of the country, at the intersection of four mountain valleys - Choskhor (more often simply "Bumthang Valley"), Thang, Ura and Chhume . The provincial capital, Jakar (Byakar), is the region's main transport hub and is widely known for its honey, cheese and fruits. Jakar Dzong (1549) is the largest and one of the oldest monasteries in Bhutan. It was originally built as a simple monastery, but after King Shabdrung came to power (1646) it was rebuilt, and now the length of its walls reaches 1.5 km. Currently, Jakar Dzong is used as the administrative center of the Choskhor Valley and a major religious center. Jampei Lagang Monastery (Jambi Lhakhang) was founded in 659 by the Tibetan king Songten Jempo as one of 108 monasteries surrounding the Southern Himalayas as a line of defense against evil spirits. Now the monastery complex is surrounded by four chortens, and in October-November the Hungry Ghost Festival or Jampey Lagang Drapa is held here, accompanied by nightly torch dancing. The Kurje-Lhakhang complex lies slightly above Jampei-Lagang and consists of three temples and several stupas (XIX-XX centuries, the first temples on this site appeared in 1652), built near a cave on the walls of which there is an imprint of the body of Guru Rinpoche. Tamshing Lhakhang Temple, located opposite Kurje Lhakhang, was founded by Bhutanese religious leader Terton Pema Lingpa in 1501. The interior walls of the temple, restored at the end of the 19th century, are covered with ancient frescoes on religious themes. Not far from Jakar, in the valley of the Tang River, is the holy lake Mebartso ("Burning Lake"), at the bottom of which sacred texts and several statues of Buddha were allegedly found in the 15th century. Pilgrimages are organized to the shores of the lake, mass meditations are held here, and tablets with lit candles are floated along the Naring River, which forms the lake. The small monastery of Dorjebi, lying on the river bank a few kilometers from the Choskhor valley, is widely known for its elegant white stupa (16th century). Thangbi Temple, founded by Shamar Rinpoche in 1470, is located 17 km north of Kurje Lhakhang, among fields and gardens. And just a little further north lies the traditional village of Ura, famous for its colorful buildings, cobblestone streets and the Ura-Yaksho Festival. The rolling green valleys of Bumthang are known for the beauty of their landscapes as well as the numerous temples and palaces. Here you can find the best conditions in the country for mountaineering and hiking, whose routes wind between the green slopes of the mountains, over the Jutola Pass (3450 m), pass through idyllic countryside and rise to hidden alpine valleys. There are also many Buddhist schools and tiny temples that are so characteristic of the central part of the country. Bumthang is also well known for its artisans of yatra, a unique material that is specially woven from the coarse wool of local sheep, then dyed in all the colors of the rainbow and made into breathtaking woven panels. Mongar Mongar town, the second largest in the region, like many towns in the east of the country, is built on a hillside because the valleys in eastern Bhutan are too narrow for towns to be built. The seven-hour drive from Bumthang to Mongar follows one of the most spectacular roads in the country, literally carved into the vertical mountain slopes. It runs past magnificent waterfalls, majestic cliffs and green valleys hiding between ridges and rocks. And at the end of the journey, in Mongar itself, you can see one of the youngest monasteries in the country - Mongar Dzong (1930), built in full compliance with ancient traditions, without a single drawing or nail. And 77 km from Mongar begins one of the most isolated regions in Bhutan - the Lhentse province, famous for its dense forests, weavers and the best fabrics in the country. Tashigang The pretty, lively city of Tashigang, located in the very east of the country, is the center of Bhutan's largest province. Situated on a small mountain, Tashigang is considered the religious and secular center of the eastern provinces, as well as a growing commercial center linking Tibet, Indian Assam and the local Merak and Sakteng hill tribes. The main attractions of the city are the Tashi Thongmoen Dzong Monastery (XVII century), located 24 km from the city, the Gom Kora Temple (XVII century, built in front of the mouth of the cave in which the imprints of Guru Rinpoche are located), as well as the Chorten Kora Temple in Nepal style near the city of Yangtse craftsmen. The isolated Sakten Valley lies in the very northeast of Bhutan. Civilization has clearly bypassed these beautiful places, and the inhabitants of the valley - the Sakten, Sharchop and Brokpas peoples - live the same way as they did centuries ago. All of them, and especially the Brokpas, consider themselves the indigenous population of Bhutan, and their language and culture are related to the tribes of Arunachal Pradesh (India) and Myanmar (Burma). They differ from other ethnic groups of Bhutan not only in language, but also in their distinctive clothing style, phenotype and way of life. Many scientists consider them to be the descendants of the ancient population of Asia, but it is absolutely known that they are one of the last ancient semi-nomadic mountain tribes of the continent, whose life is still completely dependent on yaks and sheep.

Known throughout the world for its untouched natural beauty, and many other magnificent objects. This country really has something to be proud of and attract the interest of any tourist. In our article we will talk about the most striking sights of Bhutan and what every guest of the country should definitely see.

There are several places in Bhutan where you can experience great creations that convey the traditional style of architecture. All such complexes and structures are more than two hundred years old, so they also represent the historical value of the country. Tours of them inspire and enrich. It is difficult to imagine a sightseeing tour of Bhutan that would not include at least one of these objects:

There are relatively few museums in Bhutan. Everything you find on the territory of the kingdom contains a collection of artifacts and tools from past centuries. The museums host interesting excursions that reveal secrets and facts from the history of the country. It will be interesting for adults and children to visit them, so be sure to include , and in your list of “must-sees” in Bhutan.

Bhutan has become famous throughout the world for its amazing, stunning nature. There are four nature reserves in the Kingdom untouched by human hands. They are located near the Himalayan mountains or on their slopes. Magnificent landscapes, meeting representatives of the animal world - this is exactly what both adults and children like in parks. Therefore, the list of top attractions in Bhutan includes.

The Buddhist monastery of Chagri Dorjeden was built in 1620 by the founder of the Bhutanese state - Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal. The common people call it the Cheri Monastery. It is currently the main training and retreat center for the southern branch of the Drukpa Kagyu, one of the most important subdivisions of the school of Tibetan Buddhism. It is located on a steep hill, 15 kilometers from Thimphu city, so getting to it is not so easy.

According to Bhutanese religious traditions, this place was first visited in the 18th century by Padmasambhava. At the beginning of the 13th century, Tibetan Lama Phajo Drugom Shigpo visited here, who founded the Drukpa Kagyu tradition in Bhutan. Cheri is the first monastery founded by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal, who was 27 years old at the time. Shabdrung spent about three years here, and also often stayed at the monastery throughout his subsequent life. In 1623, it was in this monastery that he founded the Drukpa Kagyu monastic order.

Bhutan Textile Museum

One of the main attractions of the city of Thimphu is the Bhutan Textile Museum, located near the Bhutan National Library. Since its inception in 2001, it has amassed a huge collection of antique products from the world famous Bhutanese textiles, which are famous for their complex intricate patterns, role in government, social and religious events, and unique production methods.

The Bhutan Textile Museum was inaugurated by Queen Sangai Choden Wangchuk, who is its curator. $165,000 was allocated for the development of the institution’s infrastructure. Private investors and the government of Bhutan provide financial assistance to the museum, and technical support The establishment is run by the Peabody Essex American Museum.

The museum is divided into six areas that display the many achievements in the field of textile art, as well as the role of textiles in religion. Here you can see textiles made from local fibers, as well as a unique royal collection containing a huge number of priceless antiques. The main exhibits are the royal crown, clothes and accessories of the kings of Bhutan, the Tsamdrak Goenpa robe embroidered with pearls and various bedding items.

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Lhuntse Dzong Temple

Lhuntse Dzong is a beautiful Buddhist temple that was originally known as Kurtuye and was the ancestral home of the royal family. The Dzong contains five abodes, three of which are in its central part and are dedicated to Guru Rinpoche. The dzong also contains the Gongkhang Abode, which is dedicated to the deity Mahakala, and a temple dedicated to Amitayus, the Buddha of Infinite Life. On the first floor of Lhuntse Dzong there is a room dedicated to Avalokiteshvara. Also on the territory of the temple there is an assembly hall intended for the ceremonial meeting of monks.

In September 2009, Lhuntse Dzong suffered severe damage from an earthquake measuring 6.2 on the Richter scale. Many other monasteries in the region also suffered serious losses. Currently, this place attracts many tourists who want to enjoy the external and internal decoration of Lhuntse Dzong, as well as pilgrims who come here to worship the deities and ask them for happiness and health for their families.

One of the many attractions of the Paro resort is the country's largest monastery of the school of Tibetan Buddhism - Gangtey Gompa. It is located in the village of the same name in central Bhutan, near the Phobzhikha glacial valley, under the Pele La pass. The monastery belongs to the Wangdi Phodrang dzongkhag. It was founded by Gyalse Pema Thinley, the grandson of the famous Bhutanese teacher Pema Lingpa, who died around 1640. The construction of the Gangtey Gompa monastery took place with the participation of local residents. The wood used to form the columns, beams and windows came from the local forests, and the stones were carried from the nearby hills.

Since 2000, the temple underwent a major reconstruction, which lasted about 8 years. The monastery complex consists of five churches that surround a central tower. The main hall of the monastery is called Tsokgang, it was built in Tibetan architectural style and currently represents enormous cultural significance. Gangtey Gompa Monastery owns a large collection of valuable Buddhist manuscripts, including the 100-volume Kanjur.

Buddha Dordenma Monument

Dordenma Buddha is a beautiful giant statue of Shakyamuni Buddha erected in Bhutan in 2010. Its name is translated as “Diamond Lightning Strike.” Inside the statue there is a temple with 25 thousand 30 cm and 100 thousand 20 cm Buddha statues. All of them, like the main statue, were made of bronze and generously covered with gold.

The Buddha Dordenma attraction is located among the ruins of the old palace of Sherab Wangchuk on the top of the high mountain Changri Kensel Phodrang. From here you will have a beautiful view of the southern and western outskirts of Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan. Initially, the construction of the main parts of the statue was completed in December 2009, after which Buddhist monks began last stage works

The construction of the Dordenma Buddha statue cost approximately $47 million, and the total cost of the project exceeded $100 million. The height of the statue is 51.5 meters - this is not the largest image of the deity, but given the height of 2455 meters above sea level, it can rightfully be called the highest Buddha statue in the world.

Dechen Phodrang Monastery

The Bhutanese city of Thimphu is famous for many architectural and historical attractions, one of them is the Buddhist monastery of Dechen Phodrang, which literally translates as “place of great bliss”. The building was erected at the beginning of the 17th century, and during its history it has suffered many troubles, but despite this, it has retained its original appearance.

Currently, the monastery delights tourists with its neat appearance and interior decoration. In exterior decoration the buildings are dominated by white and red tones, special attention deserves a three-tiered roof and several extensions decorated with mosaics. Dechen Phodrang Monastery is surrounded by high concrete fence, behind which a pine grove begins.

Now there are about 350 novices in the monastery, the interesting thing is that among them you can meet little boys aged 10 years. A school has been opened at the monastery, where education is conducted according to Western type. Once you are here, you will get acquainted with everyday life novices, and also enjoy a beautiful view of the structure and the surrounding area.

Bhutan National Library

One of the popular destinations in Thimphu is the National Bhutan Library, established with the aim of disseminating and preserving the rich cultural heritage of Bhutan. Its grand opening took place in 1967 on the initiative of Queen Asha Choden. Initially, the library was located in the central tower of Tashicho Dzong. It contained a small collection containing precious texts. Soon, due to the rapid replenishment of the collection with new exhibits, it had to be placed in separate room, located in the Changangkha district. It was a four-story octagonal complex, made in traditional style dzong.

The ceremonial dedication of the new building was performed by Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche on November 23, 1984. In 2004, an additional building was added to the library, which currently houses government documents and national archives equipped with modern technologies that maintain storage conditions - temperature and humidity. There are also old letters and photographs. The archive has a special microfilming service that ensures long-term preservation of documents and books.

Jigme Dorji National Park

One of the main natural attractions of the city of Thimphu is the Jigme Dorji National Park, which is the largest protected area in the country. The park was named after Jigme Dorjee Wangchuk, the third king of Bhutan, who died in 1972. The park was founded in mid-1974 and is located at altitudes of 1400 - 7000 meters, which allows it to be located in three climatic zones. Jigme Dorji Park is home to approximately 6,500 people who are mainly engaged in agriculture.

Rare animals are found here, such as the Himalayan bear and snow leopard. The park is home to a center of geothermal activity, which is the largest in Bhutan, as well as many historical monuments. Fans of active pastime will be able to choose one of the walking routes, following which you can admire the local amazing landscapes and watch the life of exotic animals in natural conditions and take wonderful photos.

The most popular attractions in Thimphu with descriptions and photographs for every taste. Choose best places to visit famous places of Thimphu on our website.